ILOILO City — Astronomy enthusiasts in Iloilo are preparing for a public viewing of the March 3, 2026, total lunar eclipse at Costa de Estrella, pending favorable weather conditions.
Dr. Aris Larroder, an astronomy course facilitator at West Visayas State University, said the activity will start at moonrise at approximately 5:28 p.m. and continue through the eclipse’s total phase at around 7:38 p.m.
He said organizers intend to observe the event from the moment the moon appears on the horizon until it reaches totality, when Earth’s shadow fully covers the lunar surface.
The gathering is expected to bring together about 60 Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science students, 80 pupils from Leganes Elementary School accompanied by their parents, and around 50 officers and members of the university’s Space and Astronomical Sciences Society (SASS). Additional attendees, including friends and family members, are also anticipated.
Larroder has been involved in astronomy education and outreach for 23 years, beginning during his college years. Since then, he has led and supported various skywatching activities and public astronomy discussions in Iloilo.
According to the Department of Science and Technology – Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration, the total lunar eclipse will last nearly an hour at its peak and is completely safe to observe without special eye protection. Binoculars may enhance the view but are not necessary.
If skies remain clear, Ilonggos will be able to witness the moon gradually darken and glow reddish — a phenomenon popularly known as a “blood moon” — as the eclipse unfolds Tuesday evening./PN
