Warm Naga SMILES!

This year, we celebrate the 303rd year of enduring devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia, our Ina. For more than 300 years, and through periods of prosperity, conflicts and calamities, we have never failed to celebrate our faith as a people. The month of September has become a month for Bicolanos all over the globe to gather and pay homage to the Patroness of Bicolandia.

This revered tradition reflects our devotion not only to our faith but also to our sense of unity and solidarity, as evidenced by the Nagueños’ continuous support of our leadership and initiatives. The start of July marked the fresh mandate of our new Sangguniang Panlungsod and the City Government’s renewed vow to uphold the principles of good governance that have become an integral part of our administration’s core values.

More than three years ago, we started our journey with the idea of good and effective governance as cornerstones of our administration. Three years on, that belief was validated with Team Naga’s success at the ballots. Anchored on our priorities H2ELP your CiTy: health and nutrition, housing and urban poor, education, arts, culture and sports development, livelihood, employment and human development, peace and order and public safety, cleanliness and environment protection, transparency, accountability and good governance, we sought to initiate and implement programs and projects aimed at improving the quality of life in our city. To that end, we shall continue and intensify our efforts, upholding the oaths we took as public officials.

My fellow Nagueños, you have once again expressed your sentiments and given us your trust and confidence. Rest assured that as public servants, we shall continue the tradition of effective, transparent, and accountable governance. We urge you now to be a part of our city’s growth and development and take on pro-active roles as engaged citizens. Together, we can help create a better future for our children and the next generation, and proudly proclaim that indeed, “Naga SMILES to the world!”

JOHN G. BONGAT City Mayor Vol. 5, No. 3 | July – September 2013

A Quarterly Magazine of the City Government of Naga Bicol, Philippines ISSN 2094-9383

JOHN G. BONGAT City Mayor NELSON S. LEGACION City Vice Mayor

ALEC FRANCIS A. SANTOS Editor JASON B. NEOLA Managing Editor GERALD O. ENGUERO Writer MARY RUTH V. PARRO Contributor ANSELMO B. MAÑO RAFAEL RACSO V. VITAN Layout and Design RANDYVIC C. VILLAFLOR JOSE V. COLLERA XERES RAMON A. GAGERO Photographers BONG BAJO RAY JOHN B. UBALDO JOZELLE GRACE B. CORONO RUSTOM R. PUJADO Contributing Photographers FLORENCIO T. MONGOSO, JR. CSEE FRANCISCO M. MENDOZA REUEL M. OLIVER PAUL JOHN F. BARROSA Editorial Consultants SIEGLINDE B. BULAONG ALLEN L. REONDANGA Technical Advisers LUDIVINA V. ASENCE ALBERT F. CECILIO Editorial Assistants

HIGHLIGHTS This magazine is published by the City Government of Naga, thru the City Publications and External Relations Office, with editorial office at G/F, DOLE Building, City Hall Compound, 6 Millions troop to Naga for Peñafrancia J. Miranda Avenue, Naga City 4400 Fiesta Philippines Tel: +63 54 473-4432 10 JMR’s legacy celebrated a year after loss Fax: +63 54 472-3235 Email: [email protected] 21 Naga debuts in national tourism expo Web: www.naga.gov.ph 33 SP Highlights: Transparent and participatory governance JMR’s legacy celebrated a year after loss (page 10)

1 Naga seeks DOH help for women’s rehab center The “Naga SMILES to the World” logo is composed of the two baybayin 3 Naga wins 4th consecutive Pabasa sa characters, na and ga. Nutrisyon Award

Na, shaped like a mountain, provides 4 Infirmary to rise in upland Naga a strong foundation for the Narra tree which grew abundantly along the Naga 13 Simply Jesse: The power of simplicity River while a zigzag line denotes the majestic Malabsay Falls. 15 Naga X conducts trainings for food workers, tour guides Ga, shaped like a farmer’s plow, is symbolic of the Nagueño’s agricultural 18 Naga X beefs up promotions, roots and hardworking personality. partnerships

The baybayin Naga characters rest on 20 City and chamber officials forge a wave-like element which represents stronger ties with Chinese sister city the Naga River and the serpent, which is read in Sanskrit as naga. 23 Metro Naga reaps awards in GREAT Women project This new branding for Naga, launched in 2010 by the dynamic Bongat 24 Citizen reward system aimed to administration, envisions a more livable strengthen anti-crime drive city that is world-class. Naga X debuts in national tourism expo (page 21) SP Highlights: Transparent and participatory governance (page 33)

25 Joint Operations Center: Ensuring safe, peaceful and orderly festivities The “An Maogmang Lugar“ logo is an 29 Nagueños join hands in clean-up attempt to capture Naga as we want it drive for Ina to be – a city that is progressive and yet environment-friendly, where the people 31 90 trees saved from road-widening freely participate in the day-to-day affairs of project in upland Naga the government, and where culture and arts are flourishing. 32 Naga backs Cong. Leni’s Full The stylized design of “NAGA” represents Disclosure Bill the city’s aggressive march towards modernization and progress. The sky-blue 35 Sangguniang Panlungsod launches background, the Narra tree, and the Naga Facebook page River represent our people’s desire for an ecologically-balanced community. 37 Naga’s new Sangguniang Panlungsod vows faster, The ring of people surrounding the entire more pro-poor ordinances design shows the Nagueños’ participatory mechanism which is part and parcel of the city’s way of doing things. It also shows the 38 Bongat receives tourism award people’s concern and unity in everything that for Naga is good for the city.

Today, the city, as Maogmang Lugar, aims to portray more than a happy place but a happy people who are the true beneficiaries of everything good that is happening in the city. naga seeks D.O.H. help for women’s rehab center By Gerald O. Enguero

A social worker advises a patient on her situation. The City Government has asked the DOH to set up a rehabilitation center exclusively for women drug-dependents.

EALIZING the fact that drug dependent but the board can only extend counselling assistance to women in Bicol are not being given the victims as no facilities are available in the region. enough care and the lack of intervention “We cannot ensure the full recovery of victims of Rprograms being implemented by the drug abuse. For serious cases, we refer them to the government, the City Government of Naga rehabilitation center in Taguig City in Metro Manila, has sought the help of the Department of but, most of the time, due to the huge transportation Health (DOH) to establish a drug treatment and and living expenses, parents or the victims opt not to rehabilitation center for women. pursue our advice. We cannot blame them especially During the 8th Regular Session of the since we cannot even provide them financial assistance Sangguniang Panlungsod last August 27, the city to push through with their rehabilitation,” says Councilor council passed Resolution No. 2013-212, earnestly Importante. requesting the DOH, thru Secretary Enrique T. Ona, One of the NCDDB’s staff, shared that there are only to make available a treatment and rehabilitation two drug treatment and rehabilitation centers in the Bicol center for women drug dependents in the Bicol Region situated in Malinao, Albay and in San Fernando, Region. Camarines Sur. She said that these facilities, however, According to the proponent of the resolution, can only accommodate men and have no capacity to Councilor Jose B. Importante, the Naga City treat women drug dependents. Dasco revealed that Dangerous Drugs Board (NCDDB) of which he is the centers lack the necessary space and equipment to the vice chairman, has encountered a lot of cases provide comprehensive care to females, especially the where parents of women drug dependents or even necessary security and protection that should be given to the victims themselves seek help from the NCDDB, women.

1 Gayle Abonal-Gomez, a volunteer therapist of the City Government, speaks before a group of inmates at the district jail.

“Men and women have different needs. They also require different intervention, rehabilitation, and aftercare measures, thus, the need for the Sangguniang Panlungsod to call In its request for assistance from the DOH, the City Government has cited the different needs of male for the assistance of the DOH. and female patients. By providing a facility designed especially for treating women drug dependents, it will not just provide equal access to medical attention but also give equal opportunity to “This is not just an issue of result to prostitution to finance improve one’s quality of life,” Vice public access to health care, but their vices. Thus, by not providing Mayor Nelson S. Legacion said. also a matter of gender equality a comprehensive mechanism to Based on the data gathered by and protection of women against help them, we, the government and the NCDDB, the number of drug violence and illegal human society at large, are allowing them women dependents in the city and trafficking. Though less likely to to be continuously exploited and in the Bicol Region is substantial cause public havoc and commit exposed to social injustice,” stated enough to justify the need for a crimes compared to men, most Vice Mayor Legacion. specialized facility. of the female drug dependents

2 naga wins 4th consecutive Pabasa sa Nutrisyon City Councilor Nene De Asis (3rd from right) and Raquel Buere, City Population and Nutrition Award Office (CPNO) Nutrition Officer 1 (4th from right) received the Pabasa sa Nutrisyon Hall of Fame Award given by Philippine Association Nutrition, Inc. Officers (PAN) at Dusit Thani, By Gerald O. Enguero Manila Ayala, Center Makati City last July 3, 2013.

Pabasa sa Nutrisyon is a nutrition education approach involving the sustained active participation of women and men in the barangay in the learning process, the leadership and support of local government OR four consecutive years, executives, program managers and local nutrition workers. the City Population and It involves a course where parents are infused with information on Nutrition Office (CPNO) how to prevent malnutrition among their children thru syllabus books, Freceived the Pabasa sa lectures, cooking demonstration and educational activities. It requires the Nutrisyon Award for its persistency participation of residents in the 27 barangays of Naga City facilitated by in fighting malnutrition in Naga City. Barangay Officials and Nutrition Officers of the CPNO. The awarding to the CPNO as Raquel Buere, CPNO Nutrition Officer 1, said that this award will give a Hall of Famer was given by the their office the drive to maintain and continue its efficient service to all the Philippine Association of Nutrition Nagueños. (PAN) Inc. at the Dusit Thani, Manila “In my opinion, I think we got the Hall of Famer award by doing an Ayala Center, Makati City last July 3. excellent job and fulfilling all the requirements given by the PAN,” said The Pabasa sa Nutrisyon Buere. Award is given in recognition to She furthered that they will try their best to win the award again next the outstanding achievements of year by concentrating and putting more effort into the program. local government units and non- Pabasa sa Nutrisyon Hall of Fame Award recognizes organizations government organizations (NGO) that have received the Pabasa sa Nutrisyon Exemplary Award and have that have adapted the project in the maintained an efficient and effective implementation for four years 2009, communities of their beneficiaries. 2010, 2011 and 2012.

3 By Jason B. Neola

ITH Php10 million financial support from the Department of INFIRMARY IN Health (DOH) and THE UPLAND W BARANGAYS. a generous donation from a local Mayor John G. good Samaritan, the upland areas Bongat, Vice of this city will soon be served by a Mayor Nelson S. Legacion, members medical facility equipped to handle of the Sangguniang day-to-day consultations, birthing Panlungsod and City Health Officer Vito and emergencies. Borja inaugurate The Our Lady of Lourdes the Our Lady of Lourdes Infirmary. Infirmary, set to rise in Barangay Together with them Carolina, will also cover the upland are Antonio O. Pacia and family who barangays of Panicuason, San generously donated Isidro, Pacol, and Cararayan and 4.000 sq. m. for the project. is expected to address the need for more immediate access to healthcare services in the area. City Health Officer Dr. Vito “Butch” Borja said the infirmary will serve as treatment center will be permanently assigned to the infirmary should any patient need to for patients coming from upland be rushed to a major hospital. barangays, and will operate 24 Construction of the infirmary is expected to begin soon after the hours a day. The facility will be Regional Office of the DOH in Bicol approves the building plans and proper manned on eight-hour shifts by a biddings are concluded. staff of nurses, midwives, dietician, The project is being pursued under the H2ELP your CiTy (Health and and a physician. A complete array Nutrition) priorities of the City Government under the leadership of Mayor of medicines will also be stocked John G. Bongat. eliminating the need for patients to “The relative remoteness of Barangays Pacol, Carolina, and San go to the Naga City Hospital and Isidro from the Naga City Hospital and other major health facilities in the City Health Office. An ambulance commercial centers of Naga exposes these communities to higher risk

4 of infection, maternal death, and malnutrition, hence consultations with physicians. the need for a dedicated medical center in the upper Antonio O. Pacia of C. Pacia Realty Inc., donated barangays,” Mayor Bongat said. a 4,000 sq. m. property located in Barangay Carolina, “With the facility, we are hopeful that residents near the Peñafrancia Resort, on which the infirmary have easier access to immediate medical assistance will be constructed. The Deed of Donation was duly without them travelling all the way to Naga’s urban ratified during the 9th Regular Session last September center,” he added. 3. Response time to emergencies in the said Pacia contributed 1,000 sq. m. as space for the barangays is also said to be two times higher (10 infirmary itself and the remaining 3,000 sq. m. as road minutes) compared to the five minute-response right-of-way going to and around the said health period in downtown Naga. center. In exchange, Pacia expressed the following Meanwhile, a “mini infirmary” will also be conditions: 1.) the donated property be only used constructed at the Divine Mercy Apostolate Center of for the said purpose, 2.) the infirmary be named Our the Missionaries of the Poor in Barangay Cararayan Lady of Lourdes Infirmary, and 3.) the road that will be which will provide medical and dental consultation constructed be named C. Pacia Drive. and tooth extraction procedures on Wednesdays Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion said the infirmary and Fridays. The operation of the medical facility is will not only address the “issue of access to public expected to begin on November 6 with the signing health, but also... of sustainable and inclusive socio- of a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the economic development.” City Government and the Missionaries of the Poor. “Without proper and equal access to health care, The City Government, through the City Health productivity of the people in the upland barangays is Office, sought the aid of the DOH for possible also compromised. There will also be fewer savings funding and eventually obtained Php10 million and, therefore, investments in said locations as our from the said government agency. This amount constituents face relatively higher costs in maintaining will be used for the construction of the infirmary’s their health as well as in recuperating from diseases,” building which is planned to be a 400-square meter wrote Legacion in his regular local newspaper column, one-storey edifice with facilities for responding SP Highlights. to emergency situations, for birthing and daily

5 ILLIONS of devotees of the Virgin of Joselito Del Rosario, Naga City Public Safety Peñafrancia gathered in Naga once Officer and member of the Joint Operations Center again for the annual celebration of (JOC), made this observation after boarding one of Mwhat has been dubbed as the biggest the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) helicopters showcase of Marian devotion in Asia, a spectacle and saw the mass of people on the ground during of faith and a passionate show of love for the the Traslacion Procession held last September 13. Blessed Virgin – one of the longest-running religious Droves of visitors arrived for the 9-day novena festivities in the Philippines. that ran up to the climactic Fluvial Procession last Official reports indicate the festivities, now on Saturday, Sept. 21. its 303rd year, began with over a million devotees The JOC is the coordinating body which participating in the traditional Traslacion Procession oversees the overall management of the festivities on Friday, September 13 and officially closed with the and is composed of representatives from various holding of the Fluvial procession a week later. government offices, law enforcement agencies as Authorities said the entire celebration was well as church officials. generally peaceful and orderly with organizers According to Father Louie Occiano, head of imposing tighter regulations in the manner the the Caceres Commission on Communications of processions and other major activities were held. the Archdiocese of Caceres (CCCom), the Traslacion Despite the apparent rowdiness, no pilgrims were Procession, the act of transferring the image of Our seriously hurt and despite the huge crowds, discipline Lady of Peñafrancia from the Peñafrancia Shrine to was maintained and the roads cleared of most trash the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral, was participated in and other obstructions soon after each major activity. by close to a million participants, including onlookers An aerial view of the festivities indicated the and tourists. estimated number of visitors may be closer to two The Traslacion is the opening salvo of the million, according to the Executive Officer of the city’s Peñafrancia Festival whose highlight, the Fluvial Public Safety Office (PSO). Procession, is celebrated on the Saturday after the

6 Fluvial Procession Devotees from all corners of the country and even from abroad wielding lighted candles along the banks of the historic Naga River during the Fluvial procession made it appear as if the stars came down from the heavens as the pagoda brought back the sacred images of Divino Rostro and Our Lady of Peñafrancia from Naga Metropolitan Cathedral to its shrine in Basilica Minore. People who lined the river banks shouted “Viva la Virgen” and threw confetti of flowers while waving white and blue handkerchiefs as the Virgin’s pagoda cruised along the more than one kilometer fluvial route. The pagoda, with about 200 male devotees and priests on board, was pulled by hundreds of oarsmen Traslacion. The Fluvial Procession is a centuries old popularly called voyadores who maneuvered wooden practice of bringing back the image of Nuestra Señora boats. Speedboats, inflatable vessels, and other small de Peñafrancia to its home at the Basilica Minore using watercrafts also joined the procession to assist the a colorful river boat known as “pagoda.” pagoda and guide the oarsmen. Michael Ciesielski, an Australian Youth Ambassador for Development assigned as a Peaceful and Community Education Officer at the Department of Education-Camarines Sur District and a first time successful festival participant in the Traslacion, said he was encouraged The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga approved to join the event because of his fascination with a huge Resolution Nos. 2013-245 and 2013-246 expressing number of people participating in a single religious the city’s appreciation of the efforts extended by the event. JOC and the Solid Waste Management Office (SWMO) “After seeing the parade, I was struck by the to ensure the city’s peace and order situation and amount of passion and devotion on display. It was an cleanliness before, during and after the Peñafrancia amazing experience to be in such an intense crowd. festival. It’s not something that you see in Australia, where According to Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion, the I’m from. Even in the midst of the procession, the members of the JOC showed their utmost devotion friendliness and hospitality of Filipinos – Nagueños and love for Ina by working hard even during wee in particular – were still clearly on display. From the hours just to ensure that the festivity would be padyak driver who helped me find the route of the celebrated by the millions of devotees in a solemn procession to the stranger who warned me that my and orderly manner. bag was open while rushing past towards the image, “There were even volunteer groups from as far I felt very welcome, as I always do in Naga,” stated as Sorsogon and the province islands of Masbate Ciesielski. and Catanduanes who helped us during the Peñafrancia festival. Indeed, in the name of faith and love for Our Lady of Peñafrancia, all the Bicolanos are being bound into one family with her as our mother,” Legacion said. The JOC, led by Mayor John G. Bongat, implemented various changes in this year’s Peñafrancia Festival that beefed up security and safety in the areas affected by the Fluvial Procession. For one, vendors were not allowed inside the premises of the Basilica Minore and the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral.

7 No more vendors On the part of the LGU and the local security forces, a “no vendors allowed” policy was implemented within the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral and its surrounding streets. Mayor Bongat said that the vendors were instead encouraged to sell their wares at the Naga City People’s Mall or on the side of streets away from the church. More solemn Stricter Estelita Borela, 75, and Shirley Boton, 57, Occiano said that the conduct of Traslacion this members of Apostle of Prayer San Juan dela Cruz of year was more orderly and disciplined, thanks to the Baao, Camarines Sur said they believe the changes stricter security protocols that were implemented by done on the flow of the procession were enough to the local government and other agencies involved in ensure the devotees’ safety. managing the flow of the procession. “I’m old now,” Borela said. “I would be crushed if Learning from past lessons, the city government the old system was still used.” opted to make several changes in the conduct of the Boton said that the less chaotic atmosphere procession as well as augment the security measures helped in keeping the tradition solemn. through the years leading to the fiesta’s Tercentenary Jonathan Castillo, 18, was on his first year as a celebration in 2010 until now under the leadership voyador. He said that the Traslacion was tough but, of Mayor John G. Bongat and Vice Mayor Nelson he would definitely try again next year as his way of Legacion. expressing his devotion to Ina. Prior to the procession, the different law Occiano explained that 10 years before, the enforcement agencies and other members of the Archdiocese had encouraged the voyadores to form Joint Operations Center (JOC) conducted a three-day their own organization, the Confradia de San Jose, in seminar from September 9 to 11 to discuss a focused order to instill discipline among them. and coordinated system in securing the peaceful and He said that non-members are still allowed to orderly celebration of the Peñafrancia festival. join the procession but are limited to following the Around 1,058 members of JOC comprised of primary voyadores at the back of the “andas.” personnel and augmentation units from Philippine “They can still participate, even touch the ‘andas,’ National Police, Armed Forces of the Philipines, but we have set limits for them in order to keep the Kabalikat-CIVICOM, and Bureau of Fire Protection whole flow of the procession peaceful,” Occiano were deployed in the city. Six hundred (600) of clarified. these were nurses and doctors who manned the 18 ambulances and health stations around key areas along the route of the procession. The city government also declared a total liquor ban during the Traslacion and even during the Fluvial Procession in order to prevent chaos and violent altercations among voyadores similar to those that happened in the late 1990s and in 2007. In the 1990s, an overzealous voyador jumped up the image of Ina and tore the icon’s “manto.” In 2007, a frenzied unknown devotee threw a hard object at the image of Divino Rostro, breaking the image’s glass case. Since 1995, the Archdiocese of Caceres has implemented several changes and modifications on the two “andas” that bear Ina and Divino Rostro during Traslacion. Among the changes was the higher elevation of the images with an expanded “andas” and the setting up of wheels under it, totally removing the former method of allowing the voyadores to carry the images on their shoulders. 8 First time Andrew Cost, a consultant from Melbourne, Australia, said that he participated in the Fluvial Procession as a friend of his was very enthusiastic in inviting him to witness the said event. “This is my first time in the Philippines, and I expected the Bicol region to be quiet, because it’s so far from Manila. However, I have been pleasantly surprised by the thousands of people visiting for the Peñafrancia Fiesta! I’ve been to many religious festivals in Europe, but nothing compares to this event,” said Cost. Horacio Jongko and his wife, Angelina, shared that it was the Tradition first time they were able to watch The tradition of Traslacion the Fluvial Procession together as a was believed to have begun couple. during the colonial period under Angelina, a former resident of Bishop Francisco Gainza with the Barangay Sta. Cruz of this city, but cimmarones, the mountain people has been residing in Cavite for over who inhabited the forests of Mt. 30 years now, said she wanted to Isarog, and the local residents, share the experience of Peñafrancia Spaniards, and friars in the region. Photos by Xeres RAMON A. Gagero & bong bajo Festival with her husband who is on Our Lady of Peñafrancia was vacation in the Philippines. the patroness of cimmarones who stories of Ina’s miracles are true and “I am working as a seaman spread testimonies of miracles. the same will happen to him. abroad, and because it is not often Historical accounts revealed Two years ago, Beltran was I have quality time with my family, that the first miracle happened with diagnosed to have a stage two I’m making sure that I will spend it a sacrificed dog whose blood was colon cancer. Doctors advised him in worthwhile activities. Seeing now used to paint the image. The dog to undergo chemotherapy, but due the massive spiritual experience was said to have been resurrected to financial constraints, he could here in the Peñafrancia festival, I after being thrown into the Naga not seek the necessary treatment. decided to return back next year, River, enabling it to come home to “I believe that my faith to our not only with my wife but also with its master. beloved Ina will restore back my my children,” said Horacio. (with Jun Beltran, a member of health as it is the only remaining reports from Shiena M. Barrameda) the Peñafrancia Association, thing that I can hold on to, participated in the Traslacion especially in this present challenge Procession as he believes that the of my life,” said Beltran. 9 of participants meeting at the Plaza year after the tragic Quezon shortly before 6 AM before passing of the much loved embarking on the symbolic march. Movement, the local police force, Interior Secretary Jesse M. Third District Representative the fire department, the Bureau of ARobredo, his memory, and Atty. Leni Robredo, widow of the Jail Management and Penology, his legacy, are very much alive. deceased Magsaysay Awardee, employees of the Department of What was meant to be a simple who herself has been swept into the Interior and Local Government commemoration turned out to be an elevated stature following her (DILG) and people from various a celebration of the good Secretary husband’s tragic death for her walks of life. and former Naga City Mayor’s courage and composure, led the Their destination, the Eternal life when thousands of people participants. Gardens Memorial Park, a site gathered at a memorial park here Joining the crowd, estimated which has drawn visitors ever since to mark the first death anniversary at about 5,000, were Jesse’s it became the repository of Jesses’s of the late cabinet official and head relatives, students, barangay cremated remains. There, Atty. of the city government for 19 years. officials, members of the JMR Robredo led the laying of wreaths, The morning of August 18, one of many activities intended as declared a holiday by the city government, started with the so- Sec. Robredo’s widow Congresswoman Leni Robredo is called “Tsinelas Walk,” with throngs flanked by two of her daughters, Tricia and Jillian, DILG Secretary Mar Roxas, and DSWD Secretary Dinky Soliman while visiting the late Secretary’s memorial a year after his death in a tragic plane crash off the coast of Masbate.

10 Sec. Robredo’s youngest daughter Jillian receives a warm embrace from Dr. Lourdes Asence, one of the late Secretary and mayor’s close colleagues in the City Government. Supporters and citizens offer prayers for the late Secretary at his memorial, a year after his death. loving gestures of remembrance. and the enduring love of the to visit the site where, a year ago, Visitors from Metro Manila, people of Naga City. her husband’s remains were found led by Secretaries Mar Roxas Reflecting this sense of after a harrowing three-day search (DILG), Joseph Emilio Abaya gratitude for the many years that gripped the entire country in (Department of Transportation of faithful leadership, a concert suspense. and Communications) and Dinky dubbed “Jess Mabalos,” a In an interview, Atty. Leni Soliman (Department of Social play on the Bicolano way of admitted not having fully recovered Welfare and Development) arrived expressing gratitude, was held at from the grief of losing her in two buses and were mildly Plaza Quezon. Local artists and husband. However, she has since surprised that the gathering had performers gathered to celebrate in chosen to deal with their family’s assumed a festive air. song and music a life that has been loss by taking each day at a time, In the afternoon, the late spent in dedicated service. trying not to think too much of the Secretary’s sister, Dr. Josephine Atty. Robredo, who was swept past or the future. She said she still Robredo Bundoc, led the into the world of politics following misses Jesse, whom she said was a distribution of wheelchairs in an the outpouring of grief and support constant presence in their lives. activity dubbed as “Physicians for in the wake of her husband’s “I thought after one year I Peace.” She also took time to visit death, has vowed to carry forward would be better but it seems I’m the accessibility facilities at City his legacies and continues to not. After his death I’ve been busy Hall to make sure persons with be guided by the principles of with a lot of things but now that disabilities have access to the local good governance and exemplary almost everything is settled, the government and its services. leadership. sadness is starting to sink in,” she At the protected area of Mt. Naga City Mayor John G. told a Philippine Daily Inquirer Isarog National Park, members of Bongat says the city government reporter. the Tau Gamma Phi fraternity led will continue to honor the Robredo The same thoughts must have the planting of trees as part of an legacy of good governance through crossed Atty. Len’s mind as she activity fittingly dubbed as “Alay ki the mechanisms and policies that threw flowers at the same waters Jess.” have guided Naga’s transformation that claimed the life of Jesse and An exhibit of JMR memorabilia to one of the country’s fastest two others (of the four people was also set up at the Plaza growing and widely emulated cities. aboard the aircraft, only Robredo’s Rizal, highlighting the simplicity, A day before, Atty. Leni, aide survived). A Holy Mass was strength of faith and one-of-a kind accompanied by the surviving celebrated earlier, attended by leadership that has earned for Robredo brood and officials of the local inhabitants and officials of the the late Secretary numerous local, local government of Naga, made a island province of Masbate. During national and international citations poignant trip to Masbate province her brief visit, she did not forget

11 From “Tsinelas Walk” to tree- planting activities, to concerts, JMR’s first death anniversary was remembered in earnest by Nagueños and Filipinos alike. to thank the people who were simple: it’s not all about instrumental during the search and appearances or “pakitang rescue and later on retrieval efforts gilas.” more than a year ago. “Hindi ito simple “Tsinelas Leadership” was matter na pagsuot ng coined by Cabinet Secretary Rene tsinelas ng isang pulitiko Almendras who saw firsthand tapos okay na. They Jesse’s leadership style. Tsinelas, or should know the context. flip flops, have since become icons Sa ‘Tsinelas Movement,’ that stand for the Filipino’s quest it is the movement of the for transformation and reform. people merged with the No doubt Jesse raised the bar government. The people for those who serve the public. should have an ownership But for those who would wish to of their government,” follow in his footsteps, they may political analyst Ramon to consider this -- it’s not that Casiple said.

12 (This piece was adjudged as the September 1, 2013 winner in the essay writing contest jointly sponsored by the Philippine Star and National Bookstore. The author was the vice mayor of the late Secretary Jesse M. Robredo from 2004 to 2010.)

SIMPLY JESSE: THE POWER OF SIMPLICITY

O far, two books on the life and times of Jesse Manalastas Robredo had been published. The first one, “Jess Robredo: Proud SNagueño Memories” (Anvil 2012), came out just a few months after his death. The other one, “Simply Jesse: The Story of Jesse Robredo”, was launched by the Summit Media early this year. Both books somehow managed to capture the essence of the man who had become larger than life after figuring in a fatal plane crash off the waters of Masbate exactly a year ago. Although “Proud Nagueño Memories,” edited by Dr. Paz Verdades Santos and Judge Soliman Santos, presents a collective recollection of the the former Secretary’s 13–year old daughter Jillian (not people from the city of Jesse’s birth, “Simply Jesse” unlike Scout Finch in “To Kill a Mockingbird”), it further (actually a children’s book) hews closely, in form reinforces the idea of simplicity, its narrative gliding and substance, to the attribute associated with the like the ubiquitous bird in the illustrations (superbly former mayor of Naga City and Secretary of the executed by Nicole Lim) accompanying the texts. Thus, Interior and Local Government: SIMPLICITY. what scores of newspaper and magazine articles failed With the book, written by Yvette Fernandez, to achieve with their lengthy perorations on Jesse, the taking the point of view or the narrative voice of book does so in a paragraph or two.

13 There was something about the Sec which made me immediately feel at ease but at the same time take cognizance of his innate power to command respect- and even awe. He treated me like a long-lost pal although I hadn’t ever met him before that interview. And prior to my BRBDP stint, I had been drifting from Consider the following: “Papa was a mayor who one government entity to another, unable to find my worked by example. He was a Nagueño just like mark or niche. But in the case of the Sec, I was sure everyone else. He believed that every Nagueño must that the working relationship would last for long. do his or her own part in helping make the city a At the BRDBP, the Sec used the so-called New better one. Papa wanted Naga to be a very clean city, Public Management principles (he graduated on so he swept the streets with the street cleaners and the top of his MBA class at UP Diliman) to give helped pick up trash with the garbage collectors.” the moribund agency a new lease on life. His Now, who can beat that for sheer simplicity? leadership style, aggressive yet populist, gradually A youthful newspaper columnist and TV producer earned the respect and admiration of the jaded avers that Jesse Robredo is a difficult man to write BRBDP employees. It also attracted the best and about because he is a good man, and the existence of the brightest, including a pretty and intelligent lass a good man demands more from those around him. from the UP School of Economics named Maria Yet, “Simply Jesse” succeeds in distilling the life of Leonor Gerona (aka Leni). The 21-year old Leni would this “good man” purportedly through his daughter’s soon catch the fancy of the 28-year old bachelor – a eyes: “When the typhoons came, Papa went around perfect match, it turned out. (Did you know that Leni the city to make sure everyone was safe. Afterwards, reported for work at the BRDBP on August 18, 1986? he helped clean up in his favorite T-shirt and tsinelas. And August 18 was also the date when Sec figured in During those times, many Nagueños helped so many that fatal plane crash.) other Nagueños. Papa believed that those who helped For all the years we had spent together at the others, even in the smallest way, are heroes. Papa is BRBDP and later on, at the City Hall of Naga, however, my hero.” I still can’t write a definitive story of the Sec. I just I first met the Sec (that was the way I addressed don’t know how. It’s as simple as that. him right after President Aquino appointed him as This is why I find “Simply Jesse” quite interesting, Secretary of the Interior and Local Government) in compelling and, to a certain extent, intriguing. It 1986. Politicized by the events in the aftermath of the holds back all the underlying emotions, including assassination of Ninoy Aquino in 1983 and heeding the indescribable pain of losing one’s anchor and the call of president Cory for young professionals compass, so to speak. The narrative, neat and to join the government, the Sec, at the time, opted compact, belies the turmoil from within and proceeds to get out of his well-paying job in a multi-national with just a hint of the grief and angst which gripped food conglomerate and try his hand in running a the entire nation for weeks after the crash. Jillian, regional government agency, the Bicol River Basin the narrator, puts it quite simply: “But one Saturday, Development Program. Mama and I waited for him to come home and he A mutual friend (who later became the godfather never did…So many people around the Philippines in our respective weddings), former Camarines Sur prayed very hard that Papa would be found alive. But Board Member Ernesto G. Verdadero, arranged for he wasn’t. Papa’s body was found three days later.” me a one-on-one interview in the office of the Sec’s Her concluding lines sound almost like an epitaph elder brother, Butch. The interview lasted for almost on behalf of the Filipino nation: “Papa, we are so, so an hour. Fortunately, after a couple of days, the sad that you are no longer with us. But we are also feature article based on the interview was published happy and proud that you have made a difference in by a national paper. The Sec called me up and offered so many people’s lives.” me the position of public information officer at the There is, indeed, redemption in simplicity. Sec, BRBDP. That was the beginning of our decades-long you can now rest in peace. collaboration.

14 Participants, including boatmen of Naga’s first tourist boats listen intently to one of the in- house seminarian-guides of the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary during the mock tour. Trainings held for Naga X food workers, tour guides By Alec a. Santos

Laing (gulay na natong)

S part of the capability-building efforts for Naga Excursions, or Naga X, the Metro Naga Development Council (MNDC) and the Arts, Culture and Tourism Office A(ACTO) of the City Government of Naga conducted two back-to-back trainings from August 26 to 31, aimed at providing additional training to food and beverage workers and local guides. Funded partly by the Local Governance Support Program for Local Economic Development (LGSP-LED) under the partnership of the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) and the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG), as well as by the Department of Tourism Regional Office, the 5-day trainings were attended by more than 80 hotel, restaurant and tour operator establishment owners, managers, staff, and local guides. The first training, held from August 26 to 28, focused on food

15 Chef Leandro “Doy” Sto. Domingo, an active member of the Naga X consortium, speaks before other restaurant owners and managers during the open forum.

DOT resource person Julius Judalena responds to a question fielded by one of the participants during the food safety training.

Terry Quitevis (right), DOT’s resource person for the Heritage Tour Guiding seminar, leads the group at the Peñafrancia Shrine during the assessment tour. safety and service quality for restaurants serving of BS Biology, Judalena imparted his extensive mostly tourists. On the first day, Department of knowledge on food safety, particularly the effects Science and Technology Provincial Director Pat of microorganisms on food products, as well as his Felizmenio and Ma. Theresa Alcantara delivered expertise on restaurant and hotel operations. a series of lectures focusing on Hazard Analysis The role of culture and heritage in tourism was and Critical Control Points (HACCP). Mr. Julius given emphasis during the second training, held from Judalena, the DOT-certified resource person for August 29 to 31 by DOT-certified trainer Ms. Teresita the activity, held several workshops to assess Quitevis, who has been an active accredited tour the existing capabilities of participants before guide since 1975. She was also recognized by the conducting enriching lectures. A graduate DOT as “Best Tour Guide” during the early years of the

16 Alec Santos (standing), ACTO Chief, shares a light moment with trainees from private and government agencies.

Trainees inspect the old Spanish-era scholastic documents of prominent Holy Rosary Minor Seminary alumni like the first Filipino Bishop, Jorge Barlin, and national hero Jose Maria Panganiban.

One of the participants during the Heritage Tour Guide training reviews the Naga X destination brochure before the start of the mock tour which assessed their skills.

country’s tourism industry. tour guide to the participants and provide valuable Local historian Mr. Tito Valiente was also on insights into the tourism industry. A mock tour of hand during the heritage tour guide training to share Naga’s renowned heritage attractions like the Naga his extensive knowledge on local culture and history, Metropolitan Cathedral, the Peñafrancia Shrine, emphasizing the important role of Naga’s rich and Basilica Minore gave organizers the chance history in tourism development and the importance to evaluate the participants, composed mostly of of preserving tangible and intangible cultural assets freelance tour guides, staff of tour operators, and of the city. the crew of MV Peñafrancia and MV Divino Rostro, Quitevis, who has handled tourists of various the city’s brand new tourist boats. nationalities, was able to share her experiences as a

17 MNDC Executive Director Sieglinde Bulaong updates Naga X consortium members on the latest activities of Metro Naga.

Sieglinde B. Bulaong, MNDC Executive Director, said that the MNDC focused on identified strategic objectives and planned the project accordingly. “The MNDC aims for development not only here in Naga City but also in the 15 LGUs that form part of this tourism project in Metro Naga,” said Bulaong. She explained the three main objectives of their strategic plans: the creation of a foundation for an enabling environment, maximizing the potential for sectoral growth, and lastly, the expansion of the tourism market. The three main objectives of the project are expected to create investments, jobs, and income. Organizers say that they are targeting the original levels of arrivals and revenues generated when the Camarines Sur Watersports Complex or CWC started its operations which helped HE local tourism scene in Metro Naga has become even more draw an estimated 2.33 million interesting with the presence of the Naga Excursions brand and foreign and domestic visitors to campaign. Camarines Sur based on the records T Also known as “Naga X,” the tourism brand is the product of of Department of Tourism (DOT) the joint collaboration of the Metro Naga Development Council (MNDC), regional office, local tourism offices, the City Government of Naga thru the Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office and accommodation establishments. (ACTO), and the private sector. Together, the public and private sectors Alec Francis Santos, chief- make up Naga X’s tourism consortium, an alliance of various business of-office of the Arts Culture and establishments that are primarily tourism-oriented. Tourism Office (ACTO) and City In the quarterly meeting held at a restaurant on July 25, the Publications and External Relation implementing agencies of the project updated more than 40 members of Office (CPERO), said in his discussion the consortium on recent activities done after the official launch of Naga at the meeting, that the Naga X X last March 22. Upcoming plans and activities were also discussed.

