Villagers near Mayon, Taal, Bulusan volcanoes warned

MANILA, Philippines - The government yesterday advised residents living near Mayon, Taal, and Bulusan volcanoes to take precautionary measures as state scientists placed the three under Alert Level 1 due to recent volcanic activities.

Alert Level 1 for Mayon and Taal volcanoes means no eruption is imminent. In the case of Bulusan, Alert Level 1 means that entry into the four-kilometer permanent danger zone is strictly prohibited due to sudden steam and ash eruptions.

The National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council said active river channels and those identified as lahar-prone areas near Mayon volcano should be avoided when there is heavy rainfall.

The public, according to the council, should refrain from entering the volcano’s six-kilometer radius permanent danger zone due to the threat of sudden steam-driven eruptions and rock falls.

For Taal volcano, the public is reminded that its main crater should be “strictly off-limits” as sudden steam explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.