MMDA deploys rescue team to Batangas following Taal eruption

MANILA, Philippines — The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority deployed on Monday morning a contingent of 30 personnel to Batangas province to assist residents affected by the eruption of the Taal Volcano.

The agency also dispatched three military trucks, three ambulances, two fire trucks, 10 portable water purifiers, self-contained breathing apparatus, compressors and refiller.

“We have dispatched a team composed of 30 rescue and relief personnel to take part in the mass evacuation of affected residents,” MMDA Public Safety Office and Disaster Risk Reduction Head and Management Focal Person  Michael Salalima said in a statement.

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On Sunday, Taal Volcano spewed steam, ash and small rocks, which prompted the government to order the evacuation of residents in nearby villages and ask tourists to leave the Tagaytay, Batangas and Cavite areas as precaution for an imminent eruption.

Hours later, Taal Volcano had a magmatic eruption early Monday, hours after spewing a giant ash column, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said.

Phivolcs earlier raised the danger level to 4 late on Sunday, meaning a hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours or days.

READ: Taal Volcano had magmatic eruption early Monday – Phivolcs | Taal Volcano erupts

The MMDA said it is closely coordinating with the local governments of Batangas and Cavite for any assistance needed in relation to the current situation of the Taal Volcano.