2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 1 4/6/2018 2:21:15 PM

JOHN G. BONGAT RAFAEL RACSO V. VITAN City Mayor Layout and Graphics Design Editor

NELSON S. LEGACION ARMIE B. GUNAY Vol. 8, No. 3 July - September 2017 City Vice Mayor Layout and Design Assistant

A Quarterly Magazine of the JOSE B. PEREZ ANSELMO B. MAÑO City Government of Naga Editor Website Administrator Bicol, Philippines JASON B. NEOLA FLORENCIO T. MONGOSO, JR. ISSN 2094-9383 Managing Editor REUEL M. OLIVER Editorial Consultants

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 2 4/6/2018 2:21:19 PM JOSE V. COLLERA ALLEN L. REONDANGA This quarterly magazine SYLRANJELVIC C. VILLAFLOR ALEC FRANCIS A.SANTOS is published by the REYNALDO T. BAYLON PAUL JOHN F. BARROSA City Government of Naga, XERES RAMON GAGERO LILIBETH SANCHEZ Photographers Technical Advisers thru the City Events, Protocol and Public Information Office, with editorial office at IAN MAR P. NEBRES LEE ARMIE B. GUNAY City Hall Compound, Drone Pilot SHARMAINE ZEN O. MANZANO J. Miranda Avenue, Naga City Writers 4400 Philippines

CHRISTOPHER E. ANTONIO Tel: +63 54 881-8328 RUEL P. SANDUCO +63 54 871-3098 NELSON D. SERRANO Email: [email protected] Circulation Web: www.naga.gov.ph PHOTO BY

XERES GAGERO

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 3 4/6/2018 2:21:21 PM TABLE OF CONTENTS

3 Mayor’s Message 27 9th Bicol Region Military Parade Competition Ateneo survey 5 31 Peñafrancia Fluvial shows VP Leni Robredo, Procession Mayor Bongat lead The “Naga SMILES to the World” satisfaction rating logo is composed of the two AFTER PEÑAFRANCIA baybayin characters, na and ga. 37 9 MOST COMPETITIVE FIESTA: COMPONENT CITY 2017 Mayor Bongat gives thanks to Na, shaped like a mountain, Naga is 2nd, Legazpi lands in 5th interagency provides a strong foundation for the task group, cleanup drive Narra tree which grew abundantly volunteers Peñafrancia Activities along the Naga River while a zigzag 10 line denotes the majestic Malabsay 11 Miss Bicolandia 2017 Falls. Coronation night AT BICOL BUSINESS 39 MONTH OPENS Ga, shaped like a farmer’s plow, More gains in trade cited; is symbolic of the Nagueño’s 13 Peñafrancia new dev’t plans uncovered

agricultural roots and hardworking Traslacion Procession personality. MNCCI, DA open ASPIRE, The baybayin Naga characters 17 Regionl Band, Majorettes 41 Best of Bicol showcase

rest on a wave-like element which and Fancy Drill Competition represents the Naga River and the serpent, which is read in Sanskrit 19 Scouts Parade and 45 SM City Naga is PRA’s as naga. Inter-school DBC/DLC Mall of the Year - Medium Competition Category This new branding for Naga, launched in 2010 by the dynamic 22 Civic Parade and Bongat administration, envisions a Float Competition Robinsons Place Naga opens more livable city that is world-class. 47

23 Peñafrancia Voyadores

Festival 2017 Street Dance Robredo museum unveiled Competition & 49 Aug. 18 Fireworks Display

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 4 4/6/2018 2:21:23 PM TABLE OF CONTENTS

NHCP chair, VP Leni lead Naga hosts national summit 53 Robredo museum opening 70 for agriculturists, librarians

The “An Maogmang Lugar” logo is Earthquake drill an attempt to capture Naga as we 72 shakes CSNHS 57 A city with a soul want it to be – a city that is progressive students, teachers and yet environment-friendly, where the people freely participate in the Bikers mark Jesse’s Naga’s Stevie Wonder day-to-day affairs of the government, 59 5th Death anniversary 74 adjudged champ; onward and where culture and arts are to the national finals flourishing.

STORIES OF HOPE: The stylized design of “NAGA” 61 A chain of volunteerism and 75 THE CURRENCIES OF positivity LIGHT AND AIR represents the city’s aggressive A review of Romualdo march towards modernization and Rommel Perez’s “Tindero” progress. The sky-blue background, series 19th century fair makes 8th the Narra tree, and the Naga River 63 revival for Peñafrancia fiesta represent our people’s desire for an ecologically-balanced community. SP HIGHLIGHTS The ring of people surrounding the Naga’s air quality is ‘Good,’ anti - entire design shows the Nagueños’ 65 smoke belching report says participatory mechanism which is 77 SP Highlights: part and parcel of the city’s way Commercial of doing things. It also shows the MNWD, LGU NAGA, PNP, NCPNP and backyard poultry people’s concern and unity in 66 ADVISORY COUNCIL AS SIGNATORIES and livestock raising everything that is good for the city. MOA inked for protected area inside MINP Today, the city, as Maogmang Lugar, SP Highlights: aims to portray more than a happy 79 Smoke-Free City place but a happy people who are the MNWD pushes sustainable true beneficiaries of everything good 68 ecotourism development that is happening in the city.

Congress held for indigent 69 pregnant mothers

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 5 4/6/2018 2:21:24 PM Mayor's Message

NCE again, we would like to welcome our And soon the fiesta became both a religious and socio- guests, visitors, pilgrims and devotees as we cultural event that enriches local history and culture, celebrate with joy and thanksgiving the feast promote the community’s products through trade exhibits Omonth of our Ina, Our Lady of Peñafrancia, patroness of and bazaars, and yes -- celebrate good harvest that Bicolandia! traditionally is highlighted with Holy Masses, processions, parades, pageants, food and drinks, cockfights, and anything The Peñafrancia fiesta has been acclaimed as one of joyful and colorful because after all, every fiesta is a the biggest, if not the biggest Marian devotion ever in the celebration. Philippines, with simultaneous celebrations in the other four corners of the world, especially in Christian cities For over 300 years now, Nagueños – and Bicolanos, in where there are Bicolano communities. general – have been celebrating the fiesta in honor of the Virgin of Peñafrancia. Naga, known as Nueva Caceres then, Indeed, the fiesta is part and bundle of our culture. may well be called as “El Pueblo Amante de Maria, ” It is said that the Filipino fiesta must go on, through good or a people in love with Mary. Large number of devotees, times and bad times. In good times, we thank the Lord, including those who are non-Bicolanos, have come to pray through our patron saint, for the blessings, healings, and and touch her image in generous display of thanksgiving and good harvest that we received despite our limitations to be to ask for favor from the miraculous lady so that a sick son good to him. In bad times, we seek for God’s forgiveness, or relative may get well, or a daughter may pass her exams. promise to love Him more, and pray that He may grant us better harvest and a more comfortable life the next time. The feast day of the Peñafrancia is celebrated annually on the third Saturday and Sunday of September. It is The origin of fiestas all over our archipelago are amazing to know that almost six million Bicolanos from rooted in Christianity, dating back to the Spanish colonial here and abroad are gathering together to celebrate the feast period when the many communities (such as barangays and day of the Our Lady of Peñafrancia. towns) of the predominantly Catholic Philippines almost always had a patron saint assigned to The feast day is highlighted with a novena for each of them. nine days, to honor and worship our “Ina”. On the first day, the image is brought from her shrine to the Naga The Spanish Metropolitan Cathedral, where a daily novena is held. On missionaries encouraged its last day, the image is returned to her shrine through a the celebration of the colorful procession, her fluvial route illuminated by candles fiesta to coincide with in the devotees’ hands who gathered to witness her vessel’s Christian holy days, and passing by the Naga River. When the whole flotilla of boats became vital instruments accompanying her large vessel, otherwise known as ‘pagoda’ in spreading Christianity reaches the wharf, the image is borne on the shoulders of the throughout the country. priests who will finally install her in her altar at the Basilica for the High Mass that concludes her 9-day religious fiesta.

Happy fiesta to all!

