Manila’s volcanic experts have escalated the alert status for the Mayon Volcano in Albay province, Luzon island, to Level 3 as of Tuesday. The Philippines Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) cited the collapse of the summit lava dome triggering pyroclastic density currents as the primary reason for the upgrade.
In a detailed advisory, PHIVOLCS warned that magmatic explosions within the summit lava dome persist, fueling lava flows and hazardous pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) impacting the volcano’s upper and middle slopes. ‘The risk of explosive activity remains high in the coming days or weeks,’ the institute stated, urging immediate vigilance.
Recent data reveals a sharp uptick in rockfalls from the unstable summit dome. Since January 1, 2026, authorities have recorded 346 rockfall events and four volcanic earthquakes, compared to 599 rockfalls between November and December 2025. These developments signal intensifying unrest.
With PDCs, lava flows, rockfalls, and other volcanic hazards on the rise, PHIVOLCS has reinforced the six-kilometer permanent danger zone evacuation order. Local residents are advised to stay alert, follow administration guidelines strictly, and avoid downstream channels prone to lahar flows mixed with rainwater.
Mayon, the Philippines’ most active volcano, has a storied history of eruptions. Earlier on January 1, PHIVOLCS had raised the alert from Level 1 to Level 2 due to rising magma, hinting at potential sudden blasts. Officials emphasize preparedness as conditions could deteriorate rapidly, prioritizing public safety amid this escalating threat.