Residents of five barangays in Daraga, Albay are raising concerns over the danger of possible lahar flow due to the buildup of volcanic debris in the Mi-isi Gully at the foot of Mayon Volcano.
According to a report by RH Ruel Saldico, a large amount of loose volcanic material that accumulated following the ashfall on May 2 continues to pose a serious threat, especially if heavy rains occur, as the debris could cascade downhill and affect nearby communities.
In an interview on DZRH News’ “Damdaming Bayan” on Wednesday, Daraga Mayor Victor Perete said at least five villages—Miisi, Salvacion, Budiao, Bañadero, and Matnog—are at risk of lahar flows triggered by rainfall.
Perete also expressed concern over pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), locally referred to as “uson,” which have already affected parts of the municipality.
“Ang kinatatakutan lang namin ang pagbagsak ng PDCs na bumagsak sa isang barangay sa Daraga,” Perete said.
The mayor reported that agricultural damage has been significant, with around 200 farmers affected after ashfall buried or damaged crops, particularly coconut trees.
“Maraming nasira na niyog, ‘yung mga farmers natin medyo kawawa dito,“ he said.
He noted that local authorities are taking steps to assist affected farmers while appealing for support from national government agencies.
“Kami ay nagsasagawa na rin ng mga hakbang para matugunan ang mga problema nila at nananawagan kami sa national agencies na concern po dito, sana matugunan,” the mayor added.
All residents from the five affected barangays have already been evacuated to designated evacuation centers as a precautionary measure.
Perete emphasized the need for long-term assistance for displaced farmers, pointing out that planting in the area is currently prohibited based on expert recommendations. He urged for sustainable intervention programs rather than temporary aid.
“Sana po ay matulungan itong mga farmers na syempre hindi pwede na magtanim doon kasi pinagbabawal po ayon sa mga eksperto natin dito. Sana may intervation man lang at matulungan sila, hindi pansamantala pangmatagalan po kasi matagal na ito,“ he appealed to national government.
A strict six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) remains enforced around the volcano, prohibiting human activity, including farming and leisure, to ensure public safety.
Meanwhile, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported continued unrest at Mayon Volcano as of Wednesday, May 6.
Monitoring data recorded 11 volcanic earthquakes, three volcanic tremors, and 283 rockfall events from the last 24 hours. Additionally, 17 pyroclastic density current signals, ongoing lava effusion, and lava flow activity were observed.
Alert Level 3 remains in effect over Mayon Volcano, indicating heightened volcanic activity and the potential for hazardous eruptions.
