PNP deploys personnel to assist evacuations as Mayon Volcano alert raised

The Philippine National Police (PNP) on Wednesday said it has deployed personnel and resources to assist residents affected by the unrest of Mayon Volcano, following the raising of the volcano’s alert level to 3.

PNP chief Lieutenant General Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said police units from the Police Regional Office in the Bicol Region (PRO-5) have been mobilized to support the evacuation of families living within the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) of Mayon Volcano in Albay.

The deployment comes after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised Mayon’s alert level from 2 to 3 on January 6, citing increased signs of possible hazardous eruption.

According to Nartatez, police are coordinating closely with local government units to facilitate evacuations and ensure public safety.

“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,” he said.

Police checkpoints have been set up at key entry points to restricted areas, while patrols and police visibility have been increased across Albay to prevent unauthorized entry into the PDZ and to maintain peace and order.

On the ground, police units in Camalig, Albay have been assisting in the evacuation of residents living within the six-kilometer danger zone. Authorities said some residents remain hesitant to leave their homes despite the alert level increase.

Nartatez said police officers are working with barangay officials and local leaders to explain the risks posed by increased volcanic activity and the importance of evacuating to safer areas.

PNP units have also been assigned to patrol evacuated communities to prevent looting and protect property while residents are displaced.

Authorities continue to urge the public to follow advisories issued by PHIVOLCS and local governments and to avoid entering danger zones as monitoring of Mayon Volcano continues.