President Ferdinand Marcos assured Thursday that the government is prepared for any potential eruption of the Taal Volcano in Batangas.
In an interview, Mr. Marcos emphasized that standard operating procedures (SOPs) are already in place to respond to natural disasters.
“We have SOPs in place. Everybody, when the volcano erupts, or the storm comes, or there’s an earthquake, they know what to do,” President Marcos said.
“What we have to do is monitor the situation and continue to see where the areas [are that need] special attention, and where the areas are okay,” he added.
The President further explained that while procedures are well-established, responses must be tailored to the specifics of each situation.
“Not every situation is the same, so how do we adjust?” he said, adding that the government is focused on determining which areas require more immediate attention.
The president also expressed confidence in the expertise of officials managing the situation.
Although the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) is not currently recommending widespread evacuations, the President said that authorities will take action if necessary.
“PHIVOLCS is saying not to worry too much right now. But I’m sure they will play it safe. If we need to, we will move people out of the danger area like we always do,” he said.
Taal Volcano had a minor phreatomagmatic eruption on Wednesday, with ash and steam rising 2,400 meters. This follows nearly 20 minor eruptions in the past two weeks, indicating increased volcanic activity.
Despite this, authorities have kept Taal at Alert Level 1, signaling an abnormal state without immediate major eruption risk. PHIVOLCS closely monitors the situation, cautioning that steam explosions and gas emissions may still occur.
Local residents are advised to remain vigilant, but no evacuations have been ordered. Access to the Permanent Danger Zone around the volcano remains prohibited for public safety.
