By CESAR JOLITO III

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources in the Negros Island Region (DENR-NIR) is seeking the voluntary relocation of residents living inside the strict protection zone of the Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP), following the destructive flashfloods and landslides triggered by Typhoon “Tino” on November 4.

DENR-NIR Regional Executive Director Charlie Fabre said the agency has identified 132 families currently occupying the protected core zone of the volcano.

Formal letters will be sent to the affected households requesting them to vacate the area as part of government mitigation efforts.

Fabre emphasized that the move aims to prevent the re-establishment of agricultural activities inside the protected zone and allow the land to fully revert to natural forest conditions — critical for reducing disaster risks and maintaining ecological stability around Kanlaon.

He also warned that residents who refuse to leave may face charges for illegal occupation in a protected area, a violation under environmental laws.

Meanwhile, in coordination with the Canlaon City government, the DENR is also implementing additional mitigation measures, including the establishment of an easement zone — a designated buffer area limiting where residents may construct structures to reduce risks in the event of heavy rainfall or future volcanic-related hazards.

Fabre reiterated that the recent flooding and landslides underscore the urgent need to clear high-risk areas around the volcano, adding that proactive measures are essential to avoid repeat tragedies./CJ, WDJ