Mayon Volcano is considered as the world's most perfect cone. Its awe-inspiring majesty draws tourists from near and far to Albay Province where it is located, some 553 kilometers southeast of Manila. Rising 2,421 meters above sea level with slopes averaging 35 - 40 degrees, it dominates the landscape of Bicol Region and overlooks Albay Gulf in the east, Lgonoy Gulf in the northeast and Ragay Gulf in the west. Five towns and three cities are found around its immediate vicinity. These towns and cities which include Legaspi, Ligao, and Tabaco are in constant danger of being victimized by the volcano's eruption. On the other hand, the volcano provides economic as well cultural benefits to the people of these towns and cities and to Bicol Region as a whole. Aside from drawing tourists to the region, it provides fertile soil to its surrounding farms.

Being the most active volcano in the Philippines, it billows smoke daily which reminds everyone that it may erupt anytime. Its eruption in 1814 is considered as the most destructive. The ruins of Cagsawa with only the bell tower of a church remain standing is a testament of the volcano's fury. There were at least 50 recorded eruptions, the latest of which was in 2004.

On November 21, 2000, President Joseph Estrada proclaimed Mayon Volcano as a Natural Park under Republic Act 7586. It is home to several rare and endangered flora and fauna species. Aside from its spectacular view, climbing the volcano presents real challenge. From time to time, the Department of tourism sponsors mountain climbing expidition. For average mountaineers, it takes 2 days and 1 night to reach the summit with stop-over in different campsites.

Mayon Volcano (photo courtesy of http://travelsceneries.blogspot.com)

Mayon Volcano (photo courtesy of http://philippines2008.wordpress.com)

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