In the early hours of May 13, Kanlaon Volcano emitted a moderately explosive eruption that startled communities across Negros Occidental. A greyish plume rose about three kilometers into the sky, spreading ash across nearby towns and putting the health of residents at risk.

Though the eruption lasted only five minutes, its effects were immediate and deeply felt by those closest to the volcano.

Operation Blessing and our local church partner in the town of La Carlota wasted no time. With 1,000 N95 masks already on hand, they quickly moved to protect the community from the harmful ashfall. The need was urgent, and the response was immediate.

But the eruption didn’t stop there. The following day, May 14, ash continued to fall.

Alert Level 3 remained in effect, and danger still loomed, especially for those within the 6- kilometer danger zone. That same day, Operation Blessing and another church partner, La Castellana Metro Bible Baptist Church, stepped in to help. They reached out to families most at risk, handing out hundreds of N95 masks to shield them from the fine volcanic ash.

These may seem like simple items, but in a crisis, even a single mask can mean safety. It can mean peace of mind for a mother, or protection for a child playing just outside the home.

Operation Blessing’s support made this rapid response possible. Through faithful partners and donors, help came exactly when it was needed.

Still, the danger hasn’t passed. The volcano remains active. Families are still at risk—and so many more needs help.

You can help by taking a moment to pray for safety, for protection, and for strength for those serving on the ground. Pray for the families near Kanlaon, that they would feel peace even in uncertainty.

Additionally, consider partnering with Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines, CBN Asia’s humanitarian arm. Your support can provide protection and remind those affected that they are not facing this crisis alone.

Together, hope can reach where ash falls. Give today at cbnasia.com/give.