Naga city: The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) is intensifying its efforts in hazard communication within the Bicol Region due to the ongoing volcanic activity in Albay and Sorsogon.
According to Philippines News Agency, Phivolcs is set to conduct a seminar-workshop in Naga City on Wednesday. This initiative aims to equip media practitioners and public information officers with the skills necessary to effectively communicate science-based information regarding volcanic eruptions, earthquakes, and tsunamis. The program, titled 'InfoPress: Understanding and Communicating Geologic Hazards Information in Region V,' is designed to foster responsible science communication, boost public awareness, and support disaster risk reduction efforts.
Phivolcs Director Dr. Teresito Bacolcol emphasized the importance of clear and locally relevant hazard communication given the current situation. Bacolcol highlighted that any misinterpretation or misreporting of geohazard information could cause confusion or unnecessary panic among the public. Phivolcs regards media and information officers as crucial partners in delivering accurate and timely information before, during, and after geohazard events.
The Bicol Region is home to active volcanoes such as Mayon in Albay, currently at Alert Level 3, and Bulusan in Sorsogon, at Alert Level 1. These volcanoes present recurring threats, including ashfall, lava flows, and pyroclastic density currents. As of Monday, Mayon's continuous effusive eruption has resulted in lava flows extending 3.8 km in Basud Gully, 3.2 km in Bonga Gully, and 1.6 km in Mi-isi Gully. Phivolcs has recorded 42 volcanic earthquakes, 29 of which were tremor events, along with 262 rockfall events.
Sulfur dioxide emissions from Mayon have reached 1,679 tonnes per day, with a 400-meter plume drifting southwest and west. Observations include a crater glow and ground data indicating short-term deflation with localized inflation on the northeastern flank. The Environmental Management Bureau in Bicol has reported that air quality around Mayon remains within safe levels, with 'good' Air Quality Index readings in Legazpi City and its vicinity. However, some stations have been unable to provide sulfur dioxide data due to equipment issues. Authorities continue to urge vigilance due to potential health risks from ashfall and gas emissions.
Meanwhile, Bulusan Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, having recorded 22 volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours. Sulfur dioxide emissions are at 121 tonnes per day, and ground deformation suggests short-term inflation. The Sorsogon Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council is actively assessing preparedness measures and stands ready for a potential eruption, acknowledging uncertainties arising from weather and wind conditions.
Precautionary measures include distributing face masks, monitoring communities within the danger zone, and coordinating with nearby towns such as Casiguran, Juban, and Irosin. Authorities have also prepositioned evacuation centers, water, and food supplies, with plans to initiate emergency operations within 20 minutes of any phreatic eruption. Additionally, clearing operations and road access restoration are targeted to be completed within four hours through a multi-agency response.
