Alert Level 1 still up in Taal Volcano —PHIVOLCS

Alert Level 1 remains up over Taal Volcano in Batangas as it recorded continuous seismic activity, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) on Wednesday.

A bulletin released by the service institute at 8 a.m. noted that Taal Volcano registered 19 volcanic earthquakes in the last 24 hours.

"One of these events which occurred at 5:28 PM yesterday, was felt at Intensity 1 at Pira-piraso in the northern sector of the Volcano Island," PHIVOLCS said.

Hazardous eruption is not imminent but the agency warned that the volcano's main crater is strictly off-limits because sudden steam explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate.

"The northern portion of the Main Crater rim, in the vicinity of Daang Kastila Trail, may also become hazardous when steam emission along existing fissures suddenly increases," it added.

PHIVOLCS reminded the public that permanent settlement in the volcano island is not recommended because it is a permanent danger zone.

Taal Volcano recorded over 100 volcanic earthquakes in the past two days. —Dona Magsino/KG, GMA News