Mount Mayon

Located in the Bicol region of the Philippines, Mount Mayon is a symmetrical, conical-shaped stratovolcano. Its beauty attracts tourists from around the world, but its frequent eruptions also pose a significant threat to the region. Let’s take a closer look at Mount Mayon and its unique features.

A National Park and Potential World Heritage Site

Surrounded by lush forests and rolling hills, Mount Mayon is the centerpiece of the Albay Biosphere Reserve. The area around the volcano was declared a national park in 1938 and was renamed the Mayon Volcano Natural Park in 2000. In recent years, there has been a movement to nominate Mount Mayon as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Famous for Its Conical Shape

The most striking feature of Mount Mayon is its perfectly conical shape. It rises 2,463 meters above sea level and towers over the surrounding landscape. Mayon is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines, having erupted over 50 times in the past 400 years. These eruptions have shaped the mountain’s current form, adding layers of lava and ash to its slopes.

A Sacred Site

Mount Mayon holds a special place in Philippine folklore and culture. It is considered a sacred site, and many local communities believe that it is home to spirits and deities. According to legend, Mayon is the burial place of Daragang Magayon, a beautiful maiden who died tragically. Her lover, a warrior named Panganoron, built the mountain as her final resting place. Today, visitors can learn more about the local myths and legends surrounding Mount Mayon at the Cagsawa Ruins, a historical site that was buried in ash during the volcano’s eruption in 1814.

The Threat of Eruptions

Despite its beauty and cultural significance, Mount Mayon is also a potentially deadly force. It has erupted several times in recent history, causing significant damage to nearby communities. The most recent eruption occurred in 2018, forcing tens of thousands of people to evacuate their homes. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology monitors Mount Mayon closely and issues regular updates on its activity. Visitors to the region should always heed warning signs and follow safety guidelines to avoid the danger of eruptions.