Taal Volcano remains at 'Alert Level 1'

Taal Volcano (Photo courtesy of  Jhun Taboga)

"Alert Level 1" remains in effect over Taal Volcano, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported Sunday.

Although there is no imminent hazardous eruption, Phivolcs reminds the public to avoid entering the Main Crater as sudden steam explosions may occur and high concentrations of toxic gases may accumulate in the area.

"The northern portion of the Main Crater rim, in the vicinity of Daang Kastila Trail, may also become hazardous when steam emission along existing fissures suddenly increases." Phivolcs wrote.

It added that it discourages permanent settlement in the Volcano Island as it is a Permanent Danger Zone.

Taal Volcano is located in Batangas and is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. There has been a total of 33 recorded significant eruptions at Taal since 1572.

Surigao, Philippines Earthquake - March 16, 2012

Surigao, Philippines Earthquake -  March 16, 2012

A 5.9-magnitude earthquake struck Dinagat Islands Friday afternoon, which was also felt in Surigao City, Southern Leyte, Butuan City and other nearby areas.

The quake hit its epicenter, 20km west of Dinagat, at 3:58 P.M., said the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs).

It added that the temblor, which was tectonic in origin and 16km deep, was felt at the following intensities at the corresponding areas:

Intensity VI - Surigao City
Intensity V - General Luna, Surigao del Norte; Basilisa, Dinagat; San Ricardo, Southern Leyte
Intensity IV - Carrascal, Surigao del Sur; Tandag City
Intensity III - Tolosa and Tacloban Leyte; Davao City; Bislig City; Borongan, Oras, Sulat, Dolores, Eastern Samar; Cateel, Taragona, Davao Oriental;
Cagayan de Oro City; Cagwait, Surigao del Sur; Catbalogan, Samar; Maasin & Hinunangan, Southern Leyte;
Intensity II - Cebu City; Butuan City; San Agustin, Surigao del Sur
Intensity I - Hibok-Hibok, Camiguin

According to Surigao del Norte Gov. Sol Matugas, 20 people were injured in a stampede at a mall packed with shoppers and 3 were hurt in a gymnasium where a cable broke in Surigao City.

Earthquakes frequently occur in the Philippines as it lies on the Pacific Ring of Fire, where rigid plates in the Earth's crust collide.