By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) has been placed on blue alert status for All Saints’ Day and All Souls’ Day.

In a memorandum, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson ordered all disaster risk reduction management councils in the province to go on blue alert for Undas from November 1 and 2.

“All concerned offices and agencies and the respective city and municipal DRRMCs are advised to monitor incidents during Undas, particularly in cemeteries, churches and other places of convergence,” Lacson said.

The status was effective starting yesterday until Sunday, November 3.

Blue alert indicates all responders will be on standby mode.

“They should coordinate all preparedness measures and response action plans, and report any untoward incidents,” Lacson said.

The governor added that the PDRRMC’s Emergency Operation Center should also maintain the blue alert status in relation to the Kanlaon Volcano’s heightened unrest.

Kanlaon is currently at Alert Level 2, indicating increased volcanic activity.

Local authorities are urged to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential risks associated with the unrest.

Influx of travelers

Meanwhile, the Philippine Coast Guard in Northern Negros Occidental (PCG-NNO) anticipates a significant increase in the number of passengers at local seaports from November 1 and 2.

As of yesterday, there were 1,525 inbound passengers recorded at various ports, with around 1,300 outbound travelers, PCG-NNO Commander Jansen Benjamin said.

This number is expected to double during the Undas weekend, he added.

More than 130 personnel have been deployed to manage the expected influx of travelers.

The PCG is also planning to deploy augmented forces to provide additional support and ensure a safe and smooth travel experience./JB, WDJ