Screengrab from PHIVOLCS-DOST

LEGAZPI CITY — Authorities in Albay have stepped up safety measures after Mayon Volcano was placed under Alert Level 3, prompting pre-emptive evacuations, a tourism ban, and heightened health emergency readiness across the province.

Following the advisory from DOST-PHIVOLCS, the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council–Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (PDRRMC-APSEMO) ordered local government units to evacuate residents living within the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around Mayon. The move aims to keep families safe amid the volcano’s increasing activity.

Disaster response teams have been placed on full alert, with round-the-clock monitoring now in place. Authorities are strictly enforcing a no-entry policy inside the danger zone, while security forces have been deployed to ensure compliance. Classes in affected areas have also been suspended as a precaution.

Residents near the volcano were advised to prepare face masks or damp cloths in case of ashfall. At the same time, barangay and municipal disaster councils were instructed to remain on standby for rapid response.

Hospitals on Code White Alert

In line with the elevated alert status, the Albay Provincial Health Office has declared a Code White Alert effective January 6, 2026. All provincial, district, and municipal hospitals, as well as rural and city health units and DRRM-H managers, are now on heightened alert.

Health facilities were directed to ensure readiness, maintain close coordination, and submit required reports as part of the province’s coordinated health emergency response. Officials stressed that vigilance and preparedness are crucial to safeguarding the health of Albayanons.

Tourism Activities Suspended

Meanwhile, all tourism-related activities within Mayon’s six-kilometer danger zone have been suspended effective immediately.

Under Tourism Advisory No. 01, Series of 2026, trekking, sightseeing, tours, recreational activities, tourism operations, and related events inside the restricted area are strictly prohibited. The advisory was issued in compliance with PDRRMC-APSEMO Advisory No. 2026-1 to reduce volcanic risks and ensure public safety.

The Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office urged tourism operators, visitors, and residents to strictly follow the ban until further notice.

Authorities continue to call on the public to remain calm but alert, follow official instructions, and rely only on updates from PHIVOLCS and the Albay provincial government as the situation around Mayon Volcano continues to evolve.