Marcos Jr. orders precaution against Taal vog

President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has instructed concerned government agencies and local government units (LGUs) to take precautionary measures against volcanic smog (vog) emitted by Taal Volcano.

Communications Assistant Secretary Joey Villarama said the president is monitoring the situation and will issue directives if necessary, emphasizing the need for public caution.

Taal Volcano has been emitting about 3,355 tons of sulfur dioxide daily since Aug. 15, leading to vog formation and causing irritations in eyes, throat, and nose.

Villarama advised wearing face masks and protective gear like goggles, and urged vulnerable groups such as the elderly and children to stay indoors to minimize exposure to vog.

Classes in some areas in Calabarzon were suspended on Monday due to the vog, while PHIVOLCS maintains Alert Level 1 over Taal Volcano.

The Philippine National Police (PNP) has activated disaster response units to assist local government units in handling emergencies related to Taal's volcanic activity.