Daragang Magayon fest highlights Albay's five peaks

MANILA, Philippines – Hundreds of local and foreign mountain climbing enthusiasts are expected to join Albay’s celebration of Daragang Magayon as it offers climbs to the province’s five mountains this March and April.

These include a climb to the world-famous Mt. Mayon as well as Mt. Malinao, Mt. Masaraga, Mt. Manaet, Mt. Manito.

Mt. Mayon, Mt. Malinao and Mt. Masaraga comprise the “Magayon Trio”—the three most beautiful mountains of Albay.

Mt. Malinao rises 1,584 meters above sea level, while Mt. Masarag rises 1,328 meters above sea level.

Mt. Manaet in Bacacay, Albay, is a lesser-known peak overlooking a rolling terrain at the eastern slope of Mt. Mayon and descending to the lowlands facing the Pacific Ocean.

Mt. Manito is within the coastal municipality of Manito town located at the south easternmost part of Albay.

The climb schedule is as follows: Mt. Manaet, March 27-28; Mt. Malinao, April 1-3; Mt. Masaraga, April 5-6; and Mt. Manito, April 12-14—all with unlimited number of climbers.

The climb to the summit of Mt. Mayon, meanwhile, will have a limited number of participant. Twenty-five climbers are only allowed for the climb from April 19-21.

The Daragang Magayon Festival celebrates Albay’s mythical legend. Daragang Magayon means “beautiful lady” in Bicolano.