No ashfall from Taal eruption

MANILA, Philippines —  No ashfall events were reported following the occurrence of a phreatomagmatic eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas on Wednesday afternoon, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology.

Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said alert Level 1 remains in effect over the volcano.

Bacolcol said sulfur dioxide emissions remain low and no volcanic earthquake was recorded around Taal in the past 24 hours.

“A 2,540-ton-per-day gas emission is moderate, that’s why alert Level 1 is maintained despite the phreatomagmatic eruption yesterday,” Bacolcol said.

Plumes generated by the volcanic activity reached 2,400 meters high, but no ashfall events were reported in communities surrounding Taal.

The eruption, which lasted 11 minutes from 4:21 to 4:32 p.m., was caused by water coming into contact with volcanic materials, rocks and gasses, Phivolcs said.

Bacolcol said phreatic eruptions are normal when a volcano is restive. He said there have been 49 phreatic eruptions recorded in Taal since April.

SOP for Taal eruption

The government is monitoring the eruption of Taal and has standard operating procedures (SOPs) to respond to its effects, President Marcos said.

Marcos said authorities are determining adjustments needed to be made and areas that need special attention.

He said that people on the ground know how to respond to any situation that may arise.

Marcos said the government is ready to evacuate people if necessary.

“Phivolcs said we should not worry about it too much for now. But I’m sure they will play it safe if necessary. We have to move people out of danger like we always do,” he said.

Philippine Red Cross chairman and chief executive officer Richard Gordon said the PRC is ready to mobilize volunteers and distribute relief goods in Taal if the need arises. - Rhodina Villanueva