Photo courtesy of Philippine News Agency (PNA).
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Friday reported a significant decline in sulfur dioxide emissions from Taal Volcano in Batangas, signaling continued low-level unrest.
The agency recorded only 167 metric tons of sulfur dioxide released from the volcano’s main crater over the past 24 hours, classifying it as a “weak emission.” This is a drop from daily readings of 257 metric tons measured from Jan. 28 to Feb. 5.
State volcanologists also noted minimal seismic activity in the past week. Between Jan. 29 and Feb. 6, only seven volcanic tremors and one volcanic earthquake were recorded, with no events detected on Friday.
Phivolcs explained that volcanic earthquakes are caused by magma movements beneath the volcano, while volcanic tremors are continuous low-frequency vibrations lasting more than a minute. Tectonic quakes, in contrast, are linked to movements along fault lines.
No signs of hot volcanic fluids were observed in the main crater lake of Taal Volcano Island, and no volcanic smog, or “vog,” was detected during the monitoring period.
The volcano remains at Alert Level 1, indicating low-level unrest. Phivolcs emphasized that the alert does not mean the volcano has returned to normal, and future eruptive activity remains possible.
Authorities reiterated that entry to Taal Volcano Island, sailing on Taal Lake, and flying near the volcano are strictly prohibited for public safety.
Phivolcs continues to monitor the volcano closely, urging residents and visitors to follow safety protocols and stay updated on official advisories.
