Taal alert level raised amid ‘increased unrest’

MANILA, Philippines — The alert level of Taal Volcano in Batangas was raised from 1 to 2 yesterday after weeks of “increased unrest.”

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said this means probable magmatic activity that “may or may not lead to an eruption.”

“Overall seismic activity in the past month indicates increased magmatic and hydrothermal activity at shallow depths beneath the Taal Volcano Island,” Phivolcs said.

The agency said an evacuation is not recommended at this time.

It stressed that entry to Taal Volcano Island, especially the vicinity of the main crater and Daang Kastila fissure, which is a permanent danger zone, is strictly prohibited.

Phivolcs said volcanic tremors have increased in energy compared to previously recorded episodes as well as in duration, ranging from three to 17 minutes.

At least 866 tremors have been recorded since the onset of the volcano’s increased activity on Feb. 13.

Phivolcs also reported changes in the temperature and an increase in acidity level in the main crater lake.

“Increasing acidity is caused by sustained volcanic gas input into the shallow hydrothermal system that feeds into the lake, signifying degassing of magma intruded at depth during the January 2020 eruption,” Phivolcs said.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) assured the public that it is monitoring the situation.

The NDRRMC said concerned local government units were directed to “ensure readiness for any possibility,” including preparing for evacuation, evacuation centers and relief support, among other measures while following COVID-19 health protocols.

It denied reports that the volcano is spewing ash and smoke, saying circulating photos were taken when it erupted last year.

Taal, one of the country’s 24 active volcanoes, erupted on Jan. 12, 2020, displacing more than 300,000 people. – Michael Punongbayan