Albay cancels Magayon Festival 2026, redirects P20-M fund to aid Albayanos
Albay Gov. Noel Rosal announced on Wednesday, March 18, the official cancellation of the annual Magayon Festival and the allocation of over P20 million in funding towards recovery efforts, assistance, and resilience-building initiatives in the province.
Rosal said that the provincial government’s decision is a proactive measure to cushion Albay from the potential impacts of global and local crises that could affect fuel prices, supply chains, and economic stability and Mayon Volcano and its effects on communities, livelihoods, and local resources.
He said the decision was made in consultation with various provincial departments and the Sangguniang Panlalawigan.
Held every May, the Magayon Festival is one of the most prominent cultural events in the Bicol region. The festival celebrates Albay’s rich heritage and natural beauty, particularly the iconic Mayon Volcano.
The festival’s name is derived from the Bicol word “magayon,” meaning “beautiful,” and is rooted in the legend of Daragang Magayon.
The festival features street dancing, parades, cultural performances, trade fairs, food festivals, sports competitions, beauty pageants, exhibits, and concerts.
The Magayon Festival, established in the late 1990s, has grown into a major tourist attraction, with visitors from the Philippines and abroad, the Department of Tourism- Bicol said.
Herbie Aguas, DOT-Bicol director, was disappointed over the cancellation, citing its potential impact on tourism stakeholders.
“If the crisis is the reason, that’s valid. But the budget for the Magayon Festival should still be used for tourism in Albay,” Aguas said.
Other major festivals in the Bicol region are expected to proceed as scheduled, including the Rodeo Festival in Masbate, Kaogma Festival in Camarines Sur, Bantayog Festival in Camarines Norte, and Kasanggayahan Festival in Sorsogon.