VOLCANOLOGISTS yesterday warned the public against going near the main crater rim of Taal Volcano in Batangas after it showed increased restiveness last Thursday.

The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said the increase in seismicity reflects a "low-level episode of unrest," but Alert Level 1 remains in effect over the volcano.

Phivolcs, in its advisory posted yesterday, said the Taal seismic network recorded 10 volcanic earthquakes from 5:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Thursday. Two of the quakes occurred at 12:33 and 12:46 p.m. and were both felt at Intensity II at Pira-piraso villages.

The low-level quakes were accompanied by rumbling sounds. They were located northeast of the volcano island near Daang Kastila area with depths of approximately 0.6 km (12:33 p.m.) and 0.8 km (12:46 p.m.).

But the advisory said there was no steaming activity in the Main Crater Lake area.

Phivolcs said no imminent eruption is expected.

It said the main crater area is off limits because steam explosions may suddenly occur and there could be buildup of toxic gases.

"The northern portion of the Main Crater rim, in the vicinity of Daang Kastila Trail, may also be hazardous, when reactivated with steam emission and increased thermal activity," it said.

Phivolcs said that Taal Volcano island is a high-risk area and permanent danger zone, which means habitation is not recommended.