By CESAR JOLITO III

The continuous degassing at Kanlaon Volcano is a more favorable scenario than a closed volcanic unrest, where pressure can build up and potentially trigger a more explosive eruption.

The current activity suggests the volcano’s system remains open, allowing gas and volcanic materials to escape gradually, Kanlaon Observatory resident volcanologist Ma. Antonia Quintia said.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported continued ash emissions from Kanlaon this week, with a total of 19 ash emission events recorded alongside 18 volcanic earthquakes.

Quintia added that the ash emissions are occurring intermittently rather than continuously, characterized by brief, sudden bursts that quickly dissipate.

Phivolcs also detected volcanic tremor events linked to the ash emissions, with durations ranging from 100 to 200 minutes.

These tremors serve as important monitoring indicators, particularly as the volcano’s summit crater remains obscured by thick clouds and rainfall, limiting direct visual observation.

Despite the ongoing activity, Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 2, indicating moderate volcanic unrest.

Phivolcs also confirmed that the volcano continues to emit volcanic gases.

Quintia said the current activity is being closely monitored.

Phivolcs continues to advise the public to remain alert and follow official updates and safety advisories.

Authorities continue to enforce strict restrictions on entry into the four-kilometer permanent danger zone due to the risks of sudden eruptions, rockfalls and related volcanic hazards.

The volcano remains under close monitoring as authorities continue to warn residents against entering high-risk zones.

The agency reiterated that conditions may change rapidly and advised the public to remain alert for further advisories./CCJ, WDJ