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 6 4/6/2018 2:21:27 PM PHOTO BY RACSO VITAN

DRONE PHOTO BY JOY SAN CARLOS

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 7 4/6/2018 2:21:29 PM ATENEO SURVEY SHOWS VP LENI ROBREDO, MAYOR BONGAT LEAD SATISFACTION RATING

ELIGION is “very important” in the lives of Nagueños and both Vice President Leni Robredo and Mayor John Bongat enjoy “very good” net satisfaction ratings among their Naga constituents. These are some of the highlights of the 2017 RThird Quarter Naga City Poverty and Governance Public Opinion Poll released here last Tuesday, Sept. 26, by the Ateneo Social Science Research Center (ASSRC) and Ateneo Student Researchers Pool (ASRP) of the Ateneo de Naga University. A great majority, or 83.5% of Nagueños, believe in the importance of religion in their lives, according to the survey. During the observance of the annual Penafrancia fiesta, the poll says, about 6 of 10 Nagueno Catholics participate in the Traslacion (57.3%). On the other hand, less than half, or 43.3%, join the fluvial procession, and only 16.5% attend the mass after the Traslacion. Meanwhile, 35% of Naguenos consider themselves “poor.” This self-rated poverty incidence decreased by about 5% from last

PHOTOS BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

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PHOTOS BY RACSO VITAN

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 8 4/6/2018 2:21:30 PM POLITICS ATENEO SURVEY SHOWS VP LENI ROBREDO, MAYOR BONGAT LEAD SATISFACTION RATING By JOSE B. PEREZ, EDITOR RODRIGO “NEUTRAL” NET DUTERTE SATISFACTION PRESIDENT RATING

LENI ROBREDO “VERY GOOD” NET VICE SATISFACTION PRESIDENT RATING

GABBY BORDADO “GOOD” CONGRESSMAN

JOHN BONGAT “VERY GOOD” MAYOR

NELSON LEGACION “VERY GOOD” VICE MAYOR

PHOTO BY RACSO VITAN

CECILIA DE ASIS “GOOD” year’s 39.8%. CITY COUNCILOR Those who are poor perceive themselves as such because they have low income (57.1%), they lack permanent job (27.9%), or eat less than three meals a day (6.4%). Conducted from July 9 to August 11, this year, the 3rd quarter poverty and governance public opinion poll used face to face interview of 400 respondents randomly selected JOSELITO SA. from the voting age population of all barangays in Naga City. DEL ROSARIO “GOOD” The margin of error is plus or minus 4.9%. CITY COUNCILOR Sixteen student scholars from ASRP conducted the survey, under the guidance by ASSRC. The University Research Council, on the other hand, funded the survey. It adapts the SWS methodology and uses its rating interpretation terminology. Here are the SWS terminology for Net Satisfaction JOSE ratings: +70 and above, “Excellent”; +50 to +69, “Very Good”; RAÑOLA “GOOD” +30 to +49, “Good”; +10 to +29, “Moderate”; +9 to -9, CITY COUNCILOR

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 9 4/6/2018 2:21:31 PM “Neutral”; -10 to -29, “Poor”; -30 to -49, “Bad”; -50 Good” net satisfaction rating (66.6% satisfied, satisfaction rating (62.7% satisfied, 12.3% to -69, “Very Good”; -70 and below, “Execrable”. 8.7% dissatisfied). dissatisfied). On the net satisfaction rating of our political Two of our local leaders, too, were given On the other hand, Congressman leaders, Naguenos gave President Rodrigo Duterte by their Naga constituents “Very Good” net Gabby Bordado earned a “Good” net a dismal +3.6 or “Neutral” net satisfaction rating satisfaction ratings: Mayor John Bongat, with satisfaction ratings among Nagueños (30.8% satisfied, 27.2% dissatisfied). In contrast, VP +55.7% (65.6% satisfied, 9.9% dissatisfied) and at +36.7 (51.5% satisfied and 14.8% Leni Robredo registered a rousing +57.9% or “Very Vice Mayor Nelson Legacion with +50.4% net dissatisfied). Members of the Sangguniang Panglunsod (city councilors) were their RELIGION respective “Good” and “Moderate” net satisfaction ratings, with one earning 6 OF 10 “Neutral” rating. 43.3% JOIN THE Rañola, a consistent topnotch FLUVIAL councilor in the time of then Mayor Jesse NAGUEÑO CATHOLICS 83.5% PROCESSION Robredo who made a comeback via the RELIGION IS OF NAGUEÑOS, PARTICIPATE IN THE 2016 polls, said he is elated by the trust and “VERY BELIEVE IN THE TRASLACION confidence given him by the public which

IMPORTANCE inspires him to continue to do his best like IMPORTANT” OF RELIGION 57.3% his colleagues in Sanggunian in achieving more meaningful and honest services to the Nagueños. For his part, neophyte councilor Del Rosario said the favorable ratings given him by the general public further fuel him to be more effective and judicious in delivering CUTTING OF TREES NAGUEÑOS services that the Naga constituency needs. 62%, Both Ranola and Del Rosario obtained NAGUEÑOS FAVOR AND DEMOLISHING AGREE TO THE “Good” ratings in the net satisfaction survey, CUTTING OF HOUSES AND OTHER DEMOLITION OF 48.5%, TREES STRUCTURES OBSTRUCTIVE ACCORDING TO THE HOUSES AND SAME SURVEY, WITHIN THE ROAD RIGHT OF WAY TO FACILITATE ROAD WIDENING STRUCTURES 3 OUT OF 5 NAGUEÑOS 60.2% SOCIAL STATUS / CONSIDER THEMSELVES AS QUALITY OF LIFE FOOD SECURE

ALMOST HALF 35% OF NAGUEÑOS OF NAGUEÑOS CONSIDER THEMSELVES 45.5% “POOR.” ADMIT THAT THEIR LIVES IMPROVED COMPARED TO THE LOW PAST 6 MONTHS INCOME 57.1% MORE THAN HALF 53% 27.9% ANTICIPATE BETTER LACK PERMANENT QUALITY OF LIFE IN THE NEXT 6 MONTHS JOB

EAT LESS THAN THREE MEALS A DAY PHOTO BY 6.4% JOSE COLLERA

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 10 4/6/2018 2:21:32 PM earning 32.5% and 30.7%, respectively. half (53%) anticipate better quality of life In the same quarterly survey, it was The city councilor with the highest “Good” in the next 6 months while only few (4%) shown that 91.3% of Nagueños are aware of satisfaction rating is Cecilia ‘Nene’ de Asis anticipate worse. This finding resulted to a the smoking ban. But of those aware, 74.2% who has a net rating of 46.1% “very high” net personal optimism of +49%. observe that the ordinance is not being strictly For Nagueños, the median poverty followed. CUTTING OF TREES threshold, or the amount of monthly The survey further shows that decline in This one may not be good news to income for an average household so that it crime incidence has been attributed by the city Naga’s so-called “green warriors.” may not be considered poor is P20,000, an residents to greater police visibility and effort More Nagueños (48.5%), according to amount unchanged or as it was hoped for or (23.8%), anti-drug campaign (19.7%) and fear the same survey, favor cutting of trees and estimated since last year. of the Duterte administration (17.7%). demolishing houses and other structures In terms of food security, 3 out of five Both the national government’s and within the road right of way to facilitate road Nagueños (60.2%) consider themselves as the city government of Naga’s campaign widening while 31.8% want to save them. food secure. This figure improved by 5.9 against illegal drugs recorded “moderate” This resulted to “moderate” or +16.7%, net percentage points from last year’s 54.3%. net satisfaction rating (14.5% and 11%, agreement rating. respectively). Meanwhile, more than half of MORE REVEALING SURVEY DATA Meanwhile, a quarter of the survey Naguenos (62%) agree to the demolition responders (25%) have admitted to have of obstructive houses and structures. This About two-thirds (2/3) of Naguenos read, watched and heard about the tax reform resulted to “strong” +44.2% agreement (64.8%) agree that the traffic situation in the package of the Duterte Administration. rating where only 17.8% disagreed. city is a problem. It reported a +46%, or a They are particularly aware of realignment “strong” net agreement rating. of tax benefits (28.3%), imposition of higher QUALITY OF LIFE To solve the problem, Naga residents excise and commodity taxes (14.1%), sin tax recommend road widening or more road on cigarettes and liquor (12.1%), and tax On the quality of life, almost half projects (18.1%). However, the survey shows exemption for low income earners (12.1%). of Nagueños (45.5%) admit that their that Naguenos seem to have opposing But among those who are aware, only half lives improved compared to the past 6 views on whether to remove or reduce (46.5%) agree on its implementation while months, while one out of six (15.8%) says traffic lights (13.1%) or install more traffic 28.3% disagree, which results to +18.2%, or it worsened. This reveals a net personal lights (10.8%). “moderate”, net agreement. With report by optimism of only +29.7%. But more than Jason B. Neola.

