MANILA -- State volcanologists on Tuesday lowered the alert level in the restive Taal Volcano from two to one after three months of uncertainty it caused on residents.
Among others, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) based its decision on the gradual decline of volcanic quakes, no significant changes in temperature around the crater, and lower volume of carbon dioxide emissions.
“This means that a large hazardous eruption is now less probable within the immediate future,” the agency said, adding that Taal's quiet phase started in the first week of June.
However, Phivolcs still warned that the main crater is strictly off limits to public because sudden steam explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.
Moreover, state volcanologists said the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended.
The diminutive volcano had its last eruption in October 1977. (Virgil Lopez/Sunnex)