Legazpi city: The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) on Monday reported that massive ashfall from Mayon Volcano over the weekend has affected at least 30,522 families across 87 barangays (villages) in the region.

According to Philippines News Agency, OCD deputy spokesperson Diego Mariano stated that the number translates to 102,406 individuals, citing data from OCD Region 5 (Bicol). Of these, 1,438 families or 5,440 persons are currently in evacuation centers, while 26 families or 85 persons are receiving assistance outside these centers.

Mariano mentioned that local government units, along with national government agencies, are continuously providing assistance, services, and necessities to the evacuees. He assured that updates would be provided as soon as new official reports are available.

He further explained that the OCD, as the implementing arm of the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council, is ensuring a comprehensive government response to the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano. This is in line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to provide immediate help to affected families. Mayon remains under Alert Level 3.

Additionally, Mariano emphasized that OCD Region 5 is actively conducting coordination, monitoring, and response operations to ensure the safety and well-being of affected communities. This includes deploying water trucks, rolling out water filtration systems, providing essential items like N-95 masks and malongs, and performing road clearing operations.

Mariano reassured the public that the situation is being closely monitored and that preparedness measures are in place should conditions change. He urged the public to adhere to authorities' instructions, especially the strict enforcement of the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone, and to remain vigilant at all times.