Mount Santo Tomas, located in the municipality of Tuba in the province of Benguet, is one of the Philippines' potentially active stratovolcanoes. This towering mountain is part of the Santo Tomas Forest Reserve, which was officially established through Proclamation No. 581, signed by President Manuel L. Quezon on July 9, 1940. Despite its historical significance and stunning natural features, many locals are not fully aware of the volcanic activity associated with the mountain.
The Geological Significance of Mount Santo Tomas
Mount Santo Tomas is classified as a potentially active stratovolcano due to its numerous volcanic vents and fissures. Stratovolcanoes like Mount Santo Tomas are typically characterized by their steep profiles and explosive eruptions. Although there has not been any recent volcanic activity, the volcano's past eruptions and ongoing geological features suggest that it remains an area of concern for future activity.
The last recorded eruption occurred on January 4, 1641, in tandem with Mount Parker in Southern Mindanao. While PHIVOLCS (Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology) lists Mount Santo Tomas as potentially active, the Global Volcanism Program has not confirmed any specific activity in recent years, making it difficult to predict its next eruption with certainty.
A Hub for Communication
Due to its high elevation, Mount Santo Tomas serves as an important location for several communication and broadcasting companies. Relay stations have been constructed at the summit to facilitate the transmission of signals across the region. The mountain's strategic location makes it an ideal point for these stations, which help connect nearby communities with essential services like television, radio, and telecommunications.
Proclamation and Environmental Protection
The Santo Tomas Forest Reserve, which encompasses Mount Santo Tomas, is not just a natural landmark but also a protected area. Proclamation No. 581, signed by President Quezon in 1940, established the reserve to preserve the mountain's diverse ecosystems and prevent exploitation of its resources. This legal framework ensures that the area remains untouched by large-scale commercial activities.
In 2015, the legal protection of Mount Santo Tomas was further strengthened by a Permanent Environmental Protection Order issued by the Court of Appeals, supported by the Writ of Kalikasan and Writ of Continuing Mandamus. This order was issued to prevent any activities that could harm the environment, recognizing the importance of preserving the mountain's ecological balance for future generations.
Mount Santo Tomas and the 1990 Earthquake
Mount Santo Tomas lies near the fault line that caused the devastating earthquake on July 16, 1990. This earthquake, one of the most destructive in Philippine history, had a severe impact on many parts of Luzon, particularly in Baguio City. The proximity of the mountain to this fault line highlights the seismic risk of the area, which remains a critical concern for local communities and authorities.
Additionally, the region surrounding Mount Santo Tomas is known for its auriferous volcanic deposits, adding to its geological importance. These deposits have long been a source of mining activity, which continues to shape the local economy.
Final Thoughts
Mount Santo Tomas remains an important natural and geological feature in the Philippines. Its status as a potentially active stratovolcano, its role as a communication hub, and its position within a protected forest reserve all contribute to its significance. While its eruption history may seem distant, the mountain's geological activity and environmental protection measures ensure it stays on the radar for local and national authorities.
Given its proximity to seismic fault lines and volcanic deposits, Mount Santo Tomas continues to play a central role in the local environment and economy. As a symbol of both natural beauty and geological complexity, it remains a reminder of the dynamic forces that shape the landscape of the Philippines.
