JOHN G. BONGAT JASON B. NEOLA City Mayor Senior Writer Vol. 6, No. 3 | July - September 2014 NELSON S. LEGACION City Vice Mayor RAFAEL RACSO V. VITAN A Quarterly Magazine of the Layout and Design City Government of Naga Bicol, SIEGLINDE BORROMEO-BULAONG ANSELMO B. MAÑO ISSN 2094-9383 Editor Website Administrator

The ROTUNDA at Concepcion Pequeña welcomes all guests and weary travellers coming from and going to all the four directions leading to the City with the warm and environment-friendly topiary image of the Virgin of Peñafrancia, Patroness of Bicolandia! This magazine is published FLORENCIO T. MONGOSO, JR. JOSE B. PEREZ by the City Government of REUEL M. OLIVER ALLEN L. REONDANGA Naga, thru the Ciy Publication Editorial Consultants PAUL JOHN F. BARROSA Office and the City Events, Technical Advisers Protocol and Public Information Office, JOSE V. COLLERA with editorial office at City Hall Compound, XERES RAMON A. GAGERO ALDO NIÑO I. RUIVIVAR J. Miranda Avenue, Naga City SYLRANJELVIC C. VILLAFLOR MAUREEN S. ROJO 4400 Philippines Photographers Staff Assistants Tel: +63 54 472-2136 Email: [email protected] Web: www.naga.gov.ph TABLE OF CONTENTS

COVER STORY 3 NAGA -- PH’s 3RD MOST COMPETITIVE CITY; NO.1 IN GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY THE PASSING OF A BELOVED 6 FLAGS AT HALF-STAFF FOR ARCHBISHOP LEGASPI

7 MAYOR’S TRIBUTE 9 THE NEW ARCHBISHOP’S LIFE OF SERVICE The “Naga SMILES to the World” logo is composed of the two PEÑAFRANCIA FESTIVAL/TOURISM baybayin characters, na and ga. 10 FIESTA! A MOSAIC OF COLORFUL EVENTS

Na, shaped like a mountain, P MISS BICOLANDIA 2014 provides a strong foundation for the P TRASLACION Narra tree which grew abundantly P 2ND REGIONAL BAND/MAJORETTE/FANCY DRILL COMPETITION along the Naga River while a zigzag P REGIONAL BSP/GSP PARADE line denotes the majestic Malabsay P CIVIC PARADE AND FLOAT COMPETITION Falls. P PEÑAFRANCIA VOYADORES FESTIVAL P REGIONAL MILITARY PARADE Ga, shaped like a farmer’s plow, P REGATTA 2014 is symbolic of the Nagueño’s P FLUVIAL PROCESSION agricultural roots and hardworking P 2ND REGIONAL CHEER DANCE COMPETITION personality. P PEÑAFRANCIA LONG BOARD FESTIVAL P TATTOO ART & SKATE FESTIVAL The baybayin Naga characters SHORT FILM FESTIVAL BRINGS OUT FACETS OF BICOL’S FAITH rest on a wave-like element which 25 represents the Naga River and the JOINT OPERATION CENTER ENSURES PEACEFUL, ORDERLY 28 AND SOLEMN PEÑAFRANCIA FIESTA serpent, which is read in Sanskrit as naga. 29 10 REASONS WHY I LOVE NAGA PEÑAFRANCIA: THE FESTIVAL OF FESTIVALS This new branding for Naga, 31 launched in 2010 by the dynamic Bongat administration, envisions a GOVERNANCE, ADVOCACY AND DEVELOPMENT more livable city that is world-class. 33 LENI FILES BILL CEMENTING ROBREDO LEGACY 34 MNDC INITIATES GENDER RESPONSIVENESS IN LOCAL GOVERNANCE NCCWPC: INITIATIVES AND INNOVATIONS DO NOT STOP IN SERVING THE 35 INTEREST OF CHILDREN 1 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014

TABLE OF CONTENTS

37 RDC OKs NAGA AIRPORT DEVELOPMENT 39 NAGA RIVER TRANSPORT SYSTEM LAUNCHED 41 IN FOCUS: CITY OF NAGA POWER COMMISSION 43 INFOBOARD BOOSTS GOVERNANCE EFFICIENCY TARGETS

LEGISLATION The “An Maogmang Lugar“ logo is an attempt to capture Naga as we want it to be – a city that is progressive and yet LEGACION KEYNOTES SANGGUNIAN SECRETARIES BOARD MEETING, WORKSHOP 44 environment-friendly, where the people NAGUEÑOS IN THE WAKE OF TYPHOON GLENDA freely participate in the day-to-day affairs 45 of the government, and where culture and 47 SP PASSES MEASURE TO MAKE SURE EVENTS START ON TIME arts are flourishing. TRIUMPHS IN HEALTH AND NUTRITION 49 The stylized design of “NAGA” represents the city’s aggressive march towards BUSINESS, AGRICULTURE modernization and progress. The sky-blue AND ENVIRONMENT background, the Narra tree, and the Naga River represent our people’s desire for an 50 10TH BICOL BUSINESS WEEK ecologically-balanced community. 2014 HALYAO AWARDEES HONORED 53 The ring of people surrounding the entire PANICUASON CORN FARMER WINS ‘GAWAD SAKA’ REGIONAL AWARD design shows the Nagueños’ participatory 57 mechanism which is part and parcel of 59 NAGA’S GREEN AND FLOWER PROGRAM the city’s way of doing things. It also shows the people’s concern and unity in CCTV, COMPUTERIZATION AND 5S AT NAGA CITY PEOPLE’S MALL 61 everything that is good for the city. CITY HALL PROVIDES EMERGENCY JOBS TO TYPHOON VICTIMS 63 Today, the city, as Maogmang Lugar, aims to portray more than a happy place but a BEST PRACTICES/REGIONAL RELATIONS happy people who are the true beneficiaries of everything good that is happening in the NAGA’S E-GOVERNANCE VOTED ‘BEST OF THE BEST’ IN SINGAPORE FESTIVAL 64 city. SPORTS 65 9,000 RUNNERS HIT MILO MARATHON NAGA ELIMINATION JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 2 Naga -- PH’s 3rd most competitive city; No. 1 in government efficiency

By JOSE B. PEREZ

ROM No. 9 in 2013, The Philippine Chamber the City of Naga of Commerce and Industry, leapfrogged to No. 3 thru the Metro Naga Chamber in the ranking of the of Commerce and Industry, most competitive honored the City of Naga and cities throughout the Municipality of Daet for the the country, an prestigious awards and citations impressive performance that they just received for being among gained so much respect and the most competitive and dynamic Fcommendation from both the LGUs in the country in their business sector here and the respective categories. general public. The Cities and Municipalities Daet in Camarines Norte, Competitiveness Index (CMCI) is meanwhile, maintained its No. an annual ranking of Philippine 1 spot as the most competitive cities and municipalities developed municipality based on an by the National Competitiveness index that ranked cities and Council (NCC), together with municipalities throughout the the Regional Competitiveness country. Committees (RCCs), with the assistance of the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). City Mayor John G. Bongat, who just returned home fresh from a governance forum in Singapore, received the award during ceremonies held in The Cities and on August 7. Municipalities Competitiveness Index

is an annual ranking of Philippine cities and municipalities developed by the National Competitiveness Council, through the Regional Competitiveness Committees (RCCs), with the assistance of the United States Agency for International Development.

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PHOTO BY jose v. collera

The CMCI measures Mr. Guillermo M. Luz, (), and Kalibo (Aklan), in that competitiveness at the local co-chairperson of the NCC, order. government level using 28 explained that the scores for Luz said it is important for all indicators grouped into three economic dynamism are based stakeholders to work together to equally-weighted pillars: Economic on the size and growth of the build cities and municipalities that Dynamism, Government Efficiency, local economy; capacity to are affordable, accessible, socially and Infrastructure. Scores on each generate employment; cost of acceptable, environmentally pillar were combined to form the living; cost of doing business; friendly, economically viable, overall score used to rank cities and financial deepening; productivity; climate-resilient, and competitive. municipalities. and presence of business and “In this way, they will be able to This year’s CMCI featured professional organizations. attract the right businesses to their 136 cities and 399 municipalities, Naga City this year ranked city or municipality.’’ up from 122 cities and 163 No. 1 in government efficiency, He also underscored that municipalities in 2013. Makati City followed by Iloilo City and Angeles what makes the index more was adjudged the most competitive City in . significant is that it is not based on city, followed by de Oro Government efficiency public opinion surveys or boards City, with scores of 53.24% and was measured from data on of judges. “It is based solely on 49.36%, respectively, where Naga transparency scores, economic statistics and data collected per scored 49.08% in the overall cities governance scores, local taxes and LGU. We have tried to remove as ranking. revenues, local competition-related much subjectivity as possible in The other 7 cities in the Top awards, business registration any selection,” he added. Ten are: Davao (47.72%), Marikina efficiency, investment promotion, The results highlight the (45.47%), Iloilo City (45.00%), compliance to national directives, importance of being competitive City (43.69%), Manila (43.15%), health, and education. in several factors, especially those Valenzuela (43.02%), and Paranaque In the infrastructure category, which are closely examined by (42.70%). Naga City fell from No.1 in 2013 to potential investors. It should be It will be noted that in the No. 18 this year. The top cities in noted that the top three cities overall ranking, five cities from this category are Davao, Cagayan and municipalities for overall Metro Manila, two from the de Oro, and Marikina. competitiveness also received at Visayas, two from Mindanao, and Infrastructure scores were least one award in a category. only one from Bicol and the rest of measured using data on existing The CMCI was designed to made it to the Top Ten. Iriga road network, distance from encourage local governments to City in Camarines Sur was ranked the city center to major ports, regularly track data and eventually No. 17 overall. health infrastructure, education benchmark performance against In terms of economic infrastructure, and basic utilities, other cities in the ASEAN to better dynamism, Parañaque, Makati, and among others. manage their regions. Manila took the top posts for cities. The most competitive Naga City was ranked 4th in this municipalities were Daet category where it was not in the (Camarines Norte), General Trias Top Ten in 2013.

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Flags in city fly at half-staff for Archbishop Legaspi, 76

ITY Mayor John G. Bongat on August 11 issued Proclamation No. 2014-005 declaring August 11-13, 2014 as days of mourning over the passing of Caceres Archbishop Emeritus Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P., D.D. As directed by the same proclamation, the Cnational flag in all public offices, buildings, and installations in Naga City were flown at half-staff from sunrise to sunset on August 12, 2014. Archbishop Emeritus Legaspi whole of Bicolandia, being the primate passed away at 5:00 o’clock in the emeritus of the Bicol Region. He was also morning of August 8 at the UST instrumental in deepening the devotion to Hospital in Manila. His death coincided our ‘Ina,’ Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia, with the 37th anniversary of his patroness of Bicol. episcopal ordination and the feast day Born in Bulacan by Tagalog of St. Dominic of Guzman, the founder parents, the archbishop was conferred of the to which he belonged. upon his retirement the singular title His body was brought to Naga via Legazpi of “The Beloved Honorary Nagueño” airport on August 11 for vigil by his parishioners by virtue of Sangguniang Resolution until the early morning of August 13, when it No. 2012-408 for his distinguished was flown back to Manila and stayed there until service to the City of Naga and for his interment at the Santuario de Sto. Domingo in exemplary leadership in bringing the Manila on August 15. faithful closer to God, through ‘Ina.’ Reverend Monsignor Legaspi was “I earnestly request the people to assemble appointed Archbishop of Caceres at … in their respective places of divine worship the age of 47 on October 20, 1983 and to bow their heads in submission to the will of retired on September 8, 2012 at age 76 the Almighty God, and to pay their homage of which spanned 28 years of continuous love and reverence to the memory of a great service to the Catholic faithful of Naga and good man,” Mayor Bongat stated in his City and the Bicol Region. He had been known proclamation even as he invited “the people who for contributing immensely to the growth of the share our grief to join us in this day of mourning.” Catholic faith within the Archdiocese and the

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 6 By MAYOR JOHN G. BONGAT City Mayor intercession of our Patroness, Nuestra Vatican, through Pope John Paul II, that Señora de Peñafrancia. the title “Basilica Minore” be granted Most Rev. Rolando Tria As the Archbishop of Caceres, to the church of “Nuestra Señora de Tirona, Archbishop of he was the Primate Emeritus of the Peñafrancia” in Balatas, Naga City. Caceres, the family, relatives whole Bicol Region. To have a basilica in Naga is to and friends of Archbishop When he was installed as our have the Pope in Naga, for the basilica Emeritus Most Rev. Leonardo Archbishop on January 18, 1984, is the official church of the Pope. It Legaspi, Members of the many were awed by his superior is a rare privilege for us Bicolanos, Clergy, Provincial Officials credentials, including that of being because there are only a few basilicas headed by Governor Migz the first Filipino Rector Magnificus of in the country and throughout the Villafuerte, Members of the the Pontifical and Royal University of Christian world. For that, we are most Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) Sto. Tomas and later as Titular Bishop grateful to our Archbishop Emeritus of of Naga headed by Vice Mayor of Elefantaria in Mauritania and as Caceres, the Most Reverend Leonardo Nelson Legacion, ladies and Auxiliary Bishop of Manila, among Z. Legaspi. gentlemen, maray na banggi others. Much has been said about the po saindo gabos. Archbishop Leonardo Zamora man. He was a father to all of us, a Legaspi was indeed too big for his teacher and pastor, too, to all those assignment in the rural Archdiocese within the Archdiocese. He was our t is a great coincidence, of Caceres. Physically, he was 6 feet shining light that gave justice to his which the heavens may have tall with too big a heart that made motto, “Illuminare Omnes,” or “A Light so designed, that the good us in the Archdiocese so blessed and to All,” as he inspired and brought us archbishop should say goodbye grateful. The children thought he was even closer to our Ina, Our Lady of on August 8, 2014, the feast of Christopher Reeve, or Superman, in Peñafrancia, and to her Son, through St. Dominic of Guzman and incidentally, priest’s clothes. Well, they were not the devotion to the El Divino Rostro. Ihis 37th episcopal anniversary. You will wrong, because he proved he was. My chance to work closely all definitely agree with me that Arch. Perhaps not many know that and personally with our beloved Legaspi left us peacefully. Why should he was one of the Ten Outstanding Archbishop began when I assumed he not, one good reason I can think of, Young Men of the Philippines office as Mayor of Naga City in is his being bestowed the singular title awardees in 1974. His other awards 2010. Through an executive order, I of “The Beloved Honorary Nagueño” by include the Rizal Pro Patria Award constituted the Naga City Peñafrancia virtue of SP Resolution No. 2012-408 and the International Association Executive Committee Inter-Agency issued on September 8, 2012. of University Presidents Award Task Group and the Unified Emergency While in mourning and great which he received in 1975 and 1976, Joint Operations Center. During that sorrow, I am honored and privileged respectively, when he was still a very time, the Archdiocese and the city to be given this chance to say a few young man given the privilege to were so excited and busy preparing for words before I bid goodbye to our hold high positions in the church the tercentenary of Ina, the Patroness dear Archbishop. He was our guide and hierarchy and academe. of Bicolandia. It was the grandest of spiritual leader, who for 28 years had On the first year of his the Peñafrancia celebrations that we placed us-- his parishioners-- under the installation here, Archbishop Legaspi’s made sure it was conducted peacefully loving Grace of God Almighty, with the first major act was to petition the and orderly despite the large volume

7 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 of pilgrims, tourists and prominent for our dearest Mother, our Ina.” It was on September 8, 2012 guests that included the Papal Nuncio. But in 2012, right after the fiesta, that Pope Benedict XVI accepted his Every September thereafter, the the good Archbishop was so elated retirement as Metropolitan Archbishop inter-agency committee, now better that he tendered a party for all the of Caceres. known as the Joint Operations Center, members of the Joint Operations Undeniably, his eminent reign had would be reconstituted to ensure the Center. He was so happy in the contributed immensely to the expansive safety and convenience of visitors and middle of the celebration that he growth of the Catholic faith not only pilgrims, as well as the host parishioners asked me and then Vice Mayor Gabby in Bicolandia but in the entire nation themselves. Bordado to dance with the performing as well. He was two-time president of The JOC thus develops and University of Nueva Caceres (UNC) the Catholic Bishops Conference of the enforces command, control, Glee Club and be merry. And so we Philippines, in 1975-77 and 1988-1991. coordination, collaboration, and smooth As our father, he always implored communication systems that would us to love Our Lady of Peñafrancia, spell a very successful and peaceful the Mother of God, the Patroness of Peñafrancia fiesta. At the head of this My chance to Bicolandia. We call her our Ina, he said, Joint Operations Center are yours truly for she protects us and walks with us at and the good Archbishop himself who ‘‘work closely and all times-- in peace and in times of tears was ably represented by his appointed and calamities. Indeed, it is Ina’s loving parish priests and key personnel at the personally with our providence through the years that Archdiocese. beloved Archbishop makes us survive as children of God. Apart from its collaboration As his grateful flock, we promise with the task force that was mainly began when I to keep the legacy and good teachings composed of representatives from that the good Archbishop left behind. public and private agencies, including assumed office as We shall nurture them and pass them on the uniformed personnel, Archbishop to our children because he will always Legaspi also created committees to relay Mayor of Naga be part of our history, our lives and our to the people the significance of the City in 2010. hearts. religious events over commercialization, Farewell, our dear Archbishop. You including the declaration of Naga as are now with the Lord. We know you will the Pilgrim City of the Philippines, an continue to pray for us, especially now unprecedented move that officially danced, for lack of choice of’’ course, that you are up there with our Creator. capped our over 300 years of religious very much to the delight of the good With your eternal love and guidance, culture and history. Archbishop, though it was very much may the Pilgrim City of Naga that you At the conclusion of the fiesta, the against our will. Everybody laughed helped build continue to remain safe Archbishop would thank us and all the and clapped their hands, including the and blessed, now in the able hands of members of the Joint Operations Center Archbishop. We forgot that by that Most Rev. Rolando Octavus J. Tria Tirona. for a job well done. He would tell us that time the good Archbishop was only a No, we will not miss you. You will forever “with our coordinated efforts for the few days about to retire, after 28 years remain in our hearts. success of the Peñafrancia celebration, of service to God and his Bicolano Viva la Virgen! we have once more expressed our love parishioners.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 8 MOST REV.ROLANDO OCTAVUS TRIA TIRONA Archbishop at 68: A life of service

N the morning of November On July 22, 2014, Caceres degree in Political Science at the San 14, 2012, the bells chimed Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona Beda College Manila in 1965. He then a joyful tune, accompanied celebrated his sixty-eighth birthday pursued priesthood by entering the by fireworks as more than with priests of the Archdiocese offering San Carlos Seminary in Makati. At 20, 200 priests filed into the masses for him and conducting tree he professed his vows to the Order Naga Metropolitan Cathedral planting activities in the Rinconada and of Discalced Carmelites and in 1970, followed by bishops, with Partido areas of Caceres. obtained his degree in Theology at the Most. Rev. Leonardo Z. Legaspi, O.P., According to Archbishop Rolly, it Carmelite Monastery in Haifa, Israel. D.D. at the end of the line holding was a fitting offering to Mother Nature On April 21, 1974, after studying in Ihis miter and staff, symbols of his after the destructive typhoon Glenda. Rome, he was ordained a priest. possession of the Archdiocese of The day was spent by the Archbishop in He became a Bishop at the age Caceres. thanksgiving for the gift of life. A mass of 48. But Archbishop Rolly, as he is As the procession went up the was also held at the Cathedral with the fondly called, does not see his position altar, the faithful whose number clergy. as a source of power but as a means to literally burst the cathedral to its Archbishop Tirona’s 68 years are full serve. A walking example of a servant seams, clapped their hands. Even those of life, meaning, and love. Born on the leader, Tirona has been assigned in outside who found shade in tents set feast day of Mary Magdalene, Tirona is Manila, Malolos (Bulacan), and Infanta, for the occasion, joined the applause the youngest of eight siblings. Thus, the before being appointed by His Holiness given to the outgoing Archbishop. second name Octavus, the Latin word Benedict XVI as the 4th Archbishop and To the left of the altar, Msgr. Legaspi for eight. Unlike others, he did not hear 34th Bishop of Caceres, succeeding His positioned himself for the last several the call to priesthood at an early age. Grace, Most Rev. Leonardo Legaspi, O.P. seconds as Archbishop of Caceres. At He went to College first and obtained a D.D. on September 8, 2012. the right was his successor, the Most In his TV Program “Kumusta Rev. Rolando Octavus Joven Tria Tirona. po Bishop”, he thanked all those who prayed for him and sent their greetings. He said “life is indeed a blessing from God. It becomes more meaningful and joyful if spent in love and service.” He thanked all those who continue to support his pastoral ministry, and promised that he will continue to serve the people entrusted to him by God. On his second year in the Archdiocese, he has already captured the hearts of his faithful for his love for the poor, his down-to-earth homilies and pastoral care to his flock in Caceres.

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Fiesta ! Once a purely religious rite of thanksgiving and praise more than three hundred years ago, the Peñafrancia festivities quickly evolved into a leitmotif that portends not only a week of religious enthusiasm and piety but also a colorful mosaic of variant socio-economic and historico-cultural activities that expand the celebration to more days of fun, food, music and revelry. Every town and city in the Philippines has a fiesta of its own; at any time, there is sure to be a fiesta going on somewhere. But it is only in Naga, in the heart of Bicol, that we have the Peñafrancia fiesta– the biggest Marian Festival in the whole of Asia! As in the previous celebrations, the following pages will retell this year’s edition of Bicol’s biggest and only regional fiesta. Because every picture paints a thousand words, we see that any textual description or caption will be moot, and therefore, unnecessary. jbp

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 10 SEPT. 11 BICOLANDIAM ISS 2014 7PM JESSE M. ROBREDO COLISEUM

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PHOTO BY CORKY LIM

PHOTO BY CORKY LIM

SEPT. 12

PROCESSIONT RASLACION 1PM MAJOR STREETS

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PRD DXMC PARADE R EGIONAL BSP/GSP 7AM PLAZAQUEZON SEPT. 17 JULY -SEPTEMBER 2014

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PHOTO BY MILES SAMANIEGO PHOTO BY MILES SAMANIEGO SEPT. 18 C IVIC PARADE & FLOAT COMPETITION7AM PLAZA QUEZON

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SEPT. 18 P EÑAFRANCIA VOYADORES FESTIVAL3PM PLAZA QUEZON

PHOTO BY XERES GAGER0 PHOTO BY MILES SAMANIEGO

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PHOTO BY MILES SAMANIEGO sylranjelvic villaflor BY sylranjelvic PHOTO PHOTO BY MILES SAMANIEGO JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 18 >> PHOTO BY sylranjelvic villaflor PHOTO BY JOSe COLLERA

SEPT. 19 R EGIONAL MILITARY PARADE7AM PLAZA QUEZON

PHOTO BY JOSE COLLERA

PHOTO BY JOSE COLLERA PHOTO BY sylranjelvic villaflor

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SEPT. 20 R EGATTA 8AM2014 NAGA RIVER PHOTOS BY XERES gagero PHOTOS

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 20 >> SEPT. 20 F LUVIAL PROCESSION3PM NAGA RIVER

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LONGBOARD PEÑAFRANCIA FESTIVAL2014

PEÑAFRANCIA Tattoo Arts & SKATE FESTIVAL

THESE events were the newest in the activities lined up for the fiesta, drawing enthusiasts from as far as Metro Manila, , and other provinces in Bicol. PHOTOS BY rey ubaldo PHOTOS JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 24 Short film festival brings out facets of Bicol’s faith By Juan Escandor Jr.

LTHOUGH the subject was inherently limited to the devotion to Bicol’s patroness, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, or Ina, five short films in the “Second Ina Short Film Festival” brought out the nuances Bicolanos practice in their faith. AA joint project of the Naga City Government and the Archdiocese of Caceres, the five films of amateur filmmakers interpreted the theme “Choose to be brave, to live and love like Ina,” that according to Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona brings to light “the celebration of the Laity and the call to be like Mary.” Interpreting the theme in a 30-minute film composition, five out of eight films submitted were chosen as finalists by jurors composed of Bicolano film industry personalities that included Shamaine Centenera, Jaime Fabregas, Alvin Yapan, TITO VALIENTE, one of the members of the Board of Judges, an Ateneo de Naga professor, fomer chair of Rez Cortez, Babyroth Villarama Guttierez, the Manunuri ng Pelikulng Pilipino, and currently head of the Film Tito Valiente, and Dexter Dela Peña. Journalism Desk of the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, gives a brief talk during the awarding ceremonies.

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The five short films, largely drama, show interpretations of how the characters embraced the devotion and faith in their lives. The third best short film “Atang (Offering or Gift),” that revolves around the life of a woman named Susan, unwittingly exposed the life of a mother who makes a living by singing the pasyon or receiving some kind of payment from Ina devotees for praying for their petitions. Susan’s devotion to Ina remained strong even when her son went blind which was the greatest test of her faith. When the wife of the character The second best short Simon disappeared, he became film “Harayo, Harani man (Far, irresponsible and neglectful of his Also Near),” postulates that the responsibilies to his children that can devotion to Ina must be in the be equated with losing an anchor or heart which had been juxtaposed direction. with the situation of an overseas But the acceptance of the painful worker-mother who stayed reality of losing a wife led Simon to connected with her husband rectification and reintroduction to the and son because of love and the devotion to Ina in the final scene where celebration of the fiesta which he journeyed into the river with his can be anywhere other than Naga children. City because devotion knows no The finalist film “Kapit” is more like bounds. an anti-abortion clip spiked with horror- For the best short film genre sound and score and comedic “Nawawara (Missing),” the story take that earned startled reactions and of devotion was allegorical where laughter from the audience. the disappearance of the wife of Finally, finalist film “Inay” the protagonist symbolizes the dramatized the travails of a mother devotion to Ina. whose life is centered on her children and the devotion to Ina, with a story line that parodies a television soap opera. Valiente, revealing the process of selecting the winners in the short film festival, said that after “going through the rubrics in Manila,” and then during the final discussion on who were going to win, “we came with strong statements to the point of turning ‘violent’ in our discussions.” He said the story of devotion need not contain the obvious, like scenes showing the traslacion, the transfer procession of the image of Ina from the Peñafrancia Shrine to the Naga Cathedral or fluvial procession at the A large AUDIENCE Naga River, but in the narrative of the the USI auditorium. came for the opening ceremonies at stories.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 26 The CITY MAYOR, with Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona and First Lady Farah Bongat.

