A striking red glow was observed at the summit of Kanlaon Volcano on May 10, leading the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) to report this unusual phenomenon.
The glow, known as "banaag," became visible to the naked eye around 7 p.m. and is attributed to superheated volcanic gas rising from the crater.
This crater glow is a common indicator of potential magmatic eruptions, similar to those observed at Mayon Volcano.
Phivolcs
Mari Andylene Quintia, a volcanologist with Phivolcs, explained that the incandescence indicates the presence of magmatic gas.
Despite the glow, monitoring data has shown stability since Kanlaon's last moderate eruption on March 15, 2026.
Phivolcs cautioned that if the glow intensifies, it could signify that magma is nearing the surface, increasing the risk of a volcanic eruption.
Seismic activity remains steady, with an average of six volcano-tectonic earthquakes reported daily. Sulfur dioxide emissions have also seen a slight increase.
Kanlaon is currently under Alert Level 2, but authorities may elevate this if conditions change.
Residents within the four-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone are advised to evacuate, while those in nearby areas should prepare for possible evacuation.
Local governments and disaster officials are urged to remain prepared for potential hazards, including lahars during heavy rainfall.
Civil aviation authorities are also advised to keep aircraft away from Kanlaon due to the risk posed by ash from any sudden eruptions.