On 11 September 2024, during a routine preventive maintenance activity by Mayon Volcano Observatory (MVO) personnel, it was discovered that significant sections of metal fencing were sawed off and taken from the DOST-PHIVOLCS’ Upper Lidong Observation Station (VMUL) on the eastern borders of Legazpi City. This station operates critical monitoring instruments, including a borehole tiltmeter for recording ground deformation caused by magma movement beneath the southeast flank of Mayon and an infrared camera for visual observations of the edifice even during nighttime. VMUL was just commissioned in October 2022 and provided crucial data covering the recent 2023 eruption of Mayon that led to its successful early-warning and response.

Republic Act 10344 or the Risk Reduction and Preparedness Equipment Protection Act of 2012 penalizes “the unauthorized taking, stealing, keeping or tampering of government risk reduction and preparedness equipment, accessories and similar facilities.” DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly enjoins the local government units and communities on Mayon to help in keeping volcano monitoring facilities safe from such illegal acts so that operational coverage of every sector of the volcano can be sustained. Any information concerning the above case of vandalism, as well as all prompt reporting of similar incidents in the future, will be greatly appreciated.

For more information, please contact:
Dr. Teresito C. Bacolcol
Director
DOST-PHIVOLCS
(+632) 8-426-1468 to 79