Rapid Relief for Victims of the Mount Kanlaon Eruption
JULY 8, 2024
Natural disasters are among the most devastating events that can shatter the fabric of a community. On June 3, 2024, the residents of the Pontevedra region in Negros Occidental found themselves at the mercy of such a calamity when Mount Canlaon, a volcano that had lain dormant for nearly two decades, suddenly roared back to life around 6:51 pm. The eruption rained down a torrent of stones and sulfur on the nearby villages, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake. In the immediate aftermath of this catastrophic event, M Lhuillier, led by the dedicated OPEC Negros South Alliance (ONSA) sprang into action. Convening an emergency meeting on June 4th, the group swiftly coordinated a comprehensive response plan to provide aid and relief to the affected communities.
The following day, on June 5th at 9:30 am, a team of volunteers traveled to the impacted area of Barangay Zamora in Pontevedra. Working in close collaboration with barangay officials and the local council, these dedicated individuals delivered critical assistance to the 130 families and 336 individuals who had been devastated by the eruption. The group prepared grocery packages containing essential supplies such as rice, canned goods, noodles, milk, and biscuits. The recipients, many of whom shared heartbreaking accounts of the eruption's toll, expressed profound gratitude for this timely intervention, which helped alleviate their immediate needs and provided a glimmer of hope amidst the destruction.
This rapid response exemplifies the vital importance of preparedness and cross-organizational collaboration in the face of sudden natural emergencies. By mobilizing quickly and forging partnerships with local leaders, M Lhuillier demonstrated the transformative power of agile, coordinated efforts to deliver crucial aid to vulnerable community members in the wake of the Mount Kanlaon eruption. Such collaborative action can make a vital difference in helping populations overcome the daunting challenges posed by natural disasters. The Pontevedra region's experience serves as a testament to the difference that can be made when organizations, officials, and community members unite in a shared mission to provide rapid relief and support to those in need.