A minor phreatic eruption occurred at the main crater of Taal Volcano early Friday morning, May 8, according to the latest bulletin of Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS).

The state volcanology authorities reported that sped-up thermal camera footage captured the eruption at 4:46 a.m., showing short-lived explosive activity at the summit crater, produced plumes that rose approximately 300 meters above the summit crater, as captured by the Daang Kastila (VTDK) thermal camera.

Despite the event, PHIVOLCS maintained Alert Level 1 over Taal Volcano, indicating low-level unrest but the possibility of sudden steam-driven or phreatic explosions.

Based on the agency’s 24-hour monitoring data from 12:00AM of May 7 to 12:00 AM of May 8, 2026, the volcano recorded nine volcanic earthquakes, including one volcanic tremor that lasted approximately two minutes. Weak but persistent degassing was also observed, with sulfur dioxide (SO₂) emissions measured at 653 tonnes per day.

At the main crater lake, PHIVOLCS reported highly acidic conditions with a pH level of 0.48 as of February 10, 2026, alongside elevated surface temperature readings reaching 63.1°C.

A steam-rich plume rising about 600 meters was also observed, drifting toward the south-southwest and west-southwest directions.

The agency also noted slight inflation or ground deformation at the Taal Volcano Island, indicating ongoing volcanic pressurization beneath the surface.

PHIVOLCS reiterated that entry into Taal Volcano Island remains strictly prohibited due to the danger of sudden phreatic eruptions, toxic gas emissions, and other volcanic hazards. Authorities also warned aviation operators to avoid flying close to the volcano’s summit area.

Among the potential hazards listed are sudden steam-driven explosions, volcanic earthquakes, ashfall, fragmentation of rocks, and the release of harmful volcanic gases.