Phivolcs maintains Taal alert level despite vice mayor's criticism

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) has maintained its scientific recommendations regarding the Taal Volcano despite criticism from Talisay Vice Mayor Charlie Natanauan.

Phivolcs official Maria Antonia Bornas acknowledged Natanauan's concerns but emphasized the agency's adherence to scientific data in its advisories.

Natanauan had criticized Phivolcs for what he called 'sensationalized' advisories that led to unnecessary displacement of residents.

He based his skepticism on his father's account of the 1965 Taal eruption, questioning the statements of chief seismologist Renato Solidum.

Bornas explained that the warnings are intended to prepare the province for a potentially destructive eruption, stressing the importance of conveying a sense of urgency.

Phivolcs understands the stress faced by local government units in making decisions and sympathizes with the displaced residents, prioritizing their safety.

The agency assures that they are working diligently to provide timely information and will be the first to declare when it is safe to return to affected areas.

With Taal Volcano remaining at Alert Level 4, Phivolcs urged residents to heed evacuation orders and avoid returning to high-risk areas within the 14-kilometer danger zone.