By JEN BAYLON

Kanlaon Volcano, one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, continues to show signs of unrest over the weekend, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

Five volcanic earthquakes, a notable sign of ongoing seismic activity beneath the surface, were observed at Kanlaon on Saturday, November 30.

Phivolcs said the volcano emitted an average of 4,287 tons of sulfur dioxide per day, with a steady plume of volcanic gases and ash reaching up to 400 meters high.

The continued release of sulfur dioxide is a clear indication that Kanlaon remains active, with no immediate signs of a major eruption, it added.

Phivolcs said that while ash emission is not constant, occasional degassing contributes to the ongoing activity, adding to the overall instability of the area.

The volcano’s edifice remains inflated, further suggesting that magma movement is still occurring beneath the surface, the agency said.

Alert Level 2 is currently raised over Kanlaon due to “increased unrest” following its explosive eruption in June.

Phivolcs has urged the public to remain vigilant and avoid entering the four-kilometer permanent danger zone, as sudden and unpredictable eruptions could occur without warning.

Residents living in nearby areas are also encouraged to take precautions against exposure to ash fall and sulfur dioxide.

Prolonged exposure to sulfur dioxide can cause irritation of the eyes, throat and respiratory tract, Phivolcs said./JB, WDJ