18 ACTO Chief Alec Santos narrates the recent promotional activities conducted by Naga X like the Manila sales mission and national launch, and the national media familiarization tour. consortium was recognized by DOT of the consortium. Santos explained promotion plan, the creation of a as the first of its kind initiated by a that consortium members are tourist assistance booth at the Naga local government unit. given the privileges of offering their City Airport and also the website’s The consortium was created products as part of Naga X. application enhancement for with the aim of ensuring quality Since its launching last March online reservations and marketing standards across various primary 22, Naga X activities included a capability. tourism enterprises such as national media familiarization tour He said that they want to accommodation, tour operators, last April 19-21, enhancement of its improve the website up to the extent tourist transport providers, website www.nagax.com, creation where those who want to avail of the adventure parks, and eco- of social media accounts, a Manila packages in Naga Excursion website tourism facilities; and secondary sales mission last May 27-30, can directly reserve accommodation tourism enterprises which refer and a national launch and press and purchase products. to restaurants, bars, coffee shops, conference last May 31. Priela also added that they are museums, galleries, spas, and Naga X enjoys funding planning to coordinate convention souvenir shops. support from the Department of organizers in Naga City, to provide The consortium now has more the Interior and Local Government booths for the consortium members than 50 registered members. thru the Local Government for better promotions of Naga Santos stated that those who Support Program for Local Excursion and consortium members. would like to be a member just Economic Development (LGSP- need to fill up the commitment LED) of the Canadian International forms containing their offered Development Agency (CIDA). discounted or commissionable Nicolas Beda Priela, LED rates to ACTO. Partnership Adviser, mentioned He stressed that registration in his discussion of the is ongoing and that there is no implementation of the Metro required fee to become a member Naga tourism marketing and

19 City and chamber officials forge stronger ties with Chinese sister city BY JASON B. NEOLA

Mayors Bongat and Shan flanked by FCSTA and In his short message, Mayor Naga as a key investment site for MNCCI Officers, and Naga and Shishi Cities Zhang Y. Shan warmly welcomed possible economic ventures. He Officials. the delegation and shared current ended his message with a cordial L-R: Ms. Sieglinde Bulaong (Metro Naga information about their city. invitation to Shishi’s local officials Development Council), Mr. Aquiles Lo (MNCCI), Ms. Clarine Tobias (MNCCI), Councilors Nene de He emphasized that garments for a similar trip to Naga in the Asis and Babeth Lavadia, Mr. Larry Lim (FCSTA manufacturing, their major industry, future. President), Messrs. Benito Lim and Antonio Tan (former Presidents, FCSTA), Shishi Officials, and has spurred economic growth and The Shishi visit was made Mr. Jeremie Lo (Philippine Chamber of Commerce generated jobs for the locals. This possible through the sponsorship and Industry-Bicol). Not in picture are PB Jun Lavadia, Mr. Reuel Oliver (Naga City Investment further resulted to the influx of of the FCSTA through the MNCCI, Board) and Ms. Lil Antonio (MNCCI) workers not only from the nearby the former being the same provinces but from other countries organization instrumental in HISHI, CHINA - Forging as well, including the Middle East, bringing the two cities together a stronger relationship bringing Sishi’s population to a as early as 1996. It was, however, with Naga’s sister city little more than 300,000 residents. in 1999 that the partnership Sin China, Mayor John G. A brief tour of the city agreement was formally inked. Bongat, together with a number of provided the group a glimpse Over the years, the alliance officials from this city, the Metro of this progress. Considerable with Shishi was felt through the Naga Chamber of Commerce infrastructure projects for new invaluable contributions of the and Industry (MNCCI), and the highways, high-rise residential local Chinese community to the Filipino-Chinese Shishi Townmates buildings, and real estate economy and to education. Most Association (FCSTA), visited Shishi development punctuated the city’s recent is their donation of a Php4 on September 9. 1,600 sq. km. landscape. million school building to be In his response, erected within the compound of Mayor Bongat the Naga City Science High School. expressed that Most of the Filipino-Chinese in in the 13-year Naga, including the late Sec. Jesse partnership that M. Robredo, trace their roots to the two cities have Shishi. nurtured, Naga The FCSTA, likewise, considers Shishi as facilitated the participation of “big brother.” He, Naga Excursions (Naga X) in the thus, promoted 17th China International Fair for Investment and Trade (CIFIT) in Xiamen from September 8 to 11. Mayor Bongat delivers his message during the courtesy call at the Shishi City Hall as Mayor Shan listens intently. 20 naga debuts in DOT Region V Director Maria Ravanilla (center) pays a visit to the Naga X booth. With her (left to right) are tour operator national tourism expo Eden Rosales, Pat Favoreal (LGSP-LED consultant), Beda Priela (LGSP-LED adviser), and ACTO Chief Alec Santos. By Jason B. Neola

ASAY CITY — Barely half a year after its official launch earlier in March, Metro PNaga’s tourism brand, Naga X (Naga Excursions), ventured into the national tourism scene with its participation in the 24th Philippine Travel Mart, an annual exhibit of local destinations and tourism players. The three-day event, which was held from September 6 to 8 at the SMX, Mall of Asia, was organized by the Philippine Tour Operators Association (PHILTOA) in partnership with the Department Tour operator Eden Rosales conducting business-to-business meetings with travel wholesalers at the of Tourism (DOT). The travel LGSP-LED pavilion. mart showcases exhibitors from Metro Naga’s presence at the (LGSP-LED) of the Department of the tourism industry such as travel mart was made possible the Interior and Local Government resorts, hotels, travel agencies thru the support of the Canadian (DILG). Metro Naga, an alliance of 15 and operators, as well as local International Development Agency municipalities with Naga at its core, government units. During last (CIDA) which funds the Local was able to secure funding support year’s travel mart, more than 30,000 Government Support Program for its tourism program, which has people attended the exhibit. for Local Economic Development now evolved into Naga X.

21 Private sector representatives from Metro Naga also took advantage of the LGSP-LED pavilion at the Travelmart.

Naga X delegates to the mistake us for a travel agency and were involved in the project travel mart included private sector get surprised when we explain that during the conceptualization, representatives from the Metro we are a consortium of private and development, and marketing Naga Association of Travel and public organizations,” said Santos. phases, leading to standardized Tour Operators (MENATTO) and the Santos added that the tours and similar prices. Naga X consortium, headed by the presence of private sector “Our first experience as a Naga City Arts, Culture and Tourism representatives made it easier to participant in a national tourism Office (ACTO) and its chief-of-office, promote the tour packages of Naga exhibit opened up a lot of Alec Santos. X. opportunities for Metro Naga. According to Santos, Metro “Our tour operators were able It also showed to the rest of Naga’s entry into the national to immediately close sales and find the Philippine tourism industry tourism scene is being considered new partners like traditional and the great potential of our local an important milestone since online travel agencies that would attractions. This is in line with it indicates that the various carry our packages. We were also our project’s objectives of destinations and sectors involved able to conduct B2B (business-to- creating more jobs and business in Metro Naga are now ready business) meetings with potential thru an influx of investments to promote themselves more investors and travel consolidators. to Metro Naga. By involving aggressively. He also said that the Aside from the exposure we all the stakeholders during the Naga X delegates were surprised received because of our booth, development of Naga X, we are by the overwhelming interest of we were able to expand Naga X’s championing the cause of inclusive attendees in the booth. network and contacts,” added the growth thru tourism,” Santos “We were really surprised tourism officer of Naga. quipped. to see, on average, 800 to 1,000 Santos further explained that inquiries per day. Sometimes, we unlike other destinations, Naga X would see a peak of 100 inquiries did not experience price differences per hour. Most people often in its packages since tour operators

22 For being a model of enterprise Metro Naga Reaps development, the City of Naga under the leadership of Awards in GREAT Mayor Bongat, was By Mary Ruth V. Parro recognized for its WEE Women Project responsive structures and mechanisms, partnerships, and UEZON CITY - The conclusion of the budget. GREAT (Gender Responsive Economic Actions for the Transformation of) Women QProject was celebrated through a National Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Forum held Ms. Jovita P. San Juan represented Bula and Gainza, at the Crowne Plaza Manila Galleria, this city, last respectively. They shared their journey with the GWP September 19-20. for the last 5 years, Ms. Canamero on their engineered Success stories were drawn through talk- bamboo furniture crafting, while Ms. San Juan on their show inspired panel discussions. Experiences that talangka processing. They described their experiences transformed the lives of women micro-entreprenuers from being home-based producers to having common (WMEs), key personnel of Local Government Units production areas through the help of convergent (LGUs), and other partner agencies were shared. partnerships of the LGUs and National Government Most of experiences revealed how the project was Agencies (NGAs). able to completely capacitate WMEs - providing A simple recognition ceremony was staged over capability development, product development, dinner with all GWP sites given awards of appreciation linkage opportunities, and marketing in line and the performing LGUs, NGAs, and WMEs duly with the project’s ultimate goal of providing an recognized. enabling environment to sustain women-led micro- Earlier in the program, a posthumous award for the enterprises, thus, enhancing the living conditions of late DILG Secretary Jesse M. Robredo was received by his WMEs and their families. widow, Hon. Congresswoman Ma. Leonor G. Robredo, The project, in close partnership with the LGUs, in recognition of the late Interior Secretary and former was able to change the mindsets of both men and Naga City mayor’s staunch support of WEE and his being women in the local government, especially on a champion of women empowerment. As a tribute to his planning and designing programs and projects that invaluable contribution to the project, an audio visual would really respond to the needs of its constituents, presentation was shown prior to awarding. being sensitive to gender issues, and eliminating The Forum was participated in by the different biases. GWP sites in the country such as Ifugao, Quezon, Metro One of the project’s highlights was the fact that Naga Development Council (MNDC), Iloilo, Leyte, Bohol, in most GWP sites, Common Service Facilities (CSFs) Davao, and PPALMA. All of the National Government were established. These CSFs house gender sensitive Agency partners, NGOs, and the academe, among tools and equipment designed to lighten workloads, others, accounted for almost 400 participants. provide safe procedures, and increase production The GREAT Women Project was made possible potential while enhancing product quality of the through the partnership of the Canadian International WME organizations. Development Agency (CIDA) now the Department of In the WEE forum, two of Metro Naga’s member Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development (DFATD) and municipalities and GWP partners were invited to the National Government of the Philippines through the serve as panelists. Ms. Evelyn P. Canamero and Philippine Commission of Women (PCW).

