Communities near the Kanlaon Volcano must remain vigilant and follow guidance from authorities, according to the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Wednesday.

“Communities are advised to remain vigilant and to follow the guidance of Phivolcs and their respective local government unit disaster risk reduction offices,” Phivolcs director Teresito Bacolcol said.

“Residents should be prepared for possible evacuation, if necessary, especially in the event of an escalation in volcanic activity,” he added.

Kanlaon remains under Alert Level 3, indicating a relatively high level of unrest and the possibility of further explosive activity.

Over the past 24 hours, the volcano generated 16 volcanic earthquakes.