The Bicol Peninsula is home to several As I go to the National Museum of Daraga

active and inactive volcanoes. Four of
which are categorized as active
volcanoes and 12 inactive volcanoes by
the Philippine Institute of Volcanology
and Seismology (PHIVOLCS): Mt.
Isarog and Mt. Iriga in Camarines Sur;
Mt. Bulusan in Sorsogon; and Mt.
Mayon in Albay. The Bicol peninsula
has an area of about 4,660 square miles
(12,070 square km). It comprises the
Bicol Plain, a large lowland area
important in the production of rice, and
volcanic highlands. Also, because of its
location within the Pacific Ring of Fire.
Albay, I was mesmerize by how they
preserve and appreciate the importance of
every unique pieces that can be seen in Bicol.
Though, the Museum is not that big andstill
have a lot of things to enhance, just like the
other museum that can be seen in some other
places. But, I can say that this museum just
wanted to showcase what Bicol can offer to
the world and what we are proud to have.

Volcanoes have played a significant role in shaping the Bicol region’s geography, history, and culture. Volcanoes are an integral
part of the region’s culture and folklore, and many local festivals and celebrations are centered around them 3. For example, the
Magayon Festival in Albay is held annually to honor Mt. Mayon, which is considered a sacred mountain by the Bicolanos . While
they pose certain risks, they are also a source of pride and inspiration for the people of Bicol. Although Bicol's active volcano
puts lives and property at risk, the soil is fertile and ideal for agriculture because to volcanic deposits left over from earlier
eruptions. Rich vegetation covering its highlands indicates that the volcanoes in the region have had a positive influence.

The region is known for “The eye of the storm” because of its susceptibility to typhoons and other natural disasters. In fact, the
region is often referred to as the “Typhoon Belt” of the Philippines due to its location in the western Pacific Ocean, which makes
it vulnerable to tropical storms and typhoons. Despite the risks associated with living in a typhoon-prone area, the people of Bicol
have shown remarkable resilience in the face of adversity.

Why is Bicol Peninsula dotted with volcanoes?

What is the role of volcanoes in our history and life as Bikolnon?

Why is Bicol always called “The Eye of the beholder?”

Especially, the details, parts, infrastructure and, history of the Mayon

Volcano. Also, the culture that we have as bicolnon, mountains, and other
inactive and active volcanoes that we are proud to have despite being risky.
It’s nice to visit museum like this to better understand our heritage as a
bicolnon. There’s other things that they also offer, like, the butterfly garden
which my favorite part.