Mayon Volcano remains under Alert Level 3 (Intensified Magmatic Unrest) as monitoring data over the past 24 hours showed continued volcanic activity, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Thursday, January 8.

In its 24-hour observation summary, Phivolcs recorded one volcanic earthquake, 162 rockfall events, and more than 50 pyroclastic density currents (PDCs), indicating sustained instability at the volcano’s edifice.

Phivolcs also noted a crater glow, or “banaag,” which was visible to the naked eye under fair viewing conditions—an indication of ongoing magma activity near the summit.

Meanwhile, the agency reported a moderate volcanic plume rising up to 200 meters above the summit crater and drifting northeast.

The most recent sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emission measurement, taken on January 5, averaged 702 tonnes per day, reflecting persistent degassing from the volcano, it added.

Phivolcs said ground deformation data further showed that the volcanic edifice remains inflated, reinforcing assessments that magma intrusion is ongoing beneath the volcano and that hazardous eruptions remain possible.

With Alert Level 3 still in effect, Phivolcs reiterated its strict recommendation that entry into the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is prohibited, while access to the Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) should only be allowed with heightened vigilance.

Authorities also warned that aircraft should avoid flying close to Mayon Volcano due to the risks posed by ash and ballistic projectiles.

Phivolcs cautioned communities around Mayon to remain alert for possible hazards, including rockfalls, landslides, lava flows, lava fountaining, ballistic fragments, pyroclastic density currents, and moderate explosions.

The agency also warned of lahars, especially during periods of heavy and prolonged rainfall, which could remobilize loose volcanic debris along river channels.

Local government units and disaster response agencies were advised to maintain preparedness measures and closely coordinate with Phivolcs for further updates, as Mayon’s activity may still escalate under the current level of unrest.