DOH to Calabarzon folk: Take precautions as Taal Volcano rumbles

Taal Volcano in Batangas (INQUIRER FILE PHOTO / NIÑO JESUS ORBETA)

MANILA, Philippines — The Department of Health (DOH) on Tuesday reminded the residents of the Calabarzon (Cavite, Laguna, Batangas, Rizal and Quezon) region to take precautionary measures following the minor eruption of Taal Volcano in Batangas. 

“Pinapaalalahanan ng Department of Health ang publiko na protektahan ang sarili laban sa banta ng Bulkang Taal,” DOH said in a statement. 

(The Department of Health reminds the public to protect themselves against the hazards of Taal Volcano.)

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported that the Taal Volcano had  a steam-driven or phreatic eruption early Tuesday, releasing a 2,800-meter grayish plume. 

Taal Volcano remains at Alert Level 1 or the “low-level unrest.”

Phivolcs, however, warned that the volcano is still in an abnormal condition.

Phivolcs also noted that hazards such as sudden phreatic or phreatomagmatic eruptions, volcanic earthquakes, minor ashfall and expulsions of volcanic gas can occur.

The DOH also said that should abnormal conditions prevail near and around the volcano, the residents of the region must prepare N95 masks and an emergency “Go Bag” containing enough food and water, clothes, first-aid kit, and medicines

“Huwag kamutin o kuskusin ang mata. Kung nairita ang mata, banlawan ito gamit ang maligamgam na tubig,” DOH added. 

(Do not rub your eyes when irritated. Instead, rinse them with lukewarm water.)

The DOH also urged the residents of the region and nearby regions to be updated with advisories of their local government units.