By Ma. Teresa Montemayor

UNREST. Members of disaster response bodies clear ash that fell on parts of Barangay Buraburan in Juban, Sorsogon on Monday (April 28, 2025), after the eruption of the Bulusan Volcano. The Department of Health advised residents in Sorsogon province to take precautionary measures against the adverse effects of ashfall on their health. (Photo courtesy of Sorsogon Provincial Information Office)

MANILA – The Department of Health (DOH) on Monday warned residents in Sorsogon province near the Bulusan Volcano against the adverse effects of ashfall on their health.

In an advisory, the agency advised residents not to go near the volcano within its 4 km. permanent danger zone and to avoid “fine and very small volcanic ash”.

“Ang ashfall ay maaaring pumasok sa baga — kung ang komunidad ay nakaranas nito, magsuot ng face mask, pantakip ng mata, long-sleeves at pantalon (Ashfall can enter the lungs — if the community experiences ashfall, wear face mask, goggles, long-sleeves, and pants for protection),” the DOH said.

In case of evacuation, people are advised to prepare a “Go Bag” which must contain water, food, clothes, medicines, and a first aid kit.

They may contact emergency hotline numbers of agencies such as the National DOH Hotline at 1555 press 2; Public Health Preparedness and Response Unit at (052) 742-5555 local 5017 and HEMS Operation Center at 09162349063 for medical needs.

For more information about the volcano eruption details, individuals are advised to monitor updates from the Department of Science and Technology-Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology. (PNA)