Valiente said out of the top five, three remained consistently on top of the selection, and the challenge they were testing the filmmakers was “to tell the story of Peñafrancia in the original and fresh way.” Sharing his thoughts about the film fest, Fabregas recalled the late director Marilou Diaz Abaya, an “adopted daughter” of Naga, who contributed to the promotion The CAST, staff and crew, and some relatives of the winning short film “Nawawara” as they pose for pictures on the stage after of devotion with her film “Ikaw Ang formally receiving the premiun prize. Pag-ibig.” He said he remembered Abaya telling him that no matter how low the situation in the story of the film, it should always end with hope. “The sliver of light-- that is what keeps us going,” Fabregas added. He shared with the audience his nostalgic debut into the theater when he was nine years old and a pupil of Naga Parochial School in the same stage of the Colegio de Sta. Isabel (now Universidad de Sta. Isabel) where he was standing. BICOLANO film celebrities Jaime Photos courtesy of Jordan Chavez III Photos courtesy of Fabregas and Rez Cortez, and guest Melinda Ngo.

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The Joint Operations Center is in the frontline to ensure an orderly, peaceful, and solemn celebration of the Peñafrancia Fiesta

By Joselito SA Del Rosario Executive Director Naga City Public Safety Office

The Department of Health, through the Traslacion and Fluvial processions. the BMC HEMS, City Health Office and CASURECO 2 and MNWD City Hospital, in partnership with private personnel were on hand to respond FTER the Traslacion procession nursing institutions, fielded no less than to any eventuality of power and water held last September 12, 2014, 300 medical personnel and deployed 22 supply interruption. DPWH personnel members of the Inter-Agency Task units of ambulances to cover the medical set up motorist assistance centers AGroup Joint Operations Center (IATG-JOC) aspect. The Philippine Red Cross fielded along the major thoroughfares of the immediately went back to the drawing almost 200 volunteers for emergency city. The PNP Camarines Sur Provincial board to fine tune preparations and purposes. Close to 70 individuals who Office, the Highway Patrol Group 5, contingency measures for the upcoming were reported injured during the actual and Land Transportation Office (LTO), Fluvial Procession. fluvial procession were ably attended to on the other hand, also established by the medical group. assistance centers to help pilgrims along the main highway. THE FLUVIAL PROCESSION For communication support, 200 Kabalikat Civicom Inc. operatives were The Criminal Detection and Investigation Group (CIDG) played As the culminating activity of tasked to closely monitor the event. The elaborate land security was coordinated its role in enforcing extensive intel the Regional Fiesta of Our Lady of coordination to prevent any unlawful Peñafrancia, more than two million pilgrims by the Task Force Peñafrancia, composed mainly by personnel from activity by rouge elements. and devotees come to observe and The Office of Civil Defense 5 participate in the biggest Marian festival in the Philippine National Police and the Philippine Army. closely monitored the conduct of the this part of the country. activity. Director Raffy A. Alejandro General logistical presence in Naga The Philippine Coast Guard, as lead

was personally present at the Joint Operations Center to monitor the whole activity. The media, thru the City Events, Protocol and Public Information Office, also played a very important role in our celebration. Our barangay leaders also deserve our commendation for their assistance in their respective areas of comes close to 600 deployed personnel agency of Task Force Fluvial, mustered jurisdiction. from the Philippine National Police, close to 120 personnel from various mostly from the Police Regional Office 5 stations of Bicol, the number almost half GENERAL SUMMARY thru P/SSupt. Victor P. Deona and with of their total regional strength. The PCG the assistance of PSSupt Esteban and was further supported by the Philippine We hope that the various lessons PSSupt Panganiban. Navy, especially the Navy SEALS who learned this year, as in the past, will PNP Naga under the leadership of took care of the security of the Pagoda. capacitate us to further improve our PSSupt Filmore B. Escobal, supported The Maritime Group also fielded roles in the future. by PSupt Roldan and PSupt Gomez, adequate number of personnel as part The peaceful and solemn reported an increase in petty crimes. of the Task Force Fluvial with assistance fiesta activities, especially the fluvial But apprehensions of the suspects were from the Coast Guard Auxiliary. procession can be attributed to solid accordingly made. In all, ten floating assets composed Church stewardship, in partnership with The 9th Infantry (SPEAR) Division, of rubber boats, some of which were the Local Government of Naga, thru the Philippine Army, thru the generous acquired by the Office of Civil Defense-5, partner-agencies, working under the support of MGen Yerson E. Depayso in coordination with some LGUs, ambit of the Peñafrancia Inter-Agency of the AFP deployed more or less 600 provided over-all security to the pagoda Task Group-Joint Operations Center, equivalent personnel under the close of Our Lady of Peñafrancia in her voyage and most especially the pilgrims and supervision of LTC Joselito C. Pastrana, back to the Basilica Minore. devotees who always make it a point to 9TF Commander. The Bureau of Fire Two Philippine Air Force helicopters pray and pay homage to our beloved Protection under FSupt Lorenzo D. provided by the Tactical Operations Ina, Nuestra Señora de Peñafrancia. Rellosa, FCInsp Paz and FCInsp Rachel Group 5 under LTC Luisito F. Angeles, R. Verbo, on the other hand, dispatched Jr. were also used for aerial security more or less 200 personnel. monitoring and confetti drop during both JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 28 10 reasons why I LoveNaga By JAMES Z. CARPIO

ROVIDENTIALLY, I was born and raised in Naga City. But for school and The weather Pwork, I had to stay for eighteen years in Metro Manila. While I The climate is cooler here. enjoyed my stay there, I realized I think the temperature is colder that I missed my home city when 1 by at least one to two degrees. I have noticed that I don’t I came back. And I never want to perspire as much compared leave Naga City again. I am back in Manila. At dawn, it is chilly for good. and foggy here. There is even Here are the reasons why a slight mist when you exhale my heart belongs to Naga in a through your mouth. random and not in any particular ranking order...

The fresh air

The air is refreshing here. Less Traffic Local and foreign tourists Admittedly, there are notice that first hand. This is rush hours even in Naga but 2 obviously so because there are compared to Manila, one would less number of transportation 3 not complain anymore. Getting vehicles. The exhaust fumes to my destination here takes are not as much that form into about twenty minutes while particulates and, furthermore, there it takes one hour and in the morning the smoke thirty minutes, and that is way that mixes with fog or smog. back in 2009. After the rush Another observation is in hours, getting to anywhere Manila throughout the day in Naga takes about fifteen your nasal stuffiness turns into minutes. black while in Naga it doesn’t. Your face is clearer and cleaner because of the fresh air.

Size and Population Commuting Naga is a small city and has Cramped and filled with less population. Naga has a hundred people is the general atmosphere thousand plus people while Metro when you take the bus or the train Manila has ten million plus people. 4 in Manila. Queuing also takes a 5 The feeling is less crowded and much very long period of time. In Naga, freer. You don’t bump into people commuting is far less a harrowing as much unlike in the bigger city. experience. It is even enjoyable Ironically, even though Naga is a lot as you experience city life on a smaller than Manila you feel that it is smaller scale. more spacious. It is a breathable city.

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Progressive and Booming

You are not going to miss the fast food restaurants and basic services like banks and 6 other shops as most of them are here now. Naga’s local businesses are even competitive and thriving along with the national franchises. I think you can actually glue Naga into Metro Manila and it would fit seamlessly, but Naga as a stand-alone city is perfect as it is.

Comfort Food

The coconut based food are, in themselves, reasons enough to enjoy living in Naga. I particularly savor the , Kinalas, Bato, Natong, and other 7 delectable dishes. For merienda, I like the local baduya and . The breads that we have here are amazing. The maligaya, pan de sal, and the chiffon cake are what my family always misses and eats when they visit Naga. Did I mention the toasted ? Pan bonete? They are in a league of their own.

Job opportunities

I thought that I will never find something Favorite tourist spot to do here in Naga when I relocated. As I write this piece, that is proof enough. More 8 Though I am a certified local of Naga, I still job opportunities will be available to the go to the Panicuason Hot Springs when I get the job hunter as the city braces itself for more chance to do so. The experience is so therapeutic business process outsourcing companies and 9 a possible export zone. Establishments are on that I make sure to go as often as I can. Whenever there is a friend or family visiting, we troop to that the rise and they need people to work in them. place at the drop of a hat. The transition from cool The job prospects are surely getting rosier as waters to hot and then to cold water again has time goes by. Currently, people are working an indescribable, relaxing feeling. It is a unique in companies based in Naga that have started experience. operations in the recent years.

Peñafrancia Festival Originally, I was planning to write an article with one hundred This is the grand scale fiesta of fiestas where reasons why I love Naga. It could Bicolanos and non-Bicolanos alike converge to the even be more like a thousand but city of Naga in September to celebrate the feast sadly, my article has a preset limit. of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. The city is more10 But nonetheless as I go along in alive with religious and other cultural activities. The time I will expound on the matter traslacion and the nine-day novena that culminate little by little. Honestly, I think I with the fluvial procession are the highlights of this will never run out of new things festival. It is full of excitement and religious fervor to write about my home city. And that is always an experience of a lifetime. Like what this Queen City of Bicol I noticed; I read one time, people come as tourists, leave as she speaks for herself, I only devotees, and come back as pilgrims. It is kind of have to write it down for her as a magical but as you process it, you discern that it is grateful son: a proud Nagueño. spiritual. It is good for the soul. PHOTO BY bong bajo PHOTO PLAZA NUEVA CACERES NUEVA PLAZA JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 30 HE scene was almost surreal: thousands of barefoot men, their bodies bathed in sweat, pushed, shoved, jostled, wriggled and kicked their way into the vortex of yet another mass of pushing, shoving, jostling, wriggling and kicking humanity. Their objective: to touch a tiny image, if only for a few fleeting Tseconds. They then let out hair-raising cries of “Viva La Virgen” to the applause of about a quarter of a million spectators who jammed the old Naga city’s edifices and narrow streets. For the uninitiated, the scene would appear to be a throwback into the days of anito worshippers. The primeval cries, the element of machismo and the frenzy fit well into one’s concept of an PEÑAFRANCIA: ancient religious rite as described in some scholarly tomes. Yet, it was actually the street procession– a prelude to the THE FESTIVAL fluvial procession— in honor of Bicolandia’s patroness, Our Lady of OF FESTIVALS Peñafrancia. The scene unfolds every September, the intensity never By GABRIEL HIDALGO BORDADO JR. waning, even in the face of the raging monsoon. “September in Naga! From the first week of the month, all roads lead to the holy (This article is a composite of two essays written by the author and published by the Philippine Daily Inquirer) city of Bicolanos. By land, sea, air and river, come the pilgrims to attend the fiesta of the Bicol patroness,” Nick Joaquin wrote in his book titled “The Seven Golden Cities of the Sun.” BANNER PHOTO: A photo of the Indeed, after more than three centuries, the Peñafrancia Traslacion– the street festival has evolved into what it is now a mammoth religious and procession which transfers the image socio-cultural event drawing pilgrims and tourists alike from all of OUR LADY OF over the country. In a region where feasts abound, the Peñafrancia PEÑAFRANCIA from her “home” in the stands out as the festival of festivals due to its sheer breadth and Basilica Minore to the historicity. Naga Metropolitan Cathedral to signal the The week-long festivities start with the traslacion (street start of the week-long procession) which brings the centuries-old image from her “home” Peñafrancia festival– once again made it in the Basilica Minore at the outskirts of the city to the Naga to the front page (as Metropolitan Cathedral. On the seventh day, the image is brought banner photo) of the Philippine Daily back to the Basilica via a fluvial procession on the storied Naga Inquirer. River.

Origin France”) marked the border between image led to a revival of the cult, Spain and France, and was supposed which the Spanish carried to According to historian Dr. Danilo to be the place where Roland, one of America and the Philippines.” Gerona, the devotion to the Virgin the twelve peers, led his troops against On the other hand, based of Peñafrancia had its roots in Spain. the Moors. Roland perished in the on extant historical records, the During the latter part of the 17th battle, but the Moorish advance into devotion in Bicol purportedly century, it was brought here to the Europe was checked. Because of this, started as a form of appeasement Philippines, specifically Naga City Peñafrancia became associated with for the mountain folk known as (then known as Nueva Caceres), by a the devotion to Mary as the helper of remontados or cimarrones who secular priest. Christian troops in the struggle against adamantly refused to recognize the Joaquin, whose fictional works the Moors.” authority of the Spanish colonizers. are as riveting as his historical The cult of the Virgin of In the book “Naga: The Birth vignettes, had his own theory of the Peñafrancia, according to Joaquin, and Rebirth of a City,” Gerona claims Peñafrancia devotion: “The cult of thus drew multitudes of adherents, that “the devotion was closely the Peñafrancia was brought to the particularly during the period when the linked with the initial success of the Bicolandia by the Franciscans, the Moors were rampaging through the Spanish missionaries in resettling missionaries who converted Ibalon Visogothic Kingdom of Spain. and bringing back to the folds of (the old name of Bicol) to Christianity. “Lost or hidden,” Joaquin the law the elusive remontados. In Behind the cult is a history that goes continued, “a Visigothic image of 1710, a young cleric named Miguel back to the times of Charlemagne Peñafrancia turned up in Northern Spain Robles de Covarrubias introduced and the Twelve Peers of France (our in the 15th century, under miraculous the devotion to the newly resettled Doce ). Peñafrancia (“Rock of circumstances. The discovery of the remontados.”

