By CESAR JOLITO III

The Negros Occidental provincial government is set to relocate residents living within the four-kilometer permanent danger zone of Kanlaon Volcano, following the acquisition of an 8.6-hectare property in La Castellana town’s Barangay Talaptap.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II confirmed that the land title transfer has been completed.

They informed Interior Undersecretary Marlo Iringan of the development.

“With the land now secured, we are expediting the development of the relocation site to ensure the safety of our constituents,” Diaz said.

He added that the province is coordinating with community organizers to assist affected families and prepare them for resettlement.

The relocation is part of the provincial government’s proactive measures to mitigate risks for communities living near the active volcano.

More than 100 residents have already expressed readiness to move to the safer area, Diaz said.

He also assured that the new relocation site will be equipped with basic facilities and services to support displaced families and provide a smooth transition.

Kanlaon Volcano, which straddles the provinces of Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, remains under close monitoring due to its activity, prompting authorities to strictly prohibit habitation within the permanent danger zone./CJ, WDJ