PHOTO: PHIVOLCS
Continuous volcanic tremors detected at Taal Volcano on Saturday could signal a possible eruption, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
In its latest 24-hour bulletin, Phivolcs reported that Taal generated tremors lasting more than 13 hours, with the activity still ongoing as of Saturday morning.
Phivolcs supervising science research specialist Paul Alanis said the agency continues to document the tremor episodes, noting that similar prolonged seismic activity in the past had preceded eruptive events.
“Although in other instances, it lasts longer, most of the time it signifies that an eruption may occur,” Alanis told the Inquirer. He added that such tremors are usually not felt by communities around the volcano.
Phivolcs describes volcanic tremor as a continuous seismic vibration with low-frequency oscillations, typically caused by magma or gas movement, overlapping low-frequency earthquakes, or eruptive processes within the volcanic system.
Alongside the persistent tremors, the agency also recorded four volcanic earthquakes on Friday.
Sulfur dioxide emissions rose to 513 tons on Friday, more than double the 229 tons detected the previous day. The volcano likewise emitted a 450-meter plume drifting southwest.
Despite these developments, Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest.
Entry into Taal Volcano Island—the permanent danger zone—remains strictly prohibited, particularly around the main crater and the Daang Kastila fissure. Phivolcs also reiterated the ban on boating activities on Taal Lake and cautioned aircraft against flying in the vicinity of the volcano.
The agency warned that hazards such as sudden steam-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and volcanic gas emissions remain possible.