LGU Partners: Bombon Gainza Naga City Bula Magarao Pili Camaligan Milaor San Fernando

Women Economic Empowerment (WEE) Awards, September 19, 2013.

Congresswoman Leni Robredo, flanked by CIDA and PCW Officials, Most WEE Responsive: Most Outstanding WME Group during the tribute to the late Sec. Jesse M. Robredo. Bula, Gainza, Naga Cagbunga Crabpaste Producers Association of Gainza (CCPAG) Most WEE Responsive Most Outstanding WME: 23 NGA: DOST RV Ms. Teodoro Aquino, CCPAG President Citizen reward system aimed to strengthen anti-crime drive By Gerald O. Enguero

Guevara addresses the crowd after receiving a commendation from Mayor Bongat as her mother looks on. With them (left to right) are: councilors Esteban Abonal, Elmer Baldemoro, Nene de Asis, Seling Tuason and Gabby Bordado, Jr.

Guevara chased down her attacker and proceeded to kick and lock Janelle Guevara him down. Bystanders who saw the commotion called the authorities, leading to the capture of the perpetrator. The reward system of the city Government was brought out in a HE City Government thru conference meeting with the PSO and NCPO presided over by Mayor its Public Safety Office Bongat. (PSO) and the Naga City The chief executive pointed out in the conference that any TPolice Office (NCPO) individual, whether private citizen or a public servant who can catch have joined forces by providing a criminal or help in the apprehension of suspects will be rewarded incentives like rewards for citizens Php10,000 cash. Those who are able to return stolen personal items will who have helped authorities to also receive a cash reward. apprehend robbery suspects. Allen Reondanga, Information Officer of the City Government, said Last July 8, after the regular that the purpose of the program is not to encourage the residents of flag raising ceremony at the City the city to chase criminals, but to recognize their heroic deeds. Hall grounds, Mayor John Bongat, During the same flag raising ceremony, Jesus Emmanuel Guevara accompanied by city councilors and Felix Medina, both tricycle drivers, were also awarded Php3,000 and PSO Executive Director Lito cash each and certificates of recognition for returning cell phones left Del Rosario, awarded Janelle by passengers in their tricycles. Guevara, a First Year student Mayor Bongat said he believes that the reward system will work of Camarines Sur National here in controlling the city’s crime rate. High School with a certificate “I can see that the reward system is really working because of of recognition and Php10,000 these people who are setting good examples for our fellow Nagueños. cash for helping the authorities What the government needs to do here is to recognize them, but we apprehend snatchers who tried to still don’t encourage people to risk their life, for their life is much given rob her of her cell phone. importance here,” Bongat explained during the awarding rites.

24 Dozens of emergency personnel monitor the By Jason B. Neola progress of the Fluvial Procession.

VERY year in September, The main highlights of this The task of maintaining peace hundreds of thousands week-long religious activity, the and order, as well as dealing with of visitors, pilgrims and Traslacion and Fluvial Processions, the general well-being of the Edevotees – at times even the hours-long parades and other participants lie with a number reaching over a million - gather in major gatherings typically draw of agencies that include law Naga City for one big celebration: large numbers of people from all enforcement, health workers, fire the Peñafrancia Festival. walks of life and from various parts protection, sanitation or solid waste of the region and the country and management, public utilities and a a significant number of foreign host of others. tourists. Given the risk for potential Getting them to work together man-made disasters and crowd- smoothly is the function of the related problems, emergency Inter-agency Joint Operations planners and personnel work long Center (JOC) which was reactivated hours and have to be on their feet weeks before the festivities. to deal with any emergency 24/7. The reactivation took effect with Executive Order 2013-012 issued by Mayor John G. Bongat for an effective and efficient command, control, coordination, collaboration, and communication system in ensuring peaceful and orderly conduct of the celebration. Two of the important components of its operations were Communications and Health Services. Caceres Archbishop Rolando Tria-Tirona carries the holy image of Divino Rostro to the waiting pagoda in time for its journey home to Basilica Minore. 25 Communications

Employing a multi-agency approach is not easy with each agency having its own standing protocols on various matters, from details regarding operations, logistics and communications. This year, some 20 agencies worked together in a concerted effort to perform specific functions. Communication played a vital role in enhancing command and inter- operability among these agencies, serving to prevent confusion and errors. To prepare for the task, the JOC’s line agencies conducted an emergency communications drill where concerned personnel from each agency were briefed on the communications plan. The system Utilizing modern communications technology and increased police visibility, the JOC seamlessly was devised so that during an integrated the efforts of public safety and security agencies. emergency, each member of the task force knew how to send critical transceivers linked to the radio During the JOC’s operations, information properly. network of the Naga City Police the Philippine Army Signal Corps Crucial to the entire system Office, the Bureau of Fire Protection, and PNP Commel personnel is the Central Communications the Bicol Medical Center, the also mounted their own Center of the Naga City Public 27 barangays and the Kabalikat communications gear within the Safety Office which was utilized to radio group volunteers. It has a Center to improve communication serve as the “Nerve Center” of the redundant power supply system capabilities. With all the equipment 2013 Joint Operations Center. that enables it to operate even and with a carefully laid out The Central Communications during power outages. It is also the communications plan, the flow Center houses communications nerve center for a system of closed of information and relevant equipment and serves as the circuit television (CCTV) cameras data between each agency went tactical command and control mounted in strategic places within smoothly and without delay, facility. Aside from telephone the city and manned by competent enhancing inter-operability hotlines, it is fitted with an personnel which operate the center between agencies. assortment of VHF and UHF 24/7.

26 Health Services

The Health Cluster is one part of the JOC and is composed mainly by members of the health care team - nurses, physicians, emergency medical teams (EMTs), nursing students and trained first aiders from hospitals, clinics and nursing schools all over the province. Its main task is to assist guests, tourists, and pilgrims who come here for the festivities. Long before activities connected with the fiesta began, the health cluster of the JOC conducted coordination meetings to ensure that everything was in order. Plans and instructions were set and relayed to every member of the cluster. Starting with the holding of the Traslacion Procession, an advanced medical post was established at the Metropolitan Cathedral, the center of all religious activities. There were other medical posts located in different strategic areas in the city, particularly in areas where a large number of people converged, especially those along the route of the procession. Ambulances and paramedics were placed on standby in case there was a need to bring patients to the nearest hospital for further medical/ surgical intervention. The posts were in operation for 24 hours each day, with personnel assigned in shifts. Some had to stay at their assigned shift for 12 hours, depending on the time allotted to them or previously agreed upon. The health cluster functioned all throughout the holding of the fiesta, from Traslacion to the novenarios and the fluvial procession. The cluster served a total Anticipating the risk of medical emergencies, the JOC and its partner agencies set up emergency of 2,173 patients, addressing medical posts and triage centers for the duration of the Peñafrancia Festival. medical concerns as headaches, hypertension, nausea and minor After the scheduled Holy Masses, people would usually approach the wounds. Medicines were always Medical Post to have their blood pressure checked. Health education was available at the command posts also rendered to some of the clients. (With reports from Renee Absalon E. which were given free of charge. Abiada, Senior officer, Central Communication Center-Public Safety Office)

27 SUMMARY OF PATIENTS SERVED

MEDICAL TRAUMA TRANSFERRED TO DATE MINOR MAJOR MINOR MAJOR HOSPITAL TOTAL

SEPTEMBER 13 152 0 54 0 2 208 SEPTEMBER 14 124 0 1 0 0 125 SEPTEMBER 15 486 0 1 0 0 487 SEPTEMBER 16 99 0 20 0 0 119 SEPTEMBER 17 141 0 1 0 0 142 SEPTEMBER 18 109 0 0 1 1 111 SEPTEMBER 19 207 1 6 0 0 214 SEPTEMBER 20 207 0 1 0 0 208 SEPTEMBER 21 554 0 0 1 4 559

TOTAL 2,079 1 84 2 7 2,173

HEALTH CLUSTER2013

1. Bicol Medical Center - Dr. Efren Nerva 2. Bicol Sanitarium - Dr. Edgardo Sarmiento 3. Mother Seton Hospital - Sr. Ma. Linda Monzon 4. St. John Hospital - Dr. Jose Pierre Panday 5. NICC Doctor’s Hospital - Dr. Edilberto Torres 6. Bicol Access Health Centrum - Dr. Freddie Sy 7. Dr. Nilo Roa Memorial Foundation Hospital - Dr. Rhodora Roa Perez 8. Philippine National Police - PSSupt. Jose Lipa Capinpin 9. 9th Infantry Division, Philippine Army - BGen. Yerson Depayso 10. Universidad de Sta. Isabel - Sr. Lourdes Albis, D.C. 11. Ateneo de Naga - Fr. Primitivo Viray, Jr. S.J. 12. Naga College Foundation - Ms. Marguerite Michelle Hornby 13. Camarines Sur Community Colleges - Ms. Erna Claveria 14. Camarines Sur Polytechnic Colleges - Dr. Dulce Atian 15. University of Northeastern Philippines - Atty. Remelisa Moraleda 16. University of Saint Anthony - Atty. Santiago Ortega, Jr. 17. University of Nueva Caceres - Dr. Lourdes Anonas 18. Provincial Health Office - Gov. Miguel Luis Villafuerte

28 Nagueños join hands in clean up drive for Ina By Gerald O. Enguero

N preparation for the upcoming celebration of the largest Marian Engr. Joel Martin, Head of the devotion in Asia, the Peñafrancia Festival, more than 3,000 Nagueños Solid Waste Management Office joined hands in cleaning the main streets of Naga last August 31, said they were surprised by the I2013. overwhelming cooperation shown Dubbed “Rilinigan sa Naga para ki Ina,” the massive clean-up drive by the public as the activity was was participated in by more than 3,000 Nagueños: private citizens, originally intended as a City Hall members of NGOs and POs and City Hall employees, led by Mayor event. The announcement inviting John G. Bongat and Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion. It was conducted to interested individuals and members ensure a clean and orderly Naga during the month-long festivities of the of NGOs and POs was made only Peñafrancia Fiesta. two days before the event.

