The Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has ordered all local chief executives (LCEs) to strictly enforce a ban on entry into the four-kilometer permanent danger zone surrounding Bulusan Volcano in Sorsogon following a phreatic eruption on April 28.
Based on the advisory of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), the DILG also urged local governments to monitor the extended danger zone due to threats of pyroclastic density currents, ballistic projectiles, rockfall, landslides, and ashfall.
In an official advisory, the DILG called on LCEs to implement the “Operation L!sto” protocols for volcanic eruptions and to coordinate with their respective Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (RDRRMCs).
Communities were advised to wear face masks or damp cloths to avoid inhaling volcanic ash and to remain alert, especially in low-lying areas and river channels that may experience lahar flows during heavy rains.
Pilots were also warned by aviation authorities to avoid flying near the volcano’s summit due to potential hazards.
Reports estimate that more than 29,000 people in 25 barangays in Sorsogon have been affected by the eruption, with 1,132 families in Buraburan, Guruyan, Calmayon, Catanusan, and Puting Sapa experiencing limited access to safe drinking water.
Agricultural damage in the town of Juban has reached ₱675,000, impacting 45 farmers.
Despite the eruption, Bulusan Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest.