Love is truly in the air at Sumlang Lake in Camalig town in Albay as the management sets on a special theme this love month.

A heart-shaped hot air balloon by the lake and Mayon Volcano provides the perfect backdrop for couples to snap photos while seemingly soaring above the clouds, reminding them of their love for each other.

This unique and romantic experience is expected to draw couples who are looking for a way to celebrate their love. The management of the lake is proud to offer this one-of-a-kind activity to the public, adding to their long list of attractions for families and loved ones.

Community Effort

Barangay Chief Felipe Noe M. Napa, Jr. shared in an interview that the development of Sumlang Lake started in 2012 as a community-based program aimed at helping the community get out of poverty and unemployment.

According to Napa, the community was able to raise funds for the project with the help of the provincial government of Albay. They also asked for technical assistance from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) to conduct an inland and wetland management plan to raise awareness on how to protect and conserve Sumlang Lake.

Napa added that over time the area developed, and private sector intervention was needed for further development. Now, visitors can experience amenities such as a Filipino restaurant, pasalubong center, artisan village, and boat and bamboo raft rides.

In addition, he shared that they have a conservation program in place to address concerns about waste. The development of Sumlang Lake aligned with President Bongbong Marcos' eight-point agenda on tourism and has helped to create local jobs to boost the economy. 

Breathtaking view

A couple who visited the spot said the breathtaking view of the lake and the surrounding scenery, combined with the magic of the hot air balloon and Mayon Volcano, was sure to create memories that would last.

"We went here before Valentine's since my fiancé, Jan, came from Manila, so we wanted to take advantage of the new design," said Mary Catherine Del Rio from Legazpi City.

She said that they were considering to hold their wedding by the lake.

Tourist Allyn Bihag from Camarines Sur expressed her amazement with the view and encouraged visitors to see the lake and enjoy the beauty it offers.  “I got truly amazed. Wherever you are in Bicol, take a stroll here at Sumlang Lake,” she said.

According to Sumlang Lake tour guide Mr. Rommel Nocos, the lake offers variety of activities to visitors. "In Fishyalan, our fish feeding area is here, with a 50 pesos fee for the feed," Nocos shared.

He said visitors who are interested in fishing can take advantage of the available fishing rods.

"When you caught a fish, you will pay 150 pesos per kilo," Nocos added.

He said kayaking, balsa riding, and aqua biking are also popular activities, with fees ranging from Php 80.00 to Php 100.00 per head for 30 minutes and those looking to enjoy the water, booking for swimming is also available.

With its beautiful scenery, numerous activities, and affordable fees, Sumlang Lake Eco-Park is a perfect destination for families, couples, and friends to enjoy anytime of the year.

So, pack a picnic, grab your loved ones, and head to Sumlang Lake for a day of fun and adventure. (PIA5/ Maria Christina Angela Pielago, Bicol University intern)