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Today, the Queen of of her brawny, clumsy, brusque Bicolandia reigns supreme in this cargadores kneel around her region of fiery volcanoes and in fearful prayer– and call her pretty maidens. And the centuries tenderly Ina!” have failed to dampen the original And so, not even the fervor of the devotion. Present- periodic eruptions of Mt. Mayon day voyadores (the barefoot men or the seasonal devastations who accompany the images of Ina wrought by typhoons can shake and “Divino Rostro” or the Divine the faith of the Bicolanos in their Face of Jesus in the processions) beloved Ina. Today, despite all the sometimes still display the sidelights and divertissements “crassness” of the cimarrones– (including, of all things, a military which brings the question of false street parade reputedly the piety to the fore. In recent years, longest in the Philippines, lasting for instance, out-of-town visitors almost eight hours), the religious had expressed their misgivings rituals, liberally laced with folk on what they perceived as the beliefs and practices, remain as fanaticism, the barbarity, the the focal points of the festival. facetious hilarity and the contrived As an anthropologist religiosity in the Peñafrancia dabbling in politics puts it, the processions. enduring devotion to Ina has However, the late lawyer Luis become a unifying factor, a PEÑAFRANCIA FLUVIAL PROCESSION: General Jr., a consummate student great equalizer for people from For the devotees, the Peñafrancia Fluvial all walks of life. It doesn’t really Procession--the rite of bringing the images of Bicol culture and history, had of Our Lady of Penafrancia (lovingly a ready explanation for this: “For matter whether you are rich addressed as “Ina” or Mother) and Divino or poor, a believer or simply Rostro (Divine Face) back, via the storied all the faults of his devotion, the Naga River, to their “home” at the Basilica Bikolnon acquits himself when a kibitzer. For as long as you Minore (after being venerated for a week have faith, hope, and love in at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral)-- he becomes again his quiet self– will always prove to be both magical and when he kneels before her altar, your heart, the devotion will divine, seamlessly meshing the mundane always be a source of strength with the sublime. forgets the Spanish polysyllables, looks up the dusky face of her and inspiration in this strife- statue and sees her universal torn world. Indeed, there lies motherhood as he whispers that the mystique of the Peñafrancia dear word Ina! The outsider festival, seamlessly weaving Miracles seldom sees him after the frenzy the divine and the mundane of the traslacion, when after her into a wondrous tapestry of Miracles were immediately image is deposited at the side of overpowering emotions and attributed to the wooden image the Cathedral’s main altar, some shared memories. (presumably carved by a local artisan) of the Virgin of Peñafrancia. A chapel was soon built for the image and “the once isolated remontados village became a major pilgrimage site for residents of nearby towns.” Before long, the Peñafrancia devotion, according to Gerona, HARDWORKING CamSur 3rd Distruct spread to other parts of the region, Rep. Leni Robredo particularly with the introduction working on her of the traslacion and the fluvial papers at the House Plenary Hall as the procession. House continues “Further innovations were its deliberations on introduced by succeeding prelates the 2015 General Appropriations Bill. particularly Bishop Francisco Gainza. By the last decades of that 19th century the Peñafrancia devotion became not merely a regional festival but had drawn pilgrims from various regions of the country,” Gerona notes in his book.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 32 Leni files bill cementing Robredo legacy Governance is not solely about government anymore. It is about society as a whole. It is about us working HE Metro Naga Development collectively to raise our community out of its challenges. Council-Project Management Office (MNDC-PMO) is - Leni G. Robredo assisting its member-LGUs to strengthen their gender AMARINES SUR Third District responsiveness in their governance structure. Representative Leni Robredo recently filed TThis initiative is supported by MNDC The People Empowerment Bill of 2014 at Executive Committee Resolution No. 2014- the House of Representatives in Quezon 005, entitled “Resolution Institutionalizing City. The Robredo bill will pave the way for a more C Gender and Development Mechanisms in participative form of governance nationwide. All the Member-LGUs of the Metro Naga The proposed measure has its foundation on the Development Council.” Empowerment Ordinance of Naga City creating the This resolution seeks to promote gender Naga City People’s Council (NCPC), allowing for direct equality and women’s empowerment in civil society participation in the governance process. respective member-localities. In the same light, the Philippine “The proposed ‘People Empowerment [Bill] Congress requires, as part of the annual of 2014’ seeks to mimic this kind of governance national budget law, national government strategy,” Robredo said in her explanatory note. agencies and local government units (LGUs) to allocate 5% of their annual budget for The bill will push for a participative environment GAD concerns and activities. in LGUs all over the country. “After all, the people Guidelines for the implementation of should be given a venue where they can decide on the GAD budget policy were first provided things that are good for them,” she said. in Joint Memorandum Circular (JMC) No. 2012-01 signed by the National Commission In 1995, the Naga City government under on the Role of Filipino Women (NCRFW the leadership of Mayor Jesse M. Robredo passed now Philippine Commission on Women, or the Empowerment Ordinance that installed CSO PCW), the Department of Interior and Local participation in its system of governing. Naga City Government (DILG), and the Department has prospered greatly as a result of this decree. of Budget and Management (DBM). This was replaced in 2013 when the PCW, DILG, Direct people participation allowed for DBM and the National Economic and pinpointing relevant concerns and immediate Development Authority (NEDA) issued JMC handling. It also led to the strategic planning and 2013-01, which provides the guidelines for execution of programs and projects. the localization of R.A. 9710, the Magna Carta of Women, and for LGU GAD planning “This is the legacy of my husband. His work in and budgeting. Naga has proven that this is our way to progress. He To advocate the implementation of this showed us that recent JMC, the MNDC-PMO is conducting a people-led a series of GAD capacity development government is workshops for each of its member-LGUs. For the answer to those which were part of the GREAT Women our development Project, the MNDC GAD-accredited trainers woes,” said focus on a one-day Gender-Responsive Robredo. Budgeting, or GRB (also called Gender Planning and Budgeting).

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The training-workshops mentor key LGU officials and personnel (mostly the members of the GAD Focal Point System) on how to make their LGU programs, projects and activities (PPAs) gender responsive and how to utilize and maximize the use of the 5% allocated for GAD concerns from their annual budget, plus the counterpart for ODA funds, and mainstreamed attributable budgets. Director; Mr. Nicolas C. Motos, Jr., LGU For the other LGUs, the two-day training Naga’s i-Serve Executive Officer; Ms. starts with gender sensitivity sessions, a Maristela T. Santy, LGU Bula’s retired basic requisite on GAD awareness, followed Municipal Agriculture Officer; and Mr. by the GRB workshop on the second day. Rosendo STJI Badilla, an Ateneo de To date, 9 LGUs had already Naga University professor. undergone the said trainings. These are the The GAD Plan seeks to integrate municipalities of Bombon, Bula, Camaligan, activities aimed at influencing the Canaman, Gainza, Magarao, Milaor, Pili, and LGU to have a gender lens. Activities San Fernando. must go beyond women’s month The MNDC Training team is composed celebrations, parades, livelihood of Ms. Sieglinde B. Bulaong, MNDC Executive trainings, and the like, and look at their deeper impact toward women empowerment. Activities are also MNDC geared toward the raising of awareness on gender equality, initiates gender reduction of domestic violence, and the promotion responsiveness in of the recognition that the world’s resource is composed local governance of 50% women talent and By ALDO NIÑO I. RUIVIVAR 50% men’s.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 34 By DANILO C. ROQUID JR.

AVING been given a place of honor in the Hall of Fame for winning thrice the prestigious Presidential Award for Child- Friendly Municipalities and Cities, the City Government of Naga continues to aim higher and work harder to make sure that children’s welfare and interests are served and protected at all times. HAs Vice Mayor Nelson S. Legacion would stress, “the children are the new stewards and leaders of our society. The protection of their rights and promotion plan and design a comprehensive program focused on of their welfare are vital in ensuring the sustainable advancing the interests of young Nagueños. progress of our “Maogmang Lugar.” City Councilor Elmer S. Baldemoro, as chair of Early this year, City Mayor John G. Bongat, the SP Committee on Children and co-chair of the through Executive Order 2014-003, called for the NCCWPC, has taken it upon himself to walk the extra creation of the Naga City Council for the Welfare and mile to promote and protect children’s rights and Protection of Children as a special body tasked to welfare in the city.

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Under his watch, a series of organizational and Management trainings on handling child- special meetings were accordingly conducted and related cases have been slated to be held in Council membership was likewise expanded to include October 2014. new stakeholders from government offices and the According to UNICEF, or the United Nations non-government sector; a federation of Barangay Children’s Fund, child protection pertains Kagawad-Committee Chairmen on Children was to “preventing and responding to violence, likewise suggested so that the federation president- exploitation, and abuse against children.” elect will also sit as member of the NCCWPC. The Child protection encompasses all processes, intention is to widen and facilitate feedback and policies, programs, interventions, and measures information mechanism where all concerned sectors that aim to prevent and respond to violence, are covered. exploitation, and abuse against children, with the At the barangay level, almost ninety percent ultimate goal of ensuring the overall development (90%) of all the 27 barangays in the city had crafted of children to their fullest potential. their respective resolutions reconstituting their own The United Nations Convention on the Rights Barangay Council for the Protection of Children of the Child (CRC) stipulates that every child has (BCPC). The Annual Work and Financial Plan of each the right to protection from all forms of violence, barangay were also submitted to concerned offices, abuse, neglect, and exploitation. The first law and the goal of organizing a Children Organization enacted in compliance with the CRC’s mandate is in every barangay is gradually taking shape where Republic Act 7610 of 1992 (Special Protection of the leader-elect will be admitted to the BCPC as child Children Against Child Abuse, Exploitation, and representative. Discrimination Act), otherwise known as the “Child In the desire to further strengthen and organize Protection Law.” Such law provides for stronger the NCCWPC along with the BCPCs in all the 27 deterrence and special protection against child barangays, a series of capability-building trainings abuse, exploitation and discrimination, and its were held on July 4 and 5, 2014 at Naga Regent Hotel. corresponding penalties. A known child advocate from Manila in the person of Madam Jane U. Zamar was invited as resource speaker.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 36 HE Regional Development Council Airside Aerial Perspective (RDC) in Bicol View from East has finally approved the conditional endorsement of the P3.53-B Naga Airport Development RDC OKs TProject during a full-member meeting in Legazpi City Naga airport September 8, 2014. Naga City Mayor John G. redevelopment Bongat said the supportive By JUAN ESCANDOR JR. gesture of Bicol RDC Chairman and Albay Gov. Joey S. Salceda that led to the conditional endorsement was something that the people of Naga and Camarines Sur fully appreciated. Budgeting, said the DOTC is the ICC is comprised of a “It is an act that unifies the proponent of the project, which Technical Board, Cabinet entire Bicol region,” he added. the Naga City local government Committee, and the NEDA Bongat said a team unit was endorsing for approval Board, headed by the President, from the Department for it to be included among the that finally approves the of Transportation and nationally-funded projects with inclusion of projects for multi- Communications (DOTC) from multi-year budget. year funding. Manila attended the RDC Abion said the international The approval of the meeting but the presentation airport in Daraga, Albay, with endorsement of the re- of the project was dispensed a total project cost of P4.7B is orientation of the runway of the with because the RDC one such project with a multi- Naga Airport in the national immediately tackled as the first year budget in the yearly budget will first pass through order of business the Naga General Appropriations Act until the evaluation and approval of Airport Development Project completion. the Technical Board of the ICC, and thereupon approved the The DOTC, as the according to Abion. conditional endorsement. proponent, must comply with Abion said the NEDA Mr. Gilberto A. Abion, the the requirements of the NEDA regional office initiates the Chief Economic Development and the Investment Coordination evaluation of the proposed Specialist of the Project Committee (ICC), the body re-orientation of the runway Development Division and that decides on major projects of the Naga Airport based on Investment Programming and exceeding P1 billion. the soundness of the project in

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Curbside Perspective from Southwest

new airport terminal that can accommodate five commercial planes. Airside Aerial Perspective View from Northwest The present Naga airport, with its short runway, can this case, the DOTC secretary. only accommodate small The DOTC gave Naga City turbo-propelled airplanes terms of technical, environmental, LGU the Final Report of the that are vulnerable to flight social, economic, and financial Feasibility and Master Plan cancellations in times of viability. Study for the Naga Airport unpleasant weather. The He said the evaluation starts Development Project that smaller load of passengers with the submission of the project three consultancy firms-- per flight also makes the cost proposal of the DOTC. Philipp’s Technical Consultants, of Naga-Manila-Naga flights “Upon review of the project Engineering & Development more expensive for passengers. proposal, the NEDA regional office Corporation of the Philippines, All these, according to Mayor will make an evaluation report Pacific Rim Innovation and Bongat in earlier interviews, and present it to the Investment Management Exponents, Inc.-- turned off many prospective Coordination Committee for submitted to the DOTC in April investors to Naga despite its approval,” Abion said. 2014. being acclaimed as the most He said they have received the The project comprises dynamic and competitive urban feasibility study of the reorientation of P47.33 million for “the center in the region. of Naga Airport’s runway and an continued operation of the The clamor for a inter-division team was created to existing Naga Airport up to year reoriented and re-envigorated conduct the detailed evaluation of 2018” and “P3,532.90 million Naga Airport has earned the P3.5 billion project. for full transfer of commercial unanimous and strong support As a policy of the ICC, he aviation operations from Naga from both the officers and further said, the region-specific Airport to the proposed New members of the Metro Naga projects are evaluated by the NEDA Oriented Naga Airport starting Development Council (MNDC) regional office, which makes it year 2019.” and the Metro Naga Chamber under their jurisdiction. The major components of of Commerce and Industry All government projects with the Naga Airport Development (MNCCI) who issued their over a billion-peso cost go through Project are the reorientation separate resolutions for the the process of the ICC, Cabinet of the runway from North- expeditous implementation of Committee and NEDA Board, Northwest to South-Southeast the project. but projects below P1 billion are direction in Barangay San Jose approved by agency heads, and in in Pili, Camarines Sur and the

