Work Diaries: King of the Bicol Region

Mt. Mayon has been on the news lately as it is reported to show signs of abnormality. Albay LGU is already taking necessary actions, preparing the place and the public in case it erupts. Phivolcs is also sending out warnings to people not to go within the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone.

This made me recall my last trip to Albay back in 2012. Marv had to do fieldwork in some provinces in Bicol, I tagged along, and we decided to drop by the Cagsawa Ruins to get a glimpse of Mt. Mayon.

For those who are not aware, Mt. Mayon is one of the country's active volcanoes. But what makes it special is its perfect cone shape. That is, she allows you to see her full beauty. Locals describe Mt. Mayon as one shy volcano. Why? Because she always tends to hide behind the clouds, making it possible for tourists to see the perfect symmetry.

I did some research beforehand and found out that Mt. Mayon is usually cloud-free early in the morning. Thus, Marv, his officemates, and I had our breakfast early and were early birds in Cagsawa Ruins.

Being at the foot of Mt. Mayon made me feel so small! It was such an overwhelming moment! I kept on holding my breath as I didn't expect the mountain to be so lovely, with a perfect color of green against the blue horizon.

Sharing with you some of our photos during our quick trip to Mt. Mayon. We weren't able to go up because of time restrictions but I've heard that you can ride an ATV to go to the top. Maybe next time.

Waiting for Marv to finish his task. I always love when the province wind blows my hair, so relaxing.

Sadly, this was taken at the exact same day when the private plane of DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo crashed off the shore of Masbate Island. We didn't know that hours later, the whole Bicol Region would be in a state of panic.

Three of Marv's officemates, tired and weary because of the long drive to Bicol

Bulkang Mayon

Cagsawa Ruins

This is where the church of Cagsawa used to stand before it was engulfed by lahar after Mt. Mayon erupted in February 1814. Now, Cagsawa Ruins is one of the most popular tourist spots in Bicol as it provides travelers a clear view of Mt. Mayon.