DILG to Taal, Kanlaon LGUs: Be on full alert

MANILA, Philippines — Following reports of eruptions and earthquakes in Taal and Kanlaon Volcanoes, the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) urged residents in nearby communities to be always on alert and for town or city governments to activate their disaster councils.

“Local government units are directed to activate their disaster risk reduction and management councils, preposition emergency supplies and ensure the readiness and safety of evacuation centers,” the DILG said yesterday.

The DILG also urged local executives to continuously coordinate with the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology, as it stressed the importance of following verified advisories from Phivolcs.

In a separate advisory, the DILG directed local chief executives in Batangas and Cavite to implement critical preparedness measures “as Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, following two minor phreatomagmatic eruptions at its main crater on Oct. 26.”

Local governments in those areas are directed to “strictly prohibit entry” into Taal’s main crater and Daang Kastila fissure, prepare for potential increases in volcanic sulfur dioxide and enforce proper health measures to protect residents.

“The public is urged to observe health precautions such as wearing N95 masks, avoiding eye contact with ash particles and staying hydrated. Households are encouraged to keep ready the emergency go bags containing water, food, protective equipment, clothing, first aid kits and essential medicines,” the DILG said.