CHIZ TO ALBAY RESIDENTS: HEED SAFETY MAYON ADVISORIES

SENATOR Francis “Chiz” Escudero on Saturday expressed solidarity with the residents of Albay as ashfall and pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) continued to affect several towns following increased activity from Mayon Volcano.

Escudero urged the public to strictly follow safety advisories as he assured the various local governments in the province that he is closely monitoring developments and ready to extend assistance as needed.

“Nakikiisa ako sa ating mga kababayan sa Albay sa gitna ng patuloy na aktibidad ng Bulkang Mayon. Hinihikayat ko ang lahat na sundin ang mga abiso ng mga awtoridad at unahin ang kanilang kaligtasan. Patuloy kong mino‑monitor ang sitwasyon at handa akong tumulong anumang oras kung kinakailangan,” the Bicolano senator assured the Albay provincial government and the residents.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported PDCs along the Mi‑isi Gully on Mayon’s south to southwestern slopes as Alert Level 3 remains in effect, indicating a high level of unrest. 

The agency said the activity was triggered by a lava collapse at around 4:28 p.m., followed by minor Strombolian eruption that began at about 4:50 p.m., generating rockfalls and ashfall in nearby communities.

Ashfall was reported in parts of Legazpi City, and the towns of Camalig, Guinobatan, and Daraga on Saturday afternoon. Local authorities have advised residents to stay indoors, keep windows and doors closed, and use face masks or damp cloths for protection during ashfall. Residents were also reminded to avoid river channels and gullies where volcanic material may flow as monitoring continues.

Escudero encouraged the public to remain vigilant and rely only on official updates from Phivolcs and local authorities. He emphasized that preparedness and cooperation are essential as Mayon continues to exhibit heightened activity