The Albay Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (PDRRMC) on Tuesday ordered the preemptive evacuation of residents within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) of Mayon Volcano following the raising of the volcano’s alert status from Level 2 to Level 3.
In an advisory issued by Albay Governor Noel Ebriega Rosal through PDRRMC–Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO), the move was prompted by increasing volcanic unrest at Mayon, as reported by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
City and municipal disaster risk reduction and management offices (C/MDRRMOs) were directed to immediately evacuate populations within the six-kilometer PDZ and to maintain 24-hour monitoring, with regular situation reports submitted to APSEMO.
Classes at all levels were suspended for schools located within the danger zone.
The Department of Education (DepEd) and school administrators whose campuses will serve as evacuation centers were advised to shift to alternative learning modalities and to coordinate with local government units for support.
Authorities also imposed strict security and access controls around the volcano.
The Philippine National Police (PNP) Albay Provincial Office and the Philippine Army were tasked to prohibit entry into the six-kilometer PDZ, where all human activities—including mountain climbing, farming, and foraging—are strictly banned.
Tourism-related activities were likewise restricted.
All-terrain vehicle (ATV) rides were limited to the Cagsawa Ruins area, while operations in other areas were temporarily suspended.
Entrance to Mayon Skyline was also prohibited until further notice, and a no-fly zone was declared directly above the volcano.
The PDRRMC advised the public to take precautionary measures in case of ashfall, including the use of face masks or damp cloths to cover the nose and mouth.
“All city, municipal, and barangay disaster risk reduction and management councils surrounding Mayon Volcano are advised to be on highest alert and monitoring status,” the advisory said.
Residents were urged to remain vigilant and await official updates from Phivolcs and local authorities.
