• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Protected Area Management Board (PAMB) of Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP) in Negros Island is seeking a clearance from Environment Natural Resources Secretary Raphael Lotilla for the declogging of the Kanlaon waterways.
The dredging of hardened lahar from rivers and creeks will prevent possible flooding, in low-lying areas, said Engr. Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, assistant regional director for Technical Services of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Negros Island Region.
“It will be dangerous, especially when rains are heavy, since the waterways are clogged,” Gerangaya said.
The recommendation of declogging the waterways was approved by the PAMB-MKNP through a resolution during its recent meeting in Bago City, Negros Occidental.
Volcanic debris, including lahar deposits and some boulders, spilled into the river and creek in Sitio Tamburong, Barangay Biak Na Bato, La Castellana, following heavy rains due to tropical storm Crising and southwest monsoon.
Gerangaya said the PAMB cannot decide on its own because it is not allowed to dredge and quarry within the protective area, especially if the local government units bring the lahar from waterways outside, where it is needed as filling materials.
He added that they have asked the Mines and Geosciences Bureau to assess the volume of hardened lahar deposits in the Kanlaon waterways. | GB
