By Emille Le Blanc
LEGAZPI CITY — Authorities are urging the public to steer clear of the restricted area around Bulusan Volcano following the detection of 90 volcanic earthquakes in recent monitoring.
The tremors were recorded by the volcano monitoring network of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), which reported that the quakes were mostly weak events linked to rock fracturing beneath the volcano.
Despite the increased seismic activity, Bulusan remains under Alert Level 0, meaning that a magmatic eruption is not expected for now.
According to Phivolcs, other monitoring indicators remain within normal conditions. Degassing activity from visible vents ranged from very weak to moderate, while sulfur dioxide emissions were measured at around 40 tons daily, which is below average levels.
Scientists also noted no significant ground deformation and no noticeable changes in nearby thermal springs.
Still, Phivolcs warned that Bulusan has a history of phreatic or steam-driven eruptions, which are sometimes preceded by clusters of volcanic earthquakes.
Because these eruptions can occur suddenly, the public has been reminded to avoid entering the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), particularly areas near the south-southeastern vents.
Hazards associated with sudden eruptions include ballistic projectiles, ashfall, pyroclastic density currents, avalanches, and falling rocks.
Local governments have also been encouraged to reassess disaster response plans in case volcanic activity escalates to Alert Level 1.
Meanwhile, aviation authorities were advised to inform pilots to avoid flying near the volcano’s summit, as ash emissions could endanger aircraft.
Phivolcs assured the public that it will continue to monitor Bulusan’s activity and release updates if conditions change.