MANILA, Philippines: Taal Volcano in Batangas province is showing increased seismic activity, especially in sulphur dioxide (SO2) emission, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on Thursday.

Phivolcs director Teresito "Toto" Bacolcol said a total of 14,558 tons/day of volcanic SO2 gas emitted from the main crater of the volcano was measured on February 29.

"This is the second highest flux recorded this year," Bacolcol said.

"Taal Volcano has averaged approximately 9,450 tons/day for the month of February and has been continuously degassing voluminous concentrations of SO2 since 2021," the Phivolcs chief said.

However, Phivolcs said moderate winds have prevented the accumulation of SO2 and no volcanic smog or vog over the volcano was observed by visual monitors throughout the day.

It added that volcanic earthquake activity has remained within baseline levels.

"Currently under Alert Level 1, the Batangas volcano is still in abnormal condition and should not be interpreted to have ceased unrest nor ceased the threat of eruptive activity," Bacolcol said.

Under this status, he said, sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ash fall and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within its island.

Moreover, degassing of high concentrations of volcanic SO2 continues to threaten the health of residents in communities frequently exposed to volcanic gas.

Phivolcs said entry into Taal's Permanent Danger Zone, especially in the vicinities of its main crater and the "Daang Kastila" fissure, must remain strictly prohibited.

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