LUCENA CITY, Philippines — State volcanologists reported a notable increase in seismic activity at Taal Volcano on Sunday, May 10, 2026. According to the latest bulletin from PHIVOLCS, the volcano recorded 18 volcanic earthquakes and 5 volcanic tremors over the past 24 hours—a sharp rise compared to the nine quakes and four tremors logged the previous day.
The tremors were reported to last between two and three minutes each, indicating sustained movement of volcanic fluids or gas beneath the surface.
Following a minor phreatic (steam-driven) eruption on Friday, May 8, the volcano has shown continued signs of abnormal activity.
| Parameter | Current Status (May 10) | Previous Day (May 9) |
| Volcanic Earthquakes | 18 | 9 |
| Volcanic Tremors | 5 (2–3 mins duration) | 4 (1–2 mins duration) |
| Sulfur Dioxide ($SO_2$) | 653 tonnes / day | 653 tonnes / day |
| Plume Height | 600 meters (Weak emission) | 600 meters |
| Main Crater Condition | Highly Acidic (pH 0.48) | Highly Acidic (pH 0.48) |
Taal Volcano remains under Alert Level 1, which signifies low-level volcanic unrest. While this indicates abnormal conditions, PHIVOLCS clarifies that it does not necessarily mean an imminent magmatic eruption. However, the agency warns that the following hazards remain possible:
- Sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions.
- Volcanic earthquakes.
- Minor ashfall.
- Lethal accumulations or expulsions of volcanic gas.
PHIVOLCS reiterated its long-standing safety protocols for the area:
- Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ): Entry into Taal Volcano Island, specifically the Main Crater and Daang Kastila fissures, is strictly prohibited.
- Taal Lake: Occupancy and boating on the lake remain restricted due to the risk of sudden activity.
- Aviation: Civil aviation authorities are advised to avoid flying aircraft close to the volcano’s summit, as sudden ash and rock fragments from phreatic events can be hazardous to flight.
- Phreatic Eruption (“Pusngat”): A steam-driven explosion that occurs when water beneath the ground or on the surface is heated by magma or hot rocks.
- Volcanic Tremor: A continuous low-frequency seismic signal that typically indicates the movement of magma or volcanic gases.