23-9-2023 (MANILA) The ominous volcanic smog, known as “vog,” originating from the Taal Volcano, is beginning to cast a health shadow over the residents of Region IV-A. This dire situation results from the emission of acidic sulfur dioxide into the atmosphere by the active volcano.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) raised concerns about the hazards associated with vog, prompting state volcanologists to issue advice for residents to abstain from outdoor activities and to don N95 masks.
In a statement released last Friday evening by the Office of Civil Defense, it was reported that approximately 122 smog-related health consultations had already been documented in CALABARZON due to the vog phenomenon.
Undersecretary Ariel Nepomuceno, Civil Defense Administrator and National DRRMC Executive Director, convened the Regional Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (RDDRMC) on Friday to address the vog situation. He emphasized the readiness of government agencies to handle the situation and highlighted the availability of medical resources in the region.
Nepomuceno further assured the public that the national government stands ready to support local government units and affected areas.
Phivolcs had previously explained that vog comprises fine droplets containing volcanic gases like sulfur dioxide (SO2), which can lead to eye irritation, throat discomfort, and respiratory issues. The severity of these symptoms depends on the concentrations of gases and the duration of exposure. Vulnerable populations, including individuals with asthma, lung and heart diseases, the elderly, children, and pregnant women, are particularly sensitive to the effects of vog.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. and Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro Jr. are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with the Regional DRRMC and the Provincial DRRMCs of Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna to implement preparedness measures and response operations.
In response to the deteriorating air quality stemming from the vog, approximately 45 cities and municipalities in Batangas, Cavite, and Laguna have suspended classes.
Reports have also emerged of students from Batangas province being hospitalized due to breathing difficulties linked to the vog.
The Department of Environment and Natural Resources – Environmental Management Bureau clarified that the hazy conditions and poor air quality experienced in various parts of Metro Manila are primarily attributable to vehicular pollution, rather than the Taal Volcano, dispelling any misconceptions surrounding the source of the air quality issues.
