Mayon Volcano’s lava dome continues to effuse and collapse, triggering rockfalls and ashfall as Phivolcs maintains Alert Level 3. (Manila Bulletin / file photo)
Dome effusion and collapse persist as seismic activity logs 2 volcanic quakes, 72 rockfalls, 100 PDC events
By Merlina Hernando-Malipot
Published Jan 9, 2026 09:33 am
Mayon Volcano continues to exhibit heightened magmatic activity, characterized by persistent lava dome effusion and collapse, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
In the past 24 hours, Phivolcs recorded two volcanic earthquakes, 72 rockfalls, and 100 pyroclastic density current (PDC) events, keeping Alert Level 3 in effect.
Based on observations from 12 a.m. on January 8 to 12 a.m. on January 9, Phivolcs reported ongoing lava dome effusion and collapse at the summit crater, accompanied by incipient lava flows.
A fair crater glow, visible to the naked eye, was observed, indicating persistent high-temperature volcanic activity. Sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions were measured at 195 tonnes per day as of January 8, reflecting continued degassing from the volcano.
Phivolcs said Mayon emitted a moderate volcanic plume rising up to 1,000 meters, drifting west-southwest, while ground deformation data showed that the volcano’s edifice remains inflated, signaling ongoing magma intrusion.
As of 5:56 p.m. on January 8, Phivolcs confirmed traces of ashfall in Barangay Busay, Daraga, while light ash deposits were reported in Barangay San Francisco and Barangay Travesia in Guinobatan. Other affected areas are still undergoing verification.
With Alert Level 3 still in effect, Phivolcs reiterated that entry into the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strictly prohibited and warned against unguarded entry into the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ).
The agency also advised that aircraft should avoid flying near the volcano due to ash and ballistic hazards.
Residents and local government units were reminded of the potential dangers associated with Mayon’s current activity, including rockfalls, landslides, and avalanches; ballistic fragments; lava flows and lava fountaining; pyroclastic density currents; moderate volcanic explosions; and lahars during heavy or prolonged rainfall.
Mayon Volcano, located in Albay province, is historically vulnerable to volcanic hazards. Authorities urged communities to remain vigilant, follow evacuation protocols when necessary, and rely solely on official advisories from Phivolcs and local disaster offices.
