MANILA — The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) clarified on Friday, March 27, that recent lava effusion at Mayon Volcano does not signify a sudden escalation in volcanic activity, despite recorded collapses along the volcano’s slopes.
Early Friday morning, Phivolcs captured footage of lava effusion and collapse along the Mi-isi and Bonga gullies between 4:49 a.m. and 4:55 a.m. While the visual activity may appear intensifying, officials urged the public to remain calm but vigilant.
“Collapses are a natural consequence of unstable lava buildup. It is not always a sign of sudden escalation in activity,” PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol told the Philippine News Agency in an interview.
Bacolcol explained that the current observations do not indicate a stronger magmatic unrest. Instead, they represent ongoing effusive activity—a process that has been persistent for several months. Lava effusion at Mayon originally began on Jan. 6, “and what we are seeing now is just a continuation of what we have been witnessing since Jan. 6,” Bacolcol said.
However, the agency warned of secondary hazards. The continuous effusion and subsequent collapses could fill the volcano’s gullies with volcanic materials.
“If lava and collapse materials are funneled into these channels, there’s a possibility of repeated PDCs (pyroclastic density currents), rockfalls, and possible buildup of debris that can travel farther downslope,” Bacolcol said.
Experts noted that sustained activity leads to continued lava accumulation. This increases the likelihood of frequent PDCs, rockfalls, and the potential extension of lava flows further down the mountain.
Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3. Director Bacolcol reiterated the necessity of staying outside the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ) to avoid life-threatening events.
“PDCs can occur suddenly and travel quickly along gullies. Even without explosive eruptions, these PDCs are life-threatening. Preparedness and compliance with restrictions are very important,” he added.| PNA
