REGIONAL
Advocates Philippines
Rockfalls Nearly Double As Mayon Shows Signs Of Growing Unrest
Screengrab from Phivolcs
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) says the level of unrest at Mayon Volcano has gone up, especially near the summit. The agency reported more activity on the volcano’s surface over the past few days.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol explained that rockfall incidents have almost doubled. From 44 rockfalls recorded between January 4 and 5, the number jumped to 85 between January 5 and 6. According to him, this signals growing instability at the summit, which is often linked to magma slowly moving upward.
On Monday night, Phivolcs also observed glowing or “incandescent” rockfall coming from the lava dome. These glowing rocks are hot materials that break off from the volcano and appear bright when seen in the dark. They usually come from newly exposed or very hot parts of the summit.
Bacolcol clarified the difference. Ordinary rockfalls happen when loose rocks simply roll down because of gravity or unstable slopes. These are usually cooler and do not glow. Incandescent rockfalls, however, suggest heat and pressure near the top of the volcano — a sign that magma may be influencing the surface.
He added that some earlier rockfall events may also have involved hot material, but many happened during daytime, making it difficult for observers to see whether they were glowing. At night, when the summit became visible and less covered by clouds, the incandescent rockfalls were easier to spot.
Even though Mayon’s seismic activity remains low for now, the increasing number of rockfalls and signs of ground deformation show that unrest is building up.
Mayon remains under Alert Level 2, which means there is still heightened unrest. Entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited.
Bacolcol urged residents near the volcano to stay alert and be prepared, especially those inside the danger zone. If the alert level is raised to Alert Level 3, evacuation may be immediately required.
He also reminded the public to follow only official announcements from Phivolcs and local authorities to avoid confusion and misinformation.
Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol explained that rockfall incidents have almost doubled. From 44 rockfalls recorded between January 4 and 5, the number jumped to 85 between January 5 and 6. According to him, this signals growing instability at the summit, which is often linked to magma slowly moving upward.
On Monday night, Phivolcs also observed glowing or “incandescent” rockfall coming from the lava dome. These glowing rocks are hot materials that break off from the volcano and appear bright when seen in the dark. They usually come from newly exposed or very hot parts of the summit.
Bacolcol clarified the difference. Ordinary rockfalls happen when loose rocks simply roll down because of gravity or unstable slopes. These are usually cooler and do not glow. Incandescent rockfalls, however, suggest heat and pressure near the top of the volcano — a sign that magma may be influencing the surface.
He added that some earlier rockfall events may also have involved hot material, but many happened during daytime, making it difficult for observers to see whether they were glowing. At night, when the summit became visible and less covered by clouds, the incandescent rockfalls were easier to spot.
Even though Mayon’s seismic activity remains low for now, the increasing number of rockfalls and signs of ground deformation show that unrest is building up.
Mayon remains under Alert Level 2, which means there is still heightened unrest. Entry into the six-kilometer permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited.
Bacolcol urged residents near the volcano to stay alert and be prepared, especially those inside the danger zone. If the alert level is raised to Alert Level 3, evacuation may be immediately required.
He also reminded the public to follow only official announcements from Phivolcs and local authorities to avoid confusion and misinformation.
Jan 6, 2026
We are dedicated storytellers with a passion for bringing your brand to life. Our services range from news and media features to brand promotion and collaborations.
Interested? Visit our
Contact Us page for more information. To learn more about what we offer, check out our latest article on services and opportunities.
