ALTHOUGH Mayon Volcano in Albay province is 681 kilometers—about 14 hours and 24 minutes by land—from Dagupan City, an eruption could still impact its residents.

To prepare for potential emergencies stemming from Mayon’s hazardous activity, the Region 1 Medical Center in Dagupan and other hospitals in Northern Luzon have been placed on Code White Alert for immediate response.

Dr. Joseph Roland Mejia, Medical Center Chief of R1MC, issued Hospital Memorandum No. 2026-06-A on January 12, 2026, addressing all hospital units, offices, and personnel.

A Code White Alert indicates hospital readiness for mass casualty events or large public gatherings, activating standby medical teams, equipment, and supplies.

The memorandum notes: “In relation to the Mayon Volcano reaching Level 3 (indicating an increased likelihood of a hazardous eruption), the Department of Health (DOH) has implemented Code White effective January 6, 2026, until further notice, as per their Department Memorandum dated January 6, 2026.”

The DOH’s directive requires all Centers for Health Development (CHDs), DOH hospitals, and health facilities in affected areas to actively monitor and prepare for potential health-related incidents arising from the ongoing volcanic activity.

Any unusual incidents or health emergencies must be reported to the DOH Central Office via the HMEB Operations Center (OpCen).

Dr. Mejia urged all relevant personnel at R1MC to closely monitor the situation and collaborate with pertinent national and regional agencies to ensure preparedness and prompt response. (Leonardo Micua)