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 38 Naga River transport system inaugurated, riverbank beautification project launched By JASON B. NEOLA

AYOR John G. Bongat has called on every navigator, an assistant, and a tourist guide who Nagueño to take the will be responsible for the safety and security of lead in making Naga the river commuters. River truly a river of Passengers, in required life vests, are life. conveyed upstream or downstream. The boats “Let us all be will also be made available to tourists who leaders in loving the Naga River,” he said before wish to retrace the route of the annual fluvial a multi-sector crowd last September 2 at the procession. MNaga City People’s Mall Wharf during the Part of the plan to beautify the river is the launching of the Naga River inaugural trips and P300M revetment project being implemented by riverbank beautification project. the Department of Public Works and Highways. The transport system is expected to bring The amount was secured by Congresswoman economic activities along the river and its Leni G. Robredo who manifested her full support banks with the mobilization of two 20-seater to the interventions being undertaken by the city. passenger/tourist boats and the marketing and Bongat said that ”the infrastructure project selling of agricultural products coming from and the Naga River Transport System are not all the coastal barangays of the nearby towns of about beautification but only a manifestation of Canaman, Magarao, Bombon, Libmanan, and our commitment to the river.’’ He emphasized Calabanga. that environmental protection anchored on The passenger vessels will regularly run discipline should be within the consciousness of and dock at five wharves constructed near the every Nagueño.” By doing so, ‘‘he said,” we shall Magsaysay Bridge, Colgante Bridge, Delfin become triumphant in our endeavor to preserve Rosales Bridge, Tabuco Bridge, and Sabang the Naga River, thereby, nurturing our values and Bridge. The daily schedules are 6:00-8:00 in character as Nagueños.” the morning and 4:00-6:00 in the afternoon. He further said that it will be useless to Each vessel, namely, MB Peñafrancia and MB beautify the river and its banks if the public, Divino Rostro, is operated by a highly trained especially the people living near the river, will prove to be uncaring and heartless by indiscriminately throwing wastes into the river.

RIVER TRANSPORT. “More than the infrastructure, what we need is a new culture of ownership of the river of life, we call the Naga River. If we maintain it clean as a people, the whole world will see in it our real character as Nagueños!” thus declared Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat during the launching of the Naga River Transport System last Tuesday, Sept. 2 at the Naga City People’s Mall wharf. The River Transport is part of the Integrated Naga River Revitalization Project and is just one concrete manifestation that the city’s heart throbs with the people enjoying its full potential as a river of life.

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MAYOR John Bongat (top photo) welcomes guests during the brief program; in photos, left downward, are City Councilor Joaquin ‘Chito’ Perez, SWMO Dept. Head Joel Martin sharing their thoughts on the project, City Officials and First Lady Farah R. Bongat, and the billboard showing the Naga River cruise route. Photos below are the wharf at the Naga City People’s Mall with two tourist boats in the foreground, and the City Officials and guests cruising the Naga River. CEPPIO

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 40 PHOTOS BY SYLRANJELVIC & JOSE COLLERA (CEPPIO) IN FOCUS City of Naga Power Commission By MELVIN S. DEL PUERTO

HEN Mayor John G. Bongat signed the Executive Order creating the City of Naga Power Commission (CNPC) early this year, it became the first ever Power Commission throughout Wthe country with three primary exigent objectives: a) to ensure the interest of power just a few, but the whole surrounding areas consumers as stakeholders is protected b) to and power consumers of the EC. develop renewable and alternative sources of Renewable and alternative sources of energy, and c) to ensure supply and the least energy, such as solar, mini-hydro, and waste- cost of power within the area coverage. to-energy power generation projects are being Although the Puerto Princesa Power evaluated for inclusion in the CNPC’s five- Commission in Palawan was created three year development plan with ambitious, but years earlier and was technically the first realistic goal of 20% reduction in dependency Power Commission created by an LGU, its of electric supply from the EC by the City’s existence though was solely for the purpose energy consumers through self-generated of negotiation with their power suppliers power. during the energy crises that beset their The Light Emitting Diode (LED) lighting island province sometime in 2010 and to avert project, which is given priority implementation imminent power cut-off. It was eventually for immediate cost saving consideration, disbanded after it fulfilled its mission in is currently in the pipeline. LED lighting securing a long term contract with the new will eventually replace all existing Compact power suppliers in the same year. Fluorescent Lamps (CFL) and other types of On the other hand, the CNPC has a low-efficiency bulbs currently used in street broader mission and a protracted lifework. It is lights and expectedly save the City at least mandated to assist the electric cooperative (EC) 40% in street lights electric bill. Monthly to achieve sound energy planning, evaluate bill alone runs up to an average P3.7M for its financial and operational capability and the more than 3,000 installed street lights viability and recommend applicable measures spread throughout the 27 barangays of the in compliance with Sec. 23 of the EPIRA Law. city. What makes this project more appealing After all, an efficient EC with affordable power and propitious is it does not involve any cash rate will ultimately redound to robust economic outlay from the city. Payment for the LED activity and commercial and industrial stability replacement lightings will come from the in the city which will sequentially benefit not savings in electric bills. It is expected that after

41 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014

LED lighting consumes 40% less electricity than compact fluorescent lamps (CFL).

THE CNPC during one of its meetings. MARGUERETTE MICHELLE PADUA- HORNBY, Chair of the City of Naga Power Commission 2-3 years they will be fully paid. The city will get the full savings thereafter with 2 more years of reserved warranty; notwithstanding LED lighting normally lasts up to 10 years. (TWG) of CNPC. New proposals from reputable The roof of the City Hall is also being suppliers and contractors from Australia, considered for Solar Power, so with the almost Japan and US are currently being screened, one-hectare area of the Naga City People’s appraised and assessed for technical and Market concrete roof. With solar panels financial competency to ensure that the past installed in both roofs, at least 1-1.5MW mistake would not be repeated. This project, (depending on the type of Photo-Voltaic panel if it becomes reality, can generate additional used) of electricity can be generated -- more 5-7MW (utilizing just the wastes produced than enough to supply the whole power in the city) equivalent to 15-20% of the city’s requirements under their roofs. But, because future total power requirement. of electric franchise issue, the city government The CNPC, indeed, is one of the perfect can only consume what it generates for itself; examples and show windows of the city’s it cannot directly sell its excess power to other pioneering concept in innovative private-public private consumers. It can, however, sell it to participation mechanism in good governance the EC which owns the electric distribution now embraced and adopted by LGUs franchise, or the city creates a separate entity throughout the country. as an option to go to generation and selling The first and present chairperson of the power business (if power generated is more CNPC Board of Commissioners fittingly comes than enough to warrant creating such entity) from the academe-- the President of Naga similar to Independent Power Producers (IPP) College Foundation, Ms. Marguerite “Mitz” such as Aboitiz Renewables, San Miguel Power Padua-Hornby. Other commissioners are Corp. and smaller IPPs. from business and the private sector with the Then there is the aborted Waste-to-Energy able participation as well of select members project which is now thoroughly re-evaluated of the Sangguniang Panglunsod headed by by a more competent Technical Working Group topnotcher City Councilor Gabriel Bordado, Jr.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 42 InfoBoard boosts LGU’s governance efficiency

PHOTO BY jason b. neola targets By JASON B. NEOLA THE Naga City eTransparency InfoBoard helps define the Nagueños’ advocacy for good governance.

OOLING up Transparency Boards at the City data updating and maintenance. the mechanism Hall, the Naga City People’s Mall i-Serve is a service assurance on governance (NCPM), and the Bicol Central program of the city government efficiency, the Station (BCS). created by City Ordinance 2008- City Government When he became Secretary 092, sponsored by Mayor Bongat of Naga has in 2010, these innovations in Naga when he was still a city councilor. come up with became the basis of a series of The city mayor wanted that the the eTransparency InfoBoard, an “full disclosure” policy reforms that equipment be installed in other electronic information platform he introduced at DILG. locations frequented by the public Twhich contains postings of annual With Mayor John G. Bongat’s like the NCPM at the Central budgets, expenditures, contracts strong adherence to promote Business District I and BCS at the and loans, procurement plans, good governance, accountability Central Business District II. and other transaction reports that and transparency in office, the Nicolas C. Motos Jr. is the every government entity has to approach was further developed Executive Officer of i-Serve. undertake. into a more concrete and The novel idea takes advantage accessible touchscreen format. of ICT using a 22-inch touchscreen It was the Innovative monitor with stable desktop Service and Value computer connected to the Local Entitlement program of Area Network (LAN), an innovation the city government inspired by the late Secretary Jesse or i-Serve which M. Robredo of the Department developed the of Interior and Local Government apparatus that (DILG) when he was the mayor of provides access to this city. the public. Content Robredo spearheaded the management is launching of the i-Governance shared with the city’s program in 2001 after returning i-Governance team for from a one-year fellowship at the Kennedy School of Government in Harvard. It was built around the principle of “information openness,” which is intended to empower ordinary citizens by making key information about their local government freely available through the city website and the

PHOTO BY Sieglinde b. bulaong 43 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014

ICE Mayor Nelson marginalized and the youth, in finding youth can ask questions, raise S. Legacion, equitable solutions to such concerns. development issues and/or propose presiding officer of “We believe that all our efforts recommendations for improvement the Sangguniang should boil down to one simple of government mechanisms. The Panlungsod of maxim– salus populi est suprema lex program is being implemented Naga, served (the welfare of people is the supreme pursuant to a Memorandum of as the keynote speaker of the law),” Legacion said. Agreement between the Sangguniang VBicol Association of Sanggunian In a nutshell, the tracking of Panlungsod of Naga and ten (10) Secretaries (BASS) Regional Executive pending items at the committee level tertiary institutions in Naga, namely Board Meeting cum Workshop is done through the furnishing of University of Nueva Caceres (UNC), held on September 10-12, 2014 at the Secretariat of the Sangguniang Universidad de Sta. Isabel (USI), Eurotel, Barangay Dinaga, this city. Panlungsod of the reports of the items Ateneo de Naga University (AdeNU), Seeking to advance disposed by each of the committees Naga College Foundation (NCF), Bicol transparency and people- and the matters still pending State College of Applied Sciences and empowerment in local legislation, before them. As of August 2014, Technology (BSCAST), AMA Computer the BASS, headed by Ms. Doris the Sangguniang Panlungsod has a College (AMA-Naga), Computer Francisco, secretary to the disposal rate of eighty percent (80%). Communication Development Sangguniang Bayan of Labo, The Codification Project, Institute (CCDI), Philippine Computer Camarines Norte, sought Vice Mayor meanwhile, seeks to categorize, Foundation College (PCFC), STI Legacion to share the best practices consolidate, and codify all ordinances College Naga, and Worldtech of Naga, a known model of good of the city. The Sangguniang Resources Institute (WRI). local governance, in promoting Panlungsod of Naga passed The ENABL2E Program, accountability and in involving Resolution No. 2014-016, sponsored established through Ordinance the people in crafting regulatory by City Councilor Elmer S. Baldemoro, No. 2014-008, introduced by Vice policies. stipulating the council’s commitment Mayor Legacion and sponsored by Legacion graced the event to undertake such project and Councilors Vidal P. Castillo, Esteban with notes on the innovative creating the Codification Committee Greg R. Abonal III, and Elmer S. measures he introduced in the that will oversee its fruition. Baldemoro, covers a one-day Sangguniang Panlungsod of On the other hand, SP-SPP seminar on barangay legislation, Naga, particularly the tracking of invites students to observe the a one-day observation of the SP pending items at the committee city council’s regular sessions and, session, a forum with the council, level, the Codification Project, the after each session, engage them and the establishment of an incentive Sangguniang Panlungsod Student in a forum with the city vice mayor mechanism through the Outstanding Participation Program (SP-SPP) and and the city councilors where the Sangguniang Barangay Awards. It the Empowerment and Advancement also seeks the proliferation of Barangays on Local LEgislation and replication of the city’s (ENABL2E) Program. best practices in the 27 In his keynote speech, Sangguniang Barangays of Legacion stressed the importance Naga. of monitoring the performance of In attendance at the all the committees in a legislative aforementioned regional council to ensure the body’s executive board meeting responsiveness to development and workshop were Mr. issues and, at the same time, Danilo Gascal, secretary to engaging the people, especially the the Sangguniang Bayan of Makilala, Cotabato and President of the Philippine League of Secretaries to the Sanggunian, Inc.; Ms. Doris Francisco, Secretary to the By PAUL JOHN F. BARROSA Sangguniang Bayan of Labo, Camarines Norte and President of the Bicol Association of Sanggunian Secretaries; Ms. Nimfa Cas, Secretary to the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Camarines Sur and Head of BASS-Camarines Sur Chapter; and the Sangguniang Secretaries of the various local government units in Bicol.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 44 he City of Naga and the relief goods, construction materials rest of the Bicol Region and other in-kind assistance meant witnessed a horrible for distribution to families greatly Nagueños catastrophe on July 15, affected by the typhoon. Immediate 2014. Moving at a speed intervention of the city government is of 19 to 26 kph, for over 4 hours, necessary to bring back normalcy in Tfrom 8 PM to 12 midnight, Typhoon our lives. in the Wake Glenda, with its very intense wind During our special session, we velocity of 130 to 150 kilometers per also held a briefing with OIC General hour (kph) and gustiness of 160 to Manager Rolly E. Pante of Camarines 185 kph, swooped away hundreds Sur Electric Cooperative (CASURECO) of Typhoon of roofing and, for some, the whole II. Bringing back electricity to of their houses, uprooted trees, our homes and commercial destroyed vegetation, wrecked lines establishments is an utmost priority of telecommunication and electricity to revitalize Naga’s usual economic Glenda and, ultimately, endangered people’s dynamism. It is also important in lives. ensuring peace and order as darkness Based on the official report of at night definitely invites people with the Office of Civil Defense, a total of evil intentions to ply their respective 424,190 Bicolanos or 87,956 families modus operandi. were distressed by the typhoon. Engr. Cesar H. Federizon of Atty. Nelson S. Legacion 378,277 were displaced from their the Metro Naga Water District City Vice Mayor homes and sought shelters in (MNWD) was also in attendance evacuation centers. In Naga, there in the aforementioned briefing as were 1,768 affected families, or 7,072 we have to ensure that our water individuals who took refuge in our remains flowing and clean from evacuation centers. Indeed, we were contamination that the typhoon may hit again with a major typhoon eight bring. Unsullied water is crucial in years after Super Typhoon Reming. keeping our constituencies healthy In the morning after Typhoon and free from water-borne diseases. Glenda’s strike, the 11th Sangguniang At these perilous times, we are Panlungsod of Naga convened in a very thankful that we have reliable special session and enacted, on joint partners who are committed to and collective motion, Resolution securing and promoting our people’s No. 2014-216 declaring Naga welfare. They are brave men who in a state of calamity. We dedicate themselves to public service. also passed, along with it, Thus, in recognition of the vital Ordinance No. 2014-041 help being extended appropriating P10 million by our friends in from the Calamity Fund to finance purchases of

