The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported increased volcanic activity at Mayon Volcano last Saturday, January 3, prompting authorities to maintain Alert Level 2 and implement strict safety measures for residents near the volcano.
PHIVOLCS recorded that from January 2 at 12 A.M. to January 3 at 12 A.M., monitoring instruments detected one volcanic earthquake and 43 rockfall events. The rockfalls occurred along Mayon’s slopes, indicating trembling lava and volcanic debris near the summit.
The agency noted that the crater glow remained obscured, limiting visual observations of magma at the summit. Meanwhile, sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions were measured at 288 tonnes per day as of January 2, reflecting persistent degassing from the volcano. A 200-meter-high volcanic plume with moderate emissions was also observed drifting north-northeast.
Ground deformation data further suggest that the volcano remains inflated, with magma or volcanic gases accumulating beneath the edifice. According to PHIVOLCS, this signals the potential for further unrest, even in the absence of an eruption.
Authorities continue to strictly prohibit entry into the Six-Kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and urge extreme caution within the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ). PHIVOLCS also advised pilots to avoid flying near the volcano, as ash emissions and sudden explosions could pose hazards to aircraft.
The agency warned the residents and local government units to remain alert for potential hazards, including sudden steam-driven or explosive eruptions, rockfalls, landslides, avalanches, and lahars.
Mayon Volcano, located in Albay, is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines and is closely monitored due to its history of hazardous eruptions. PHIVOLCS called on residents near the slopes to stay vigilant.
In an earlier advisory issued on January 1, PHIVOLCS raised Mayon’s status from Alert Level 1 to Alert Level 2. Over the last two months of 2025, they recorded at least 599 rockfall events, averaging about 10 per day.
Activity intensified toward the end of December, with the daily average rising to 21 rockfalls per day. On December 21, Mayon registered 47 rockfall events, the highest total recorded in the past year.
PHIVOLCS continues to monitor Mayon Volcano and urges residents in Albay and nearby areas to follow official advisories and take precautions to minimize risk, as the volcano remains active.
Written by Tracy Jarabelo, Insight PH
Tracy Jarabelo, Insight PH is a dedicated campus journalist and contributor. Their insightful writing sparks meaningful conversations and keeps the community informed.
