By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY—Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson confirmed that the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) now classifies ash emissions from Mt. Kanlaon as eruptions.
Phivolcs resident volcanologist Mari Andylene Quintia explained on Monday that consecutive ash emissions from Mt. Kanlaon signal an increase in magmatic activity.
In a press briefing on Monday, Lacson stated, “Henceforth, Phivolcs will now declare every ash emission as an eruption, whether it’s minor or major.”
He noted that before Mt. Kanlaon settles down, it may experience a culminating event such as a lava flow or explosive activity, which would likely lead to an increase in the Alert Level.
“In short, they are saying that for sure, there will be a major activity before the volcano calms down,” Lacson said.
He clarified that while ash emissions are now considered eruptions, they are not necessarily the final activity that will stabilize Mt. Kanlaon.
“What this major activity will be is still uncertain. It doesn’t have to be fireworks—it could be a lava flow reaching up to six kilometers. But before they can consider lowering the Alert Level, it’s likely the Alert Level will first go up,” Lacson added.
He further warned that if a significant event occurs, the Alert Level could rise, potentially extending the danger zone up to 14 kilometers.
Phivolcs monitoring revealed that Mt. Kanlaon recorded three consecutive ash emissions on Sunday, January 26. Another ash emission was recorded on Monday, January 27, at 3:51 a.m.
Quintia noted that January has seen more ash emissions compared to October, November, and December of last year.
Phivolcs continues to monitor Mt. Kanlaon closely for further activity.
