• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Sulfuric odor, which reportedly emanates from the restive Kanlaon volcano, has reached 19 areas and schools in Moises Padilla as well as in various areas in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, according to reports of their respective Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (MDRRMC).
Sulfur dioxide discharge of Mt. Kanlaon, which remains under Alert Level 2, was measured at 7,106 tonnes per day as of Sept. 24, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said in its advisory.
Affected by sulfuric odor are the barangays of Montilla, Odiong, Inolingan, Magallon Cadre, Macagahay, Crossing Magallon and Odiong as well as Mateo Liboon National High School, Tiguisan Elementary School, Moises Padilla Elementary School, Crossing Magallon Elementary School-San Julian Extension, E. Basa and Salapid Elementary Schools, and the sitios of Agogolo, Bato, Nacuruhan, Coyaoyao, Arum, Binataan, all in Moises Padilla.
La Castellana MDRRM officer John de Asis reported strong sulfuric odor in different areas of the town on Tuesday (Sept. 24).
De Asis said that some teachers in Barangays Masulog and Mansalanao reported strong sulfuric odor while mild to moderate smell has been felt in the town proper.
Moises Padilla Mayor Ella Celestina Garcia-Yulo encouraged residents to wear face masks, and advised those who are suffering from asthma and chest pains or not feeling well to immediately visit their respective health centers.
Meanwhile, Phivolcs reminded the residents near the volcano to limit their exposure and protect themselves against the volcanic gas. | GB
