Phivolcs: Still no need to raise alert at Bulusan

MANILA, Philippines -  A total of 144 volcanic earthquakes were recorded around the restive Bulusan volcano in Sorsogon in the past 24 hours but the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said there was still no need to raise the volcano’s alert status.

Phivolcs director Renato Solidum said alert level 1 remains in effect at Bulusan, which means there is no imminent threat of a major eruption.

However, he said sudden steam-driven explosions can occur at this level.

“We will continue to monitor the situation closely but the current alert is still appropriate,” he said.

Phivolcs said steaming activity at the active vents of Bulusan was weak to moderate during the 24-hour observation period.

Solidum said Bulusan is generally known for its sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions. Bulusan had a minor ash explosion last May 13, blanketing at least 12 villages in the towns of Juban and Irosin.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council has identified 18 evacuation sites in Sorsogon and 21 others in Albay should Bulusan and Mayon volcano erupt, respectively.– Helen Flores, Alexis Romero