Canlaon: The Canlaon City government in Negros Oriental is prepared to distribute masks and provide assistance to residents, like transportation and medication, in case of an ashfall due to Mt. Kanlaon's ash emission, an official said Wednesday.

According to Philippines News Agency, Seth Bariga, information officer of Canlaon City's Emergency Operations Center (EOC), stated that face masks have been previously distributed to residents in the barangays within the 4-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ). Bariga mentioned that the residents, who had returned home after months in evacuation centers, are equipped with face masks and are familiar with the necessary procedures in the event of ashfall. The residents were alerted about possible ashfall and advised to take appropriate measures.

Bariga assured that additional masks would be distributed if residents deplete their current supplies. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that Mt. Kanlaon emitted a 600-meter grayish plume at about 5:10 a.m. on Wednesday. However, no ashfall has been reported in Canlaon City's barangays within the PDZ due to the westward wind direction.

The local government continues to monitor for potential landslides or lahar/mud flows, which could be triggered by recent intermittent rains in the mountainous area. In case evacuation becomes necessary, city government vehicles are ready at designated pick-up points to transport residents to safer locations.