Blood Moon This Tuesday! Total Lunar Eclipse Visible Across the Philippines on March 3 — Here's When to Look Up

Mark your calendars and set your alarms: a total lunar eclipse — also known as a 'blood moon' — will be visible across the Philippines this Tuesday night, March 3. It's the only eclipse visible from the country this year, so you won't want to miss it.

According to DOST-PAGASA, the total eclipse phase begins at 7:04 PM, reaches maximum at 7:34 PM, and ends at 8:03 PM — giving you nearly a full hour of totality. The entire eclipse event, including the partial phases, wraps up by 10:25 PM. The moon will already be partially shadowed when it rises in Manila at 5:58 PM.

During totality, the moon takes on a dramatic coppery or reddish tint — hence the name 'blood moon.' This happens because sunlight bends through Earth's atmosphere, scattering blue light and allowing only red wavelengths to reach the moon's surface.

The best part? No special equipment needed. Unlike solar eclipses, lunar eclipses are completely safe to view with the naked eye. Binoculars or a small telescope can enhance the experience, but they're not required. Just find a spot with minimal light pollution and an unobstructed eastern horizon.

The eclipse will be visible across Metro Manila, Metro Cebu, Metro Davao, and most of the Philippines — weather permitting. Cloud cover is always a risk during Philippine evenings, so cross your fingers for clear skies. The next total lunar eclipse visible from the Philippines won't happen until December 31, 2028, so this is your only shot for nearly three years.

Source: WhenInManila / DOST-PAGASA / Inquirer