Formation of 'Command Headquarters' by Korean Embassy in the Philippines Amid Volcanic Eruption... Support for the Safety of Korean Residents

Volcanic lightning caused by the eruption of the Taal volcano in the Philippines was observed on the 12th in Tagaytay City, Cavite Province, adjacent to the site. This phenomenon refers to the spark discharge created by friction as volcanic ash and other materials violently shoot into the air. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Jiwon] The Taal volcano in the Philippines erupted, causing damage as far as Manila, the capital, located about 65 km to the south. On the 13th, the Korean Embassy in the Philippines formed an on-site command center and is devising support measures for Korean residents.

On the same day, the Korean Embassy held two strategy meetings chaired by Ambassador Han Dongman and Consul General Im Jaehoon to assess any damage to Korean residents and tourists, as well as the airport operation status. So far, no Korean casualties have been reported.

The Korean Embassy urgently dispatched consuls responsible for incidents and accidents to the area near the Taal volcano, where many Koreans reside, to check the situation on site. They are also providing information about temporary shelters through KakaoTalk group chats used by local Korean residents.

Since Manila Airport is partially closed, it was advised that returning Koreans can use Clark Airport, located about 100 km north of Manila. In case of emergencies, contact can be made through the embassy emergency phone (+63-917-817-5703) or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs consular call center (+82-2-2100-0404).

Meanwhile, starting around 11 a.m. on the 12th, steam activity at Taal volcano intensified, and by 7:30 p.m., a tephra (all types of volcanic ejecta such as ash) column reaching 10 to 15 km in height was formed. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a level 4 alert, which means there is a possibility of a dangerous eruption occurring again within hours or days.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.