© UNICEF/2008/McBrideMount Mayon volcano looms above city of Legazpi in the Philippines, a constant reminder of possible disaster.

ALBAY PROVINCE, Philippines, 24 December 2009 – At the ringing of the bell, staff, students and their parents at the San Jose Elementary School know exactly what to do. They have practiced this drill before and know that in this disaster-prone corner of the Philippines, it is an exercise that could one day save lives. For behind this school, shrouded in mist and steam, is the Mount Mayon volcano – a permanent reminder of potential danger.

At the ringing of the bell, staff, students and their parents at the San Jose Elementary School know exactly what to do. They have practiced this drill before and know that in this disaster-prone corner of the Philippines, it is an exercise that could one day save lives. For behind this school, shrouded in mist and steam, is the Mount Mayon volcano – a permanent reminder of potential danger.