Philippines raises volcano alert again

The Philippines yesterday raised the alert level at its Mayon volcano after a loud explosion in the wake of increased activity made a hazardous eruption likelier, prompting authorities to close all schools and urge residents to stay indoors. Mayon, the country's most active volcano, has been spewing ash, lava, and pyroclastic material since January 13, displacing close to 40,000 residents in the central province of Albay.