THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has advised all local government units (LGUs) and residents near Taal and Kanlaon Volcanoes to be vigilant and ready amid continued volcanic activity monitored in the areas.
The advisory was issued on Monday, October 27, following a minor explosive eruption at Kanlaon Volcano on Friday, October 24. This caused ashfall and sulfuric fumes in several areas in Negros Island.
Residents within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone are advised to remain evacuated, while those within six kilometers of the summit should remain alert and ready in case the volcanic activity intensifies.
“LGUs are directed to activate their Local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Councils (LDRRMCs), preposition emergency supplies, and ensure the readiness and safety of evacuation centers,” the DILG said.
“Continuous coordination with PHIVOLCS [Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology] and concerned local authorities is strongly urged,” it added.
Meanwhile, local officials in Batangas and Cavite have been instructed to implement critical preparedness measures after two minor phreatomagmatic eruptions were recorded at Taal Volcano’s main crater on Sunday, October 26.
The DILG said Taal Volcano should be off-limits to the public, particularly the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissure.
Residents are advised to wear N95 masks, avoid eye contact with ash particles, and stay dehydrated. They should also prepare their emergency Go Bags, containing their survival essentials, such as food, water, clothes, and medicines, and other important belongings.
The PHIVOLCS has maintained Alert Level 2, or a moderate level of volcanic unrest, over the Kanlaon Volcano. Taal Volcano, on the other hand, remains under Alert Level 1, or a low level of volcanic unrest.
