Following DOST-PHIVOLCS’ raising of Mayon Volcano’s alert status to Alert Level 3, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) on Tuesday urged local government units (LGUs) and residents in high-risk areas to immediately evacuate and prohibit entry within the permanent danger zone (PDZ) as the Mayon Volcano exhibits signs of eruption.

According to the latest Mayon Volcano Bulletin, the volcano has exhibited signs of unrest since January 1, including the continuous collapse of its summit lava dome. This activity has resulted in 346 rockfall events, 4 volcanic earthquakes, and several pyroclastic density currents (PDCs). These indicate that an effusive magmatic eruption or the steady flow of lava onto the surface is in progress.

In an advisory, the DILG called on the LGUs to heighten vigilance and sustain close monitoring of Mayon’s activities through their respective local Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) councils. Strict implementation of the Operation L!STO Protocols for Volcanic Eruption should also be observed to ensure that critical preparedness measures are in place.

LGUs are directed to enforce immediate evacuation within the 6-kilometer PDZ to safeguard lives, both human and animal, against the risk of lava flow surges, rockfalls, and other volcanic activities. Areas within this zone must be declared as off-limits. Those residing within a 7 to 8-km radius should be prepped for possible evacuation in the event of progressive volcanic activity.

LGUs were also urged to remain alert for pyroclastic density currents, lahar and sediment-laden streamflows along channels draining the edifice. The DILG warned that heavy rainfall could trigger channel-confined lahar and sediment-laden streamflows in channels where PDC deposits have accumulated.

To ensure efficient coordination and response, the DILG instructed LGUs to activate their Emergency Operation Centers (EOCs) on a 24/7 basis and strengthen collaboration with the provincial government and regional DRRMC.

Furthermore, LGUs were advised to establish and strictly implement the critical preparedness actions based on Operation L!STO Protocols for Volcanic Eruption – Mayon Volcano and their respective contingency plans to guide necessary response measures.

The DILG Region V office is in close coordination with local DRRM units to ensure adherence to minimum preparedness measures. This supports President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s call for proactive disaster response with LGUs in the front.