Firefighters from the BFP doust the steps leading up from the river dock near Basilica Minore where the image of Ina will disembark from the pagoda.

29 Taking full advantage of the fair weather, Mayor Bongat and Vice Mayor Legacion lead the effort to clear streets in Centro Naga from dirt and debris before the arrival of hundreds of thousands of devotees.

Martin revealed that shows their zealous dedication to develop and promote Naga as one of among the NGOs and POs that the most livable cities in Asia, as well as their passion and love for Ina, participated in the event were Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia,” Mayor John G. Bongat said. the Boy Scouts of the Philippines, Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion disclosed that due to the favorable Girl Scouts of the Philippines, response the city government received, plans to conduct massive clean- the Centro Naga Business Club, ups every month are being prepared. He said that this kind of activity will Association of Barangay Councils not only promote cleanliness in Naga but will also advance the quality of and Personnel, Kapisanan ng mga life and civic engagement of Nagueños. Barangay Kagawad, Gawad Kalinga “This kind of activity will also address the pressing issues on health Federation, West Environmental in the city. Through this, we can prevent incidence of dengue and other Watch Group, East Environmental diseases and, at the same time, sustain and enhance Naga’s image as one Watch Group, Senior Citizens of the most livable cities in Asia,” Vice Mayor Legacion stated. Federation, and various groups of Another massive clean-up activity was scheduled for the morning of the transport sector. September 12 in Barangay Tabuco near the Tabuco Bridge. The activity “We are very thankful for the focused on cleaning banks of the Naga River where the fluvial procession cooperation of the public. This traditionally passes.

Firefighters and volunteers join forces in cleaning Plaza Rizal and other parks and plazas in the city in preparation for this year’s Peñafrancia Festival.

30 33,788 22 Total number of Pili trees The number of trees planted under the Pilimania needed to produce project from June 2011 to oxygen for one person. November 2012.

INETY trees situated Panicuason Road. widening our roads while along the Carolina- “To avoid compromising the conserving our ecosystem can Panicuason road in this safety of motorists and pedestrians be done. I believe the same Ncity will no longer be cut and ease construction activities, can be done with the proposed in connection with a road-widening we usually request for removal road-widening project along project of the Camarines Sur 2nd of trees that are within the road Almeda Highway and that the District Engineering Office of the right-of-way. In this case, however, DPWH Regional Office in Bicol Department of Public Works and we decided to concur with the will consider the proposals we Highways (DPWH), according stakeholders and preserve the submitted to them,” said Vice to District Engineer Simplicio plants which are situated on the Mayor Nelson S. Legacion. Gonzales. shoulders of the proposed road,” Councilor Mila S.D. Raquid- Speaking before the members said Gonzales. Arroyo, meanwhile, proposed to of 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod City officials expressed relief the DPWH a possible change in last July 16, Gonzales said that due over the recent news, saying their policies and perspectives that to the strong clamor of city officials that preserving the environment they should always and primarily and other stakeholders in the city, should always be considered in any consider in their programs the his office has decided to pursue developmental programs of the preservation of the environment, the project while preserving the 90 national and local governments. with or without a clamor from the trees standing along the Carolina- “We are glad to note that stakeholders.

31 Naga backs cong. Leni’s full disclosure bill By Gerald O. Enguero

in eliminating graft and corruption documents should be disclosed and cutting down red tape not only with or without request from an in local governments but also in individual or any entity through national agencies and government- posting in conspicuous places owned and controlled corporations within public buildings, printed (GOCCs). media of general circulation, and “House Bill No. 21 of in official websites of the agencies, Congresswoman Robredo seeks offices and instrumentalities to institutionalize and, at the concerned. same time, widen the scope of “This will allow our people to the Department of the Interior access the data at any time without and Local Government’s (DILG) the burden of technicalities and N a bid to promote Memorandum Circular No. 2010- bureaucracy. Government funds are transparency and accountability 83 issued by then Secretary Jesse hard-earned money of the people in the whole country, this city, Robredo. The circular orders all that should be spent judiciously Iwidely recognized as a success LGUs and DILG regional offices and for the common good,” story of local good governance, to report their finances and bids Robredo explained. through the city council, approved and public offerings, which, in House Bill No. 21 also a resolution endorsing the passing turn, form part and parcel of provides that, in case of violation into law of the Full Disclosure the late secretary’s Seal of Good of said measure, the head of the Bill by Camarines Sur 3rd District Housekeeping program,” Legacion departments, bureaus, agencies Representative Ma. Leonor G. stated. and/or local government units will Robredo. “The Full Disclosure Bill (FDB) be held accountable and will be In its 5th Regular Session is distinguished from the Freedom penalized by a fine of Five Hundred on August 6, the members of of Information Bill (FOI) in several Thousand Pesos (Php500,000.00). the Sangguniang Panlungsod ways. For instance, disclosure in “By imposing hefty fines, the of Naga jointly and collectively the FDB is mandatory, while in FOI, bill can compel all government adopted Resolution No. 2013-187, information can only be obtained entities to comply with the law. If introduced by Councilor Gabriel through a request,” he added. we could have our way though, we H. Bordado Jr., expressing Naga’s Robredo filed House Bill No. recommend that heavier penalties unconditional support for the 21 on July 1, her first day in the be imposed, such as making immediate passage of the Full House of Representatives. Under violations of said law a ground for Disclosure Bill. the said measure, national and local dismissal of the chief of office and/ The resolution also seeks the governments and even GOCCs are or providing that non-compliance help of various local government mandated to disclose the following: with the law is a criminal offense organizations, such as the League annual budget, budget execution leading to imprisonment of the of Municipalities and the League documents, accountability reports, head of office,” commented of Cities of the Philippines, in procurement plan, invitation to Legacion. encouraging all local government bid, annual financial statements, “Nevertheless, the City units to pass the same “in the name consolidated bi-annual financial Government of Naga firmly believes of transparency and accountability.” and narrative accomplishment that the proposed legislative According to Vice Mayor reports, agency issuances and local measure should really be passed Nelson S. Legacion, the said ordinances, and other documents into law if we indeed want to resolution of the Sanggunian and information required to be realize the Tuwid na Daan vision aims to strategically advance the made available to the public by law. of President Noynoy Aquino,” he advocacy of Naga and its people The aforementioned added.

32 By VICE MAYOR NELSON S. LEGACION

OR our economic development and social progress to be sustainable and inclusive, empowering and engaging the people in running the affairs of the city is vital. We believe that the most significant factor in attaining, sustaining and improving our Maogmang Lugar is a happy, proud and empowered citizenry F– Nagueños who practice the essence of democracy not just through casting ballots but also in being participative and proactive in realizing their aspirations for themselves, their families and, most especially, for the city they love. Indeed, much of our triumphs are due to our collective efforts. We are now known both nationally and internationally as a center of transparent and participatory local governance. Our projects, programs and policies are being praised by other local government units not just because of their effectiveness and efficiency in achieving their respective goals and objectives, but also due to the strong partnership between the public and private sectors before and during their implementation. With this, as well as in accordance with the H2ELP your CiTy agenda of our City Mayor John G. Bongat, the 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga has hit the ground running at the very start of its term in creating more platforms for our people to be informed and be engaged in governance and development of our city.

FACEBOOK.COM/ Highway and along Panicuason-Carolina Road, a SPNAGACITY thorough analysis of the comments and dialogues that went on the popular social media platform led us As new technology to a conclusion that, indeed, most of Nagueños are in provides us more and favor of preserving the environment and of seeking easier avenues for environment-friendly alternatives to solve traffic engaging the people, congestion in the city. the Sangguniang As representatives of the people, we are tasked Panlungsod of Naga to understand and promote the dispositions and decided on July 2, interests of Nagueños in all issues. Hence, we bravely 2013, the date of stood against the national government’s plans and its 1st Regular Session, to create its own Facebook proactively filed counter-proposals that we believe will page, facebook.com/spnagacity. The popularity and, provide a win-win solution for all stakeholders. for some, necessity of Facebook nowadays prompt facebook.com/spnagacity can also be used us to tap this tool for informing and engaging our as a venue for soliciting comments and obtaining people. It also provides a cheap and efficient method suggestions for new ordinances, improvement to notify and connect with Nagueños real time. of existing ones and enhancement of proposed Through this initiative, the SP aims to immediately legislations. Through this, every citizen of Naga now inform the public of the ordinances and resolutions has a power to lobby and push for concrete and being proposed and promulgated in the Sangguniang sustainable reforms which are close to their hearts Panlungsod, and, at the same time, empower them and highly relevant to their everyday lives. to participate in the policy- and decision-making We believe that the masses are the ones processes of the city government. immediately and extremely affected by the law. It Via facebook.com/spnagacity, we can gather, in is, therefore, only fitting that they fully comprehend a quick and cheaper way, the views of the public with the law to be able to debate on it and participate regard to various issues that directly affect them and in its modification and approval. This is in line with their children, the next generation of Nagueños. For the spirit of what our beloved President Ramon instance, on the latest issue of the cutting of trees Magsaysay said that “He who has less in life should for the benefit of road-widening along Maharlika have more in law.”

