Albay's archaeology shows concrete evidence of trade with China, Malaya and
Indonesia going back two thousand years. The first Spanish contact was in 1565, when
a treasure-galleon returning to Cebu from Acapulco, Mexico, was swept off course and
the captain recorded his awe at the sight of Mt. Mayon erupting.
Mount Mayon is the most prominent of the several volcanoes in the province,
and one of the most famous jewels of the Pacific Ring of Fire; its eruptions have
repeatedly inflicted disaster on the province, and enriched the survivors. When at
peace, it is a particularly beautiful mountain.
Albay has a large amount of rich flat land, and agriculture is the largest component
of the provincial economy. Coconuts, rice, abaca, and maize are the chief crops.
Handicraftbolster rural incomes. Commercial fishing is also important, and the province
has several thousand manufacturing enterprises. There are plenty of places to visit,
offering opportunities to swim at beautiful beaches, scuba-dive to wrecked galleons,
explore caves, climb volcanoes, admire waterfalls, lush vegetation, Baroque architecture,
etc.
Gold-mining and jewelry manufacture continue to distinguish the province. Agriculture and
fishing are major factors in the province's economy, and several handicrafts and small-scale
industries are widely practiced. The region has recently seen a revival in its tourism industry,
due mainly to the popularity of the new CamSur Water Sports Complex, the Mayon Volcano and
the whale shark spotting and an increase in the number of upscale resorts in the region.
Daet has long been a destination for surfers. It is hoped that the planned Southern Luzon
International Airport will further boost tourism in the region.
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