More than 30,000 families affected, thousands displaced following Mayon riots
An estimated 30,522 families have been affected and 1,438 families have been evacuated due to the ongoing unrest in Mayon Volcano, according to the Office of Defense (OCD) on Monday.
The number of affected families translates to 102,406 people in 87 barangays, of which 5,440 people are currently sheltering in shelters, OCD deputy spokesperson Diego Agustin Mariano told reporters via Viber, citing the latest OCD Region V report.
26 families, or 85 people, are also being helped outside evacuation centers.
Of the evicted families, 333 were first evicted last Saturday, OCD said.
This is the same day that Mayon Volcano had a small amount of Strombolian activity and temporary lava fountains, which produced large ash plumes.
Thick ash covered the communities near the volcano following the eruption, as seen in different photos and videos that have spread on social media.
The OCD said at least 52 barangays in different towns in Albay were reported to be affected by the ash fall.
During Mayon's ongoing unrest, Mr. Mariano said the OCD, as the implementation arm of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC), is conducting a government-wide response.
“All assistance, services, and needs of those who leave are continuously provided by local government units, as well as national government agencies,” said Mr. Mariano in a statement.
He added that water trucks and water filtration systems were used, while essential items such as N95 masks and malongs were distributed. Cleaning operations to ensure that the roads pass through also continue.
OCD urged the public to follow the authorities, especially the enforcement of the six kilometer danger zone.
Meanwhile, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday ordered several government agencies to help communities affected by the Mayon Volcano ash, especially in Gunobatan and Camalig, Albay.
“Following the President's order, response operations are now fully operational to protect public health, ensure safety, and keep roads and essential services accessible in the affected areas,” the Presidential Communications Office (PCO) said in a statement.
It said that the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has started cleaning the ash from the highways.
The Department of Health (DOH) is distributing N95 masks and deploying mobile clinics and water stations to provide immediate medical assistance.
Aid distribution is also done by the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) throughout the Bicol region.
Evacuation efforts are led by the OCD and the NDRRMC.
Other structures have been planted to sprinkle water and remove ash.
The PCO said the President also directed the authorities to carefully monitor rivers and waterways to prevent mudflow, especially during heavy rains.
The public is urged to remain vigilant and stay indoors as much as possible. They are also advised to wear protective masks and follow safety advice from local government units, the PCO said. – Edg Adrian A. Eva
