LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines — The Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office of Albay has issued Tourism Advisory No. 01 Series of 2026, imposing a strict ban on all tourism activities within the 6-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) surrounding Mayon Volcano. The advisory, effective immediately, aligns with the PDRRMC-APSEMO Advisory No. 2026-1 and seeks to safeguard the public from potential volcanic hazards.

Under the directive, entry of tourists and visitors into the PDZ is strictly prohibited. Activities such as trekking, sightseeing, organized tours, recreational excursions, and tourism operations are all banned until further notice. The provincial government has called on tourism stakeholders and the public to strictly adhere to these measures, emphasizing that safety takes precedence over leisure or economic activity.

While Mayon Volcano’s beauty has long been a cornerstone of Albay’s tourism industry, authorities stress that the region’s geological volatility demands vigilance. This preventive approach highlights a growing recognition of the tension between economic development and disaster risk management. In many ways, the ban is not only about restricting movement—it is a reminder of nature’s unpredictability and the limits of human control in the face of potential catastrophe. As the community adjusts to these restrictions, one cannot help but reflect on a deeper question: in places where natural wonders attract both awe and danger, how should societies balance the pursuit of tourism-driven growth with the imperative of public safety? (Larawan: Wikipedia)