Strictly not recommended!

The double layered, indecisive, fact-evasive, and indirect language spoken (and written) in the Philippines is something to get used to. Reading between the lines becomes a second nature after a while.

The latest message which might need deciphering for the less experienced ear comes from the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs). Due to increased volcanic activity at Taal Lake, Philvocs issued Alert Level 1.

Although there is no imminent eruption indicated, Philvocs reminds the general public "that the entire Volcano Island is a Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ), and permanent settlement in the island is strictly not recommended."

What exactly does that mean? Settlement is not recommended on the island, but allowed? Or is it strictly prohibited? I guess the roughly 5,000 permanent settlers on the main crater are mulling over the same question... while charging tourists to hike the volcano.

What I read between the lines is the following: "We know you guys should get off this island for various reasons... But we don't have any means to enforce it! So would you please exit voluntarily?! Oh, and by the way, don't even think about moving your squatters to the mainland!"