Batangas VM defies Phivolcs, urges residents to return to Taal danger zone

Talisay, Batangas Vice Mayor Charlie Natanauan questioned the recommendation of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) for residents to stay away from the danger zone around Taal Volcano.

Natanauan believes residents should be allowed to return to their homes, arguing that the volcano is weakening and the economic impact on Batangas is being overlooked.

He cited the 1965 eruption as a comparison, stating that the current eruption only produced steam and ash, unlike the lava from 1965.

Natanauan questioned Phivolcs's ability to predict eruptions and measure volcanic activity.

Brig. Gen. Vicente Danao Jr., regional director of PNP Region 4-A, issued a stern warning to Natanauan, urging him to stop "instigating" constituents to return to their homes.

Danao stated that if any harm befalls residents due to Natanauan's encouragement, he would "use you as an offering for the volcano."

Phivolcs stood by their findings on Taal's volcanic activities but understood Natanauan's sentiments.