By CESAR JOLITO III

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) inspected a newly discovered sinkhole at Barangay Talaptap in Negros Occidental’s La Castellana town amid heightened public concern following a series of recent tremors on Negros Island.

According to La Castellana Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (DRRMO) John de Asis, residents first noticed the formation on October 6 near a residential yard, about 15 meters from the main road.

Initial measurements by the DRRMO showed that the hole, which resembles a small sinkhole, spans approximately 20 centimeters wide and about 60 centimeters deep.

De Asis said they immediately coordinated with Phivolcs to determine the cause of the ground subsidence and to verify whether similar incidents had previously occurred in the area.

“We want to make sure this is not connected to any larger geological movement. While the threat remains low, it’s important to understand what caused it,” De Asis said.

The area has been cordoned off by the municipal government as a precautionary measure while awaiting the official findings from Phivolcs.

Although the incident has not posed an immediate danger to residents or nearby properties, the DRRMO urged the public to remain cautious and avoid the site until the investigation is complete.

Authorities also advised residents to promptly report any signs of new cracks or soil depressions, especially following heavy rains or earthquakes./CJ, WDJ