This is to notify the public and concerned authorities on the current activity of Taal Volcano.

Since raising the alert level of Taal Volcano to Alert Level 1 last March 28, 2019, the Taal Volcano seismic network has recorded 4857 volcanic earthquakes as of today (December 1, 2019). Some of these earthquakes were felt with intensity ranging from Intensity I (Scarcely Perceptible) to Intensity III (Weak Shaking) in Brgy. Banyaga, Agoncillo; Brgy. Calauit, Balete; Sitio Tibag, Brgy. Pira-Piraso, Sitio Tuuran, Brgy. Tabla, and Brgy. Buco, Talisay; and Brgy. Alas-as and Brgy. Pulangbato, San Nicolas, Batangas. Often, these felt earthquakes were accompanied by rumbling sounds. Precise leveling (PL) measurements on Taal Volcano Island from November 21 – 29, 2019 showed further inflation of the volcano edifice, consistent with the recent results from continuous GPS data. An increase in Carbon Dioxide (CO₂) emission is also observed inside the Main Crater starting around April of 2019. However, there are no significant changes in the water temperature and acidity of the Main Crater Lake.

Alert Level 1 remains in effect over Taal Volcano. This means that hazardous eruption is not imminent. However, there is a possibility of magmatic disturbance ongoing under the volcano. In the event of further increase in number of volcanic earthquakes, higher concentration of gases, continuous inflation of the volcano’s edifice, increase in water temperature and/or occurrence of widespread bubbling at the lake of the Main Crater, Taal Volcano’s status will be raised to Alert Level 2. 

DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly recommends vigilance and readiness of communities in the Volcano Island especially with the projected track of Typhoon Tisoy in CALABARZON based on the Severe Weather Bulletin #3 issued by PAGASA at 5AM on December 1, 2019. DOST-PHIVOLCS also reminds the public that the Main Crater is strictly off-limits because sudden steam explosions may happen and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate. The northern portion of the Main Crater rim, near the Daang Kastila Trail, may also become hazardous when steam emission along existing fissures abruptly increases. DOST-PHIVOLCS strongly emphasizes that the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and is not recommended for permanent settlement at all times.

DOST-PHIVOLCS is closely monitoring Taal Volcano’s condition and any new development will be relayed to all concerned.

DOST-PHIVOLCS