Legazpi city: The provincial government of Albay and other local government units have announced the cancellation and postponement of several major events, including the 2026 Magayon Festival, as authorities prioritize public safety and resource conservation amid the ongoing unrest of Mayon Volcano and the prevailing fuel crisis, officials announced Thursday.
According to Philippines News Agency, Governor Noel Rosal stated that the decision to cancel the annual Magayon Festival was made in light of the volcano's continued activity under Alert Level 3 and the need for heightened preparedness. Governor Rosal highlighted the importance of focusing on disaster readiness, even though the festival is a significant event for promoting tourism and business in the region.
The provincial government plans to redirect its roughly PHP20 million budget toward tourism promotions, cultural showcases, and branding efforts aimed at attracting visitors through conventions and strategic advertising, instead of hosting the festival. Governor Rosal assured residents that alternative tourism promotion activities will be developed in consultation with the local development council.
Camalig Mayor Carlos Irwin Baldo Jr. formalized the postponement of the Pinangat Festival through Executive Order No. 13, Series of 2026. This order also affects all barangay and private socio-civic gatherings in the municipality until further notice due to volcanic activity, public safety concerns, and emergency conditions. Mayor Baldo emphasized the risks of holding large-scale gatherings, especially with the possibility of an escalation to Alert Level 4, which could impact more than 10,000 residents.
Mayor Baldo stressed that public safety and effective service delivery remain the municipality's top priorities, stating, "It is not appropriate to celebrate while many of our constituents are in evacuation centers and experiencing difficulties." He also cited Memorandum Circular No. 114, s. 2026, which mandates strict energy conservation measures amid rising fuel costs linked to tensions in the Middle East.
Guinobatan Mayor Ann Gemma Ongjoco also canceled the 2026 Mayor's Cup, with funds to be realigned for crisis response efforts. Officials expressed hope that once conditions stabilize, cultural celebrations and tourism initiatives can resume to further promote the province.
