The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) observed degassing activity at the main crater of Taal Volcano on Saturday, June 22.
Despite this, Phivolcs maintained that the volcano, located in the province of Batangas, remained under a low level of unrest.
Phivolcs announced on its verified social media accounts that the degassing activity at the Taal Main Crater was captured by the visual monitor of the Agoncillo Observation Station (VTAG) from 01:30 a.m. to 7:55 a.m.
This activity “generated thick plumes that rose 2,400 meters before drifting northwest.”
Phivolcs reported that Taal has been “degassing significant volumes of volcanic gas” since March 2021.
“A total of 4,641 tonnes/day of SO2 [sulfur dioxide] was measured on June 20, 2024,” Phivolcs added.
Alert Level 1
Meanwhile, Phivolcs noted that Alert Level 1 "persists over Taal Volcano.”
Under this alert category, a slight increase in volcanic earthquakes and steam or gas activity, sporadic explosions from existing or new vents, a notable increase in the temperature of hot springs, and slight inflation or swelling of the edifice are observed.
Phivolcs noted in its Taal Volcano Summary that one volcanic tremor, lasting four minutes, was recorded based on its 24-hour observation.
As possible hazards such as steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall, and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur, Phivolcs reminded the public that entry into the Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), especially the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, as well as occupancy and boating on Taal Lake and flying any aircraft close to the volcano, are not allowed.