Mount Kanlaon’s Eruption Shocks the Philippines as Media Stays Silent
Uncover the untold story of Mount Kanlaon’s 2024 eruption, its devastating aftermath, and why global media turned a blind eye to this disaster in the Philippines.
Hidden Truths of Kanlaon’s Volcanic Eruption
The Hidden Truths Behind Mount Kanlaon’s 2024 Eruption
On December 9, 2024, Mount Kanlaon, one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, roared to life with an explosive eruption. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) swiftly raised Alert Level 3, signaling a high risk of further eruptions. While this disaster disrupted lives and left entire communities grappling with its effects, the international media provided scant coverage, revealing a broader pattern of indifference toward disasters in developing nations.
The Immediate Impact: A Community in Crisis
- Evacuations and Fear:
Thousands of families were forced to evacuate as ashfall blanketed homes, farms, and roads. Emergency shelters quickly filled, exposing residents to crowded and unsanitary conditions. - Economic Toll:
Negros Occidental, a region heavily reliant on agriculture, declared a state of calamity by December 14. The ashfall and tremors caused extensive crop damage, threatening the livelihoods of countless farmers. - Health Hazards:
Prolonged exposure to volcanic ash posed severe respiratory risks, especially to children and the elderly. Hospitals in the region reported spikes in cases of asthma and other respiratory conditions.
Why the World Barely Noticed
The eruption of Mount Kanlaon raises questions about how disasters in less prominent regions are covered. While global headlines often feature catastrophes in wealthier nations, crises in countries like the Philippines are frequently overlooked.
- Bias Toward Wealthy Nations:
Disasters in the Global North tend to dominate media cycles, leaving smaller, developing nations struggling for attention and aid. - Lack of International Aid Coverage:
Despite the devastation, international agencies provided little aid compared to similar disasters elsewhere. This gap underscores the systemic neglect of regions like Southeast Asia.
What’s Being Done and What Needs to Change
- Local Resilience:
The Filipino spirit of “bayanihan,” or communal unity, shone through as neighbors and local organizations mobilized to provide aid. Yet, this grassroots effort cannot substitute for the need for international assistance. - Strengthening Early Warning Systems:
PHIVOLCS continues to refine its monitoring and alert systems, but funding limitations remain a barrier to comprehensive disaster preparedness. - Pushing for Global Attention:
Governments and media outlets must prioritize equal coverage of global disasters to ensure that underreported crises receive the attention and aid they deserve.
Lessons from Kanlaon’s Fury
The eruption of Mount Kanlaon is a sobering reminder of the Philippines’ vulnerability to natural disasters and the global community’s indifference. To truly support disaster-prone regions, we must advocate for more equitable media coverage, international aid, and preparedness initiatives.
Conclusion
Mount Kanlaon’s eruption revealed both the resilience of local communities and the glaring neglect by international media. By sharing these untold stories, we can shine a light on the challenges faced by vulnerable nations and inspire a collective push for action.
