The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) has elevated Mount Kanlaon to Alert Level 2 following increased volcanic unrest, including one moderately explosive eruption recorded on March 16, 2026. The volcano, which straddles the provinces of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, prompted immediate safety measures including the suspension of classes in Canlaon City.
According to PHIVOLCS' 24-hour monitoring report released March 16, 2026, the volcano exhibited significant volcanic activity from 12:00 AM on March 15 to 12:00 AM on March 16. The moderately explosive eruption lasted approximately one minute, accompanied by two ash emission events ranging from three minutes to 229 minutes in duration.
Immediate Government Response
Canlaon City Mayor issued Executive Order No. 35, Series of 2026, suspending classes at all levels, both public and private, within the city on March 16, 2026. The executive order specifically cited the "moderately explosive eruption of Mt. Kanlaon" as the primary reason for the precautionary measure.
The class suspension affects thousands of students across elementary, high school, and tertiary levels in Canlaon City, located in Negros Oriental. Parents and guardians have been advised to keep students indoors and monitor official announcements for further updates on class resumption.
Detailed Volcanic Activity Parameters
PHIVOLCS recorded nine volcanic earthquakes during the 24-hour observation period, including two volcanic tremors lasting between three to 229 minutes. The seismic activity indicates continued magma movement beneath the volcano's surface, contributing to the Alert Level 2 classification.
Sulfur dioxide flux measurements reached 1,085 tonnes per day as of March 15, 2026, significantly above normal baseline levels. This elevated gas emission suggests active degassing from the volcano's magmatic system, a key indicator of potential eruptive activity.
The volcanic plume extended 5,000 meters above the crater, characterized by voluminous emissions drifting in multiple directions. PHIVOLCS reported plume drift toward the southeast, general west, and general east, affecting air quality across a broad area surrounding the volcano.
Ground Deformation and Safety Concerns
Monitoring instruments detected ground deformation indicating that the volcano edifice is currently inflated. This inflation suggests magma intrusion or accumulation beneath the surface, increasing pressure within the volcanic system.
Of the nine volcanic earthquakes recorded in the past 24 hours, none provided sufficient data for precise location determination. However, the frequency and duration of seismic events align with PHIVOLCS criteria for Alert Level 2 classification, indicating "increased unrest."
Prohibited Activities and Safety Zones
PHIVOLCS has implemented strict prohibitions within the four-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ). Entry into this restricted area is completely forbidden to prevent potential casualties from sudden volcanic hazards.
Aircraft operations near the volcano are also suspended due to volcanic ash and gas emissions that pose significant risks to aviation safety. The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines typically coordinates with PHIVOLCS to issue Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) during such volcanic events.
Local government units in both Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental provinces have been advised to prepare evacuation plans for communities within and near the PDZ. Emergency response teams are on standby to assist residents if volcanic activity escalates further.
Potential Hazards and Regional Impact
PHIVOLCS warns of possible sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, which can occur with minimal warning. These explosive events result from groundwater interaction with hot volcanic rocks, creating dangerous pyroclastic density currents and ballistic projectiles.
The agency also noted the possibility of precursory magmatic activity, suggesting that more significant eruptions involving fresh magma could follow. Such eruptions typically produce more extensive ash fall, lava flows, and pyroclastic flows affecting larger areas.
For Negros Oriental residents, particularly those in Valencia, Guihulngan, and La Libertad municipalities, ash fall remains a primary concern. Previous Kanlaon eruptions have deposited ash across these areas, affecting agriculture, water sources, and respiratory health.
Historical Context and Monitoring
Mount Kanlaon, standing 2,465 meters above sea level, ranks as one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes. The volcano has recorded numerous eruptions throughout recorded history, with the most recent significant activity occurring in recent years.
PHIVOLCS maintains continuous monitoring through a network of seismometers, gas sensors, thermal cameras, and ground deformation instruments. This comprehensive monitoring system enables real-time assessment of volcanic conditions and timely alert level adjustments.
The volcano's location along the boundary of Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental makes coordination between provincial disaster risk reduction offices crucial for effective emergency response and public safety.
Looking Forward
PHIVOLCS continues round-the-clock monitoring of Mount Kanlaon's activity, with scientists analyzing seismic data, gas emissions, and ground deformation patterns. Alert level adjustments will depend on volcanic parameter trends over the coming days and weeks.
Local government units are coordinating with provincial disaster offices to ensure adequate emergency supplies and evacuation centers are prepared. The Department of Education may extend class suspensions if volcanic conditions warrant continued safety precautions.
Residents are advised to stay informed through official PHIVOLCS bulletins and local government announcements. The agency's website, social media accounts, and local radio stations provide regular updates on volcanic conditions and safety recommendations.
Photo credit: Photo courtesy of PHIVOLCS