By JEN BAYLON

The ongoing demarcation efforts to establish a clear boundary for the four-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) surrounding Kanlaon Volcano are making progress amid continuing unrest.

Engineer Joan Nathaniel Gerangaya, head of the Negros Occidental Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office, reported that more than 40 flagpoles will be erected four kilometers away from the volcano to help clearly define the PDZ.

Gerangaya said only two flagpoles have been installed in La Castellana town.

Additional supplies of flagpoles are still awaited, he added.

Authorities are currently testing the durability of the poles to ensure they can withstand the strong winds in the area, which could potentially affect their stability.

The Office of Civil Defense and the provincial government are providing funding to support the continuation of this project.

The demarcation efforts are part of broader measures to ensure public safety and prevent residential development within PDZ.

The PDZ is considered a high-risk zone due to the potential dangers posed by volcanic eruptions, landslides and other related hazards./JB, WDJ