10/10/2025
Apolaki Caldera is the world's largest volcanic caldera, located beneath the Philippine Sea within the Benham Rise, also known as the Philippine Rise. This massive underwater structure spans approximately 150 kilometers (93 miles) in diameter, making it more than twice the size of the Yellowstone Caldera. Named after the Filipino mythical god of sun and war, Apolaki, the caldera is a significant geological feature that highlights the country's underwater volcanic activity.
*Key Facts About Apolaki Caldera:*
- *Location*: Benham Rise (Philippine Rise) in the Philippine Sea
- *Size*: 150 kilometers (93 miles) in diameter
- *Discovery*: 2019 by a team led by Filipina marine geophysicist Jenny Anne Barretto
- *Formation*: Resulted from massive volcanic eruptions that led to the collapse of the volcano's magma chamber
- *Status*: Dormant, with no recent eruptions, but still considered significant for studying volcanic behavior and potential future threats
The discovery of Apolaki Caldera is crucial for understanding large-scale volcanic processes and assessing potential risks. It also showcases the Philippines' unique geology and highlights the importance of continued research and exploration ¹.
