PNP to strictly implement no re-entry policy in Mayon danger zone

By Christopher Lloyd Caliwan

MANILA --- Police units in the Bicol Region have been ordered to strictly monitor and prevent residents from re-entering the danger zone around Mayon Volcano amid its increased unrest.

In a statement on Wednesday, the PNP said it is currently coordinating with local government units (LGUs) in the area to ensure that all safety protocols are strictly followed.

“Our personnel in Albay are in constant coordination with the local government units on matters pertaining to the safety of and assistance to affected residents,” acting PNP chief Lt. Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr. said.

“Currently, our focus is to keep the danger zones off limits to residents and even tourists as advised by our volcanologists.”

Mayon Volcano remained under Alert Level 3 after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) recorded continued volcanic activity in the past 24 hours, including 83 volcanic earthquakes, 273 rockfall events, and 61 pyroclastic density currents, with sulfur dioxide emissions of 1,973 tons.

“We call on all residents to follow the advisories of authorities and stay clear of the six-kilometer permanent danger zone (PDZ),” Nartatez said. (PNA)