Residents, officials, and experts are criticizing the government's plan to light and laser Mayon Volcano. The project, with a budget of P750 million for 2025, aims to boost tourism by creating a nighttime attraction in Mayon. But as in 2019, many are objecting due to high costs, environmental impact, and lack of consultation. According to Jessica Noelle Wong, president of the Association of Accredited Travel Agencies in Bicol, there was no proper public consultation, and the project seemed to be rushed without clear transparency.
Residents believe that the funds have more important uses than lighting up Mayon. According to Joey Brecia, it would be better if it were allocated to streetlights, disaster response, and housing for evacuees. During the 2023 Mayon eruption, more than 38,000 people were affected, but many still without proper evacuation centers. In addition, many areas in Albay lack street lighting and have electricity problems, so it is ironic that the lighting project in Mayon is being prioritized over the basic needs of the people.
Experts also warn about the project's impact on the environment. According to Jocelyn Serrano, a biodiversity expert, artificial lighting could damage the natural ecosystem of Mayon, especially animals and plants that rely on the natural cycle of day and night. She also said that there has been no new research on Mayon's biodiversity since 2014, so it is unclear what the project's long-term environmental impact will be.
