The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) observed a new ash emission from Kanlaon Volcano on Saturday afternoon, marking the latest in a series of events as the volcano remains under Alert Level 2.
According to the state agency’s advisory, the emission commenced at approximately 1:25 p.m., generating grayish plumes that ascended 700 meters above the summit crater. The ash was observed drifting in a west-southwest direction, a sequence recorded by the IP camera located at the Kanlaon Volcano Observatory in Canlaon City.
PHIVOLCS has maintained Alert Level 2 over Kanlaon, indicating that the volcano is in a state of “moderate unrest.”
Under this status, there is a persistent possibility of sudden steam-driven or phreatic eruptions, as well as further ash emissions.
“The attempt to remove Carandang reflects precisely the abuse of power that the ( court) sought to prevent. The rule of law requires that those tasked with scrutinizing authority remain insulated from it, lest oversight become illusory and the constitutional design of checks and balances give way to political expediency,” the court ruled.
Recent monitoring data released on Friday also highlighted a sulfur dioxide flux of 1,602 tons per day and noted that the volcano’s edifice remains inflated or “bloated,” suggesting continued internal pressure.
This latest activity follows a busy month for state volcanologists, who recorded three separate ash episodes in April with plumes reaching heights of up to 1,200 meters.
Local government units and residents have been advised to strictly observe the four-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ). Authorities continue to warn the public of the risks posed by volcanic hazards, including potential ashfall and sudden explosions.
“In a nation long vulnerable to governmental overreach, the continued creation and preservation of guardrails against concentrated power remain essential to democratic life,” the tribunal added in its assessment of institutional independence.