• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Canlaon City in Negros Oriental may experience food shortage and economic strain on the farming communities, following destruction of 1,639 hectares of crops due to the effects of southwest monsoon enhanced by tropical storms Gener and Helen.
In a statement, the city government said the loss of planted crops affected 1,533 farmers, many of whom rely heavily on these high value crops, rice and corn, for their livelihood, which are critical to both local consumption and trade.
In addition to the typhoon impact, 43.10 hectares of agricultural land have been affected by sulfur dioxide emissions from Mt. Kanlaon, directly affecting 81 farmers.
“Worse, the affected areas around the volcano are also facing deteriorating soil conditions, further complicating the recovery efforts,” the statement further said.
As of Wednesday, Sept. 18, a total of 288 families, or 919 individuals, have been displaced by the combined effects of volcanic activity and heavy rainfall.
Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas said that aside from distributing relief goods, they are looking into the possibility of extending financial assistance to the agricultural sector, recovery of damaged infrastructures and further aid distribution.
“We are working hand in hand with local and national authorities to make sure our people are taken care of. We will not stop until every family and community in Canlaon has the support they need,” Cardenas said.
Meanwhile, classes in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, which is also affected by the ongoing restiveness of Kanlaon volcano, remain suspended until Sept. 20, according to an executive order issued by Mayor Alme Rhummyla Nicor-Mangilimutan. | GB
