Walang Pasok Bukas! Classes Suspended in Negros, Mindanao Due to Kanlaon Eruption and Heavy Rains

Following the explosive eruption of Kanlaon Volcano on Thursday afternoon and heavy rains from the shear line hammering parts of Mindanao, multiple local government units have announced class suspensions for Friday, February 20. Students in affected areas get a long weekend, but the reasons are anything but relaxing.

In Negros, classes at all levels — public and private — have been suspended in La Carlota City, Negros Occidental, and Canlaon City, Negros Oriental, the municipality closest to the volcano’s crater. The eruption at 4:38 PM sent ash and pyroclastic debris toward the southwest, blanketing nearby communities.

Meanwhile, the shear line is wreaking havoc across Mindanao. In Davao del Norte alone, six municipalities have declared walang pasok: Santo Tomas, Kapalong, San Isidro, New Corella, Carmen, and Asuncion. Most are shifting to alternative learning modalities instead of face-to-face classes.

Davao de Oro is also heavily affected, with seven towns — Monkayo, Nabunturan, Montevista, Mawab, Maragusan, Laak, and Compostela — all suspending classes. Over in Bukidnon, Valencia City has canceled preschool, elementary, and high school classes, while Butuan City in Caraga has suspended classes at all levels.

Parents and students are advised to monitor their local government’s social media pages for updates, as more suspensions may be announced depending on weather conditions and volcanic activity. Stay safe, stay indoors, and keep your emergency kits ready.

Source: GMA News