Asian Geographic Issue 04/2018 (132) | Page 7

Mayon: Awe-inspiring from every perspective The Bicol Region offers endless adventures, from meeting the gentle giants of Donsol to taking exhilarating ATV rides on the foot of Mayon or hiking the volcano itself. Named after the local folktale of Daragang Magayon meaning beautiful lady, in the local parlance, Mayon Volcano lives up to its name and provides a majestic view of the most symmetrical stratovolcano in the world. O verlooking the Albay Bay, it attracts thousands of local and international tourists despite being the Philippines’ most active volcano. In fact, one can revel in the grandiosity of Mayon Volcano’s gentle slopes from every vantage point. Straddling three cities and five municipalities, the famous landmark of Bicol can be seen from the cities of Legazpi, Ligao and Tabaco as well as from the municipalities of Daraga, Camalig, Guinobatan, Malilipot and Santo Domingo. Whether in its calm and serene state or in its devastating display of violent nature, Mount Mayon will leave you inspired and appreciative of nature. Mayon Volcano and Cagsawa Ruins, Albay Photo Credit: DOT Region V and Daniel Carpentier