Mayon eruption forces evacuations as ashfall blankets Albay communities

ALBAY — A moderate explosive eruption of Mayon Volcano before noon Friday sent residents living on its slopes fleeing to evacuation centers as ashfall descended on surrounding communities. Oscar Robert Cristobal, chief of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office, said officials anticipated evacuating approximately 1,131 families from the affected areas.

The ashfall, described as a thin layer, began affecting nearby towns immediately following the eruption. Residents in communities closest to Mayon's slopes were prioritized for evacuation to ensure their safety as volcanic activity continued to pose risks in the region.

The Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office coordinated the evacuation operations, directing affected families to designated emergency centers. Authorities advised residents to remain alert to further developments and follow all official instructions regarding movement and shelter arrangements.

The eruption marks the latest significant volcanic activity from Mayon, one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes. Officials maintained monitoring operations to track ongoing volcanic conditions and determine when evacuees could safely return to their communities.