DILG orders LGUs to heighten alert over Kanlaon, taal activity

National

THE Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) has urged local government units (LGUs) near Kanlaon and Taal volcanoes to stay on full alert amid ongoing volcanic activity.

The agency directed LGUs to activate their disaster councils, prepare evacuation centers, and pre-position emergency supplies such as food, water, and first-aid kits.

Phivolcs has maintained Alert Level 2 for Kanlaon Volcano, signaling moderate unrest with possible ash emissions.

Residents within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone are reminded not to return yet. For Taal Volcano, which remains under Alert Level 1, LGUs in Batangas and Cavite were told to ban entry into Taal Volcano Island and to monitor sulfur dioxide emissions.

The DILG reminded local officials to stay in constant coordination with Phivolcs and regional disaster offices, adding that early preparation helps prevent casualties in case volcanic activity escalates.

Authorities clarified that the call for readiness does not mean an eruption is imminent but serves as a precautionary measure.

Residents were advised to prepare “go bags,” wear masks during ashfall, and stay indoors when air quality drops.

LGUs were also told to ensure communication lines are open for real-time coordination and public updates.(Victoria Diana, USJ-R Comm Intern)