The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) announced on Monday, May 4, 2026, that it has put in place contingency measures in preparation for a possible escalation of Mayon Volcano's activity.
Prepositioned Resources and Plans
OCD Spokesperson Junie Castillo stated in an interview on PTV's 'Bagong Pilipinas Ngayon' that resources have been prepositioned and contingency plans have been laid out with local government units (LGUs). He said, 'Our resources are prepositioned. Likewise, our contingency plans are in place with our LGUs so that if evacuation becomes necessary, the permanent danger zones will be extended.'
Castillo added that the OCD continues to coordinate with other response agencies and LGUs to monitor the volcano's status.
Alert Level Remains Unchanged
Despite the preparations, Castillo noted that the Department of Science and Technology–Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has not seen the need to raise the alert level. However, he emphasized that government agencies are ready for any escalation. 'As far as our preparations are concerned, we anticipate that if the situation escalates, our response agencies are ready,' he added.
Mayon Volcano's Activity
Mayon Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the country, is known for its near-perfect cone shape but has a history of sudden eruptions that can cause ashfall, lava flow, and lahar hazards. It emitted thick ash on Saturday night, May 2, which blanketed nearby communities.
