From Inquirer

By Rhianna Ramos

On Tuesday, January 6, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised Mayon Volcano in Albay province to Alert Level 3 due to intensified volcanic activity that may lead to a hazardous eruption within days or weeks.

The alert escalation was prompted by a marked increase in volcanic activity, less than a week after it was placed under Alert Level 2 on New Year’s Day.

It included more frequent rockfall events, volcanic earthquakes, ground deformation, and sustained lava dome activity at the summit. 

According to PHIVOLCS, monitoring data indicate that magma is already near or at the surface, significantly increasing the likelihood of dangerous eruptive processes.

A major sign of escalation occurred at 12:26 p.m., when the collapse of the summit lava dome generated pyroclastic density currents (PDCs) that rushed down the Bonga Gully on the volcano’s southeastern flank, extending up to two kilometers from the crater.

PDCs are locally called “uson” and consist of super-heated gases, ash, and volcanic debris that can move rapidly and pose serious danger to life and property. 

PHIVOLCS also explained that Mayon is now exhibiting a magmatic eruption of a summit lava dome, which increases the chance of lava flows and additional hazardous PDCs affecting the upper and middle slopes.

Volcanic activity has intensified since the start of 2026, with 346 rockfall events and four volcanic earthquakes recorded since Thursday, January 1.

This represents a notable increase compared to the 599 rockfall events recorded from November to December 2025.

PHIVOLCS also noted the occurrence of glowing rockfalls at night, indicating accelerated growth of the lava dome.

Under Alert Level 3, the institute warned that sudden explosions, lava collapses, pyroclastic density currents, and ashfall may occur with little to no warning.

Furthermore, it advised residents to continuously remain vigilant and to avoid the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) as authorities continue to closely monitor the volcano’s activity.