After eight months in evacuation centers, 471 families totaling 1,548 individuals outside the four-kilometer danger zone of Kanlaon Volcano in La Castellana, Negros Occidental, returned home on August 1 following the downgrade of the volcano’s alert status from Level 3 to Level 2.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology cited decreased volcanic activity as the reason for the downgrade, prompting the return.
Mayor Añejo Nicor said the evacuees were happy and that government agencies ensured their safe transport and provided food assistance.
However, 27 families with ash-damaged homes chose to remain in evacuation centers, and those within the permanent danger zone are still required to stay for their safety.
In nearby Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, around 1,400 evacuees also began returning home, though some preferred to stay in tents, with local officials encouraging them to repair their homes.
Source: PhilNews24 | August 7, 2025
