The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has maintained Alert Level 3 over Kanlaon Volcano, warning of increased magmatic unrest and recommending the evacuation of residents within the six-kilometer danger zone due to the possibility of a hazardous eruption.

In its latest advisory on Kanlaon Volcano, the agency reported heightened activity in the past 24 hours, recording 24 volcanic earthquakes, including three volcanic tremors lasting between 3 to 136 minutes. 

The volcano also emitted 2,756 tons of sulfur dioxide per day, with three episodes of ash emissions, it added.

Philvolcs stated that a 150-meter-high plume was continuously rising from the crater, with intermittent ash drifting southwest and west-southwest. 

According to the agency, ground deformation data indicates swelling of the volcano, suggesting magma movement beneath the surface.

With increasing unrest, Philvocs prohibited the flying of aircraft near the volcano, citing the dangers posed by ash emissions and potential explosive activity.

State volcanologists warned that Kanlaon’s activity may lead to sudden explosive eruptions, lava flows, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents (PDC), rockfalls, and possible lahars triggered by heavy rains. 

These hazards could pose significant risks to surrounding communities and agricultural areas, the agency noted.

Meantime, Phivolcs urged residents dwelling outside the immediate danger zone to take precautions against potential ashfall.