Metro Manila (CNN Philippines, June 14) — Thirty-five residents evacuated in the wake of Mayon Volcano’s heightened unrest have reportedly shown respiratory problems, although the Department of Health (DOH) has yet to verify if they are directly related to volcanic gas emissions and exposure to ashfall.

On Wednesday, the DOH said the tally was reported as of June 13, noting that the respiratory issues include cough, colds, and sore throat.

“However, the reported cases are not verified as adverse effects of sulfur dioxide and ashfall,” it wrote in a statement.

The DOH earlier advised Albay residents to avoid exposure to volcanic ash, especially those already suffering from health problems such as bronchitis, emphysema, or asthma. It warned that exposure may cause nose and throat irritation, coughing, bronchitis-like illnesses, discomfort while breathing, eye irritation, and minor skin problems.

“We would like to assure the general public that the Department of Health is on the ground and continuously monitoring the affected population,” it added.

According to Health Secretary Ted Herbosa, the department has allocated ₱1.8 million as contingency funds, or around ₱300,000 for every affected local government unit in Albay.

READ: DOH mounts comprehensive response for Mayon-affected residents