Phivolcs logs increased seismic activity at Mt Bulusan and Mt Kanlaon on election day

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported an increase in seismic activities at Mount Bulusan and Mount Kanlaon on election day, May 12, 2025.

Phivolcs recorded 309 volcanic earthquakes at Mt. Bulusan and 72 at Mt. Kanlaon between midnight and noon on Monday.

Since midnight on Sunday, May 11, Kanlaon has registered a total of 135 volcanic earthquakes, including strong volcano-tectonic (VT) earthquakes, suggesting progressive rock fracturing.

Phivolcs noted that Kanlaon's sulfur dioxide emission averaged only 554 tons per day on Sunday, a drop that could indicate blockage and possible pressurization within the volcano.

Mount Kanlaon remains on alert level 3, indicating magmatic unrest and the possibility of short-lived explosive eruptions, while Mount Bulusan is under alert level 1, signifying an increased chance of phreatic eruptions.

Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol advised caution, stating it is generally safe to vote near active volcanoes but warned against entering the six-kilometer danger zone around Mt. Kanlaon due to potential life-threatening volcanic hazards.