THE Philippine authorities have tightened security around Mt Mayon, located near Legazpi City, Albay province in southern Luzon, following reports yesterday that indicated imminent stronger eruption and ashfall activity.
Pagasa, the country’s national weather unit, extended the safety perimeter around Mayon volcano from six kilometres to 10km, as magma has begun to flow out of the volcano’s crater.
The unit also said any ash expelled from within the volcano would likely go towards the towns of Tabaco and Santo Domingo, given current weather patterns.
Meanwhile, the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines instituted a 15-mile no-fly zone as an additional precaution.
All treks and ATV rides up to the six-kilometre “permanent danger zone” have been suspended, according to Miggie Macasinag, general manager, Roam International, which has just lost two forward bookings in October.
“I won’t discourage visitors to come (to Legazpi), but I have to tell them the truth.”
ATV rides in the area of Camalig in Tabaco were still possible, she added, as long as no ashfall occurs.
Jessica Noelle Wong, sales and marketing manager, Donsol Ecotour, said further eruptions could take place in the next two to three weeks but that there is nothing to be scared about.
Instead, Wong said, the event presents viewing opportunities for tourists, particularly in the evening, in areas such as Daraga church and Legazpi Boulevard in the city’s downtown, as well as Lignon Hill, which remains closed after 19.00 for safety reasons.
