Mayon Volcano, standing tall in Albay Bicol Province, is one of the most breathtaking sights in the Philippines. With its near-perfect cone and rich history, it has fascinated locals and tourists for centuries. But now, a new controversy is brewing—one that questions how we treat this natural masterpiece.
The government plans to install artificial lights and lasers on Mayon’s slopes, supposedly to boost tourism. The project, originally proposed in 2019, was met with strong opposition but has now been allocated P750 million for 2025, on top of P500 million from 2024. While officials argue that it will enhance tourism, many believe it’s an unnecessary disruption.
So Many Issues To Address Let The Mayon Alone.
Mayon Volcano has always been breathtaking on its own. Like it’s basking in the sunlight, glowing under the moon, or wrapped in mist, it never fails to amaze. So why mess with something that’s already perfect?
Let nature take its course. There are far more important issues where funds could be better allocated for greater impact. It’s wiser to invest in areas that benefit more people.
Artificial lights can harm local wildlife, disrupting nocturnal creatures and the ecosystem. Then there’s the cultural aspect—Mayon is sacred to many, tied to the legend of Daragang Magayon. Floodlights won’t honor her story; they’ll commercialize it.
Misplaced Priorities
At a time when many streets, especially in rural areas, lack basic lighting for safety, spending billions to light up a volcano seems out of touch. Instead of focusing on spectacle, shouldn’t we invest in education, healthcare, disaster preparedness, and community development?
“Mayon does not need to be lit up. She needs to be left alone.”
If we truly want to honor Mayon, let’s protect her, not exploit her. Let’s light up our communities, not a volcano that has never asked for it.
