Grass fire reported on Taal Volcano

A grass fire broke out on the southeast slopes of Taal Volcano Island Friday evening, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) reported.

The Batangas Provincial Office said on social media that they are closely coordinating with Phivolcs to monitor the situation. Officials in Agoncillo, Batangas confirmed that the volcano did not erupt and that an investigation is ongoing.

“The fire on Volcano Island, which falls under the jurisdiction of Balete, is currently under investigation,” the Information Officer said.

“The volcano is not erupting. Stay safe, everyone. Do not believe any fake videos or posts circulating on social media,” they added.

The Philippine Coast Guard said no firefighting was done at the time to avoid putting responders at risk.

As of Saturday, the Talisay Batangas Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (MDRRMC) reported that Taal remains at Alert Level 1. Recent measurements showed 1 volcanic earthquake, 257 tons of sulfur dioxide emitted on 28 January, and 300-meter-high plumes drifting southwest.

“The current activity on Taal Volcano Island is only a grass fire and not a volcanic eruption. There is no indication of an eruption or alert level increase,” the MDRRMC said.

“We strongly advise the public not to spread false information, especially posts that cause fear. Unverified news can create confusion and unnecessary panic,” they added.

The MDRRMC reminded residents to get updates only from official sources such as Phivolcs and local government agencies.