The office of civil defense-negros island region (ocd-nir) on friday dismissed claims posted on social media regarding a dam collapse at mt. kanlaon as it is set to verify the volcano's situation through aerial survey. "contrary to circulating reports on social media regarding a possible dam collapse at kanlaon volcano:egros Island Region (OCD-NIR) on Friday dismissed claims posted on social media regarding a dam collapse at Mt. Kanlaon as it is set to verify the volcano's situation through aerial survey. "Contrary to circulating reports on social media regarding a possible dam collapse at Kanlaon Volcano, the OCD-NIR clarifies that no dam has been identified or confirmed around Kanlaon Volcano to date," the agency said in a disclaimer issued in coordination with other concerned national agencies and local government units (LGUs). It acknowledged that such reports have generated fear and concern among residents and nearby communities. "The public is advised to remain calm and rely only on verified information from authorities," it added.

According to Philippines News Agency, the OCD-NIR said that together with concerned national agencies, they will verify the situation of Kanlaon Volcano through an aerial survey. "This is to determine whether recent volcanic activities and monsoon rains have resulted in waterway obstructions or potential artificial damming that could contribute to downstream flooding," it said. The survey will be conducted once the Department of Environment and Natural Resources-Mines and Geosciences Bureau determines the search areas.

On Sept. 15, a muddy stream flow from the upper portions of Kanlaon Volcano was monitored after heavy rains, resulting in the evacuation of at least 51 families or 167 individuals. Affected residents are those from La Castellana, Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City, Negros Oriental. In Barangay Biak na Bato, La Castellana, no rain was reported, but rainfall at higher elevations caused the muddy stream flow to swell and move toward lower-lying areas.

OCD-NIR Director Donato Sermeno III earlier advised residents staying in places vulnerable to flooding and mudflows to follow the advisories of LGUs and evacuate preemptively when warnings are issued.