Taal Volcano in Batangas has recorded its fifth eruption this October, as confirmed by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs). This latest event occurred on October 20, 2026, and was characterized as a phreatic eruption.
Details of the Eruption
The eruption, locally referred to as 'pusngat', lasted just one minute. Phivolcs noted that this followed a two-minute phreatic eruption earlier that day at 12:29 a.m., and two additional eruptions on October 18.
In total, the eruptions this month have included:
- One-minute phreatic eruption on October 20
- Two-minute phreatic eruption on October 20
- Two eruptions on October 18 lasting seven minutes
- Five-minute phreatomagmatic eruption on October 8
Phivolcs also reported two volcanic earthquakes and a tremor that began at 12:33 a.m. on October 20, which is considered normal for the area.
Sulfur dioxide emissions were recorded at 1,002 metric tons, indicating a rise from the 407 metric tons observed since October 16. The gas plume reached around 600 meters above Taal Volcano Island.
Current Alert Status and Safety Measures
Despite the increased activity, Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, which indicates low-level unrest.
Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology
Phivolcs has cautioned that explosive phreatic events, volcanic tremors, and gas emissions could pose risks, particularly to nearby areas on Taal Volcano Island.
Authorities have reiterated the prohibition against entering the island and advised aircraft to maintain a safe distance from the volcano.