Manila - The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology on Tuesday raised the alert level status of Taal Volcano from alert level 1 to alert level 2 as it is showing signs of possible eruption.

On its website, Phivolcs said it has noticed "anomalous change" since the last week of April.

Among its observations were increased and intensifying volcanic earthquakes, including a low frequency type volcanic earthquake detected on June 2; raised temperature in the main crater lake; raised ground temperatures; intensified steaming of the main crater; and inflating of the volcano.

"The recorded high frequency volcanic earthquakes could be the result of active rock fracturing associated with magma intrusion beneath the volcano. The fractures served as passageways through which hot gases from the intruding magma could escape into the main crater lake," the institute said.

Phivolcs thus reminded the general public to stay away from the main crater due to possible hazardous steam-driven explosions and build-up of toxic gases.

"Areas with hot grounds and steam emission such as portions of the Daang Kastila Trail are considered hazardous. Phivolcs reiterates that the whole Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) and permanent settlement within this area is strictly prohibited," it said.