Before the arrival of the Spanish in 1569, Albay boasted a flourishing civilization and a vibrant culture. Its fertile lands nurtured a bounty of rice, copra, abaka, and a variety of vegetables, while its coasts teemed with fish and marine life. Minerals, particularly gold, enriched the earth, contributing to the region's prosperity.
In July 1569, Luis Enriquez de Guzman, part of the Spanish expedition led by Legazpi, made landfall in the southeastern reaches of the region, at a town known as Gibalong, now incorporated into Siuton, Magallanes, Sorsogon. Their journey then took them overland to Camalig, nestled at the base of the iconic Mayon Volcano, now a central part of Albay's landscape.
The introduction of Catholicism to the Bikolanos began in 1569 with the arrival of Augustinian friars, followed by the Franciscans in 1578. The latter initiated a comprehensive effort to convert the populace, fostering amicable relations with the people of Albay. Despite the outbreak of the Philippine Revolution in late 1896, Albay remained relatively free from abuses by the friars, save for a brief period of unrest.
In 1572, Juan de Salcedo, grandson of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi, led an expedition into Bicol in search of gold. His forces ventured through the Bicol Peninsula, mining areas such as Paracale and Mambulao, and establishing settlements like Santiago de Libon in present-day Libon town. The Spanish adventurers returned to Manila in 1574, bearing over 4,000 ounces of gold and believing they had discovered the fabled land of "El Dorado."
On April 3, 1574, the coastal fishing village known as "Baybayon" was granted as an encomienda to Juan Guerra by Governor General Guido de Lavesares. Over time, the settlement evolved into "Baybay," then "Al Baybay," eventually becoming the province of Albay. April 3 is now commemorated as Albay Day.
The transformation of Albay into a thriving province owes much to the efforts of Jose Maria Peñaranda, who served as governor from 1834 to 1843. His legacy endures, honored by a monument in a plaza named in his honor, situated before the Provincial Capitol, a testament to his pivotal role in Albay's development.