TRAFFIC ISSUE CRIME INCIDENCE SMOKING ORDINANCE

ABOUT TWO-THIRDS (2/3) OF NAGUEÑOS 91.3% , DECLINE IN 64.8% OF NAGUEÑOS ARE CRIME AWARE OF THE INCIDENCE SMOKING BAN HAS BEEN ATTRIBUTED BY THE CITY RESIDENTS % TO 74.2 GREATER BSERVE THAT THE AGREE THAT THE TRAFFIC SITUATION IN P LICE VISIBILITY AND 0RDINANCE IS THE CITY IS A PROBLEM NOT BEING EFF RT STRICTLY NAGA RESIDENTS 23.8% FOLLOWED 18.1% CAMPAIGN AGAINST 1 2 3 4 RECOMMEND ILLEGAL DRUGS ROAD WIDENING ANTI-DRUG OR MORE ROAD CAMPAIGN NATIONAL PROJECTS GOVERNMENT 19.7% AND THE CITY GOVERNMENT OF % NAGA’S 13.1 CAMPAIGN NAGUEÑOS SEEM TO 10.8% HAVE OPPOSING AGAINST INSTALL MORE AND OF THE VIEWS ON WHETHER TRAFFIC LIGHTS FEAR ILLEGAL DRUGS TO REMOVE OR DUTERTE REDUCE TRAFFIC RECORDED LIGHTS ADMINISTRATION “MODERATE” 17.7% JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017 8

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 11 4/6/2018 2:21:32 PM MOST COMPETITIVE COMPONENT CITY 2017 NAGA IS 2ND, LEGAZPI LANDS IN 5TH

By JOSE B. PEREZ, EDITOR

COMPONENT CITIES: TOP 20 ECONOMIC DYNAMISM

RANKINGS OUT OF 112 COMPONENT AND INDEPENDENT COMPONENT CITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES

RANK CITY PROVINCE REGION CITY CLASSIFICATION

1 GENERAL TRIAS CAVITE REGION IV-A (CALABARZON) COMPONENT

2 SAN FERNANDO (PA) PAMPANGA REGION III (CENTRAL LUZON) COMPONENT

3 NAGA (CS) CAMARINES SUR REGION V (BICOL REGION) INDEPENDENT COMPONENT

COMPONENT CITIES: TOP 20 GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY

RANKINGS OUT OF 112 COMPONENT AND INDEPENDENT COMPONENT CITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES

RANK CITY PROVINCE REGION CITY CLASSIFICATION

1 NAGA (CS) CAMARINES SUR REGION V (BICOL REGION) INDEPENDENT COMPONENT

2 COTABATO COTABA CITY REGION XII INDEPENDENT COMPONENT (NOT A PROVINCE) (SOCCSKSARGEN)

3 ANTIPOLO RIZAL REGION IV-A (CALABARZON) COMPONENT

COMPONENT CITIES: TOP 20 INFASTRUCTURE NOT TOO BAD, AFTERALL. RANKINGS OUT OF 112 COMPONENT AND INDEPENDENT COMPONENT CITIES IN THE PHILIPPINES RANK CITY PROVINCE REGION CITY CLASSIFICATION CORING high on government efficiency, economic 1 ANTIPOLO RIZAL REGION IV-A (CALABARZON) COMPONENT dynamism, and infrastructure development, Naga 2 TAGUM DAVAO DEL NORTE REGION XI (DAVAO REGION) COMPONENT City, erstwhile topnotcher for two consecutive years 3 NAGA (CS) CAMARINES SUR REGION V (BICOL REGION) INDEPENDENT COMPONENT (2015 and 2016), slipped to second place overall in this Syear’s ranking for the most competitive component cities in the country as it failed to rate better in a fourth criterion introduced criterion that was topped by Bayawan City, Negros Oriental, and Calapan in this year’s ranking – resiliency. City, Oriental Mindoro, the latter in second place.

Every year since 2014, the National Competitiveness Antipolo was No. 1 in infrastructure development, followed by Tagum Council names the most competitive LGUs to recognize their City and Naga City in that order. crucial role in promoting competitiveness in the country. In economic dynamism, General Frias City (Cavite) came first, followed Announced during the awarding rites held at the PICC by San Fernando City (Pampanga) and Naga City, in that order. plenary hall last August 16, 2017, Naga was dislodged by Antipolo City as the Most Competitive Component City for 2017. The Cities and Municipalities Competitiveness Index (CMCI) which was utilized in the ranking of LGUs by the National Competitiveness Council On 3rd place was Tagum City (Mindanao). San Fernando used to measure LGU’s competitiveness based on the three pillars only: City of Pampanga was in fourth place while another Bicol city – Economic Dynamism, Government Efficiency, and Infrastructure. Legazpi – made it to 5th place. For 2017 ranking, however, Resiliency as the fourth pillar of Legazpi City was the 3rd most component city in competitiveness was added, in cognizance of the climate change and global 2016 when Naga won for the second time as the No. 1 most disaster risk phenomena obtaining in recent years and how the LGUs are component competitive city during that same year. handling or preparing for them. The other categories in the competitiveness ranking, aside from Naga was adjudged No. 1 in Government Efficiency, component cities, are for Municipalities, Provinces, and Highly Urbanized and No. 3 in both Economic Dynamism and Infrastructure Cities. Development while it was rated No. 13 in Resiliency, a new Three years ago (2014), Daet in Camarines Norte was adjudged as the most competitive municipality in the country. It has not succeeded to recover its exalted title nor landed in the Top Ten since then.

Quezon City is the overall most competitive highly urbanized city, followed by Manila, and Davao City, in

that order. RACSO VITAN

PHOTOS BY JOSE COLLERA PHOTO BY PHOTO

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 12 4/6/2018 2:21:36 PM PEÑAFRANCIA FESTIVAL 2017

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 13 4/6/2018 2:21:37 PM SEPT. 6 MISS BICOLANDIA JESSE M. ROBREDO COLISEUM I 7PM

PHOTOS BY JI S I 11 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 14 4/6/2018 2:21:39 PM AFTER WARMING

UP THE CROWD with

S a brief parade together S with Miss Bicolandia 2016 winner Jian Cayla Salazar, sashaying the runway Miss Bicolandia 2017- in their white swimsuits, gliding through the Kayesha Clauden Chua Masquerade Ball stage in their finely-designed glamorous evening gowns, and gracefully revealing their beautiful 1st Runner- Up- Paula Ortega minds in the question and answer portion, the 2nd Runner- Up- Julia Novel Gonowon modern and empowered Miss Bicolandia 2017 has 3rd Runner- Up- Leorosa Maria Kennedy been finally crowned! Congratulations Kayesha Clauden Chua, Miss 4th Runner- Up- Sigrid Grace Flores Bicolandia 2017!

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 15 4/6/2018 2:21:40 PM PHOTO BY JO NELL AB SAS PHOTO BY JOSE OLL RA

DEVOTEES and VISITORS from all over the country joined us in the Traslacion procession; NINE-DAY NOVENA the transfer of the image of Divino Rostro and Our STARTS TODAY. Lady of Peñafrancia from Peñafrancia Shrine to the Devotees and visitors from all over the country joinedMetropolitan Cathedral marking the start of the nine- us in the Traslacion procession; the transfer of theday novena and also the birthday of our Blessed image of Divino Rostro and Our Lady of PeñafranciaMother. Viva La Virgen! Viva El Divino Rostro! from Peñafrancia Shrine to the Metropolitan Cathedral marking the start of the nine-day novena and also the birthday of our Blessed Mother. Viva La Virgen! Viva El Divino Rostro!

PHOTO BY JO NELL CA SAS

13 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017 DRONE PHOTO BY CARLIE APODACA

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 16 4/6/2018 2:21:42 PM PHOTO BY AR ANTHONY PLOTA O PHOTO BY RACSO VITAN

PEÑAFRANCIA SEPT. 8 TRASLACION PROCESSION PEÑAFRANCIA SHRINE TO NAGA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL I 12NN

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 17 4/6/2018 2:21:44 PM 2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 18 4/6/2018 2:21:45 PM PHOTO BY VAN L ON H RNO

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 19 4/6/2018 2:21:47 PM REGIONAL BAND, MAJORETTES SEPT. 9 & FANCY DRILL COMPETITION JESSE M. ROBREDO COLISEUM I 7AM

PHOTOS BY XERES GAGERO

PHOTO BY DANIEL BAL A A

MAJORETTES, BANDS AND DBC/ DLC from all over the region awed us once again as they showcased their stunning performances this year in the 9th Bicol Region Exhibition Contest as the region celebrates the Peñafrancia Festival. Congratulations to this year’s winners! PHOTO BY DANIEL BAL A A

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 20 4/6/2018 2:21:48 PM PHOTO BY JAY R LATIVO

PHOTOS BY REYNALDO BAYLON

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 21 4/6/2018 2:21:50 PM SCOUTS PARADE & INTER-SCHOOL SEPT. 13 DBC/DLC COMPETITION PANGANIBAN DRIVE - PLAZA QUEZON I 7AM

PHOTOS BY RACSO VITAN

After two straight days of rain, it’s now a sunny 2017 REGIONAL DXMC/BSP/GSP Marching Parade Competition participated by Public and Private Schools from in and outside Naga City. Viva La Virgen!

