36 volcanic quakes jolt Mt. Mayon anew

LIGAO CITY –– Some 36 tremors were recorded Wednesday by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) during a 24-hour monitoring period around Mayon Volcano as it continues to show abnormal activities.

“So far from our analysis, the earthquakes are superficial, meaning mababaw (shallow), likely hydrothermal in origin and not related to the upward movement of magma,” Dr. Paul Karson Alanis, senior science research specialist and officer in charge at Mayon Volcano Observatory Station on Ligñon Hill in Legazpi City said.

A total of 106 volcanic earthquakes have been recorded since Jan. 1.

Phivolcs also noted a faint crater glow at the summit on Jan. 6, 18, and 20.

Alert level 1 status remains over the volcano.

According to the Phivolcs website, alert level 1 over the volcano indicates a slight increase in seismic activity. A faint crater glow may occur, but no conclusive evidence of magma ascent and phreatic explosion or ash puffs may happen. However, no eruption is imminent.

LZB