Evacuations ordered as Mayon Volcano escalates to Alert Level 3

ALBAY, Philippines - Authorities have ordered the pre-emptive evacuation of residents within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) of Mayon Volcano after state volcanologists raised the volcano’s status to Alert Level 3, citing increased volcanic activity and the heightened risk of hazardous eruptions.

Following the advisory from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, Albay Governor Noel Rosal, together with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office, directed local government units (LGUs) to immediately relocate residents in high-risk areas as a precaution against possible lava flows, rockfalls, and pyroclastic density currents.

The Department of the Interior and Local Government reinforced the directive, urging LGUs to strictly enforce a no-entry policy within the six-kilometer PDZ to protect both people and livestock. The DILG also advised communities located within a seven- to eight-kilometer radius from the crater to prepare for possible evacuation should volcanic activity further intensify.

“LGUs are directed to enforce immediate evacuation within the six-kilometer PDZ to safeguard lives against the risks posed by ongoing volcanic unrest,” the DILG said in a statement.

Authorities have implemented additional safety measures, including 24-hour monitoring of the volcano, suspension of classes in affected areas, tighter security checkpoints to prevent unauthorized entry into the danger zone, and the declaration of a no-fly zone over Mayon. The popular Mayon Skyline tourist area has also been temporarily closed.

Residents were advised to use face masks or damp cloths in case of ashfall and were reminded to rely only on official advisories from Phivolcs and local authorities.

On Wednesday, Phivolcs reported 131 rockfall events and five pyroclastic density currents, prompting authorities to maintain Alert Level 3. Under this alert status, an explosive eruption remains possible within weeks, according to volcanologists.

At least 75 families have been evacuated and are currently staying in evacuation centers in Barangay Buang, Tabaco City, based on initial field reports. While residents complied with evacuation orders, some expressed concern over the disruption to their livelihoods, particularly farming.

“Mahirap po sa pagtatanim, yung mga kabuhayan namin,” one evacuee said.

Meanwhile, the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council Bicol has activated its central command facility and placed its Emergency Operations Center on red alert status starting January 6, 2026. RDRRMC Chair and Office of Civil Defense Bicol Regional Director Claudio Yucot said the move aims to strengthen coordination and ensure the safety of communities potentially affected by Mayon’s continued unrest.

Authorities continue to urge vigilance as Mayon Volcano shows no immediate signs of calming, warning that conditions may rapidly change as activity evolves.