45 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 public utility companies, national Agreement with DOLE and, as far resolutions of commendation and government agencies and our very as initial discussions go, employ gratitude to our benevolent citizens, own city government employees, at least 500 people (mostly head such as the owners of Asog Garden the 11th Sangguniang Panlungsod of the displaced families to be and Atlantic Bakery and members of Naga passed Resolution No. determined by the Liga ng mga of the Rotary Club of Metro Naga, 2014-217 thanking them for Barangay) for 20 days at a wage and to our very own employees in their invaluable services in this rate of 260 per day. The city the city council as a sign of our deep tumultuous period. We salute the will shell out One Million and appreciation of your efforts. people of CASURECO II, MNWD, Five Hundred Thousand Pesos Typhoon Glenda is yet another Philippine National Red Cross, (P1,500,000.00) for the program trial to our Maogmang Lugar and Department of Public Works and chargeable against the fund of the to us, Nagueños. It is a test of our Highways, 9th Infantry Division Metro Public Employment Services strength, of our faith and, more of the Philippine Army, Philippine Office. DOLE will also release the importantly, of our unity as a people. Coast Guard, Department of the same amount from its coffers. Through our collaborative efforts, we Interior and Local Government, We believe that the emergency have survived the storm and have Bureau of Fire Protection, Naga employment program will not just sustained no loss of a valuable life. City Police Office, as well as our help in restoring back the lives of Providentially, no one died and only colleagues in the City Disaster Nagueños afflicted by Typhoon twenty five (25) people sustained Risk Reduction and Management Glenda, but it will also greatly assist minor injuries (those admitted to Office, Public Safety Office, City the city in its aim of reinstating the Naga City Hospital) thanks to Engineer’s Office, Environment and order and cleanliness. The damage effective risk reduction mechanisms, Natural Resources Office, General to property caused by the typhoon to the cooperation of our people in Services Department, Solid Waste is also staggering. The roofing or, heeding our advice and warnings, as Management Office, Building for some of our colleagues, friends, well as to the intercession of our Lord Maintenance Office, City Events, and relatives, their entire homes, and of Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. Protocol and Public Information have been swept away by the The Nagueños are known to rise up Office, City Health Office, Naga typhoon. Trees, old and new, have magnificently from the ashes. We are City Hospital, and City Social been uprooted and have blocked a resilient people. Surely, as what we, Welfare and Development Office. some of our roads. Garbage has in the city government say, “Buildings Without them, emergency response littered our streets, making them, at may fall, but not our spirits.” and post-disaster operations will the very least, unsightly. be very difficult and sluggish, The additional warm bodies compromising the Naguenos’ to be recruited under the program safety and well-being. will significantly boost our clean- At such depressing moments, up drive operations which, for one aside from the relief goods that week, have been continuously were immediately provided and going-on. They will augment the cash assistance that was given by efforts of our city hall employees the city government, employment and of the noble individuals from opportunities, even for just a short the private sector, who, rain or period, were also needed. It is in shine, persevere in showing their this regard that the Department love for the city and selflessly of Labor and Employment and the aid us in sweeping the streets, in City Government of Naga joined collecting trashes and, ultimately, in forces to implement the Integrated reinstating Naga’s usual cleanliness Livelihood and Emergency and vibrancy. Employment Program. For the honorable men and Through Resolution No. women who relentlessly H2ELP 2014-219, passed last July 22, 2014 our City, the city officials of Naga during our 52nd Regular Session, sincerely salute you. The 11th the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Sangguniang Panlungsod of PHOTOS BY XERES GAGERO/CEPPIO Naga authorized the city mayor Naga, in particular, during our to enter a Memorandum of 52nd Regular Session, enacted

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 46 SP passes measure to ensure City Hall events start on indicated time

By JASON B. NEOLA

TRESSING that “Pilipino time” is not a cultural trait to be proud of and that the time lost over delayed meetings or programs could have been spent on valuable productive endeavors, the members of Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) approved Resolution No. 2014-201 enjoining all City Hall event organizers to see to it that every SCity Hall-related activity should promptly begin at the announced starting time. The SP resolution penned by City Councilor Esteban Greg Re. Abonal III said “people involved in these activities do not have the compulsion to arrive on time having been malformed by nearly a lifetime of previous activities that do not begin on time.” He added that the common experience is that meetings, assemblies, events, activities, and/ or programs planned, organized, or implemented by City Hall or City Hall-related offices and organizations and other similar occasions attended by City Hall officials begin later then the starting time indicated in letters, invitations, programs, fliers, and/or stage decorations. The measure, which is expected to develop a culture of promptness and punctuality among Nagueños, also directs all the city’s 27 barangays, people’s organizations and other institutions to adopt the same policy direction. The resolution, which was unanimously seconded by the entire council during its approval last July 1, this year, is consistent with the fourth area of concern enumerated under the “10 Little

47 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 Things A Proud Nagueño Should Do” authored by Mayor John G. Bongat, which says, “I am on time, and I work hard and save for my future.” The same measure is in harmony also with Republic Act 10535 which decrees that “developing a culture of punctuality and practicing wise time management will allow us to be more exponentially productive at home, school and the workplace.” The law further directs all national and local government offices including all schools, people’s organizations, non- government organizations and civil society groups to conduct public awareness and continuing information campaign about the value of time and the need to respect the time of others. Is Filipino time a culture?

T is prevalent among , and it has eventually become part of their culture. Keep in mind, however, not all FilipinosI follow “Filipino time” nor is it Errata applied to every occasion. Filipinos often follow ON our story on Page 4 of Naga SMILES April- “Filipino time” when going to parties or meeting June 2014 issue, entitled “State of Our City Report,” up with friends. They actually observe punctuality we wish to correct the item on the result of the when attending classes, going to work, attending 2014 First Quarter Poll on Naga City Poverty and meetings, etc. Governance on the The real reason behind it is unknown, but there City Councilors’ are many theories and factors that may have caused satisfaction rating it. as 42.67% instead One theory is that they inherited this from the of 49.6%. In that Spaniards when they were colonized for more than same survey result, 300 years. It was told that whenever Spanish royalty the city mayor would go to a gathering, they would always enter enjoyed a high last. Thus, Filipinos followed suit to get a feeling of satisfaction rating importance. of 59.5% while Another theory would be that traffic and travel Vice Mayor Nelson times are invariable. The number one excuse a Legacion got Filipino would give you if he/she arrives late would 49.3%. be “traffic”. Traffic is really bad in urban cities like On Page 39 of Manila. the same issue, the Not having a standard time is also another word “Progress” possible cause behind “Filipino time”. It is quite on the graph rare to find 3 clocks with the same time in the provided in the Philippines-- there’s usually a 5-10 minute article “People’s difference. Participation in Local Goverance of Naga City, There are also other theories such as Filipinos Camarines Sur, Philippines: The Legacy of Jesse Manalastas Robredo” by Gabriel Hidalgo Bordado Jr. being quite shy when going to gatherings that should have been correctly written as “Process.” they don’t want to be seen as overly eager; or their Our apologies. easygoing nature which switches off their sense of time and gives them the mentality that their friends/colleagues will understand/accept. Ask.com

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 48 Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga’s E firmly believe Stallholders’ Federation (NAMASFED) official expression of congratulations that a Maogmang bagged the honor of being Grand to the two institutions for their Lugar should Awardee (informal sector) in the Search laudable efforts. not just have a for Good Practices in the Promotion of Another triumph for Naga’s happy, empowered, proud, and Breastfeeding in the Workplaces. SM City W health and nutrition programs is Naga was also considered as one of the empowered citizenry, but should the honor conferred to one of the finalists in the Formal Sector Category of also have a healthy and well- city’s barangay nutrition scholars, nourished constituency. Exposure the said search. Marilou A. Jimenez of Barangay of our people to infection, maternal Given by the Technical Working Carolina, who was adjudged by death, and malnutrition will affect Group on Exclusive and Continued the National Nutrition Council as the Naguenos’ productivity and Breastfeeding in the Workplaces (TWG the 2013 Regional Outstanding their quality of life. Thus, we on EBCFW) composed of representatives Barangay Nutrition Scholar. Two of have committed, as embodied in from, among others, the International our barangays, Barangay Carolina and our H2ELP your CiTy agenda, to Labour Organization (ILO), United Barangay Mabolo, were also named promote and enhance the people’s Children’s Fund (UNICEF), Employers’ as among the 2013 Top 11 Performing health and nutrition. Confederation of the Philippines, and Barangays on Nutrition Programs. Throughout the course other national agencies and non- The two barangays achieved grades of Team Naga’s term, various government organizations, the award of at least 95 percent based on the innovative programs have been received by NAMASFED and the honor standards of NCC. These recognitions implemented at the city level, gained by SM Naga as a finalist bring cement Naga’s reputation as a true including the promotion of considerable glory to Naga. It is a champion of health and nutrition breastfeeding in the workplace, testament to their enthusiasm to promote programs in the country. Upon and support mechanisms have the welfare of mothers and their children motion of Councilor Vidal P. Castillo, also been extended to the who are working and/or shopping at the we, therefore, commend the two Naga City People’s Mall and at SM Naga. barangays for the improvement barangays, through Resolution Through Resolution Nos. 2014-337 Nos. 2014-334 and 2014-336, of their barangay health centers. and 2014-338, proposed by Councilor on their effective and innovative For Naga to SMILE to the world, Cecilia V. De Asis, we are extending the implementation of nutrition programs. we have to ensure that everyone, We also wish to convey, through especially the laborers, Resolution No. 2014-335, our the women, and others SP HIGHLIGHTS: congratulations and commendation belonging to the vulnerable to Marilou A. Jimenez for her excellent sectors, have access to basic work and outstanding dedication as health services and have Triumphs on a barangay nutrition scholar. People the opportunity to rear like her– ordinary employees who do their children in a healthy extraordinarily in their tasks and trade environment. Health and – are the pride of the City of Naga. We are glad to receive Health and nutrition of our information that our efforts people are crucial in advancing are bearing fruit. With the Nutrition the city towards sustainable and help of our partners in the inclusive socio-economic growth. The barangays and in the private Atty. Nelson S. Legacion acknowledgments we garnered this City Vice Mayor sector, the City of Naga has time reflect that we are advancing gained once again the limelight these important development in public health and factors through strong nutrition. cooperation and In the recently- participation of concluded National the barangays Conference on and the private Exclusive and sector. Today’s Continued triumphs are manifestations Breastfeeding in that all of us are the Workplace heeding the call (ECBFW) held to, through our on August 26, own capacity PHOTOS BY XERES GAGERO/CEPPIO PHOTOS 2014 at Y2 Hotel, and ability, Makati City, the H2ELP our CiTy. Naga Market

49 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 10th BICOL BUSINESS WEEK ASEAN integration tackled

By JOSE B. PEREZ

COUNTRY director of a Belgium- based NGO that has tied up with the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry underscored that there Ais a huge opportunity in the upcoming implementation of the ASEAN economic integration effective December 2015 due to an impending enormous market member nations as key players in a of young people and a growing borderless exchange of trade and middle class within the region that commerce. favors good quality products. Cartuyvels said that with the Ms. Gudrun Cartuyvels, economic integration, the ASEAN country director of Trias South will become one of the biggest East Asia, was one of the speakers unified markets in the world with during the program that marked a combined population of over the formal opening of the 10th 600 million young people from the Bicol Business Week at the city’s 10 member-nations. “Input costs Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum last are expected to become lower August 26. The BBW has for its [and] the increased competition AT THE OPENING PROGRAM (from right) Ms. theme, “Priming Bicol, Winning will rationalize businesses and Gudrun Cartuyvels (foreground right) country manager Asia,” which is focused on the of Trias SE, a Belgian-based NGO, that is supporting boost competitiveness.” It will urge MNCCI projects to assist small and medium micro ASEAN economic integration as an specialization and innovation, she enterprises in Metro Naga and Camarines Sur, with MNCCI Pres. Nicolas Beda Priela and City Mayor John inevitable challenge to the ASEAN added. Bongat. JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 50 PCCI VP for South Luzon Ed Nicolas and PCCI Governor for Bicol Jeremie Lo award Naga City Mayor John Bongat a plaque extending the PCCI national leadership’s commendation to Naga City for its having been ranked as the 3rd Most Competitive City in the Philippines for the year 2014.

