Albay police set up border control points near Mayon Volcano

By Connie Calipay

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Albay Police Provincial Office (APPO) activated border control points and intensified police visibility in towns and cities surrounding Mayon Volcano as a precautionary measure to maintain peace, order, and public safety following the raising of the alert status from 1 (low-level unrest) to 2 (increasing/moderate level of unrest).

In a phone interview on Monday, APPO Director Col. Noel Nuñez said 133 police officers were deployed 24/7 in Tabaco City, Malilipot, Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao City, Sto. Domingo, and Legazpi City, where border control points have been set up to regulate movement and prevent unauthorized access to the 6-km. danger zone.

Nuñez said no forced evacuations are currently being implemented, but some families have voluntarily relocated to stay with relatives outside the danger zone.

The border control points aim to ensure public safety, while the APPO has also prepared additional personnel, logistical support, and coordination with local government units to maintain mobility and readiness.

“With the support of Governor Noel Rosal, our personnel are fully equipped, using facemasks during their eight-hour duties to ensure their protection,” Nuñez added.

He visited the checkpoints to monitor operations and ensure that police follow standard procedures, maintain alertness, document activities properly, and interact courteously with motorists and commuters.

Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) has extended the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) for flights near Mayon Volcano, covering airspace from the surface up to 11,000 feet.

The advisory, valid from Jan. 4, 7:47 a.m. to Jan. 6, 9 a.m., warns pilots to avoid flying close to the volcano due to potential ash hazards from sudden phreatic eruptions.

Phivolcs reported one volcanic earthquake and 44 rockfall events, prompting the alert level increase on Jan. 1.

CAAP continues to coordinate with relevant agencies and reminds all operators to comply with the NOTAM. (PNA)

SECURITY ALERT. Albay Provincial Police Director Col. Noel Nuñez inspects the Daraga Municipal Police Station’s border control point on Jan. 4, 2025, as part of heightened security around Mayon Volcano’s six-kilometer permanent danger zone. At least 133 police personnel have been deployed 24/7 duty across Tabaco City, Malilipot, Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Ligao City, Sto. Domingo, and Legazpi City, where border control points have been set up. (Photo courtesy of Albay PPO)