Despite the magnitude of the phreatomagmatic eruption that occurred at the Taal Volcano last December 2, authorities do not see a reason for concern among those who live around the volcano.
In a recent briefing, Office of Civil Defense Regional Director at Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon Chairperson Carlos Alvarez said such activities are "normal" for Taal Volcano, which currently still shows signs of minor unrest.
“I want to assure the general public na huwag kayong mag-worry dahil normal po ito sa isang Level 1 volcano na nagre-react po ng ganyan,” Alvarez noted.
He added that local DRRMCs and other government agencies are ready to respond should the situation at Taal Volcano worsen.
“Ang Office of Civil Defense at RDRRMC Calabarzon ay nakatutok sa lahat ng nangyayari sa ating rehiyon, especially sa Taal Volcano, and rest assured that we will have a quick response in case of anything,” the official said.
The phreatomagmatic eruption at Taal Volcano, which was captured on camera at around 5:58 a.m. last December 3, blew off a plume that reached up to 2,800 meters.
Ash fall was also reported in the towns of Laurel and Agoncillo; however, no damage to property was reported.
Meanwhile, officials of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said they have noted a significant increase in the level of sulfur dioxide (SO2) emissions last November.
Around 7,216 tons of sulfur dioxide were released by the volcano last November 30, higher than the monthly average of 5,283 tons per day.
Localized ground deformations were also monitored at the Taal Volcano Island (TVI).
Taal Volcano currently remains under Alert Level 1, where entry into Taal Volcano Island (Permanent Danger Zone or PDZ), especially the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, and occupancy and boating on Taal Lake are strictly prohibited.
(With report from PIA)
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