Albay: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Bicol has intensified its response efforts to address the impact of ashfall from Mayon Volcano. Their focus is on ensuring road safety, conducting clearing operations, and swiftly delivering aid to the affected communities.
According to Philippines News Agency, OCD Deputy Administrator Assistant Secretary Raffy Alejandro has convened key agencies, including the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of Guinobatan, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine National Police-Bicol (PNP-5), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), to coordinate the response efforts. OCD-Bicol officer-in-charge Director Jessar Adornado provided updates on the situation and the immediate response actions taken by the Bicol Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council.
Adornado confirmed that all national roads have been cleared, and the DPWH is set to conduct declogging operations to maintain the flow of cleared ashfall during flushing. He noted that the thickness of ashfall in the local government units of Camalig and Guinobatan was recorded at two to three inches. The BFP-Bicol is leading the effort to flush national roads, while the DPWH is managing debris collection. The PNP is tasked with ensuring road safety for responders and motorists navigating the affected areas.
In addition to road operations, the OCD is addressing immediate needs on the ground by distributing N95 masks and bottled water to communities where water sources may be contaminated by ashfall. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has reinforced relief efforts, distributing 393 ready-to-eat food boxes to residents who evacuated from Barangay Anoling in Camalig, Albay. The latest DSWD Disaster Response Operations Monitoring and Information Center report indicates that 87 villages in Albay are affected, with 1,438 families or 5,440 individuals currently residing in 14 evacuation centers, while 26 families or 85 persons are taking temporary shelter elsewhere.
Humanitarian assistance worth PHP82.27 million has been provided by the DSWD, local government units, and partner organizations. Available relief resources, including standby funds and stockpiles, have reached PHP245.83 million, ensuring sustained support for ongoing response operations.
The Department of Health (DOH) has advised the public to take necessary precautions amid the ashfall. Residents are encouraged to stay indoors as much as possible and avoid unnecessary travel. Those who need to go outside should wear N95 or surgical masks to protect against fine ash particles. Households should close windows and doors, use damp curtains, and regularly clear ash from roofs to prevent structural damage. The DOH also stressed the importance of frequent handwashing, covering food and water sources, and ensuring that food is properly cleaned and safe for consumption. Individuals experiencing difficulty breathing, eye irritation, or other health concerns are advised to seek medical attention.
