8 quaks, 2 tremors at Taal Volcano in 24 hrs

Eight earthquakes were detected at Taal Volcano in Batangas over the past 24 hours, according to a report by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) on Tuesday, July 15.

The agency noted that two volcanic tremors lasting five minutes accompanied these recent quakes, while eight earthquakes and five tremors were recorded on Monday, each lasting between two and four minutes.

Volcanic earthquakes are generated by magmatic processes or magma-related activities, unlike tectonic earthquakes which result from faulting.

In its latest observation, Phivolcs reported that the volcano emitted 504 metric tons of sulfur dioxide and released plumes up to 600 meters high, drifting east and northeast.

Taal Volcano Network stations have recorded a significant rise in real-time seismic energy measurements since July 6, indicating potential blockage or plugging of volcanic gas pathways within the volcano.

Civil Defense Regional Director Carlos Eduardo Alvarez III visited several towns near the volcano to address false information circulating on social media and reassure communities that a major magmatic eruption is not expected.