Taal Volcano shakes Batangas with 33 quakes and multiple minor eruptions — PHIVOLCS warns public to stay away

Residents near the famous Taal Volcano in Batangas woke up to unsettling tremors on Sunday as the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) confirmed that the volcano recorded 33 volcanic earthquakes and three minor eruptions within 24 hours.

In a statement released early Monday, PHIVOLCS detailed that the eruptions included one phreatic and two phreatomagmatic events, lasting between one and four minutes each. These incidents, the agency said, are consistent with Taal’s recent pattern of low-level unrest but warrant continued vigilance from nearby communities.

Understanding the Volcanic Activity

The phreatomagmatic explosions — caused by the violent interaction of magma and water — produced towering plumes of steam, gas, and ash. PHIVOLCS noted that these plumes reached heights of up to 2,100 meters before drifting southwest.
Additionally, the volcano released around 436 tonnes of sulfur dioxide (SO₂) on Sunday, a sign of ongoing degassing deep within the crater.

Meanwhile, phreatic eruptions — described by the United States Geological Survey (USGS) as “steam-driven explosions” — occur when groundwater comes into direct contact with hot magma or rocks, generating sudden bursts of steam and ash.

Alert Level Remains at 1

Despite the activity, PHIVOLCS maintained the Alert Level 1 (Low-Level Unrest) status for Taal Volcano, emphasizing that the volcano remains restless but not at an alarming stage.
The institute, however, reminded the public that entry into Taal Volcano Island — declared a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) — remains strictly prohibited. This includes access to the Main Crater, the Daang Kastila fissures, and other nearby hazardous areas.

“Even short-lived eruptions can occur without warning,” PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol reiterated, stressing that boating, fishing, and occupancy of Taal Lake should be avoided. He also warned aircraft operators against flying near the crater due to the risk of sudden ash explosions.

‘Normal but Not Harmless,’ Experts Say

Speaking to the Philippine News Agency (PNA), Bacolcol explained that small eruptions several times a day are “normal behavior” for Taal, especially when the volcano is continuously releasing volcanic gases.
He said such activity has been observed in previous years and does not immediately indicate a major eruption — but the public must remain cautious.

“These are mostly short-lived gas-driven explosions, but they serve as reminders that Taal remains active. People should not let their guard down,” Bacolcol said.

A History of Restless Activity

Taal Volcano, one of the Philippines’ most active and closely monitored volcanoes, has erupted multiple times in the past decade. Its January 2020 eruption displaced thousands and blanketed Metro Manila with ashfall, underscoring how quickly the volcano can shift from mild unrest to full-blown eruption.

While recent events have been relatively minor, PHIVOLCS continues to monitor the volcano’s seismic activity, gas emissions, and surface deformation for signs of escalation.

For now, authorities advise the public to stay alert, avoid restricted zones, and follow official updates to ensure safety should the situation intensify.

FAQs

1. Is Taal Volcano erupting again?
Yes. PHIVOLCS reported multiple small eruptions on Sunday, October 26, 2025. These were classified as phreatic and phreatomagmatic events.

2. What does Alert Level 1 mean?
It indicates low-level unrest, meaning the volcano is active but no imminent eruption is expected. However, the public should still avoid the Permanent Danger Zone.

3. Why are small eruptions happening?
The explosions are caused by the interaction of magma with water, releasing steam, ash, and gas. This activity is considered part of the volcano’s normal degassing process.

4. Is it safe to visit Taal Lake?
No. PHIVOLCS has warned against entering the Taal Volcano Island or going near the lake due to possible sudden explosions and toxic gas emissions.