An inter-agency group led by Senator Francis Tolentino today instructed the forced evacuation of residents of Tagaytay city due to the possible and expected massive hazardous eruption that may happen anytime at the Taal island lake. The city government is readying the evacuation of at least 72,000 registered city residents.

Tolentino, who was the former city executive, went to Tagaytay and conferred with Tagaytay mayor Agnes Tolentino and other officials on the possible forced evacuation of the city’s residents. Tagaytay City is not within the 14 kilometer danger zone although it is possible that hazardous gases and ash would reach this city within seconds.

On behalf of the city, Tolentino appeals to other government agencies and even private firms to assist them in the speedy and efficient relocation of affected families.

A Weather.com map shows that ash fall coming from Taal Volcano has reached not just Tagaytay but adjacent cities even those at the National Capital Region (NCR).

Tagaytay City is a second class city in the province of Cavite, but it is just 24 kilometers from Taal. It is a highly popular tourist destination due to its proximity from Taal island.

Earlier, the NDRRMC expects to evacuate more than 300,000 residents of Calabarzon, a region composed of residents of Rizal, Batangas, Cavite, Quezon and Laguna. PHILVOCS however, expects possible damage to property only in areas near the Taal Lake.