PHOTO BY I EL AR ILLA

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 22 4/6/2018 2:21:51 PM PHOTOS BY ERES A RO

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 23 4/6/2018 2:21:52 PM SEPT. 14 CIVIC PARADE & FLOAT COMPETITION PANGANIBAN DRIVE - PLAZA QUEZON I 7AM

PHOTO BY JOSE COLLERA

THE 2017 CIVIC PARADE was made more colorful by the float contingents from the various business establishments, service providers, and winners of this year’s pageants.

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 24 4/6/2018 2:21:53 PM A FESTIVE and COLORFUL CIVIC PARADE AND FLOAT COMPETITION occupies the principal streets of the Heart of Bicolandia. One in the celebration with the Local Government Unit of Naga CIVIC PARADE & FLOAT COMPETITION are various civic organizations and private organizations in and out of Naga City. Viva La Virgen!!!

PHOTOS BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR JOSE OLL RA ERES A RO AR ANTHONY PLOTA O

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 25 4/6/2018 2:21:54 PM STUDENTS WITH VIBRANT PROPS AND IN COLORFUL COSTUMES fill the streets of Naga for the Peñafrancia Voyadores Festival Street and Pilgrims Dance Competition. The Voyadores Festival is the reenactment of the transfer of the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 26 4/6/2018 2:21:56 PM SEPT. 14

PEÑAFRANCIA VOYADORES FESTIVAL 2017 STREET DANCE COMPETITION & FIREWORKS DISPLAY

NAGA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL - PLAZA QUEZON I 4PM

PHOTO BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 27 4/6/2018 2:21:57 PM PHOTO BY

SEPT. 14 N EL AN

PEÑAFRANCIA VOYADORES FESTIVAL S 2017 STREET DANCE COMPETITION & FIREWORKS DISPLAY

NAGA METROPOLITAN CATHEDRAL - PLAZA QUEZON I 4PM

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 28 4/6/2018 2:21:59 PM 2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 29

PHOTO BY RACSO VITAN PHOTO BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR PHOTO BY XERES GAGERO

PHOTOS BY ARVEY VAL 4/6/2018 2:22:00 PM 9TH BICOL REGION

SEPT. 15 MILITARY PARADE COMPETITION PLAZA QUEZON I 7AM

PHOTO BY RON BERISO

FILLED WITH PRIDE, HUNDREDS OF CONTINGENTS IN SNAPPY AND COLORFUL UNIFORMS FROM ALL OVER THE BICOL REGION MARCHED THEIR WAY TO THE PLAZA QUEZON FOR THE 2017 REGIONAL MILITARY PARADE COMPETITION.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 30 4/6/2018 2:22:01 PM PHOTO BY RON BERISO 4/6/2018 2:22:02 PM REYNALDO BAYLON

PHOTOS BY PHOTOS 2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 31 29 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 32 4/6/2018 2:22:04 PM COMMENDATION. The City Government of Naga confers a resolution expressing heartfelt gratitude and commendation to Mr. Vic Avila (center) for his laudable service in the holding of the 9th Bicol Regional Military Parade Competition that greatly contributed to the successful conduct of the Peñafrancia Fiesta 2017. He is shown here receiving the copy of the resolution from (l-r) City Councilor Greg Abonal, Vice Mayor Nelson Legacion, Mayor John Bongat, and City Councilor Nene de Asis. On voluntary basis, Mr. Avila has been the workhorse and tactician of the annual Peñafrancia military parade since the time of then Mayor Jesse Robredo.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 33 4/6/2018 2:22:05 PM PHOTO BY AN EL A ASA

PHOTO BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

WHEN DEVOTION AND GREAT LOVE BINDS US ALL.

For more than 300 years, countless devotees and pilgrims from all over the country join us in the solemn Fluvial Procession where the miraculous image of Divino Rostro and Our Lady of Peñafrancia is returned to its shrine in Basilica Minore along Naga River, as an expression of love and gratitude for the countless miracles, blessings and answered prayers. Our dearest Mother, our Ina, is back in Her home. Viva La Virgen! Viva El Divino Rostro!.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 34 4/6/2018 2:22:06 PM PEÑAFRANCIA SEPT. 16 FLUVIAL PROCESSION NAGA METROPOLITAN - VIA NAGA RIVER CATHEDRAL I 12NN

PHOTO BY EL ORT

PHOTO BY ISA AN LI A ORP

DRONE PHOTO BY BRIAN REONDANGA PHOTO BY JI SA I A

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 35 4/6/2018 2:22:08 PM PHOTO BY VAN L ON H RNO

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 36 4/6/2018 2:22:09 PM 2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 37 4/6/2018 2:22:11 PM PEÑAFRANCIA SEPT. 16 FLUVIAL PROCESSION NAGA METROPOLITAN - VIA NAGA RIVER CATHEDRAL I 12NN REONDANGA BRIAN

BY

DRONE PHOTO

PHOTOS BY RACSO VITAN

PHOTO BY JO NELL AB SAS PHOTO BY JOSE OLL RA

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 38 4/6/2018 2:22:13 PM PHOTO BY I ERLY L IANO

PHOTO BY DANIEL BAL A A PHOTO BY LENNON SAL N

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 39 4/6/2018 2:22:14 PM AFTER PEÑAFRANCIA FIESTA:

MAYOR BONGAT GIVES THANKS TO INTER AGENCY TASK GROUP, CLEAN UP DRIVE VOLUNTEERS By JASON B. NEOLA

XTENDING his expression of gratitude to more than 2,500 public and private personnel who composed the 2017 Peñafrancia Inter- Agency Task Group, Mayor John G. Bongat Ealso commended in a separate occasion the volunteer groups who helped the city government salvage all the waste and litter left behind by about two million visitors, pilgrims and devotees that came to the city from various places of the country and abroad to pray and join in the grand 10-day Penafrancia fiesta celebration.

In the send-off ceremony held Monday at the Metropolitan Naga Cathedral, Bongat thanked the task group that ensured the safe, orderly and peaceful conduct of the fiesta’s various civic-religious activities, with no major untoward incident reported.

The task force is composed of personnel from the police and the Army, traffic enforcers, DPWH and fire and coast guard brigades, and other government

offices providing frontline services and utilities, the final phase of closing its operation. The allowed Camarines Sur National High School (CSNHS). including emergency, health and risk reduction space is 30 percent of the site’s total area. assistance for the convenience of both the visitors and Martin also thanked the Fieldworks the host city residents. Bongat expressed deep gratitude to the construction firm for allowing the city government volunteer-sweepers whose systematic approach in to employ its 20-tonner crane in opening and In an interview, the city mayor also dealing with different kinds of litter and garbage closing the mechanical floodgates along the Naga acknowledged the groups who worked with the Solid carelessly strewn on the streets was truly admirable. River in Barangay Sabang which allowed the SWMO Waste Management Office (SWMO) in ridding the city Sweeping of dirt and wastes followed immediately to maintain the water elevation level of the river, streets of litter and garbage that have been estimated after each event or activity held in the plaza and in especially during the fluvial procession in order to to have piled up at 110 tons per day, excluding the the city’s major streets, such as the traslacion and keep afloat the ‘pagoda’ or barge (vessel) of Ina for waste collected every day from residential and other processions, concerts, and parades. the riverine rites even during low tide. commercial establishments placed at 90 tons daily. Engr. Joel Martin, SWMO department head, On Naga River’s siltation project, Martin “Their awareness on environmental care and the admitted, however, that the approach does not work said that the undertaking is being done in close way they carried out their services are truly admirable always when vehicular and human traffic is heavy and coordination with DPWH which has employed considering that they are pursuing these things [of so congested, especially in downtown areas. “This is amphibious excavator to take out the silt from the cleaning the streets] as volunteers, no remuneration the reason why we have to do it [the sweeping and river bed. involved,” the mayor said. cleaning of streets] in the evening,” he says. Martin said that the speed of excavation and The SWMO directs the delivery of garbage to The volunteers, numbering about 190 hauling of mud and other deposits from the river the allowed space at Balatas dumpsite while it is in individuals, are from the Environment Watch Group takes about 6 cubic meters per hour. The work is (east and west sector), students from the Central expected to be completed by December 31, this Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA) and year. 37 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 40 4/6/2018 2:22:19 PM THEIR AWARENESS ON ENVIRONMENTAL CARE AND THE WAY THEY CARRIED OUT THEIR SERVICES ARE TRULY ADMIRABLE CONSIDERING THAT THEY ARE PURSUING THESE THINGS [OF CLEANING THE STREETS] AS VOLUNTEERS, NO REMUNERATION INVOLVED

