Cops deployed amid Mayon alert level rise

The Philippine National Police (PNP) disclosed that it has deployed officers to the Bicol Region to assist in the mandatory evacuation of residents after authorities raised the alert level for Mayon Volcano to 3, signaling an increased risk of a hazardous eruption.

Acting PNP Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said Wednesday that units from the Bicol regional office are supporting the evacuation of families living within the 6-kilometer permanent danger zone in Albay province.

The mobilization follows an announcement Tuesday by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) that the volcano’s status had been upgraded from Alert Level 2 to 3.

“I have directed our personnel in the Bicol Region to extend full support to the local government units in Albay, particularly in assisting residents within danger zones,” Nartatez said.

Police have established checkpoints at key entry points to restricted areas and increased patrols to prevent unauthorized entry into the danger zone. In towns like Camalig, officers are working with village leaders to persuade hesitant residents to leave their homes.

Beyond assisting with the relocation of families, police units have been assigned to patrol evacuated neighborhoods to protect property and prevent looting while residents are displaced.

Authorities continue to urge the public to monitor official advisories and stay clear of the volcano’s slopes as monitoring of the volcanic activity continues.