By JEN BAYLON

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) warned that Kanlaon Volcano could be placed under Alert Level 3 due to continuing volcanic activities.

According to Mari Andylene Quintia, Phivolcs resident volcanologist at the Kanlaon Volcano Observatory in Negros Occidental’s La Carlota City, Kanlaon is showing signs of unrest, which could lead to a higher alert level.

Under Alert Level 3, an increase in volcanic unrest with magmatic movement is expected.

This would require immediate evacuation of nearby communities within the six-kilometer permanent danger zones.

Quintia advised residents near Kanlaon to prepare in case of any unexpected events.

“We are advising residents to be vigilant and prepared for any possible eruptions,” Quintia said.

Phivolcs recorded a total of 19 volcanic earthquakes in the past few days.

Around 2,296 tons of sulfur dioxide were emitted by Kanlaon, higher than the average of 300 tons before its phreatic eruption last June 3.

Earlier, Phivolcs reported that Kanlaon was experiencing “swelling” or inflation due to the magmatic process inside its crater./JB, WDJ