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SYLRANJELVIC VILLA LOR OS OLL RA REYNALDO AYLON RA SO VITAN ERES A ERO RA ON IBARBIA R CARLOS VILLARINO IAN AN L ALBAO ARVEY VALDE STIN ASA A SILVER CA OSO I L AR ILLA JOY SAN CARLOS ARVIS IVAN SA I A EL COR E NOVO F RNAN RIAN REONDAN A ON YV S B RISO LENNON SALEN AR YL YA O C ARLIE A ODACA AR SPLANA II JANO DY S TH ASP R S ARILLA LYNDON LA AN VAN L ON H RNO AR AN ONY LO ADO ISA AN LI A ORP DAN E ARCIA I L I P RIAL NARA SE AR R STO P A O VAN JOSE AR INE ANI L BAL A A AN EL A ASA I B RLY L IANO JAY RELA IVO RIS EL EL RAN OHN LL AB SAS PEÑAFRANCIA ERNARD A AN DOCUMENT TION TEAM JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017 36

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 41 4/6/2018 2:22:24 PM AT BICOL BUSINESS MONTH OPENS

NEW city police office will rise in a new site while Magsaysay Avenue, otherwise known as the MORE GAINS IN city’s food and entertainment strip, will undergo redevelopment and re-greening before his term TRADE CITED; ends, according to Naga City Mayor John G. ABongat. NEW DEV’T PLANS Bongat was the guest of honor during the press UNCOVERED conference hosted by the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) last July 3, at Avenue Plaza Hotel and at the formal opening the next day, on July 4, of the annual Bicol Business Month at SM City Naga.

The city mayor said they have already inked the deed He acknowledged Naga’s emerging reputation as the financial capital of of donation for three hectares of land from the 17-hectare Bicol because of its strong trading and retailing industry fueled by the dynamism property of the city government along Almeda Highway of local entrepreneurs and as shown by the city’s robust banking industry. to be used as site for the new police office to be built by the Philippine National Police. Within the site will also be Now, we are also becoming the automotive dealership center in Bicol that located the city government-run City College of Naga, although some of the plants are situated in nearby Pili, the province’s capital Land Transportation Office, equipment and field office of town, money from car dealership transactions are actually fused into the Naga the Metro Naga Water District, and other offices that need city banking system, Bongat said, even as he added that the impressive huge bigger spaces, the mayor added. average daily balance in commercial banks here makes Naga among the Top 25 robust cities in the country. Mayor Bongat, together with DTI Regional Director Joy Blanco, formally opened the 3rd Bicol Business Month He also noted that at least 70% of subdivisions throughout Bicol, especially along with MNCCI President Gilbert Albero and BBM 2017 the new ones by nationally-known developers and real estate brokers, such as Chairman Ferdinand ‘Dondon’ Sia. Vista Land and the Ayala Group, are in Naga. Homeowners in these subdivisions, many of whom are sustained by OFW dollar remittances, local business observers At the meeting with the local newsmen earlier, Bongat said, are the big consumers of basic commodities being supplied by the big emphasized the city government’s continued support to malls and local business establishments, aside from clients from adjoining towns small and medium scale enterprises which, incidentally, is that comprise the Metro Naga area, and those from other cities and the focus of the annual business month that he said have provinces of Bicol. been aggressively fueling Metro Naga’s economy.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 42 4/6/2018 2:22:25 PM The city mayor, who just arrived home from Germany for the Global Mayors Forum, also revealed that IBM, one of Naga’s BPO locators, had finally landed as among the Top 20 taxpayers in Naga, affirming the company’s Naga operations’ profitability and employment generation capacity. Lest he may be misconstrued, Bongat said he is for the enhancement of other industries in other parts of the Bicol region. “We must encourage the competitive edge of each province (in Bicol) because they will all positively contribute to our regional development,” he said.

Each of the Bicol city and province has its own strength that we do not have and may not have, he said, as he explained that Legazpi City will remain to be the regional administrative center of Bicol with its soon to be completed international airport while Sorsogon will be known for their Butanding and impressive scenic spots for years to come.

“No one can have a monopoly of everything,” he cautioned his audience. the different products and services, as well as trends and Director Blanco, for her part, expressed optimism that more technological advances in the business sector. opportunities for development will come in Bicol in the next few years with the international airport and the railroad project still in the new “The primary goal is to encourage local businesses administration’s pipeline. to become more competitive in terms of product quality and innovations while at the same time educating our She said our country’s youth will play a major role in the global consumers to appreciate and promote our own products as market in terms of manpower resources because of the ageing population a way of helping contribute to our region’s socio-economic PHOTOS BY in other richer countries. “The average age of our young population is 21 development,” Sia said. “This way, we all become part in years, while those in Japan and the United States and other developed putting Naga and Bicol in the economic and business road countries, their average working age population is either 30 to 36 years map so that more investors would take interest and come to REYNALDO old who will be in their geriatric [or less productive] period in the next few do business with us,” he explained. years,” Blanco said. BAYLON Ferdinand ‘Dondon’ Sia, chairman of this year’s Bicol Business Month, said the activities lined up for the month-long celebration will highlight SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 43 4/6/2018 2:22:26 PM ONE of the highlight events of the Bicol Business Month, the Department of Agriculture Bicol regional office, in partnership ASwith the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MNCCI) and the city government of Naga last July 11, 2017 opened the ASPIRE Expo and the Best of Bicol Showcase with DA Assistant Secretary for Agribusiness and Marketing Leandro H. Gazmin giving the keynote address. ASPIRE, which stands for Agribusiness Support for Promotion and Investment In Regional Expositions, is meant to promote cooperation and partnership for a dynamic market development support services to farmers, fisher folk, MSMEs and other stakeholders. A memorandum of agreement was recently signed on June 14, 2017 between and among the DA and the Department of Trade and Industry, along with the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), the country’s largest business MNCCI, DA OPEN ASPIRE, BEST OF BICOL SHOWCASE

By JASON B. NEOLA

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 44 4/6/2018 2:22:27 PM organization and “Voice of Philippine Business,” to which the MNCCI, a local chamber is attached to PCCI, for the furtherance of agribusiness investment in the regions. The program was chosen to be initially launched here in Naga, as well as in other regional hubs in the country. ASec Gazmin explained that under the MOA and through the Project ASPIRE, all the parties recognize the need to optimize benefits from trade fair being a strategic platform for the promotion of agri-based Philippine products, enterprise development and agribusiness investments in the countryside. ASPIRE also serves as networking venue for agri-entrepreneurs and that the partner agencies will work, build and further enhance existing partnerships and convergence through cooperation in trade investment and economic development with other government and private sector industry groups. The ASPIRE program will also encourage, promote and facilitate the exchange of missions, participate and organize trade fairs, exhibitions, conferences, and seminars on capability building, mentoring, coaching and facilitating provision of other service assistance e.g. packaging, labeling, logistics, etc. For 2017, the pilot implementation of regional trade fair under the program will be undertaken on the following selected regions; DA RFOs CAR, 3, 5 (Naga, Bicol), 6, and 12. All other covered regions will be on 2018. Incidentally, the convergence of various traders here signals the opening of the much awaited Bicol Business Month (BBM), an annual showcase of various enterprises with the common objective of bringing their best trade forward, excel in their endeavor and help promote the ingenuity of our local businessmen and entrepreneurs. Naga City Mayor John Bongat, in his message, lauded the DA and the MNCCI, as well as DTI for coming together to bring to the fore the dynamism of the trading and agri-business community, particularly the farmers and fisher folks. Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI) Regional Governor Clarine P. Tobias underscored the inordinate contribution of the grassroots community to contribute to the development and success of small, micro and small enterprises. “On behalf of the Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry (PCCI), we will strongly push to bring the activities of PCCI to Naga, so that all the activities of the chamber of the Philippines will reach the regions,” Tobias added. MNCCI President Gilbert Albero assured that the business chamber will always be a strong partner in the furtherance of socio-economic development and the empowerment of small and medium size enterprises in the countryside.

