• The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHILVOLCS) raised the alert status of Taal Volcano, located in the Batangas Province, from Alert Level 2 (increasing unrest) to Alert Level 3 (magmatic unrest) during the morning hours (local time) on March 26. 
• The alert status was increased after the main crater recorded a “short-lived phreatomagmatic burst” followed by continuous activity that led to earthquakes and volcanic plumes as high as 1500 m during the early morning hours on March 26. 
• Due to the heightened potential for further eruptions, evacuations have been urged at high-risk locations in the adjoining Agoncillo and Laurel municipalities. The Philippine Coast Guard has reportedly deployed personnel to assist in the procedures.  
• Entry to Taal Volcano Island, which is located approximately 100 km south of Manila on the island of Luzon and is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and Agoncillo and Laurel is prohibited. 
• The Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) prohibiting flights around the volcano due to the risk of airborne ash and ballistic fragments potentially posing a hazard to flying aircraft.  
• As of writing, flights at Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) are unaffected. 

Those operating or residing in the Philippines on March 26 and the coming days are advised to remain cognizant of authorities’ updates and instructions regarding potential evacuations and travel disruptions caused by Taal Volcano.