As if the pandemic is not enough, another threat to life and property is currently looming in the midst of Pinoys living around the area of the Taal Volcano. Four days ago according to the PHIVOLCS-DOST webpage (www.phivolcs.dost.gov.ph), the “Taal Volcano Network recorded two (2) volcanic earthquakes and low-level background tremor that has persisited since 08 April 2021. High levels of volcanic sulfur dioxide gas emissions and xteam-rich plumes that rose as much as one thousand five hundred (1,500) meters high have been observed from the Taal main crater.”
Image c/o National Geographic 2020
Alert Level 3 is currently raised over Taal Volcano reminding the public that sudden steam or gas-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas can occur and threaten areas within and around the vicinity of the volcano. Local government officials were advised to continuously assess and strengthen the preparedness of previously evacuated barangays around Taal Lake in case of renewed unrest.
Aside from the long-lasting effect of the eruption to the soil and farmlands in 2020, it has affected and displaced around 400,000 residents in the area with a damage estimated at $63 million to 39,000 acres of land planted with coffee, cacao, pineapple and vegetables aside from countless fish deaths which were the main source of livelihood for most of the people living around the lake.
Our hearts and prayers go to everyone affected by this calamity.