Last Thursday, September 21, The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) issued a warning about the presence of volcanic smog or vog at Taal Volcano in Batangas. People in nearby areas fell ill from the noxious gasses. Classes were also suspended in Metro Manila as the city smog was mistaken for the vog.

The situation has simmered down since then. However, concerns and worries of a possible eruption similar to the one in 2020 resurfaced.

In light of this health and safety concern, we remain steadfast — trusting that the Lord is our fortress and deliverer, as it says in Psalm 18:2, The Lord is my rock and my fortress and my deliverer, my God, my rock, in whom I take refuge, my shield, and the horn of my salvation, my stronghold.

May our nation experience God’s peace amidst the uncertainties of the future.

Prayer Points:

1. Let us pray for God’s divine protection for the communities near Taal Volcano, particularly in the provinces of Cavite, Batangas, Laguna, and Metro Manila. 

2. Let us pray for God’s divine healing of those who are sick and suffering from respiratory problems due to the volcanic smog. May they recover immediately and completely. 

3. Let us pray for wisdom for the LGU leaders and government officials as they make decisions for the well-being of their citizens.

4. Let us pray for open doors for the church to be a blessing to the affected communities – serving as a beacon of hope, comfort, and strength to those in need. Let us pray for the gospel to be proclaimed and demonstrated during this time.

To learn more about the current situation in our nation, you can read the resources through the links below:

Volcanic smog detected in Taal, health advisory issued

Taal volcano smog makes over 40 students sick in Tuy, Batangas

#Walang Pasok: Batangas towns supend classes over Taal’s volcanic smog

Phivolcs allays fears over Taal smog, no need to raise alert level

Gasses from Philippine volcano sickens dozens of children, prompting school closures in nearby towns