Taal Volcano experienced a minor phreatomagmatic eruptive activity on Thursday, July 17, between 3:01 p.m. and 3:13 p.m., said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

The eruption generated a steam-rich plume that rose about 2,400 meters before drifting southeast.

A phreatomagmatic eruption occurs when magma comes into contact with water, producing steam, ash, and occasionally fragmented volcanic material.

On July 6, Phivolcs issued an advisory following a significant increase in real-time seismic energy measurement and continuous volcanic tremor, as recorded by the Taal Volcano Network.

Taal Volcano has been emitting low levels of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) since June, the agency noted.

Phivolcs said the combination of elevated seismic energy and the absence of degassing may indicate blockage in the volcano’s gas pathways, which could lead to short-term pressurization and trigger phreatic or minor phreatomagmatic eruptions.

Taal remains under Alert Level 1, indicating abnormal volcanic activity.

Phivolcs reiterated that sudden steam-driven or minor phreatomagmatic eruptions, ashfall, and dangerous accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas remain possible and could affect areas within Taal Volcano Island (TVI).

The public is advised against entering TVI, particularly near the Main Crater and the Daang Kastila fissure, which are permanent danger zones.