By CESAR JOLITO III

Despite a series of moderate explosive eruptions at Kanlaon Volcano, the country’s top volcanology official said the situation remains within expected parameters under the current alert status.

Teresito Bacolcol, director of the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs), clarified that Kanlaon continues to be under Alert Level 2, indicating ongoing unrest but not yet warranting a higher alert classification.

“At this point, there is no consideration to raise the alert level to Level 3,” Bacolcol said, noting that monitoring continues closely.

Bacolcol explained that the recent eruptions, though moderate, are not considered alarming, as they are consistent with the volcano’s behavior under Alert Level 2.

He emphasized that such explosive events have already been anticipated by Phivolcs while the volcano remains in this state.

However, the Phivolcs chief urged residents to remain vigilant and prepared should volcanic activity intensify.

He reiterated the strict enforcement of the four-kilometer permanent danger zone, where habitation is prohibited due to the risk of sudden eruptions and hazardous volcanic flows.

Communities located beyond the four-kilometer radius were also advised to stay alert and be ready for possible evacuation if the situation escalates.

Phivolcs continues to monitor Kanlaon closely and assured the public that updates will be issued promptly should there be any significant changes in volcanic activity.

On Sunday night, March 15, Kanlaon had a moderate explosive eruption, sending ashfall and sulfuric fumes across Negros Island, affecting 90 barangays and prompting class suspensions in seven local government units in Negros Occidental.

This is the third eruption this year, following similar activity on February 19 and 26./CJ, WDJ