AS THE expected surge in tourists fails to materialise unlike previous years, Albay’s travel trade wants to allay safety concerns over the impending eruption of Mount Mayon, which has been spewing lava since September.
Arrivals this month pales in comparison with the daily influx of 2,500 visitors during Mount Mayon’s last eruption in December 2009, said Maria Ravanilla, regional director for Albay province, Department of Tourism. Provincial capital Legazpi City is the gateway to Albay.
“Airplanes, buses and all forms of transport are operating as usual. Everything is safe for as long as you don’t go to the (6km permanent danger zone and 8km high-risk zone) around the volcano,” she said, adding that Mount Mayon’s eruptions were frequent but less dangerous than Mount Pinatubo’s in Pampanga.
With no clear idea when Mount Mayon will erupt and what will happen in the immediate aftermath – e.g. ashfall – travellers are scared of getting stranded in Albay.
Bernadette Ramos, COO and managing director of Eco Leisure & Hospitality, which has four hotels in Albay, said: “We’re actually losing than gaining more business unlike in previous years (when eruptions brought more visitors).”
Jessica Wong, Donsol Eco Tour director for business development, said many clients have been emailing to ask about the situation. “(But) It’s actually nicer to come when the volcano is erupting. It’s beautiful, especially the orange glow of lava at night.”
However, Gil Velasco, rooms division manager of The Oriental Legazpi, said occupancy is averaging 70-80 per cent, 30 per cent up from previous weeks, although the hotel is cutting online rates to attract tourists.
