LEGAZPI CITY — Ashfall from Mayon Volcano was reported on Tuesday night in Barangay Rawiz, Legazpi City, as renewed volcanic activity sent fine gray particles drifting into nearby communities. A video shared by resident Jefferson Taopo Barcelon showed ash visibly falling from the sky, confirming concerns among locals that Mayon’s restlessness remains far from over. Authorities have maintained Alert Level 3 over the volcano, signaling ongoing magmatic unrest and the possibility of hazardous eruptions.

Residents in affected areas were immediately advised to take precautionary measures, including wearing face masks when going outdoors and limiting unnecessary movement. Local officials reiterated reminders to stay indoors when possible, as ashfall can pose health risks, particularly to children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Aside from health concerns, ashfall also disrupts daily life—affecting visibility on roads, contaminating water sources, and damaging crops and livelihoods that many families depend on.

Beyond the immediate safety advisories, the incident raises broader questions about disaster readiness and long-term resilience in volcanic zones. Mayon is known for its near-perfect cone and frequent eruptions, making ashfall a familiar reality for Albay residents. Yet familiarity does not always equate to preparedness. Each episode tests not only emergency response systems but also public endurance, access to accurate information, and trust in authorities.

From a personal perspective, the ashfall in Rawiz is a stark reminder that living in the shadow of an active volcano means constant uncertainty. While Alert Level 3 suggests heightened vigilance rather than imminent catastrophe, it also underscores how quickly conditions can change. Technology, early warnings, and community cooperation are critical—but so is honest dialogue about evacuation readiness, livelihood support, and mental health during prolonged alerts. As Mayon continues to show signs of activity, the pressing question remains: are communities and authorities merely reacting to ashfall events, or are we truly building a culture of preparedness that can withstand the next escalation of nature’s power? (Larawan: Jefferson Taopo Barcelon / Facebook)