Loria to block P1.4B Mayon lighting project

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

LEGAZPI CITY --- Congressman-elect Carlos “Caloy” Loria (PDP-Laban) of Albay’s 2nd District has vowed to block the controversial P1.4-billion artificial lighting project for Mayon Volcano, a proposal pushed by Ako Bicol party-list lawmakers, and to crack down on illegal quarrying in the province.

Loria, a self-made businessman from Barangay Bano in Legazpi City who rose from poverty, said in an interview that he will lobby for the realignment of the proposed budget toward essential services such as water access, health, nutrition, and poverty alleviation.

“As the duly elected representative of the people in the 2nd District of Albay, I will not allow the proposed artificial lighting of Mayon Volcano and the ongoing quarrying activities that endanger both our environment and the safety of our constituents,” Loria said.

He emphasized that Mayon is not only a world-renowned natural wonder but also a sacred symbol of Bicol’s cultural and ecological identity.

“Any plan to install artificial lighting on its slopes risks damaging its natural beauty, disrupting the delicate ecosystem, and undermining the pride and reverence with which our people cherish this national treasure. Sustainable tourism must be grounded in respect for nature—not in artificial spectacles that compromise our values and environmental integrity,” he added.

Loria also raised concerns over the rampant illegal quarrying in Albay, particularly in his district, which he described as “alarming.”

“These activities have contributed to environmental degradation, heightened disaster risks, and the exploitation of local communities. They must be stopped,” he said. “I will file and support legislation that protects our environment, promotes responsible tourism, and prioritizes long-term public welfare over short-term gains.”

He also committed to working closely with national agencies, local governments, and civil society groups to strengthen monitoring systems, impose stricter penalties, and develop alternative livelihoods for affected residents.

Meanwhile, outgoing Ako Bicol party-list lawmaker Christopher “Kito” Co (Lakas-CMD), who lost to Loria in the congressional race, extended his congratulations to the incoming representative.

“I humbly extend my sincerest congratulations to Caloy Loria on his victory. This election was never about personal ambition, but about securing a brighter, fairer future for our people,” Co said in a statement.

Reflecting on his campaign, Co said: “We may not have won the seat, but we won in every step, every smile, and every show of unity in our community.”

He also thanked supporters and pledged to continue serving in any capacity: “To my family, friends, and the Serbisyo CO volunteers—thank you for your unwavering support. I will remain committed to our shared dream ‘para sa ginhawa ng bawat pamilya”—and that, my friends, is a victory that can never be taken away,” he said.

Christopher “Kito” Co is the eldest brother of Ako Bicol founder and former House Appropriation chairman Elizaldy S. Co.

Kito Co’s daughter BHW partylist lawmaker Angelica Natasha Co also lost in the bid after the party failed to generate the 2 percent required votes. His daughter served for six years as BHW partylist representative. But the Cos younger sibling Farida “Diday” Co, a running mate of outgoing 2nd District lawmaker Joey Sarte Salceda won in the vice gubernatorial race against Hermogenes “Jun” Alegre.

Congressman-elect Carlos “Caloy” Loria (center), a first-time lawmaker from PDP-Laban, is joined by his family during his proclamation at the Commission on Elections provincial office on May 13, 2025. Loria has vowed to oppose the proposed P1.4-billion artificial lighting of Mt. Mayon and illegal quarrying in Albay.