Legazpi city: The Department of Health (DOH) 5 (Bicol) has been actively replenishing health supplies for residents affected by the ongoing activity of Mayon Volcano. This initiative is spearheaded through its Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit, providing essential support to families impacted by the volcanic activity.

According to Philippines News Agency, more than 5,000 residents from Tabaco City, Malilipot, Camalig, Ligao City, and Guinobatan are benefiting from the distributed health commodities. These supplies include face masks, essential medicines, and pulse oximeters that are crucial for maintaining health standards amid the ongoing evacuations.

The DOH-5 has distributed various items such as chlorine granules, troclosene sodium, water containers, hygiene kits, surgical masks, breastfeeding commodities, glucometers, insecticide-treated nets, oral rehydration salts, and emergency medical kits. Since the evacuation process began in January, over PHP3 million worth of medical supplies have been provided to the affected families.

In addition to these efforts, the DOH-5 is operating a 24/7 operations center in collaboration with local government units. They have also set up standby medical stations in different evacuation centers to ensure continuous health support for the evacuees.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology has reported significant lava flows in various gullies and recorded numerous volcanic earthquakes, rockfall events, and pyroclastic density currents. The public is advised to remain vigilant, adhere to local advisories, and observe health and safety protocols to mitigate risks associated with the volcanic activity.