13 Jan 2020 | 02:36 AM UTC
Philippines: Flights at Manila International Airport (MNL) to gradually resume January 13 /update 1
Authorities at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) to resume operations on January 13, amid increased activity of Taal Volcano near Manila; monitor the situation carefully
Event
Authorities at Manila's Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) ordered the resumption of operations as of 08:00 (local time) on Monday, January 13, amid increased activity at the Taal Volcano (Batangas province), located approximately 70 km (45 mi) south of Manila. Cebu Pacific Air announced at 07:30 that it is gradually resuming flights at MNL from 11:00. As of 09:00, the airline is conducting maintenance checks on all aircraft due to ashfall from the volcano. The airline, as well as Philippine Airlines, announced several flight cancelations scheduled on Monday. The airlines also warned of further disruptions, including last-minute cancelations, and advised all travelers to confirm their flight status prior to departure for the airport.
Seismic activity from Taal Volcano on Sunday, January 12, caused power outages in parts of Batangas province, including Tanauan, Talisay, and Laurel. The Department of Energy (DOE) said on Sunday that it was working to restore power in the affected areas.
The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS) confirmed at 08:00 on Monday that an Alert Level 4 (second highest on a five-tier scale) remains in place over Taal Volcano, meaning that a "hazardous explosive eruption is possible within hours to days". PHIVOLCS also warned of a volcanic tsunami. Authorities are enforcing an evacuation order for a 14 km (9 mi) radius, prompting nearly 8000 residents to evacuate nearby high-risk towns on Sunday. The volcano reportedly emitted ash up to 15 km (9 mi) into the sky.
Power outages, transportation and business disruptions are expected in the immediate vicinity in the coming hours.
Advice
Individuals present in the affected area are advised to avoid the vicinity of the volcano, monitor the situation, confirm flight reservations, anticipate transportation, business and power disruptions, adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities (e.g. evacuation orders), and wear respiratory masks and covering clothing to protect skin from ashfall.
