Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas of Canlaon City in Negros Oriental ordered the suspension of government work and classes at all levels and imposed bans on liquor and curfew following the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon yesterday afternoon.

Cardenas issued executive orders, which were posted on the city’s official Facebook page.

“Private businesses are encouraged to assess and adjust their operations accordingly,” the post said.

Citing public safety, a curfew from 10:00 p.m. to 4:00 a.m. has been imposed.

A liquor ban is also in effect in the city to “minimize disruptions” at the evacuation centers and response operations.

Edna Lhou Masicampo, Canlaon City information officer designate, told the Philippine News Agency the mayor mobilized personnel and logistics such as transport vehicles to assist in the preemptive evacuation of residents living near the volcano.

At least eight families from Barangay Masulog have been evacuated to the Macario Española Memorial School with relief goods already mobilized.

More families are being evacuated as of posting time in the light of a potential elevation from Alert Level 3 to Alert Level 4 as announced by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Masicampo said the private sector has also deployed trucks and other vehicles to assist the local government units.

“We are facing a challenging time, but I am confident in the resilience and cooperation of the people of Canlaon. Your safety is our top priority,” the mayor added.

The public has been advised to stay indoors, avoid the PDZ and other high-risk areas, and wear face masks or covers during ashfall, and follow evacuation orders. (PNA)