MANILA — Local Government Secretary Jesse Robredo has urged the Provincial Government of Batangas to make the necessary preparations for possible evacuation and relocation of residents near the restive Taal Volcano.
This as the diminutive volcano continues to show heightened activity and is still under alert level 2, according to a report by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).
Alert Level 2 indicates unrest probably of magmatic origin that could eventually lead to eruption.
Robredo said the local disaster risk reduction management council should identify possible relocation sites such as public schools and town plazas where affected residents may temporary seek shelter should an eruption happen.
The council should also constantly coordinate with the Philippine National Police (PNP) and the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) who can help them during evacuation and relief efforts, he said.
Emergency assistance should also be rendered by DILG local personnel through formulation of a responsive and doable contingency plan, and proper utilization of calamity funds.
The entire volcano island is a permanent danger zone, and permanent settlement is strictly not recommended, according to Phivolcs. (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)