Convenience stores with stunning views are no longer exclusive to Japan.
The iconic view of Lawson and Mount Fuji (Photo courtesy: Jayce Abundabar)
In the Philippines, a branch of 7-Eleven is gaining attention online — not for its snacks or coffee, but for its front-row view of the majestic Mayon Volcano.
Located beside a gas station in Barangay Salugan, Camalig, Albay, the newly opened 7-Eleven has quickly become an instant tourist spot. With its clear line of sight to the iconic volcano’s perfect cone, the convenience store has attracted both curious travelers and serious photographers hoping to capture a once-in-a-lifetime shot.
Among them is photographer Paul Sugano from Las Piñas.
In an exclusive interview with DZRHTV, Sugano shared how a spur-of-the-moment detour led to a photo he now describes as a “Kairos moment” — a perfect, unplanned convergence of time, place, and beauty.
“We were headed to Biliran by land and decided to take it slow for this trip. Our family planned to spend the night in Albay to avoid the long drive in one go,” he recalled.
“I asked my father if we could stop somewhere along the diversion road to take a few photos of Mayon. We waited for about 10 to 15 minutes, but the cone was still covered in clouds.”
As they reached the end of the Camalig diversion road, they came across a newly opened 7-Eleven.
“Then I looked up—and there it was,” Sugano said. “Mayon finally revealed itself with a slightly clear sky showing the tip of its cone. It honestly felt like everything aligned at that very moment.”
Sugano and his family didn’t expect to find such a view. The area was quiet, free of tourists or elaborate setups. It was an ordinary stopover — with an extraordinary backdrop.
Describing Mayon as a “shy volcano,” Sugano noted that the volcano rarely shows itself, even after hours of waiting. He advised tourists to be patient and observant.
“Be patient. Mayon reveals itself on its own terms,” he said. “Don’t rush the moment, and don’t try to force it. Just stay open and observant — it might surprise you.”
Sugano also shared tips for mobile phone photographers through the comments of his viral post and emphasized safety when exploring new photo spots.
He reminded tourists not to risk their safety by staging photoshoots on roads or in hazardous areas.
Lastly, he encouraged everyone to be responsible visitors — respectful of nature and the local community.
Mayon Volcano, standing at 2,462 meters (8,077 feet), is one of the most active volcanoes in the Philippines. Its last recorded activity was a minor phreatic eruption in July 2024, which emitted steam and ash up to 200 meters into the air.