Meanwhile, in a speech by Sen. Cynthia A. Villar, the BBW’s guest of honor and speaker who was not able to make it to Naga due to heavy rains in Manila that PCCI Governor for Bicol Jeremie Lo morning, through her being interviewed by Mylce Mella of representative, Ms. Tanette Perdito, ABS-CBN Naga. NAGA City Councilors Babet Lavadia, Miles manager of Camella Homes- Raquid-Arroyo, Gabby Bordado and Vice Mayor Naga, it was stated that with the Nelson Legacion grace the opening ceremonies. impending economic integration, there are opportunities that we have to be prepared to seize. “The quality products, low cost and tax- providing business opportunity, key is preparedness and enhanced free products where entrepreneurs business matching, capacity competitiveness,” the senator in certain industries would be forced building and advocacy, and lobby further declared. to sell at very low prices. “Staying with the local government for The ASEAN economic competitive and using unique selling support. integration starting in 2015 will advantages are the key. The question She advised that for small mean free flow of goods, services, is: How fast can entrepreneurs entrepreneurs not to miss the boat, skilled labor, investments and innovate and would capital they need intensive coaching and capital, enabling the region to requirements be met?” she asked. an integrated package of services minimize transaction costs and She argued that in regional to grow their economic venture maximize trade gains. market integration, the local and and transform them into growth- Cartuyvels said that with small producers would be the most oriented enterprises. opportunities also come clouds affected. “They compete with limited Sen. Villar also shared similar of uncertainties. This, as she capital input, limited technology, apprehensions and sentiments. She lamented that in the drafting of lack of knowledge and skills in the said that some of the challenges the integration agreements, the most competitive markets of mass being tackled are those that business sector, though involved, consumption and have to measure concern micro-small-and-medium was not able to significantly up with multinationals that target the enterprises (MSMEs) such as access influence the output, thus, their bottom of the pyramid with [more] to information, market, human interests were not sufficiently effective strategies.” resource development and skills, integrated. She said that at such point, the finance, and technology. As regards She said the integration will role of the local business chambers specific issues on MSME financing, also open the Philippine market should be emphasized. They should she cited lack of acceptable to a mixture of low and good be catalysts for business growth, collateral, slow loan processing,

51 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 THE Naga City Choir provides the music during the mass and opening program.

SHOPPERS and entrepreneurs crowd the trade exhibit booths.

MNCCI Directors Elmer Abad (from left to right), Joe Perez, Elsie Dy, Helios Pastoral, and Amy Villafuerte, Chair of 10th Bicol Business Week. ASEAN, and the highest growth rate-- is in the highest position short repayment period, high interest to benefit from the regional rates, difficulties in loan restructuring, economic integration. “Let us and lack of start-up funds. “There all seize the opportunities and are, however, government and possibilities that are presenting private institutions which are themselves to us,” she said. providing needed support,” the Mayor John G. Bongat senator disclosed. who led the formal opening of the BBW at the JMR Coliseum, ONE of the speakers of the various seminars and She said that MSMEs comprise business fora lined up during the business week. more than 90 percent of the along with the other city officials businesses in our country and headed by Vice Mayor Nelson provide more than 50 percent Legacion, extended the city’s of jobs. “We need a closer and congratulations and unwavering He said that more enhanced coordination between support to the BBW. He noted developments in the business and government agencies and the MSME that BBW’s 10th year celebration trade sector will take place in the sector to make MSMEs not only came at a most auspicious time coming months that will further ready for AEC integration but to be when the City of Naga was hailed affirm the city’s role as the most globally competitive.” as the 3rd Most Competitive City dynamic and progressive urban She stressed that the in the Philippines, leapfrogging center in the Bicol region. Philippines-- with the second largest from its 9th rank during the population next to Indonesia in the previous year.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 52 THE 2014 HALYAO AWARDEES with Naga City Mayor John Bongat(extreme left) Daet Mayor Tito Sarion (second from right) and Dr. Butch Figuracion (extreme right) who represented Sen. Alan Peter Cayetano as presenters. The awardees are (second from left to right): Ryan Detera (Sorsogon), Zita Hababag, (Sorsogon), Solomon Ngo (Cam. Sur), Raffy Moraleda Cam.( Norte), Rey Belleza (Albay), Zosimo Saba (Cam. Sur)

FOUNDER of an IT college, two agri-business entrepreneurs, and a successful businesswoman were honored 2014 Halyao as Outstanding Bicolano ABusinesspersons of the Year awardees honored while a hardworking multi- By BONG V. VILLACRUZ tasking construction businessman from Iriga City and a forward- looking pili nut food processor The Halyao Awards, now on 1. REYNALDO A. BELLEZA from Sorsogon City were hailed its 10th year, is traditionally the (Albay) – He is the founding as this year’s Young Bicolano culminating activity of the annual President of the Computer Arts Entrepreneurs in the 2014 Halyao Bicol Business Week hosted by the and Technological College, one of Awards held last August 30 at MNCCI, in partnership with the Naga the pioneering IT institutes in the Royale Emelina, along J. Miranda City Government. Province of Albay established in Avenue, Naga City. MNCCI Director Jose B. Perez, 1987. A Certified Public Accountant The honors were presented by Chairman of the 2014 Halyao and MBA Degree holder, he Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat, Awards, and MNCCI Director Amy G. developed multiple strategies for President Nicolas Beda A. Priela Villafuerte, Chairperson of the 10th management implementation of the Metro Naga Chamber of BBW, also assisted in the presentation and designed forecasting models Commerce and Industry, and a of the Halyao awardees. for management planning. He representative of Sen. Alan Peter allocates not only scholarship S. Cayetano. The senator, who was This year’s awardees are as follows: grants to the less privileged but invited guest speaker, was not able deserving students but also offers to make it to Naga City because of Outstanding Bicolano free computer trainings to public bad weather in Metro Manila. Businesspersons of the Year (in school teachers every summer. He alphabetical order by province)-- also brings computer education in

53 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 EMCEES Issa Borromeo, Eric ‘Eruptions’ Tai and Mylce Mella of ABS-CBN. PRESENTORS. Joe Perez, 2014 Halyao Awards Chair (left, to right), together with MNCCI President Nicolas Beda Priela, and 10th BBW Chair Amy Villafuerte, anxiously wait for the next awardee to be recognized on stage.

3. ZOSIMO A. SABA (Camarines Sur)-- An agri- entreprenuer, Mr. Saba, as early as 1972, started planting various commercial crops such 2014 Halyao as , mango, rambutan, cocoa, pili, coconut, banana, awardees honored dragon fruit and sugarcane. He is also into livestock production-- hogs, cows, , goats, ducks and free-range chicken. His the barangays through his mobile house. As an environment-friendly farm in Tigaon, Camarines Sur is school. entrepreneur, he collects the recognized by Pensumil as the animal wastes in his farm, dries most efficient when it comes to 2. RAFAEL N. MORALEDA and mixes them with carbonized harvest per hectare of sugarcane. (Camarines Norte)-- A former rice hull to be made into organic It generates year-round workers livestock inspector of the fertilizer. Raffy, as he is fondly of 50 and almost 200 during Department of Agriculture who left called by friends and peers, harvest time. He donated land government service following the attributes his success to sheer to accommodate the growing devolution of certain DA employees, determination and hard work. He population of a primary school Mr. Moraleda in 1990 started by also believes that sharing what located near his farm and raising two heads of sow in his own you have with the less fortunate promised to donate another backyard. He is now one of the A1 makes life easier and brighter. He half-hectare lot once the school swine raisers in Bicol. Availing of has adopted 94 school children to offers secondary education. His a loan from the Land Bank of the allow them to finish their studies achievements as a successful Philippines, the swine raiser now and sponsors a regular student entrepreneur have been featured maintains a 3.5-hectare farm in Daet feeding program in at least two in a national TV program some with its 8 housing units, a feed mill schools within the neighborhood. years back. and feed mixer, and a new breeder

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 54 4. ZITA D. HABABAG (Sorsogon) After returning home from the USA where she owned and operated a fastfood business, she bought an ice plant and cold storage in Sorsogon City and bought another in Bulan town. Her expanded operations serve more fisherfolks in the two localities even as she continues to manage their family’s rice mill, retail store, and gasoline station. As a business and civic leader, Mrs. Hababag

is always active attending to MAYOR John Bongat in a lively conversation with NCF various community concerns President and MNCCCI Director Marguerette Michelle Padua-Hornby and Mr. Dough Jackson from the Tennessee like reviewing the city’s Revised Renewable Energy and Economic Development Council. Revenue Code, spearheading power rates consultations, and offering part of her property for free use by the Sorsogon sales with an expanded area Producers Association as of coverage for his business, display center for handicrafts, including his brewery products processed foods, and other service delivery. His companies locally-made products. now employ over 400 office and field workers even as he Outstanding Young initiated computerization and Bicolano Entrepreneur paperless transactions within Award (in alphabetical order his companies. Still, he has by province)— time to become an active civic leader. Networking with 1. SOLOMON C. NGO various groups and sectors, he (Camarines Sur)-- An engineer was able to drum up support by profession, this young for government programs entrepreneur from Iriga that promote the growth and City owns and runs several development of his community, companies that involve whether these concern sports general merchandising, development, peace and order, trading and construction. better policy environment for With sharp business instincts investors, or development of and effective management, livelihood programs. he was able to triple gross 2. RYAN D. DETERA (Sorsogon)-- At 34, Ryan has now become a full-fledged entrepreneur after taking over his parent’s pili processing food company based in Bacon, Sorsogon City as its GUESTS come to witness an administrative and marketing important event. manager. As the new registered owner, he revolutionized the company’s image by changing the company label and improving product packaging. He supplies his products

55 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 MEMBERS of the CamSur Multi-Purpose Cooperative proudly pose with DTI Camarines Sur Provincial Director Edna Tejada (second from right) after receiving their special award for being this year’s best performing cooperative in Bicol.

GUESTS coming from the different business chambers in Bicol wait charitable causes, calamity relief for the presentation of awardees. operations, and environmental awareness. The Halyao awards, launched in this city in 2005, is the region’s sole regional award for successful Bicolano entrepreneurs who have practiced their management excellence for Bicol’s growth and development. Awardees are measured based on the highest standards of excellence in to institutional buyers in its original product lines from business and entrepreneurship Manila, Cebu, and in leading simple lending and food capped with huge amount of cities in Bicol. To enhance his catering to extending farm loans, corporate social responsibility knowledge and gain more purchase order loans, emergency and faith in the Bicol economy. product accessibility, he makes loans, business and honorarium This year’s Board of Judges himself a regular participant in loans, and even pension savings is composed of DTI Regional various regional, national and to members. Director Jocelyn LB. Blanco as international food exhibitions Other forms of loans and Chair and Engr. Boy L. Aman in Manila and Hongkong. He services were, furthermore, (former Halyao awardee), also joined the US Market introduced and offered even Philtrust Naga Manager Reconnaissance in 2009 where to non-members, such as Ma. Theresa G. Enojado he met potential buyers and bonus and trading loans and (representing Camarines Sur visited stores and warehouses time savings deposits from the Bankers Club), Engr. Wesley D. of food companies in San bank to the cooperative. They Villanueva (Mall Manager, SM Francisco and Los Angeles, USA. also purchase palay and corn City Naga), and BU Prof. Nolan A special citation was given harvests of farmers and venture G. Belaro (of Bicol Foundation to the CamSur Multi-Purpose into fertilizer dealership and for Higher Education) as Cooperative for being the Best distribution that help ensure full members. Performing Bicol Cooperative of collection of their farm loans and The well-attended program the Year. protect farmers from unfair trade was hosted by Issa Borromeo This multi-million peso over their harvests. While doing and Mylce Mella of ABS-CBN multipurpose cooperative, with these, the cooperative has always Naga and Eric (Eruptions) Tai over 2,814 members, has been been conscious of and active in of “It’s Showtime,”a noontime so successful and productive delivering its responsibilities not program aired over ABS-CBN through its dynamic innovations only to its members but also to nationwide. and impressive management the community through various expertise that it has expanded community-oriented projects,

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 56 Panicuason corn farmer wins ‘Gawad Saka’ regional award

By JASON B. NEOLA

ORN plantations prove to thrive well in the upper barangays at the foot of Mt. Isarog, just a few kilometers away from the city’s central business district, thus helping provide Cadded income to local farm hands. From these verdant corn fields, farmer Alfredo Gatongay came out as Outstanding Corn Farmer after besting other nominees from the Bicol Region’s farming municipalities during the Gawad Saka 2014, an annual awarding conducted by the Department of Agriculture (DA). Along with other finalists from the country’s 17 regions, the corn farmer from Barangay Panicuason will receive his plaque and cash awards in Cagayan de Oro City during the Quality Corn Achievers Awarding ceremonies in October 2014. Gatongay, who uses a low-cost technology, was named outstanding corn farmer of the year after hitting a yield of 10.3 tons of hybrid corn per hectare consistently every year. His farming technology, he said, is adoptable by small-time corn farmers who wish to increase their hybrid yield during dry seasons. During wet season, Gatongay averages 8.5 tons per hectare. Gatongay is one of the 386 corn farmers benefitting from assistance under the city government’s SARIG Naga program, an acronym for Sustainable Agriculture for Rural Income Growth in Naga.