PHOTOS BY SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 45 4/6/2018 2:22:28 PM 43 JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 46 4/6/2018 2:22:30 PM Regional Executive Director Elena de los TH Santos of the Department of Agriculture in Bicol 30 YEAR expressed optimism on the productivity and evolving capacity of the Bicolano farmer and Incidentally, MNCCI is celebrating its 30th by bringing it into the frontiers of public service fishermen such that the government is always Founding Anniversary with simple ceremonies on and more community involvement, Perez explained. ready to assist them in terms not only of quality July 30, this year, at the culmination of Bicol Business Mr. Olivan’s term was followed by Mr. Antonio Y. production but also in marketing and investment. Month. Concepcion which saw the chamber’s growth in size Bicol Business Month 2017 Chairman Jose B. Perez, VP for Chamber Management, and magnitude. Ferdinand Sia said helping entrepreneurs enhance explained that the 30th year celebration should have It was in 1999, under the stewardship of re- and promote their products will help uphold a more been done last year, but had to be postponed for elected President Concepcion that the chamber was prosperous life for the most number of our people. this year, in deference to the typhoon that hit Bicol in renamed Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and “We, at the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and December last year. Industry because of its expanding membership and Industry, always hope that events like this will spur Though the roots of chamberism in Camarines coverage, Perez recalled. positive results for the enhancement of the lives of Sur may be traced to the early 1960s thru the late Dr. Perez said that while the 30th anniversary was our people,” Sia stressed. Heracleo Guballa and the late Benjamon Ravanera, to be held before the end of 2016, the celebration He said he will not end his message “without it was in 1986 that the Naga Chamber of Commerce was put on hold because of the typhoon that hit extending my appreciation to the past chairmen and Industry took a wider outlook and stronger Bicol which occupied the MNCCI and its members and chairwomen of the erstwhile Bicol Business community involvement when then bank manager to focus instead on relief operations for the Week that has since then been transformed to what Leopoldo Andal, with several Naga business leaders, typhoon victims. It was decided, therefore, that is now the Bicol Business Month. Year after year, decided to revive the organization. the foundation anniversary be held alongside the they have, with their own blood, sweat and tears, When Andal was recalled to Legazpi City where holding of the Bicol Business Month in July 2017. ingenuity and innovation, have given their best to he was a bank manager, Mr. Adolfo Olivan took over make every business week or business month

PHOTOS BY an improvement over the previous business week or business month.”

SYLRANJELVIC VILLAFLOR

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 47 4/6/2018 2:22:31 PM SM CITY NAGA IS PRA’S MALL OF THE YEAR– MEDIUM CATEGORY

CITY NAGA was awarded as the Shopping Center of the Year (Medium SMCategory) during the 20th Outstanding Filipino Retailers and Shopping Centers of the Year Awards Night of the Philippine Retailer’s Association (PRA), held recently at the Solaire Resort & Casino in Parañaque City.

The first SM Supermall in the Bicol region, SM City Naga opened its doors to the public in 2009, and since that time has become the destination mall of Naga City, LANDMARK. SM City Naga, SM Prime the center of trade, commerce, transport, Holdings’ 34th supermall and the first in Bicol Region, finance, education and government has become one of the landmarks in the city and the services in Camarines Sur. destination mall of the South with its 179 local and international brands offering a myriad of shopping, Strategically located in a 44,279-square meter property along dining & entertainment options in an environmentally- Roxas Avenue in the city’s Central Business efficient structure. District, the 69,695-square meter mall houses 179 local and international brands

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 48 4/6/2018 2:22:32 PM As a responsible member of the community, SM City Naga has spearheaded many corporate social responsibility projects such as PWD-accessible facilities, for which it received the 2011 Apolinario Mabini Award. Through SM Cares, it has launched programs for the elderly, women, and children, for which it has received awards like the 2014 Search for Model Breastfeeding Companies.

It has also been active in environmental endeavors like the sewage treatment plant & water recycling system, proper waste segregation, use of LED illuminated jets for its water fountain, landscaping projects and the Trash-to-Cash recycling program. It was the recipient of the 2013 Zero Basura Olympics – Candidate Master from Earth Day Network Philippines, Inc.

SM City Naga has also participated in locally-organized, government & civic events, and in the celebration of the city’s Peñafrancia Festival and Camarines Sur’s Kaogma Festival. The mall has maintained its position as the city’s top taxpayer since it opened business in 2009.

During the same event, other members of the SM Group also received awards. Elevated to the Hall of Fame were Surplus (Fashion Apparel – Large category), Uniqlo (Foreign Brand Fashion Apparel – Mega Category) and Ace Hardware (Foreign Brand Retailer – Home Improvement category); while SM Supermarket received an award in SM CITY NAGA was awarded as the Shopping Center of the Year (Medium Category) during the Philippine Retailer’s Association’s 20th Outstanding Filipino the Supermarket category. Also recognized Retailers and Shopping Centers of the Year Awards Night held recently at the Solaire Resort were finalists in their respective categories: & Casino Grand Ballroom. In photo, SM Supermalls SVP for Operations Steven Tan (3rd Save More (Supermarket category), The from left), AVP for Operations - South 4 & 5 Engr. John Jason Terrenal, SM City Naga Mall Body Shop (Foreign Brand Specialty Retailer Manager Engr. Christian Wesley Villanueva and Regional Leasing Manager for South 5 – Medium category), and SM City Molino & Dolly Bana receive the award from PRA President Atty. Paul Santos (left), PRA Chairman SM Southmall (Shopping Center of the Year – Lorenzo Formoso and PRA Vice Chairman Ma. Alegria Sibal-Limjoco. Medium & Large categories).

SM Supermalls and SM Prime Holdings, Inc. meanwhile received the PRA Special Award - honoring their international accolades offering a myriad of shopping, dining & entertainment options in an environmentally-efficient structure during International Council of Shopping which is one ride away from neighboring towns and cities. Centers (ICSC) Asia Pacific Shopping Center Awards 2016. SM City Naga has the most comprehensive product mix among shopping centers in the whole Bicol Region with The SM Store and SM Supermarket as its major anchors, SM mainstays like SM Appliance Center, The annual search for the Outstanding Ace Hardware and Watsons, and tenants -- offering merchandise and services that extend beyond the basic Filipino Retailers seeks to recognize Filipino shopping experience, taking the consumer across multiple categories. retailers who have epitomized the model of a successful retailer in terms of growth and Over the years, it has also been a key resource for the development of regional indigenous businesses, good ethical business practices. The Philippine giving them a world-class arena to compete in the market. SM City Naga has brought in brands that can Retailer’s Association (PRA) introduced the only be found in the mall, thus giving its local market a fashion edge while giving tourists another reason Shopping Centers of the Year category in to shop here. 2002, which recognizes the Philippines’ world- class shopping centers’ part in promoting the SM City Naga also offers mall-goers convenient facilities such as its safe parking facilities, being the growth and development of the retail industry. only structure in the Bicol Region with free ticketed and guarded, multi-level parking building.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 49 4/6/2018 2:22:32 PM ROBINSONS PLACE NAGA OPENS

By KAREN FLORES, ABS-CBN NEWS

OBINSONS LAND CORP. (RLC) now has a mall in Naga City, marking its entry into the Bicol region. R Located at the corner of Almeda Highway and Roxas Avenue, Robinsons Place Naga is a three-level structure with 31,000 square meters of gross leasable area, 81% of which is already occupied.

Japanese clothing brand Uniqlo will open by next year, taking up most of the remaining space.

“I hope our mall helps spur the business here in the city,” RLC president Frederick Go said during the launch of Robinsons Place Naga, which was also graced by “Wildflower” stars Maja Salvador, Joseph Marco, and RK Bagatsing.

Robinsons Place Naga is RLC’s 46th mall in the Philippines, and the company’s 28th branch in Luzon.

The new mall is part of a mixed-use development which also includes a business process outsourcing (BPO) office and two hotels.

“That means a lot of jobs for all the Bicolanos and the people of Naga City,” Go said.

The BPO that will use the two-floor office space on top of the mall is “a major player,” according to RLC vice president for leasing Ditas Taleon, who did not give further details as they finalize the contract. IAN MAR NEBRES LEE

BY

DRONE PHOTO

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 50 4/6/2018 2:22:34 PM VISITORS OF ROBINSONS PLACE NAGA ARE GREETED WITH THIS CEILING ARTWORK INSPIRED BY GABI LEAVES.

