Ash rises after an eruption of the Mayon volcano in in Albay province in central Philippines on May 7, 2013.

Police and rescuers carry Nicas Mabao Jr. to a waiting ambulance after he survived a steam-driven explosion of Mayon volcano on May 7, 2013.

Manila, Philippines — One of the Philippines' most active volcanoes rumbled to life Tuesday, spewing room-sized rocks toward nearly 30 surprised climbers, killing five and injuring others that had to be fetched with rescue helicopters and rope.

The climbers and their Filipino guides had spent the night camping in two groups before setting out at daybreak for the crater of Mayon volcano when the sudden explosion of rocks, ash and plumes of smokes jolted the picturesque mountain, guide Kenneth Jesalva told ABS-CBN TV network by cellphone. Read the full story.