22-9-2023 (MANILA) The smog that enveloped Metro Manila on Friday is not caused by the volcanic emissions from Taal volcano, but rather by air pollution resulting from heavy vehicular traffic, according to government agencies.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources’ Environmental Management Bureau stated in a press release that air quality monitoring data indicates an elevated alert level in certain parts of Metro Manila, primarily due to emissions from heavy traffic, particularly during rush hour.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) also clarified that the volcanic smog coming from Taal volcano is drifting in a west-southwest direction, away from Metro Manila.
During a public briefing, Department of Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum emphasized that the smog in Metro Manila and the volcanic smog in Taal volcano are unrelated. The smog in the city is caused by “thermal inversion,” while the volcanic smog consists of volcanic gas.
Solidum explained in a Laging Handa briefing, “The temperature, the air, as it goes higher in the atmosphere, should be cooler, but the cool air is currently at a higher altitude.”
Phivolcs reported early Friday morning that vog (volcanic smog) was present in the Taal region and documented five volcanic tremors lasting from 20 to 575 minutes, indicating increased activity within Taal volcano.
“Vog has been affecting the Taal region since the first week of September 2023, with an average of 3,402 tons per day of SO2 (sulfur dioxide) degassed from Taal volcano for the month,” stated Phivolcs.
Phivolcs advised the public to wear masks and take safety precautions as volcanic smog contains volcanic gas that can cause irritation to the eyes, throat, and respiratory tract.
