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11,000 evacuees outside Mayon’s danger zone sent home


Some 11,000 evacuees in a public school in Legazpi City, Albay were sent home Thursday following a recommendation from authorities saying only residents of the Mayon Volcano's 6- to 7-kilometer danger zone should flee.

The decamping came from a recommendation from the Philippine Institute for Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) and the Office of Civil Defense, according to a report by Saleema Refran on Unang Balita on Friday.

"We just have to make again 'yung tinatawag natin na preparedness level kasi nasa Alert Level 3 lang tayo," said Legazpi City Mayor Noel Rosal.

Some evacuees at Bagumbayan Central School, which sits outside the danger zone, favored the decision for them to return home, citing difficulties of living in an evacuation center.

But some were anxious, as the volcano continues to spew lava.

"Kung umuwi kami doon, tapos may mangyari, sinong sisisihin? 'Di si Mayor Rosal, bakit pinauwi doon 'yung mga tao," a resident said.

However, the school's principal said the residents could camp out in the school again if need be.

Students have reportedly held classes outside their rooms while the school served as an evacuation center. They are supposed to have their third quarter exam on the day of the report.

The PHIVOLCS has also said the Mayon Volcano's activity may not lead to an explosive eruption.

As of 8 a.m. Friday, Alert Level 3 is still up over the volcano, and authorities still encourage alertness and vigilance against possible lahar flow and mud flow. —Nicole-Anne C. Lagrimas/KG, GMA News

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