Mayon Volcano Eruption Disrupts 785 Schools, Affects 311,259 People in Albay

 

As many as 785 public and private schools across Albay have been affected by Mayon Volcano's latest eruption, prompting the suspension of classes and the implementation of alternative learning arrangements.

The moderately explosive eruption occurred at 11:53 a.m. on Friday, generating a gray ash plume that climbed approximately 3,000 meters above the crater. Following the event, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) raised Mayon's alert status from Level 2 to Level 3, indicating increased volcanic unrest.

The Department of Education (DepEd) reported that the volcanic activity affected an estimated 311,259 students, teachers and other school personnel throughout the province.

Schools within permanent danger zone monitored

DepEd identified 48 schools situated within the volcano's six-to-eight-kilometer permanent danger zone. Two of these institutions, Calbayog Elementary School and Magapo Elementary School, are located within the six-kilometer radius, placing them in an area requiring heightened safety precautions.

In response to the eruption, the Albay provincial government ordered the suspension of afternoon classes across all grade levels in both public and private educational institutions.

Alternative learning arrangements prepared

Education authorities are coordinating with affected school division offices, particularly in Legazpi City and Ligao, to monitor conditions and assess the need for evacuation measures.

DepEd said alternative learning arrangements would be introduced while volcanic activity remains elevated. The measures are intended to maintain educational continuity without exposing students and school personnel to unnecessary risks.

Authorities also anticipated ashfall in communities surrounding Mayon, raising additional concerns about respiratory exposure, visibility and the safety of people traveling to and from affected areas.

With the volcano's alert status now at Level 3, schools and local authorities are expected to continue prioritizing public safety as they monitor developments and prepare for possible further disruptions.