Volcanic debris deposited by previous mudflows has been removed gradually from Tamburong Creek in Barangay Biak na Bato, La Castellana town, Negros Occidental.

The Local Government Unit (LGU) of La Castellana and the Negros Occidental Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Office (PENRO) have started works on the removal of lahar from Mount Kanlaon that solidified along waterways.

In a video furnished by Barangay Biak na Bato, a backhoe was seen removing the debris gradually.

“So far doon sa taas na part kung saan umapaw, naka-build-up na ng mga buhangin. Ang LGU gumawa ng dike. So bale nag-letter ‘V’ na ang sapa, nasa gilid ang mga buhangin,” Barangay Biak na Bato Councilman Allan Tomaquin said.

The volcanic materials are set to be taken to the compound of the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) at Mount Kanlaon Natural Park (MKNP) temporarily while a permit is yet to be secured.

Given the volume of materials to be extracted from the creek, a vast area is also considered.

“Malaki ang volume. I’ve heard na mga 60,000 cubic meters minimum. Ang concentration natin within Tamburong Creek hindi masyado ang flow,” according to Forester Philip Lechoncito, MKNP operation superintendent.

“Hindi pa naaabot ang ilalim. So far, nasa gitna pa lang. Ang gusto namin is maubos sana,” Tomaquin added.

The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental has allocated P1 million for the fuel of additional heavy equipment.