Philippines: Strong Cebu Quakes May Trigger Fractures Inside Kanlaon Volcano — Overall Impact Still Investigated

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Updated on: · By Strange Sounds · Source: Gilbert P. Bayoran / PHIVOLCS

Kanlaon Volcano with ash emission and seismic summary as Cebu earthquakes rattle Negros and nearby provinces
PHIVOLCS: Strong shaking from northern Cebu quakes could open fractures inside Kanlaon, but no major escalation is evident.

TL;DR: PHIVOLCS says Monday’s M5.8 quake in Cebu could open fractures inside Kanlaon Volcano due to strong ground shaking. Recent activity includes a 30-minute ash emission and 55 volcanic quakes (to Oct 12). Alert Level 2 remains in effect; aviation NOTAM active. Officials stress there is no direct link between tectonic quakes and eruptions, though magma intrusion continues to be monitored.

What PHIVOLCS Reported

Ma. Antonia Bornas, chief of PHIVOLCS’ Volcano Monitoring and Eruption Prediction Division, said the strong shaking from the Cebu earthquake may open fractures inside Kanlaon. She emphasized there are no signs the tremor will have a significant effect on the overall state of the volcano at this time.

Recent Kanlaon Activity

  • 30-minute ash emission at the crater (recently logged).
  • 55 volcanic earthquakes recorded as of .
  • Continuing signs of magma intrusion that could indicate magmatic processes, according to Bornas.
  • Alert Level 2 (increased unrest) remains in effect.

Cebu Earthquake & Felt Intensities

A magnitude 5.8 earthquake jolted Cebu early Monday. Reported intensities:

  • Intensity V: Escalante City.
  • Intensity III: Bago, Cadiz, Himamaylan, San Carlos; Calatrava, Don Salvador Benedicto, Enrique B. Magalona, Isabela, Manapla, Murcia, Pulupandan, San Enrique, Toboso, Valladolid (Negros Occidental); Canlaon City, Guihulngan, Tanjay; Amlan, San Jose (Negros Oriental).
  • Intensity II: Bacolod City.

Learn more: High risk of supershear earthquakes in California.

Aviation & Ground Advisories

The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) effective , prohibiting flights near the summit. PHIVOLCS is also investigating a subsidence (hole) reported in Brgy. Talaptap, La Castellana; local DRRM officer John de Asis currently rates the threat as low.

Are Tectonic Quakes Linked to Volcanic Eruptions?

According to DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr., the Philippines experiences ~30 earthquakes daily due to active faults and trenches—this is normal. PHIVOLCS Director Teresito Bacolcol clarified there is no direct relationship between strong tectonic earthquakes and volcanic eruptions or increased seismicity. Eruptions occur when pressure inside the magma chamber is sufficient to trigger an explosion.

What Residents Should Do (Quick Checklist)

  1. Stay outside the 4-km Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around Kanlaon.
  2. Wear masks/eye protection during ash episodes; close windows and collect ash only when safe.
  3. Secure water, flashlights, radios, and go-bags; review family communication plans.
  4. Heed LGU and PHIVOLCS bulletins; avoid river channels that can convey lahars during heavy rain.

FAQs

What does Alert Level 2 mean for Kanlaon?

It indicates unrest driven by shallow magmatic or hydrothermal processes. Entry into the PDZ is prohibited; aviation should avoid the summit area.

Can the Cebu quake trigger a Kanlaon eruption?

Unlikely directly. Strong shaking can open fractures that allow gas or fluids to migrate, but PHIVOLCS says there are no signs of significant escalation at present.

Why is PHIVOLCS watching a subsidence feature in La Castellana?

Ground subsidence can indicate near-surface voids, altered ground, or fluid movement. Current assessment: low threat, but under investigation.

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