Tourists Are Advised to Avoid Mt. Kanlaon Ashfall-Affected Areas

The Department of Tourism (DOT) has issued a cautionary advisory, urging tourists to avoid visiting areas affected by the recent ashfall from the eruption of Mount Kanlaon. The agency recommends travelers closely monitor local advisories and refrain from traveling to regions in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental that are experiencing heavy ashfall and related hazards.

According to the DOT, the towns most impacted by the ashfall include La Castellana, La Carlota City, Bago City, and Murcia in Negros Occidental, as well as Canlaon City in Negros Oriental. As a precaution, tourism activities such as trekking, swimming, farm site visits, and day tours have been suspended in these areas.

Several popular tourist spots have been temporarily closed to ensure public safety. These include the Guintubdan Spring, Buenos Aires Resort, Mambukal Resort, Sugar Valley Coffee Farm, and other sites located near or within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone around the volcano. In addition, the Kanlaon Inland Resort and Eco-Tourism, Padudusan Falls, Bao-bao Viewing Deck, and Quipot Falls in Canlaon City have been closed by the local government to mitigate risks to tourists and residents.

The DOT emphasized that while no injuries, fatalities, or reports of stranded tourists have been recorded, visitors are strongly advised to stay clear of destinations within the 6-kilometer danger zone and other areas heavily impacted by ashfall.

“The safety and well-being of tourists and local communities remain our top priority,” the DOT stated in its advisory. “We urge all travelers to exercise caution, follow local warnings, and remain informed about developments in affected areas. It is essential to stay updated on the latest reports from local authorities and avoid non-essential travel to at-risk zones.”

The department also stressed the importance of vigilance during this time, as volcanic activity can lead to sudden changes in conditions, including further eruptions and ash dispersal. The DOT encourages tourists to follow safety protocols and cooperate with local officials to help minimize any potential risks.

For now, the DOT continues to closely monitor the situation and works in coordination with local government units and relevant agencies to ensure the safety of everyone in the affected areas.