The Philippines is currently grappling with a significant vog situation. It is said to have been caused by the unrest of the Taal Volcano, which was raised to an alert level 1 by the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PHIVOLCS). Additionally, two other volcanoes have been reported with volcanic activity, namely Kanlaon with alert level 1 and Mayon with an alert level 3 as of 3:30 pm September 23, 2023.

Simultaneously, PHIVOLCS and the DENR clarified that emissions from local traffic caused the smog experienced in the NCR and other parts of Central Luzon. They stated that the weather amplified the smog particles' visibility, "The meteorological conditions Friday morning (NCR, CALABARZON, and some parts of Central Luzon) is conducive for haze or smog formation. This occurs when microscopic particles get trapped close to the surface due to a thermal inversion, high humidity, and calm wind conditions." They also added, "Usually, the inversion disappears later in the day as heat from the sun allows the mixing of the air, allowing the aerosols to disperse. However, cloudy conditions may reduce surface heating, allowing the haze to persist."

Smog is a type of air pollution that reduces visibility. It is used to describe a mix of smoke and fog. The smoke usually comes from fossil fuels and other air pollutants. When smog forms in the right conditions, it appears as fog that is made heavier and darker by smoke and chemical fumes. On the other hand, vog is a form of air pollution that results when sulfur dioxide and other gases and particles emitted by an erupting volcano react with oxygen and moisture in the presence of sunlight. The word "vog" is a blend of the words "volcanic" and "smog." It is a smog or haze containing volcanic dust and gases.

Smog and vog are formed through different processes. Smog is generally related to industrial pollution, while vog is associated with volcanic activity. Both can have significant impacts on health and the environment. For instance, smog can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues, while vog can cause respiratory issues, irritation of the eyes, and other health problems.

The presence of vog may affect school activities, particularly those conducted outdoors. For instance, physical education classes and sports practices may need to be rescheduled or even canceled during periods of heavy vog to protect the well-being of students. Outdoor school events need to be postponed. Furthermore, schools may need to close campus classes temporarily if the vog levels become too high.

Due to their simultaneous volcanic activities, the volcanoes Taal, Kanlaon, and Mayon have recently been the subject of attention. These three volcanoes, each with unique geological characteristics, have released significant amounts of volcanic gases, including sulfur dioxide, forming vog. The direction of the wind plays a role in where the vog from these volcanoes ends up. Depending on the wind patterns, the vog can be carried to different parts of the Philippines, affecting visibility and air quality.

However, it is essential to note that the activities of these three volcanoes are isolated cases, and there is no connection between them. The simultaneous increase in activity is a coincidence. Despite this, the combined effect of their emissions has contributed to the country's current smog/vog situation. 

The vog situation in the Philippines, particularly with Taal, Kanlaon, and Mayon volcanoes, has far-reaching implications. Everyone must stay informed and prepared. PHIVOLCS and the DENR have already taken action to address the situation. Current alert levels and advisories have been issued to keep the public informed. We advise everyone to monitor the social media pages of these agencies to stay alert during this time. Keep safe, Escolarians!