57 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 farmers’ income growth, not only on production growth. Under the SARIG principle, the city determines the measure of success in farming through net income derived, not cavans per hectare. The program, thru the use of some interventions, works for the reduction of production cost, resulting to farmers’ higher net income. OIC City Agriculturist Edna B. Bongalonta said the farmers, like any other beneficiary of SARIG, are regularly receiving, assistance from the City Agriculture Office. These include seeds and various farm inputs like fertilizer and lime, the latter used as soil neutralizer. Bongalonta and the City Government of Naga are vying for the nationwide Search for Outstanding City Agriculturist and Top 25 Cities/ Municipalities categories, respectively, under the Gawad Saka 2014. Meanwhile, Naga City Using the same technology, Agricultural Technician I the farmers harvest 4 tons of open Benedicto C. Heraldo will pollinated variety (OPV) during wet receive his national Quality Corn season, specifically in the months of Achievers Award as Outstanding November to December, per hectare. Corn Technician for 2014. This, while other farmers harvest only 3 Naga City’s nominee to tons per hectare on wet season. the nationwide Search for The program, which was Outstanding Corn Coordinator is conceptualized under Mayor John G. Engr. Menandro U. Calingacion, Bongat’s administration, is focused on the City Agricultural Technologist.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 58 Naga’s green and flower program By JASON B. NEOLA

SIDE from planting activities, in partnership its good with various public and private governance groups and organizations. advocacies, the Joining the frontline with city government Pilimania, Buskad Burak and of Naga is also other beautification projects to pre-occupied complement their desired targets with projects that can lift the is the City Parks and Recreational spirits of its citizens by continually Facilities Management Office Amaking green its surroundings, (CPRFMO) headed by Sieglinde with additional color to boot, by Borromeo-Bulaong. Aside from transforming certain road sections, maintaining the landscaping of public plazas, and idle lots into the Rotunda, Quince Martires, islands of ornamental plants and and Plaza Rizal, the office is also flowering plants. tasked with fixing and upgrading City Environment and Natural the city’s major road islands by Resources Office (City ENRO) head planting them with ornamental Oscar P. Orozco had long entertained plants like dwarf pandakaki, the idea since the late DILG Secretary lantana, sun drops, santan, forget- Jesse M. Robredo, who was city me-nots, peanut yellow, ti plants, the City ENRO headed by Mr. mayor then, instructed him in 2004 palm trees, and ara-alas dose. Antonio A. Añonuevo, head of to establish a nursery that will the Watershed Management complement the city’s requirement Nursery Division, takes care of the plants for different varieties of ornamental and seedlings, along with nursery plants. Situated at Km. 10, Zone 1 foreman Mr. Pablo M. Maleniza Six years later when Mayor in Barangay Carolina, this city, and nursery team aides Roberto John G. Bongat took over the reins the seedling facility, now called P. Sanchez, Leopoldo D. Rosco, of the city government in 2010, the the City ENRO Nursery, serves as and Erlinda I. Salazar. city turned green with its number sanctuary not only for different of outdoor beautification projects types of ornamental plants but Tree Planting under his Pilimania and Buskad also for forest trees (mahogany, Burak sa Barangay programs that gmelina, narra, acacia, and Last September 9, the aim to beautify the environment and Palawan cherry) and fruit-bearing city government engaged in at the same time provide livelihood trees like pili, jackfruit, guyabano, massive tree planting together opportunities for Nagueños. star apple, atis, kamagong, with representatives of the SM The nursery provides the gumian, and aratiles. Foundation, Inc., the Philippine seedlings needed for the city’s tree A team of nursery aides from Army (9ID), members of the

59 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 NARRA trees and green plants at the PHOTO BY XERES gagero Plaza Quince Martires offer shade and cool sanctuary to guests, and weary travellers.

Mt. Isarog Guardians (MIGs)-- an nationwide for a period of 6 years NGO, beneficiaries of Pantawid from 2011 to 2016. by representatives from the Pamilyang Pilipino Program Orozco disclosed that an aforementioned institutions, (4Ps) of the Department of initial target of planting 32,000 along with 50 beneficiaries of Social Welfare and Development seedlings in a 20-hectare 4Ps and 25 MIGs who were (DSWD), the Dept. of Environment protected area situated at Mt. hired as laborers. They were and Natural Resources, and the Isarog Natural Park in Barangay also joined in by personnel city ENRO. Panicuason is what his office is of the Philippine Army’s 9th Dubbed as “Grow a Million working on at present along with Infantry Division based in Trees” project, the undertaking partner institutions, with funding Camp Elias Angeles, Barangay aims to boost the national support from the SM Foundation. San Jose, Pili, Camarines greening program of the DENR, He said his office is eyeing another Sur. Continuous seedling which allows the city government 30 hectares for the same project. production, planting and and its partner private and public More than 4,500 saplings of maintenance are also being agencies to actively participate endemic trees like narra, pepe, undertaken by the MIGS and in the national government’s lauaan, balinad, malabayawas 4Ps beneficiaries. goal of planting 1.5 billion trees and almasiga were planted on in 1.5 million hectares of land the same site last September 9

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 60 CCTV,repair works, computerization and 5S at the Naga City People’s Mall By JASON B. NEOLA

he Naga City People’s shopping public, as well as the Mall (NCPM) continues stallholders and vendors to become the preferred themselves in the name of place for shoppers who are efficient and responsive budget conscious but are public service and uncompromising about delivery. orderliness, safe access and These works convenience in the marketplace. include the Interestingly, improvement works computerization Tand other innovative measures are being of the billing vigorously pursued to better serve the and collection sections of the Market Enterprise and Promotions Office (MEPO) that operates and manages the mall, formerly known as the Naga City Public Market. The amount of P200,000 has been earmarked for this specific project, which is expected to be completed in September this year.

61 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 City Administrator Florencio T. Mongoso Jr. said mga Brodkasters ng Pilipinas (KBP), Department of that aside from speeding up transactions and services Trade and Industry (DTI), Solid Waste Management at the MEPO, other vital physical structures are also Office (SWMO) and two from the private sector. being undertaken to improve its facilities at the cost The awarding of winners is slated on December 31, of P1.3M. 2014. Also in the pipeline is the installation of Aside from making the NCPM clean and surveillance cameras and closed circuit television orderly, Florendo said his office is also conducting (CCTV), also eyed for completion within September, a series of activities that will help stallholders this year. The amount of P500,000 has been improve sales and profits that include allocated for this purpose. business counselling by different NCPM Manager Ramon J. public and private entities. Florendo said the installation of He said MEPO, in cameras and CCTV is expected collaboration with DTI and to reduce cases of theft, other entrepreneurs, snatching and robbery will soon spearhead within the mall. In 2010, seminars on food and there were 57 reported fish processing. A incidences of snatching GrOW Negosyo and 54 stalls ransacked Center will also be by thieves. set up inside the The figures have NCPM. dramatically declined “While we in the following years endeavor to create because of the active the culture of responses from the discipline in our lot members of the mall’s and provide our small security force. Last year, and micro entrepreneurs MEPO recorded 16 cases conducive areas of snatching and 7 cases of where they can sell their ransacked stalls. From January to products and merchandise, July 2014, seven cases of snatching the city government’s primary and 6 ransacked stalls were reported. role is to create more livelihood All these are in line with the Naga City opportunities, which go along with the People’s Mall’s “Mercadong Malinig, Negosyo mandate of improving the technical capability of Masarig” project that MEPO formally launched May the entrepreneurs for them to be able to effectively 31, this year. manage their own businesses and increase their Florendo said a competition will be conducted sales and profits,” Florendo explained. among stallholders of the 28 sections of the public mall, particularly the members of the Naga Market Stallholders Federation (NAMASFED) to determine who observes best the culture of orderliness and cleanliness within the premises. The contest, to last until the end of this year, aims to instill and institutionalize the culture of orderliness and cleanliness in the entire mall by encouraging all stallholders to adopt Japan’s 5S of good housekeeping. The 5S stands for sort, set in order, sweep and shine, standardize, and self-discipline. Under the competition’s tool of evaluation, the 28 stalls were divided into 3 categories, namely, wet, semi-dry and dry. Stalls under each category shall be graded with stars; those which are found to be the cleanest and most orderly will receive up to 5 stars. The monthly evaluation, which will end in CONSTRUCTION laborers do repair works on the flooring of the December 2014, is being conducted by a team entire fresh fish section of the Naga City People’s Mall in such a way composed of representatives from the Kapisanan ng that water is drained naturally to a passageway and, thus, prevent waterlogging. The rehabilitation work, which costs P700,000 and covers 113 stalls, was completed on the third week of August this year.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 62 as they worked for 40 days City Hall under minimum wage, while hoping that things would return provides to normal, as they did, in due time. They cleaned up the road emergency sides and other public places in the barangay and acted as labor employment to complement in the rehabilitation of destroyed public infrastructures Typhoon victims within the city. It did not take long that the By JASON B. NEOLA city and its residents were back on their feet again. Meanwhile, Engr. Joel P. Martin, head of the city’s Solid GLENDA’S victims who were Waste Management Ofifce displaced from their work are hired for temporary (SWMO) reported that at least 250 employment under tons of garbage everyday were LGU Naga’s Emergency Employment Program para hauled since the day Typhoon sa Biktima ng Bagyong Glenda left after battering the Glenda. The hired workers are fielded to do roof repairs whole Bicol Region for 5 hours last and cleaning, rehabilitation July 15. of public structures, hauling of tree trimmings and broken The hauling and disposal of branches, roadside clearing uprooted trees and their broken operations, and augmenting the crews of Casureco branches and regular household II in the restoration of and commercial wastes were collapsed electric poles in the barangays. being undertaken by SWMO with the help of volunteers from different government and private institutions. IMING to cushion the impact of Typhoon Glenda in the lives of Personnel from the Philippine Nagueños, especially the poor and the most vulnerable, and Army and the Naga City Police in order to address the need for the immediate rehabilitation Office were also dispatched in of public infrastructures, the city government of Naga released different areas to assist in the the amount of P1, 040,000 to provide at least 200 heads of clearing of tree trimmings, using families with financial assistance to help them cope with the the 20 dump trucks lent by several difficulties wrought by the disastrous weather disturbance. construction companies that AHeads of families are those who work as breadwinners. They can either beefed up the 10 dump trucks be their own family’s father, mother, son, or daughter. Based on the project owned by the city government. proposal prepared by Metro Naga Public Employment Office, the initiative called Employees of City Hall for the hiring of family heads as emergency workers for the city government’s including the departments heads clean-up operation and restoration works. and division chiefs, too, were Dubbed as Emergency Employment Program Para sa Biktima ng Bagyong deployed to various public areas Glenda, the project has achieved two goals: emergency employment generation to help in the clearing operation. and immediate rehabilitation of government’s lifeline facilities. The emergency Also joining the effort were employment took effect from July 16 to October 31, this year. personnel from the Public Safety Mayor John G. Bongat said the program’s direct beneficiaries are jobless Office and the Department of indigents and displaced workers whose economic base was affected by Public Works and Highways the closure of the company or shop that they worked in or slowing down (DPWH) based in the neighboring of operation of their source of livelihood in the aftermath of the disastrous Canaman town, the city’s scholars, typhoon. and schools like the Naga Naga City was declared under a state of calamity, through Sangguniang International Technology Center. Panlungsod Resolution No. 2014-216, a day after it was buffeted by Typhoon Naga City was reported to Glenda on July 15, this year, leaving homeless around 1, 768 families, or an be the first in the region to have estimated 7,072 individuals. cleared its streets and highways Significant losses were reported on properties, infrastructure projects, of typhoon wastes and debris and power and telecommunications, and agriculture as Typhoon Glenda battered the the fastest to have restored its city with its strong winds hissing at 130-150 kph. energy supply in just a few days The hired workers were able to provide their families of their basic needs after the typhoon.

63 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 Naga’s e-governance voted ‘Best of the Best’ in Singapore festival by JASON B. NEOLA

AGA City bested other cities in the Asean Region and China during the “International Policy Innovation Festival” held in Singapore where it was bestowed the “Most Inspiring NInnovation” Award. The festival was held at the Lee Kuan Yew School of Public Policy, National University of Singapore, from August 5-7, 2014. It showcased award- winning programs on governance and policy innovations of emerging cities from the Philippines, China, Indonesia, Vietnam, Malaysia, Thailand, and Cambodia. It also presented celebrated public sector innovations in Government and Participation, Sustainability and the Revitalization of Public Spaces, Enhancing Efficiency and Public Services, and Promising Pilots and Learning. Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat, together with representatives from other award-winning cities and agencies, showcased their respective innovations thru slide presentations. The award was based on student votes who observed and participated in the policy innovation festival. The City of Naga’s e-governance innovations using ICT for civic engagement towards responsive decision-making and focusing on resolving health and disaster resilience issues as presented by Mayor Bongat was voted as the best of the best.

JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014 64 PHOTO BY xeres ramon a. gagero

ver 9,000 runners joined the 38th National Milo Marathon elimination in Naga City last Sunday, August 24. OMario Maglinao, 26, of Legazpi City clocked 1 hour, 12 minutes and 47 seconds to rule the men’s division while Luisa Ruterta, 33, a native of Laguna, topped the distaff side in 1:32:10. Both Maglinao and Ruterta took home P10,000 each and slots to the December national finals along with 64 others. Maglinao never had any formal training in running while Tuterta coaches youth runners during her spare time.

65 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2014