Mayon monitoring equipment cables stolen

MANILA, Philippines —  Several meters of power cables connecting equipment used in monitoring the activities of Mayon Volcano in Albay have been stolen, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

Phivolcs said the theft was discovered by workers of the Mayon Volcano Observatory during maintenance works in Ligao City.

Workers said the thieves cut the cables of the Phivolcs Ligao Observation Station, also called as VMLI, disrupting the operation of the station.

Among those stolen were cables connected to a solar and battery power system as well as liquid-tight conduit and LAN/FTP cables.

“These items are essential for VMLI’s autonomous power generation, supply and storage, and real-time volcano monitoring data communications,” Phivolcs said.

“The VMLI operates broadband seismic and infrasound sensors, and an internet protocol camera for visual monitoring of the volcano as well as power and communications equipment,” it added.

Since 2019, the VMLI has been crucial for locating volcanic earthquakes and assessing surface processes related to the eruptions of Mayon.

The station locates potential tectonic earthquake activities along the stretch of the Philippine Fault Zone traversing the Bicol peninsula.

Republic Act 10344 or the Risk Reduction and Preparedness Equipment Protection Act of 2012 penalizes unauthorized taking, stealing, keeping or tampering with of government risk reduction and preparedness equipment, accessories and similar facilities.