The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged on Thursday, Sept. 25, all Albay local chief executives (LCEs) to strictly conduct proactive measures in preparation for possible lahar flows from Mayon Volcano due to severe tropical storm “Opong.”

This, after the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned that intense rains may remobilize loose volcanic materials deposited from past eruptions, particularly in the Miisi, Mabinit, Buyuan and Basud Channels. 

“These may generate dangerous lahar flows and sediment-laden streamflows that can cause flooding, burial, and washout in downstream communities. Areas at particular risk include the Miisi, Binaan, Anoling, Quirangay, Maninila, Masarawag, Muladbucad, Nasisi, Mabinit, Matanag, Basud, and Bulawan Channels in Albay,’’ the DILG noted.

The DILG also directed “all LCEs to coordinate closely with the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) V to maintain vigilance and readiness in lahar-prone zones.’’

It added that the LGUs must monitor weather conditions and carry out preemptive response measures to ensure public safety. 

The LCEs are also expected to convene their respective Local DRRM Councils and conduct Pre-Disaster Risk Assessments (PDRA) with focus on lahar hazards.

“These assessments must cover updated data on high-risk settlements, deployment of personnel for mapping and damage assessments, validation of safe evacuation sites and routes, and contingency planning specific to lahar threats,’’ the DILG explained.

“Other critical LGU actions include conducting an inventory of available manpower and resources, particularly in high-risk barangays; ensuring effective communication systems; prepositioning rescue assets; and initiating preemptive or mandatory evacuations when necessary,’’ it added.

In coordination with the RDRRMC, the DILG Regional Office 5 is tasked to ensure that all LGUs in the province implement the minimum preparedness measures recommended by the Phivolcs.

“This directive is aligned with the call of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. to strengthen climate resilience and disaster response capabilities of local government units. The President has emphasized the need for anticipatory action to protect lives and livelihoods, especially in climate-vulnerable areas such as Bicol,’’ the DILG continued.