By CESAR JOLITO III

The series of strong tremors recorded early yesterday around Kanlaon Volcano may indicate a possible volcanic event, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

Dr. Ma. Antonia Bornas, chief of Phivolcs’ Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division, said the intensified seismic activity suggests the potential occurrence of a minor explosive eruption or ash emission.

Between midnight and 10:00 a.m. yesterday, Phivolcs recorded 81 volcano-tectonic earthquakes beneath Kanlaon.

These quakes registered magnitudes ranging from one to 2.9 and were located at depths of up to six kilometers.

Bornas clarified that while the seismic unrest indicates possible volcanic movement, it remains uncertain when — or if — an eruption will occur.

“This pattern is consistent with magma movement or pressure buildup beneath the volcano, but we cannot yet predict the exact timing of any eruptive activity,” Bornas said.

Authorities reiterated their warning against entering the four-kilometer permanent danger zone around Kanlaon due to the risk of sudden steam-driven explosions or rockfall./CJ, WDJ