REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
High Activity Observed In Mayon Volcano
Mayon Volcano at Alert Level 3 as seen in Bacacay yesterday, June 8 at 8:30 PM. Photo courtesy of James Albert S. Polero
Mayon Volcano in the province of Albay has been exhibiting heightened volcanic activity, prompting the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) to raise the alert level to 3. This indicates an increased tendency towards a hazardous eruption.

According to the latest monitoring data from PHIVOLCS, Mayon Volcano has experienced 199 volcanic earthquakes, along with 6 pyroclastic density currents that have traveled distances of 500 to 2000 meters from the crater. In addition, a visible glow has been observed emanating from the volcano, indicating the presence of magma. The volcano has also emitted sulfur dioxide at a rate of 332 tons per day as of June 7, 2023.

The plume of steam rising from Mayon Volcano has reached a height of 800 meters, with moderate emissions that have drifted southward. Ground deformation has also been detected, indicating swelling of the volcano.

In response to the elevated alert level, the Provincial Health Office (PHO) has declared a Code Blue Alert, signifying a 50% mobilization of agency resources. This includes the deployment of teams and logistics to affected areas for response and assistance.

Governor Atty. Edcel Greco Lagman wasted no time in ensuring the safety of the local population. He has ordered the immediate evacuation of families residing within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ). This decision was made after the alert level was raised from 2 to 3 at noon on Thursday, June 8, 2023.

The mandatory evacuation will affect approximately 2,400 families or 10,000 individuals from 26 barangays within the 6-km PDZ. These barangays include San Roque and Santa Teresa in Malilipot, Anoling, Quirangay, Sua, and Tumpa in Camalig, Barangay Mi-isi in Daraga, Dona Tomasa, Masarawag, Muladbucad Grande, and Muladbucad Pequeno in Guinobatan, Padang, Matanag, Bonga, and Mabinit in Legazpi, Baligang in Ligao, Calbayog and Canaway in Malilipot, Fidel Surtida, Lidong, San Fernando, and Santa Misericordia in Sto. Domingo, and Buang, Magapo, Oson, and San Isidro in Tabaco.

The Provincial Engineering Office (PEO), along with the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) and the Philippine National Police (PNP), will utilize trucks for the evacuation process. The respective Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Offices (DRRMOs) of each city and municipality will provide assistance in coordinating the evacuation efforts.

Governor Edcel Lagman emphasized the importance of maintaining Albay's zero casualty record and expressed his gratitude for the cooperation of various agencies involved in the evacuation.

Residents from the affected barangays are urged to follow the evacuation orders and seek shelter in designated evacuation centers for their safety. PHIVOLCS and local authorities will continue to closely monitor the situation and provide updates as necessary.

For more information and updates, please visit the official PHIVOLCS website at phivolcs.dost.gov.ph.

Share this article

MORE REGIONAL →
Share by: