President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has mandated a comprehensive, multi-agency response to address the escalating unrest of Mayon Volcano, as ashfall begins to impact the health and livelihoods of residents across Albay.
The presidential directive synchronizes the efforts of several departments to manage the humanitarian and logistical challenges in the Bicol Region.
With 32 volcanic earthquakes recorded on Saturday alone, the unrest has now affected at least 50 villages, primarily in the municipalities of Guinobatan and Camalig.
COORDINATED AGENCY ACTIONS
The administration’s “whole-of-government” approach involves the following key operations:
- Public Health: The Department of Health (DOH) is currently distributing N95 masks to combat respiratory irritation caused by fine volcanic particles. Mobile clinics have been deployed to provide immediate treatment for eye, skin, and lung issues.
- Infrastructure & Logistics: The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) is leading road-clearing operations to ensure that evacuation and relief routes remain passable despite heavy ash accumulation.
- Sanitation & Cleanup: The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) is conducting large-scale water spraying operations to suppress airborne ash and assist local communities with the cleanup of public spaces.
- Disaster Management: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) and the NDRRMC are overseeing the mandatory evacuation of high-risk zones, strictly enforcing the prohibition of entry into the permanent danger area.
- Social Protection: The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has activated its prepositioned supply chain, ensuring that family food packs and essential relief goods are available for all displaced families.
SECONDARY THREATS: LAHAR AND RAIN
Authorities are placing a high priority on monitoring the volcano’s slopes for lahar. These fast-moving volcanic mudflows occur when accumulated ash mixes with rainwater, creating a heavy slurry that can bury entire communities and destroy infrastructure far beyond the immediate ashfall zone.
As Mayon remains under Alert Level 3, the government continues to urge residents to follow all safety protocols and stay updated on official bulletins from PHIVOLCS and the NDRRMC.