The Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol Region is actively mobilizing support to assist Sorsogon Province in addressing the immediate needs of those affected by the recent phreatic eruption of Mount Bulusan. The response efforts are aligned with the whole-of-government approach mandated by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., ensuring a unified and comprehensive response to this disaster.
Defense Secretary and NDRRMC Chairman Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. and OCD Administrator and NDRRMC Executive Director Undersecretary Ariel F. Nepomuceno are closely monitoring the situation and have assured that all necessary support will be provided to affected communities.
In support of the provincial government’s request, OCD Bicol has prepared a stockpile of 880 boxes of face masks, totaling 44,000 pieces, along with 2,000 hygiene kits, ready for distribution to evacuees. The provincial government has specifically requested 1,500 hygiene kits and 10,000 face masks to help maintain hygiene and prevent the spread of illness among displaced residents. Director Claudio Yucot assured that OCD Region V has the capacity to provide these critical non-food items and other aid as needed.
Moreover, the provincial government requested assistance in conducting aerial surveys to assess the damage caused by the ashfall. In response, Director Yucot facilitated with the Armed Forces of the Philippines to secure an air asset for aerial reconnaissance, which will help officials better understand the scope of the impact and coordinate relief efforts more effectively.
Yesterday, Regional Director Claudio Yucot, also the Chairperson of the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Bicol, visited affected municipalities within Sorsogon. During his visit, he engaged with local officials and the Sorsogon PDRRM Council to review initial response actions and identify ongoing needs. He also inspected the evacuation center at Juban, Sorsogon, to evaluate the condition of displaced residents and ensure appropriate support is being provided.
The regional office continues to coordinate closely with PHIVOLCS Bulusan Observatory for the latest updates on the volcano’s activity. As of the most recent report, approximately 14,830 families, or around 74,209 individuals, have been affected by the eruption. Currently, 19 families—comprising 61 individuals—are staying in two evacuation centers. The response remains ongoing, with regular updates, advisories, and coordination with local government units and disaster response agencies to ensure a swift and effective response.
Prepositioned for immediate deployment are critical supplies including 888 N95 masks valued at over P1.2 million and 2,000 hygiene kits worth approximately P3.5 million. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) has also mobilized additional resources, such as 2,000 family food packs valued at P1.78 million, along with tents, water containers, and hygiene kits. The Bureau of Fire Protection is continuing its road flushing operations to clear ash from major roads, while the Sorsogon PDRRMO has activated its Emergency Operations Center and is working with municipal disaster response teams to monitor and respond to evolving needs.
The Department of Health (DOH) has issued a Code White Alert, emphasizing the importance of health and safety protocols for the affected populations. Governor Boboy Hamor, together with OCD Bicol, calls on everyone to stay vigilant and follow safety advisories as relief and recovery operations proceed.
OCD Bicol remains committed to providing the necessary support and resources, working hand-in-hand with national agencies and local partners to ensure the safety and well-being of all those impacted by this natural calamity.