33 regional newspaper, Bicol Mail, to provide us with the column, SP Highlights, which aims to apprise the public of our undertakings in the Sangguniang Panlungsod. In here, we aim to provide our fellow Nagueños the highlights of every regular session of the Sanggunian. For those who want to watch the whole proceeding of our sessions, Sky Cable TV 6 is broadcasting them live every Tuesday, from 8:30 a.m. to 12 n.n. A replay is also scheduled every evening of Tuesday. As for music lovers and radio aficionados, we have developed radio advertisements that aim to inform them of our programs and projects that have direct impact and concrete benefits to them. In this endeavour, Though Facebook is an appealing, efficient and we have engaged the student-broadcasters of Naga modern tool for connecting with the Nagueños, City Science High School in the recording of these even those who are abroad, we know, however, commercials. We believe that engaging students that such method is not enough to reach all of our in our campaign will hone further their skills in citizenry and promote comprehensive inclusiveness broadcasting, develop their patriotism and love for our and participation. There are still Nagueños who do country and our city, as well as provide them a good not have access to the internet and would prefer avenue to contribute to our efforts in nation-building. the traditional means of reporting and information These radio commercials will be aired in DWKM and dissemination. Therefore, the Sangguniang Panlungsod DZGE five times a day. There will be different radio of Naga has left no stone unturned and has engaged commercials per month depending on the issues and various media partners to provide the people with the programs being prioritized in a certain month so as to information they need through all methods possible. ensure that information being given to the public are For avid readers, we have partnered with the timely, relevant and responsive to their needs.

We are also planning to publish primers and other forms of publications which will contain specific details on how our citizenry can avail of the programs of the city government. Through these, the people can maximize the uses of their privileges NEXT and utilize such to improve their socio-economic status, thereby reducing the poverty incidence in STEPS Naga and making the city a truly Maogmang Lugar. Specific requirements and necessary processes to be Our satisfied before one can avail of his/her benefits will transparency also be included in order to further cut red tape and and people- completely shun what little is left of the patronage empowerment system in Naga. initiatives do not All our transparency and people-empowerment stop here, however. initiatives are concrete manifestations of our belief Our next steps include the updating and redesigning that the city government, including its policies, of our web pages on naga.gov.ph. We are confident programs and projects, should always be “of the that by enhancing our pages and making them more people, by the people and for the people.” Of user-friendly and more interactive, we can maximize the people because Nagueños should always their potentials in delivering up-to-date information, have ownership of all the undertakings of the city sustaining our good governance principles, bridging government; by the people because each and the digital divide between the poor and rich, and, everyone of us should participate and offer a stake most especially, in improving our people’s access in H2ELPing our CiTy become a model society that to government services, especially the benefits and we want it to be; and, lastly, for the people, as all the programs specified under specific provisions of the consequences of our collective efforts will always law. redound on us. 34 Naga’s Sanggunian launches own Facebook page

Students of the Naga City Science High School browse the Sanggunian Panlungsod’s Facebook page, the latest addition to an array of social media accounts of the City Government.

“Through social media, we HE 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga can also gather, in a quick and launched on July 16 cheaper way, the views of the T(Tuesday), its own Facebook public with regard to various page, facebook.com/spnagacity, as a way to intensify its transparency issues that directly affect them and engagement initiatives. and their children.” Making use of the latest technology to connect and empower Nagueños, the Facebook page features the latest ordinances, “Our Facebook page can be used as a venue for soliciting resolutions, programs, activities and comments and suggestions for new ordinances, improvement of announcements of the Sanggunian. existing ones, and enhancement of proposed legislations. Through It will also serve as a platform for this, every citizen of Naga has a power to lobby and push for concrete constituents to send feedback to and sustainable reforms which are close to their hearts and highly the city council. relevant to their everyday lives,” said Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion.

35 Above: A screenshot of the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s Facebook page features the oath-taking ceremony picture of the new council.

“Through social media, we “As always, our direction, as provided Below: can also gather, in a quick and by Mayor John G. Bongat, is to curb Under the leadership of Mayor Bongat and with cheaper way, the views of the poverty, improve lives and enhance our Vice Mayor Legacion at the public with regard to various issues governance mechanisms through transparent, helm of the Sanggunian, the city is on track to that directly affect them and their participatory and development-oriented achieve its goals. children,” added Legacion. programs,” Legacion stated. According to the information on the Facebook page, it was created on July 2 in time for the 1st Regular Session of the 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod. Legacion said that this initiative can further bridge the digital divide between the poor and the rich as well as empower every individual to participate in the policy-making processes of the city government, thereby, assuring that the policies of the city are highly responsive to the needs of the marginalized.

36 In addition to new facilities, the Sangguniang Panlungsod has vowed to enact more pro-poor policies and legislation. By Paul John F. Barrosa

ITH a new Sangguniang Panlungsod Session Hall and offices as well as a new set of legislators, the 11th Sangguniang WPanlungsod of Naga under its new leader, Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion, pledged to push for reforms more efficiently and more openly. In his inaugural speech on June 29 at The Tent, Avenue Plaza Hotel, Legacion said that the SP’s performance will be measured on two key points: promptness to pass sound legislations; and capacity to pass “welfare legislations.” For the first one, the city council has already set in motion the conduct of paperless sessions through full computerization of its system. The new Sanggunian Panlungsod Session Hall, which was inaugurated on July 2, showcases computers in individual tables of the councilors as well as state-of-the-art audio-visual equipment. Codification of ordinances is also intended to be done “to ensure a more systematic arrangement of law” in Naga. Meanwhile, as for delivery of welfare legislations, Legacion said that the SP intends to achieve this by engaging the people to participate in policy-making. “Bringing legislation into the realm and consciousness of the masses is clearly one of our major Mayor Bongat and Vice Mayor Legacion unveil the new plaque for the priorities. With a wider and more welcoming session renovated session hall and legislative offices. hall and offices of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, more members of the public and press can be accommodated. A greater number of audiences can observe and “We started as a team and we shall continue as participate in the deliberations and debates of the a team. Though there is a clear separation of power Sanggunian,” he said. between the executive and the legislative, we shall Mayor John G. Bongat expressed support to these always support each other for the betterment of the new initiatives of the city council. city and our constituents,” Bongat said.

37 Bongat receives tourism award for Naga

By Gerald O. Enguero

MNDC and ACTO under the Naga X TOP PHOTO: Alec Santos, ACTO Chief and Sieglinde Bulaong, MNDC Executive Director, project. receive the Gayon Bicol Award in behalf of Naga was declared a Pilgrim Mayor Bongat during the 1st Bicol Regional Tourism Summit. City by President Benigno S. Aquino by virtue of an executive Left: Mayor Bongat poses beside Malabsay order issued in 2010, which Falls during an inspection of the famous coincided with the celebration waterfall. of 300 years of devotion to Our Tourism Office (ACTO) chief Lady of Peñafrancia. As home to Alec Santos and Metro Naga the miraculous image of “Ina” EGAZPI CITY (Sept. 26) – Development Council (MNDC) (mother), the Bicolanos’ term of The Department of Tourism Executive Director Sieglinde endearment to the Blessed Virgin, (DOT) Bicol Regional Office Bulaong received the award from Naga is visited by more than Lpresented Naga City its Regional Director Maria Ravanilla a million pilgrims and tourists first-ever tourism-related award in in behalf of Mayor Bongat at the every September. To ensure the recognition of its being a Pilgrims’ Oriental Legazpi Hotel. safety and comfort of guests and City during the Gayon Bicol Tourism The Avenue Plaza Hotel, one devotees, the City Government, Awards, as part of the two-day of Naga’s premiere hotels, was under Mayor Bongat’s directive, Bicol Regional Tourism Summit. also recognized for its high-quality established the first Peñafrancia Naga City Mayor John services and standards by the Inter-agency Task Force and the G. Bongat was recognized as DOT. The tourism establishment Joint Operations Center (JOC) in a tourism champion for the is an active member of the Naga 2010, consolidating the functions City Government’s policies, Excursions (Naga X) consortium, and efforts of various government programs and projects on tourism an alliance of tourism-related and church organizations and development. Arts, Culture and enterprises organized by the agencies.

38 Mayor Bongat spearheads the development of new tourism products in Metro Naga: Mt. Isarog National Park and Naga River Cruise.

The first-ever Gayon Bicol Awards recognized Tourism Champions like Mayor Bongat for their roles in tourism The Avenue Plaza Hotel, one of Naga’s best hotels and represented by its President Alan Cu (center), Paul Dichoso (left), development and management. and Apple Perez (right), also received recognition from the DOT for its excellence in customer service.

The DOT also considers Naga as “tourist service center,” a hub of amenities and facilities like hotels, restaurants, tour operators, and resorts. This distinction and the presence of modern amenities and lifestyle centers have led to an increase in tourist arrivals in the city with corresponding increase in tourism revenues. Naga is also considered the gateway to the world-famous Caramoan islands and is 15 minutes away from the CamSur Watersports Complex (CWC) in the adjacent town of Pili. Mayor Bongat also sits as the chairman of the MNDC, an alliance of 15 towns with Naga City at its core. The MNDC is currently implementing Naga Excursions, or Naga X, a tourism-focused developmental project which aims to organize, develop and market attractions in Metro Naga in close cooperation with local government units and members of the private sector.

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