PHOTOS BY RACSO VITAN

The two Robinsons hotels – the upscale Popular restaurants in Bicol have also been Summit and budget category Go Hotel – will have tapped to open at Robinsons Place Naga, among a combined 120 rooms and are targeted to open by them Bigg’s Diner, Tugawe Cove, Crown Park, mid-next year. Molino Grill, First Colonial, Triboo Grill, and Bob Marlin.

Visitors can also shop for local pasalubong KEEPING IT LOCAL at Caramel, Baker’s Plaza, and J. Emmanuel, each offering pili treats. Similar to its properties in other provinces, RLC incorporated local elements into Robinsons Place “A lot of people in Naga, they patronize Naga to complement international brands and its their brands, especially for food,” said Myron key stores – Robinsons Department Store, Robinsons Yao, RLC’s regional operations manager, who also Supermarket, Handyman, and Robinsons Appliance. noted that they opened the mall in time for the feast day of Our Lady of Peñafrancia – Naga’s The mall’s ceiling features a large leaf-shaped main tourist draw – in September. decor reminiscent of gabi (taro) leaves, a popular ingredient in Bicolano cooking. “We are positioning ourselves for Peñafrancia as the tourists are starting to come There is also the “Tree of Life,” a 15-meter in,” he added. fiberglass structure by Jefre Manuel which is also inspired by gabi leaves.

Head to the third floor and see Naga-themed “WILDFLOWER” star and RLC endorser Maja murals by visual artist Anina Rubio, known to many Salvador (second from right) poses for a photo with for her artworks in the 2016 independent movie company executives and Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat. “Sakaling Hindi Makarating.” JULY - SEPTEMBER 2017 48

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 51 4/6/2018 2:22:35 PM ROBREDO MUSEUM UNVEILED AUG. 18

By JUAN ESCANDOR JR.

OVERED with lawn grass that runs in semi-circle to the top about nine meters high, a museum dedicated to the late Jesse M. Robredo is designed with frontage that looks like an open arm gesturing visitors to explore what’s inside it. CArchitect Gian Paolo P. Priela, museum designer and contractor, said VILLAFLOR no trees had been cut in the former playground which explains the shape of the building and “the structure hugging public space that encloses it.” SYLRANJELVIC SYLRANJELVIC

Officially named Museo ni Jesse Robredo (MJR), the museum

which will open on Aug. 18, in time for the fifth death anniversary BY PHOTO of the longest-serving city mayor of Naga, approximates the personality of Robredo, according to Priela. “Normally, you see sculptures mounted on the podium held high Robredo died in a plane crash off Masbate coast on that but that’s not Jesse Robredo at all. We see Jesse Robredo as accessible, fateful date in 2012 when he was the Secretary of the Department of humble…that’s why we depicted him in shirts and short pants which is how Interior and Local Government, Nagueños see him as one,” Priela explained. The sculpture was executed by Jun Vicaldo. Written on each of the three pillars behind the sculpture are “The design is site contextual. It answers the need of the site “Matino, Mahusay, Matapat” which are Robredo’s description of the quality while at the same time also reflects the personality of Mayor Jesse. of a public servant. Unlike other museums that are grand and monumental, this one is very down-to-earth,” he said, describing the concept of the P9M Robredo, the late husband to Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” JMR Museum located at the Naga Civic Center here, not far from the Gerona Robredo, was bestowed the 2000 Ramon Magsaysay Award city hall at J. Miranda Street. for Government Service and earned the good-governance icon for In front of the building, Robredo’s life-size bronze sculpture his innovations in making the city government more transparent and sitting on the ground greets the visitors. accessible to its constituency, a feat that many national and international institutions, like the United Nations, repreatedly attribute to him. The

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 52 4/6/2018 2:22:38 PM (In the Eyes of Man, In the Heart of the THREE People)”, is about how people perceive Robredo with testimonials from ordinary YEARS Nagueños and his family. Priela said this gallery is fun and interactive where the AGO. visitors can try to write letters in an I-pad and send them to someone using the A FILE PHOTO OF THE appropriate doodles from an apps. He GROUNDBREAKING said the doodles were Robredo’s that he FOR THE drew in his letters to his daughter Aika. JESSE M. ROBREDO MUSEUM He said a stationary bike in front AT NAGA CITY CIVIC of a video is also on display where the CENTER LAST visitors can ride and tour Naga in few AUGUST 18, 2014 minutes. Aside from his signature flip- WITH THEN flops, Robredo was also known to ride the bike going around the city. Priela said REP. LENI they also included in the third gallery ROBREDO, Robredo’s favorite pink striped shirt he ROBREDO SIBLINGS bought at an ukay-ukay (hand-me-down BUTCH AND JEANE clothes and apparel) store which he had ROBREDO-TANG, AND worn several times in different occasions. CITY OFFICIALS LED BY MAYOR JOHN “It was so funny because when we BONGAT SPEARHEADING were looking at his (Robredo’s) pictures, THE RITES. the pink striped shirt was everywhere. You can see that these (pictures) are different events because it was worn with different pants, shoes, coats, jackets and backgrounds. I think he was already using that when he’s still the mayor of Naga City. And when he was already the DILG secretary he was still using that,” relates Rochelle Priela, wife to Gian Paolo, who is overseeing the museum has four galleries in the second floor that work progress of the JMR Museum. narrate the storyline of Robredo’s public life. Another favorite shirt, a psychedelic tie-dyed shirt, which The first gallery represents the background and the beginnings of Robredo worn when he was the mayor, when he went to Harvard, Robredo which include his birth, youth and the institutions he attended from and when he was the secretary of the DILG, is also included in the grade school to college. exhibit. Rochelle said they had known that Robredo basically wore simple shirts and pants and office uniforms which will be included In the second gallery, the ‘Tsinelas Leadership’ storyline is narrated. among the items to be displayed in the third gallery. “It talks about him (Robredo) being a mayor and DILG secretary,” according to Priela. “It is the biggest gallery. It shows Robredo’s body of work and his The final gallery resembles a fuselage and it is named as the innovations in good governance. There’s a mock-up of the conference room “Legacy,” according to Priela. He said the visitors will be brought to where he used to hold office in the city hall and the awards and citations he Robredo’s journey from the time the DILG secretary departed from earned,” he said. Cebu to his burial. “It’s like a timeline. The visitors will see frame by frame what happened starting Aug. 18, 2012, the retrieval of The third gallery, themed “Sa Mata ng Tao, Sa Puso ng Mamamayan the body, the wake at the Archbishop’s Palace in Naga City, the

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 53 4/6/2018 2:22:41 PM bringing of the casket to Manila, the wake in Malacañang, the return of Robredo’s casket to Naga City and the burial,” Priela said.

He said there are audio, video and photo exhibits like flash reports regarding the plane crash, the retrieval operation in Masbate, the wake in Naga City and Malacañang. Other items on display include the souvenir program of the last occasion Robredo attended in Cebu and the bag he used that day.

“Towards the end of the exhibit at gallery four, we are showing the different posthumous awards given to Robredo from different institutions and boxes that contain the places or organizations named after him,” Priela said. But the MJR building is more than a museum with an auditorium, a coffee shop, a souvenir store, temporary gallery for changing exhibits and the office of the Naga City Good Governance Institute. On top of the building is a 900-sqm area covered with grass lawn which can double as playground or a place for stargazing. Persons with disability and old folks who have difficulty scaling high grounds can access an elevator that goes to the top of the building from the ground floor.

A brainchild of the Naga City government under the present leadership of Mayor John Bongat, the construction is undertaken in partnership with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP). The MJR is curated by the NHCP with four personnel being a small museum, according to Bryan Paraiso, senior historic site development officer of the NHCP.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 54 4/6/2018 2:22:43 PM 4/6/2018 2:22:44 PM

PHOTOS BY REYNALDO BAYLON JOSE COLLERA RACSO VITAN 2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 55 NHCP CHAIR, VP LENI LEAD ROBREDO MUSEUM OPENING

By ANA-LIZA S. MACATANGAY

HE Naga City government, in partnership with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), has built a museum to immortalize the legacy on good governance and transparency and serve as tribute to the exemplary achievements of the late Jesse M. Robredo, former secretary of the Department of Interior Tand Local Government (DILG) and mayor of this city.

Dubbed “Museo ni Jesse Robredo”, the edifice contains a timeline of Robredo’s life as a person, as public servant and as a great leader who led his people by example. It will also house various themed galleries that will showcase the simple life that Robredo pursued until his journey ended in a plane crash in Masbate in 2012.

