Mayon continues to emit volcanic gas

MANILA, Philippines - State volcanologists are keeping a close watch over Mayon volcano in Albay as it continues to emit volcanic gas.

According to the latest bulletin of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), moderate emission of white steam plumes that drifted southwest was observed in the past 24 hours.

The volcano emitted sulfur dioxide at an average of 309 tons per day last Aug. 19.

Phivolcs director Renato Solidum earlier said the sulfur dioxide emission can be a sign that Mayon might erupt anytime.

Alert Level 2 remains hoisted over the volcano as of yesterday. This means that magma has most likely intruded and could eventually lead to a larger eruption, the Phivolcs said.

Phivolcs appealed to the public not to enter the six-kilometer permanent danger zone due to possible explosions, rock fall and landslides.

Meanwhile, Phivolcs recorded two tremors in Taal volcano in Batangas in the past 24 hours.

Taal Volcano is still under Alert Level 1, which means hazardous eruption is not imminent.

The public, however, is reminded that the main crater should be strictly off-limits because sudden steam explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.