Phivolcs: 8 volcanic quakes recorded at Bulusan

At least eight volcanic quakes were recorded Sunday around restive Bulusan Volcano in the Bicol Region, prompting state volcanologists to remind residents to stay away from its danger zone. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology also said no lahar event was observed in the last 24 hours. "The seismic network at Bulusan Volcano recorded eight volcanic earthquakes during the past 24-hour observation period. Visual observation of the crater and known thermal vents was not possible due to thick clouds covering the summit. No lahar event was observed," Phivolcs said on its website Monday. It maintained that Bulusan's status remains at Alert Level 1, meaning no entry to the 4-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) is strongly advised. Phivolcs maintained the permanent danger zone remains at risk to sudden steam and ash explosions. It also reminded people living near valleys and river/stream channels to be vigilant against sediment-laden stream flows and lahars in the event of heavy and prolonged rainfall. Taal, Mayon watch Meanwhile, at least 13 volcanic quakes were recorded at Taal Volcano in Batangas while two were recorded at Mayon Volcano in Bicol also on Sunday, state volcanologists said. Radio dzBB's Carlo Mateo reported the activity prompted Phivolcs to remind residents to keep away from the volcanoes. The report cited Phivolcs data indicating 13 volcanic quakes were recorded around Taal and two around Mayon in the last 24 hours, showing the volcanos still pose a threat to residents. Phivolcs director Renato Solidum Jr. appealed to residents and tourists not to venture into the two volcanos' permanent danger zones. Both volcanos are under Alert Level 1, meaning no one can venture into their permanent danger zones. Earlier, the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC) noted nine quakes were recorded at Taal while one quake and one rockfall were recorded at Mayon on Dec. 26. — RSJ, GMANews.TV