Canlaon City in Negros Oriental heralds a hopeful turning point as its tourism destinations reopened on August 8, 2025, resuming access nearly eight months after being shut down due to the December 9, 2024 eruption of Mount Kanlaon. This follows the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) lowering the volcano’s alert from Level 3 (magmatic unrest) to Level 2 (moderate unrest) on July 29, 2025, signaling improving conditions and a reduced risk of imminent explosive activity.
Local officials, led by Mayor Jose Chubasco Cardenas, view the reopening as a critical step toward economic recovery. The shutdown had heavily impacted local livelihoods—from small businesses to tour guides and homestays—that rely on tourism traffic. Reopening symbolizes resilience, though safety remains paramount.
Scientific Basis for Downgrade
PHIVOLCS based its decision on sustained decreases in volcanic activity. Indicators such as seismic tremors, volcanic gas emissions, and ground deformation showed positive trends over several weeks. While the threat has lessened, authorities underscore that Kanlaon remains in unrest and continues to be closely monitored.
Safety Measures and Ongoing Vigilance
Reopening does not equate to complacency. The city remains committed to maintaining robust safety protocols. PHIVOLCS continues to conduct real-time monitoring using instrumentation for seismicity and gas output—ready to recommend closures if activity spikes. Meanwhile, local disaster management teams stand prepared to respond swiftly if needed.
Guidelines for Tour Operators and Visitors
Authorities have issued updated advisory protocols for anyone entering the reopened sites:
- Strictly avoid the established Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) near the summit.
- Follow evacuation orders promptly if issued.
- Join guided tours only through licensed operators familiar with hazard areas and evacuation procedures.
These measures are designed to allow tourism to resume more safely and responsibly.
Impacts of the December 2024 Eruption
The eruption on December 9, 2024 triggered raised alert levels and forced the closure of tourism and surrounding areas. It prompted evacuations, disrupted agriculture, and strained local infrastructure. For months, communities and businesses paused operations, awaiting signs of safety before welcoming visitors again.
Inter‑Agency Coordination for Safe Reopening
The resurgence of tourism is the fruit of collaboration across government agencies. City officials, PHIVOLCS, the Department of Tourism, and local disaster response units collectively crafted a roadmap for the safe reinstatement of access. This integrated approach balances public safety with socioeconomic recovery—not just reopening sites, but ensuring they remain secure and sustainable.
Rebooting Canlaon’s Tourism Landscape
Canlaon City is known for its natural treasures—lush hiking trails, majestic waterfalls, and panoramic views of Mount Kanlaon within the Mount Kanlaon Natural Park. The formerly suspended Unified Hiking Marker System—identifying trails by difficulty with colors red, blue, and yellow—makes navigating these paths safer and more tourist-friendly.
With reopening, tourism operators are launching awareness campaigns, rescheduling guided hikes, and organizing cultural events to gradually restore visitor confidence. The focus is on experiential travel—linking enjoyment with education about volcanic safety.
Balancing Growth with Caution
Even at Alert Level 2, caution is essential. PHIVOLCS continues strict surveillance across key volcanic indicators, and higher alert and renewed restrictions remain a possibility should unrest escalate. The city government pledges regular review of tourism policies and readiness to act on short notice—seeking a delicate balance between economic uplift and public safety.
What the Future Holds for Canlaon Tourism
This reopening marks a pivotal moment in the city’s revival from the dark clouds of volcanic disruptions. With scientific oversight, responsible leadership, and public education efforts in place, Canlaon is poised to welcome visitors once again—but with renewed mindfulness about natural risks.
Whether you’re drawn to its mountain hikes, pristine waterfalls, or the allure of experiencing recovery in action, Canlaon now extends both beauty and caution—welcoming and watchful under the gaze of Mount Kanlaon.
Final Word
The reopening of Canlaon City’s tourism venues after the recent downgrade in volcanic alert is more than a return to business—it is a testament to community resilience, scientific collaboration, and cautious optimism. As tourists step back into the foothills of Kanlaon, they tread in a place where nature’s power is respected, and every return is earned.
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