The Department of Tourism (DOT) on Sunday issued a strong advisory for travelers to cancel non-essential trips to areas near Mayon Volcano as persistent ashfall and magmatic activity threaten several municipalities in Albay.
With the volcano currently under Alert Level 3, the agency emphasized that the safety of both visitors and tourism personnel is the government’s top priority.
Officials warned that entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) remains strictly prohibited due to the heightened risk of volcanic hazards.
“Non-essential travel to areas surrounding Mayon Volcano is strongly discouraged,” the DOT stated in a public advisory. “The safety and well-being of tourists and tourism workers remain paramount.”
The DOT highlighted that ashfall has already blanketed the communities of Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, and Ligao City. This follows reports of lava effusion, rockfall events, and volcanic earthquakes.
Notably, on Saturday afternoon, the volcano experienced pyroclastic density currents triggered by collapsing lava flows on its southwestern slopes.
Travelers are urged to take the following precautions:
- Monitor Bulletins: Regularly check official updates from PHIVOLCS and the NDRRMC.
- Verify Bookings: Contact hotels and tour operators to confirm if operations are suspended or if locations are within restricted zones.
- Health Safety: Adhere to health protocols regarding ashfall exposure, particularly in affected municipalities.
The DOT confirmed it is maintaining close coordination with local government units (LGUs) and disaster management agencies to monitor real-time conditions and ensure that the tourism sector remains informed and prepared.