Mayon Volcano Remains at Alert Level 3; Over 3,000 Residents Evacuated as of January 7
by: Nel Adtoon
LEGAZPI CITY, ALBAY – The Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) reported that Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 as of 7:00 AM today, with ongoing volcanic activity including rockfalls and pyroclastic density currents. According to the Mayon Volcano Operation Activity/Monitoring Report 2-2026, the volcano has recorded 13 rockfall events and 5 pyroclastic density currents, with sulfur dioxide emissions reaching 702 tons per day as of January 5, 2026. The edifice is inflated, and emission trails drift moderately west-northwest.
DOST-PHIVOLCS recommends the evacuation of the 6-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) due to risks of pyroclastic density currents, lava flows, rockfalls, and sediment-laden stream flows. Increased vigilance is advised for areas downstream of channels draining the volcano’s edifice. Civil aviation authorities have also been notified to avoid flying close to the summit, as ash from sudden eruptions could pose hazards to aircraft; prevailing winds suggest ash fall is most likely on the volcano’s south side.
As per the evacuation report, a total of 822 families comprising 3,125 individuals have been moved to safe grounds across multiple cities and municipalities in Albay. Tabaco City has the highest number of evacuees with 390 families (1,399 people) housed in 5 centers, while Camalig has 119 families (439 people) in 3 centers. Guinobatan reports 26 families (94 people) in 1 center, and Daraga has no evacuees reported at this time. Santo Domingo, Bacacay, and Malilipot have no data indicated in the report.
No casualties have been recorded so far, with zero deaths, injuries, or missing persons reported. Additionally, there are no stranded passengers at Bicol International Airport as of the report’s issuance. Evacuation status for Camalig and Guinobatan is marked as “NE” (No Evacuees in some areas or status pending further detail), while other locations have active evacuation centers operational.
Local authorities continue to monitor Mayon Volcano’s activity closely and coordinate with national agencies to ensure the safety of residents in high-risk areas. Preparations for extended shelter and support services are being finalized as officials anticipate possible changes in the volcano’s behavior in the coming days.
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