Mayon Volcano Eruption

Overview

On May 2, 2026, Mount Mayon — one of the Philippines' most active volcanoes — escalated to Alert Level 3 after generating explosive pyroclastic density currents down its southwestern slopes and producing sustained lava flows extending up to 3.8 km from the crater. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) recorded multiple Strombolian eruptions, rockfalls, and volcanic earthquakes in the days that followed. At least 102,406 people across 87 barangays in Albay Province were affected, with 5,440 individuals sheltering in evacuation centers across Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao City, Legazpi City, and Daraga. President Marcos ordered a full government response; the Department of Social Welfare and Development distributed over 266,000 family food packs, hygiene kits, and non-food items to displaced residents. The Philippine Red Cross placed response teams on high alert throughout the province. Ashfall contamination of water supplies and elevated respiratory health risks prompted authorities to distribute face masks and water purification supplies across affected municipalities. Authorities maintained an 8-km radius permanent danger zone, and aviation warnings were issued for flights near the summit.