By CESAR JOLITO III

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported a noticeable increase in volcanic earthquakes at Kanlaon Volcano, raising concerns over possible ash emissions or minor eruptions.

Based on Phivolcs’ monitoring report on Monday, September 29, seven volcanic quakes were recorded within 24 hours, with 31 ground tremors detected.

As of 11:30 a.m. yesterday, eight additional volcanic quakes had already been logged.

Daryll Arro, science research assistant at the Kanlaon Volcano Observatory in La Carlota City, explained that the uptick in volcanic activity may indicate the upward movement of magma, gas or plume inside the volcano.

“There is a possibility of ash emissions or minor eruptions, which is why we are closely monitoring the situation,” Arro said.

He clarified, however, that the number of tremors is not the sole indicator of volcanic unrest, noting that Phivolcs focuses more on the intensity of quakes.

The strongest recorded tremor so far registered at magnitude 2.7.

Earlier, Phivolcs explained that the spike in volcano-tectonic earthquake signals ongoing rock fracturing beneath the volcano caused by rising magma or gas, increasing the likelihood of steam-driven or phreatic eruptions.

“It is clear that the threat is higher now compared to previous days. So we strongly remind the public that entry into and getting near the four-kilometer permanent danger zone is prohibited,” Phivolcs Director Teresito Bacolcol said.

Such activity could trigger hazardous events, including pyroclastic density currents, ashfall, ballistic projectiles, and rockfalls.

Bacolcol said low gas emissions could indicate closed system degassing.

“There’s a clog in the passage. If this continues, together with the increase in earthquakes, there is a possibility that the volcano will spew ashes, which could lead to a weak or even moderate eruption,” he explained./CJ, WDJ