Mayon remains on Alert Level 3

Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 as authorities reported intensified activity, including dozens of pyroclastic flows and hundreds of rockfall events over the past 24 hours.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology recorded 273 rockfalls, 83 volcanic earthquakes and 61 pyroclastic density currents — fast-moving clouds of hot gas and debris — between midnight Tuesday and midnight Wednesday.

State volcanologists observed continued lava effusion and “minor strombolian activity,” a term for low-level eruptive pulses. Plumes rose 500 meters (about 1,640 feet) above the crater, while sulfur dioxide emissions were measured at 1,973 tons.

The agency maintained a strict prohibition on entering the 6-kilometer (3.7-mile) permanent danger zone. Pilots have also been advised to avoid flying aircraft near the volcano’s summit.

The unrest has displaced thousands of residents in the Bicol Region. The Department of Social Welfare and Development reported Wednesday that 1,508 families, or approximately 6,031 people, have been affected across 14 villages.

As of Wednesday morning, 1,114 families remained in 12 evacuation centers.

DSWD Assistant Secretary Irene Dumlao said the government has provided P12.8 million in humanitarian aid, including food and essential supplies.

“We are continuously monitoring the situation,” Dumlao said. “Assistance will not stop for our fellow citizens inside and outside the evacuation centers.”

Norman Laurio, the DSWD regional director for Bicol, noted that social workers are also tracking and providing aid to families who have opted to stay with relatives rather than in government shelters.