BATANGAS CITY (PIA) — The Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDRRMC) Calabarzon reminds the public and media practitioners, to exercise caution when sharing information about Taal volcano’s geological activity, as it can lead to panic and confusion among the public.
Local government units surrounding the Taal Volcano Island have expressed concern over fake social media posts about eruptions reportedly circulating online, which have caused unrest among the public.
Local authorities have also identified several online media outlets that have begun sharing advisories warning the public about an alleged imminent eruption of the Taal volcano.
On Tuesday, October 8, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) reported degassing activities, locally known as ‘pusngat’.
Jerome de Lima of the PHIVOLCS’s Taal Observatory explained that these activities are normal occurrences and are not related to any sign of eruption.
“This does not signify any eruption. These are very weak degassing from the volcano,” de Lima clarified.
On Wednesday, October 9, surrounding towns reported no formation of volcanic fog in their areas.
The CALABARZON RDRRMC also highlighted the Philippine Information Agency (PIA)’s Maging Mapanuri campaign, which offers clear, accessible explanations to encourage the public to exercise caution when sharing information about the Taal volcano.
Authorities have also warned against sharing unverified information that can lead to confusion and fear among the public. (PB/PIA4A/CALABARZON RDRRMC)
