Philippine officials say a volcano near Manila could erupt again in the coming days and may pose a continued threat.

Tens of thousands of people have taken shelter after the Taal volcano, 60 kilometers from Manila, erupted on Sunday.

The officials say smoke is still rising to a height of about 2 kilometers.

They also say more than 460 volcanic earthquakes have been detected.

Authorities have raised the alert level to four out of five.

More than 43,000 people have been evacuated, and over 200 shelters set up.

Some people are being treated for eye and respiratory problems.

A doctor says that people become more susceptible to reactions as they breathe in increasing levels of volcanic dust.

Philippine President Rodrigo Duterte described the situation as a continuing crisis.

Government work has been suspended and schools closed in many towns and cities because of the health risk from the ash.

NHK