CEBU CITY: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) in Central Visayas has ramped up its disaster preparedness efforts, positioning food and non-food supplies and designating evacuation centers for residents near Mt. Kanlaon in Negros Oriental. These actions are part of 'Oplan Exodus,' an initiative aimed at safeguarding communities in the vicinity of the active volcano.

According to Philippines News Agency, DSWD-7 director Shalaine Marie Lucero stated that the department has intensified its response operations under the Oplan Exit Operations During Uncertainties Strategy, commonly known as 'Oplan Exodus.' This strategy is designed to facilitate organized evacuations and provide essential support to residents in affected localities.

As of Monday, the DSWD's regional field office has strategically prepositioned 40,122 family food packs valued at PHP25.9 million and 8,948 non-food items worth PHP14 million across the two provinces of Negros Island. Lucero highlighted that 900 family food packs have already been distributed to families impacted by Mt. Kanlaon's activity, who are currently outside the designated evacuation centers.

The prepositioned supplies include essential items such as family kits, hygiene kits, sleeping kits, kitchen kits, modular tents, and laminated sacks. In preparation for potential evacuations, additional resources like camp management kits, women-friendly space kits, and child-friendly space kits have been readied for deployment to evacuation centers.

Lilibeth Cabiara, chief of the DSWD-7 Disaster Response Management Division, mentioned that a team from the Canlaon City local government unit will inspect host LGU evacuation centers to ensure compliance with minimum standards for evacuee accommodation. Cabiara stressed the importance of having fully equipped and prepared evacuation centers to support families and individuals who may require relocation.

The proactive measures implemented under 'Oplan Exodus' underscore the DSWD's dedication to community protection, prioritizing the safety and welfare of those residing in areas at risk due to Mt. Kanlaon's volcanic activity.