The Philippine government has intensified its response efforts following recent volcanic activity at Mayon Volcano, with Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. personally leading a high-level situation briefing on Wednesday to assess conditions and ensure immediate assistance for affected communities.
The briefing brought together key government agencies to evaluate on-the-ground developments after Mayon Volcano emitted thick ash on May 2, significantly impacting nearby areas in Albay. The ashfall disrupted daily life and prompted swift inter-agency coordination to mitigate risks and provide relief.
Government response operations are currently in full swing, including site inspections, distribution of relief goods, delivery of medical services, evacuation camp management, debris clearing, water distribution, and installation of satellite connectivity through Starlink. Authorities are also continuing other necessary support operations to stabilize affected communities.
Earlier this week, President Marcos reaffirmed the administration’s full readiness to respond to the evolving needs of residents impacted by the volcanic activity.
Present at the situation briefing were representatives from major agencies, including the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Science and Technology (DOST), Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), Department of Health (DOH), Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), and Department of Agriculture (DA).
Also in attendance were officials from the Office of the Executive Secretary (OES), Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS), Office of Civil Defense (OCD), and the Presidential Communications Office (PCO).
In a related update, Claire Castro, Undersecretary and Palace Press Officer of the PCO, reported that the DSWD has distributed 93,373 food packs, 1,402 ready-to-eat food boxes, and 7,634 non-food items to affected residents.
Authorities continue to enforce safety measures, including strict adherence to the six-kilometer permanent danger zone and evacuation protocols. Debris-clearing operations remain ongoing, while evacuation centers are being carefully managed to ensure the continuous delivery of essential services such as food, water, and healthcare.
Medical teams are providing necessary health services to residents, while veterinary support is also being extended to evacuated animals.
“Monitoring of the situation at Mayon Volcano in Albay remains ongoing,” Castro said, noting that concerned agencies are continuing post-disaster assessments to guide further response efforts.
The government reiterated its commitment to safeguarding affected communities and sustaining relief operations until conditions stabilize.
