Over 54,000 people affected by Kanlaon Volcano eruption in the Philippines

The eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Monday afternoon has affected around 12,000 families, or 54,000 individuals, in Western and Central Visayas, according to the Office of Civil Defense (OCD). Evacuations are ongoing for those within a six-kilometer radius. The volcano erupted at 3:03 p.m., sending a plume 3,000 meters high. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology raised the alert level to 3, indicating magmatic unrest. Authorities are preparing for a possible increase to alert level 4. Residents in Canlaon City must wear face masks due to sulfur dioxide exposure. A curfew and liquor ban are now in effect. The OCD is coordinating response efforts with various government agencies to assist affected residents.