Mayon Volcano experienced a lava flow collapse that generates a pyroclastic density current (PDC) along its southwestern slope at 5:38 PM on 02 May (Saturday). In response to this development, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) Response Cluster convenes an emergency meeting on 03 May (Sunday) to discuss the ongoing Mayon Volcano activity, presided over by DSWD Disaster Response Management Group (DRMG) Undersecretary Diana Rose Cajipe, MD, FPOGS.

During the meeting, Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) presented an overview of the incident, noting that a series of PDCs occurred from 4:28 PM to 8:40 PM, extending slightly beyond the 5-kilometer radius from the crater. Despite these developments, Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3.

Meanwhile, figures from the DROMIC Report as of 03 May, 6:00 AM, along with the situation update from Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) V, indicate that a total of 30,522 families or 102,406 persons are affected across 87 barangays. Of these, 1,438 families (5,440 persons) are currently staying in 14 evacuation centers, while 26 families (85 persons) are staying with relatives or friends.

Given this situation, the Response Cluster discusses a range of augmentation efforts provided by national government agencies. These include the deployment of water trucks, distribution of food and non-food items, continuous clearing and flushing operations, and the installation of satellite internet (Starlink) to ensure uninterrupted coordination between local and national agencies.

In addition to ongoing response operations, the Cluster also identifies the anticipated needs of affected populations, particularly in light of extreme heat conditions. Priority concerns include face masks, hygiene kits, continued clearing operations, and the provision of potable water, especially in areas with limited supply such as Guinobatan and Camalig in Albay.

To further strengthen response efforts, Cluster members also raise key recommendations to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of humanitarian assistance. These include the strict enforcement of the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) under Alert Level 3, continuous monitoring of internally displaced persons (IDPs) with emphasis on elderly and high-risk individuals, and the assessment and improvement of ventilation in evacuation centers to prevent heat-related illnesses.

At the same time, the Cluster underscores the welfare of frontline personnel. It emphasizes the inclusion of adequate protective equipment in procurement and planning, while also encouraging agencies to strengthen public information campaigns on safety measures during volcanic activity.

In closing, the Response Cluster, in line with the directive of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., reaffirms its commitment to a whole-of-nation and whole-of-government approach to ensure that all affected families and individuals receive timely and appropriate support.

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