The number of tremors near Taal Volcano has increased to 16 from seven high frequency volcanic earthquakes in the past 24 hours, maintaining the alert level status of the active volcano to Alert Level 2, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said on Wednesday.

Phivolcs Director Dr. Renato Solidum Jr. said the seismic activity around Taal Volcano increased in the last 24 hours showing that volcanic activity mainly due to magma intrusion continues to occur underneath the volcano.

Solidum said less than five volcanic earthquakes on the average are recorded during a normal volcanic activity.

While lesser tremors were recorded around the volcano as compared to the 32 high frequency volcanic earthquakes last June 8, Alert Level 2 is still hoisted on Taal Volcano.

Phivolcs raised Alert Level 2 on the volcano last June 8 after detecting increased volcanic activity, which could eventually lead to an eruption. (Ellallyn De Vera)