PHOTO BY RACSO VITAN It also contains Secretary Robredo’s personal items, with informative displays and interactive features. Inside is also a resource center on Philippine history, an auditorium, café and a souvenir shop.

The museum was officially unveiled in the morning of August 18, in time for the commemoration of the 5th death anniversary of the late secretary. No less than National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) chair Dr. Rene R. Escalante and Vice President Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo, wife of the late Robredo, graced the occasion.

“The new museum aims to inspire every Filipino to courageously take the mantle of leadership and do what he or she can to make the country better,” a note from NHCP stated.

Aside from the featured galleries, one of the museum’s attractions will be the life-size, bronze sculpture of Secretary Robredo sitting on the ground. The image’s location and style, based on the description of Architect Gian Paolo P. Priela, museum designer and contractor, depicts the very nature of the secretary – simple,

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 56 4/6/2018 2:22:45 PM MAYOR JOHN BONGAT WITH VICE MAYOR NELSON LEGACION, 3RD DISTRICT CONGRESSMAN GABBY BORDADO, SENATOR BAM AQUINO, SENATOR RISA HONTIVEROS AND VICE PRESIDENT LENI ROBREDO ATTENDING THE INAUGURATION OF THE JMR MUSEUM.

PHOTOS BY RACSO VITAN REYNALDO BAYLON JOSE COLLERA

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 57 4/6/2018 2:22:46 PM PHOTO BY REYNALDO BAYLON PHOTOS BY

REYNALDO BAYLON RACSO VITAN

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 58 4/6/2018 2:22:48 PM humble and down-to-earth. The sculpture depicts a Jesse wearing a plain shirt and shorts –his typical normal day attire when not in the workplace.

The words “Matino, Mahusay, Matapat” as designed by Jun Vicaldo was scribbled on each of the three pillars just behind the statue of the secretary.

Mayor John Bongat of this city, along with the NHCP and other stakeholders, has since conceptualized and carried out initiatives to realize the project.

NHCP is the national government agency mandated to promote and preserve Philippine history and historical heritage through research and publication, conservation, marking of historic sites and structures as well as administration of national shrines and museums.

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 59 4/6/2018 2:22:49 PM with A city a soul Privilege Speech delivered by City Councilor Joselito S.A Del Rosario during the 55th Sangguniang Panlungsod Session of the 12th Sangguniang Panlunsod, Naga City, Tuesday, 15 August 2017

HAS been five years since we felt a turned inward towards myself and tried to think of an collective shock of the news of the alternative, more basic perspective. Something that crash of the Piper Seneca, and how strikes at the heart of the matter, instead of the vastness our own spirits also seemed to sink and immensity of fame. with it, down the cold dark waters ITof the Masbate shore. Since then, thousands of Then a line by Antoine de Saint-Exupery sprung tributes have been offered for our beloved Jesse, forth in my mind, verbalized to explain love, beauty, and and today it seems so trivial for me to pitch in my life, by a wise fox, to a child who sought the meaning of own homage. life – the Little Prince. He said, “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly. What is essential is invisible to But you and I know the greatness of the the eye.” man, and all what have been said and done will not be enough to bestow the proper honor for There is a belief in old cultures that inanimate his achievements. During these situations, the objects have their own spirits. It is not therefore JOSELITO S.A DEL ROSARIO immediate impulse is to turn on our laptops or farfetched, and even logical, to say that a city, made CITY COUNCILOR [email protected] smartphones, and google “quotes on greatness.” up of the land, its waters, air, human structures, and On second thought, perhaps this focus on greatness individual citizens, can have a soul. And what is essential, has become, ironically – simplistic and common. is within the soul of our beloved City of Naga. So instead of surfing the World Wide Web, I

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 60 4/6/2018 2:22:51 PM COLLERA COLLERA JOSE BAYLON BAYLON REYNALDO VITAN RACSO

PHOTOS BY PHOTOS

I believe that special people like our Jesse can to understand and survive among the shadows and façade of the soul of the city. But its foundations – see and communicate with the soul - the spirit of the reflections, the petty world; and the ideal world good governance, transparency, accountability, environment, the community, the society, beyond of perfection, as Plato perceived the world to be. servant leadership, can only be seen by those who the individual entities. I believe great men have a His vision was closer to the ideal than it was to the truly believe that our city has a soul and spirit. different sense, a different way of seeing things, a realities of petty politics. These are what are truly essential. Can we see different mode of comprehension that most of us them? Do we believe in their existence? Are we willing can only try to achieve. I believe great men can see It was his gift. And I am sure that he tried as to rise beyond petty politics? beyond the physical, beyond the individuals, and see best as he could to share this special vision with the relationships, the links, the bonds of the essence us. Sadly, the journey towards this vision had only For myself, I have faith that the essential of life that exist, that most of us can only pretend to begun when the tragedy happened. But if we believe foundations for a progressive, safe and secure, and understand. in destiny, we can believe that the events serve as a just Naga City are deep and strong. challenge for us. That we are being tested on whether Five years ago, we lost a great man. How I wish I could see with his eyes. But we can or not we can pursue what he had started – a new truly try, and attempt to look beyond the superficial, politics that rejected traditionalism and patronage, But our city and nation found its soul. the structures, the hollow words of self-praise and towards responsible statesmanship and genunie, self- We will not let you down, we will keep the faith, malicious criticism, and the shallow attempts at sacrificing service. Dios Mabalos, Jesse. erecting high pedestals for personal gain. Above and beyond these things, I believe, was the world of our The manifestations of his vision are all around beloved Jesse. It is somewhere between our attempts us to see. The physical structures that are only the

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 61 4/6/2018 2:22:52 PM MARK BIKERS JESSE’S 5TH DEATH ANNIVERSARY

By JAM MADRID

IKERS in white shirts with pink sleeves filled the country director of Friedrich Naumann Foundation streets early Saturday morning here, Aug. 19, to (FNF) Philippines, a major sponsor and organizer of commemorate the fifth death anniversary of the late the Freedom Cycle. Secretary of the Interior and Local Government Jesse “Why Freedom Cycle? We all know here in Robredo. Naga that biking is always associated with my late BDubbed as “Freedom Cycle, Pedal Like Jesse,” the event husband because this is what he’d been doing in all drew an estimated 2,000 bike enthusiasts from as far as Albay and the years that he was mayor and even when he was Camarines Norte, and from the different parts of Camarines Sur. already secretary of the Department of Interior and The interactive bike ride event sought to raise awareness on Local Government. Most often, he would go around good governance, an initiative that Robredo started. Naga in bicycle. This is one way of commemorating Robredo’s widow, Vice President Leni Robredo, graced the his fifth death anniversary,” the Vice President said. activity. She was joined in by Mayor John Bongat, Vice Mayor FNF is a German non-profit organization that Nelson Legacion, city councilors, and Wolfgang Heinze, the promotes good governance, human rights, rule of law, free market and responsible environmental stewardship. It has been working in the Philippines for 30 years now and operates in 60 countries worldwide. “We’re here in Naga because for many years, we know that Naga has been championing people participation in governance especially during Mayor Jesse’s time. That’s why it’s Pedal Like Jesse because this is the symbolic act Mayor Jesse was doing during his time in Naga,” Pauline Sanchez, FNF coordinator said during the press conference held a day before the event. Naga Councilor Ray-an Cydrick Rentoy, on the other hand, said they had partnered with FNF as it promotes good governance. “It is very timely and is appropriate that this will be held in Naga because Naga City is known

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 62 4/6/2018 2:22:54 PM PHOTOS BY REYNALDO BAYLON JOSE COLLERA RACSO VITAN

for good governance which Jesse Tabuco, Triangulo, SM City area, Panganiban, Concepcion Robredo started, and we have the bicycle Pequena, Del Rosario, Cararayan , Balatas, Eternal Gardens, ordinance to promote and raise awareness on and back to City Hall. biking within the city. The large number of participants is a Before the bikes rolled on the road, Heinze led the manifestation that more people are into biking here in Naga,” releasing of blue and pink balloons by the participants. Rentoy added. “I believe that we’re here because we believe in good The cycling event covered a 28-kilometer route starting governance and in cycling. We’re here to remember the great from and ending at the City Hall grounds. works of Jesse Robredo, and I would like you to take on to The route started from City Hall, turned left to your balloons and I would like you all to send a message to Magsaysay Avenue, went straight to MT Villanueva Avenue Heaven that we’re all here and that we’re standing up for good on the way to Sitio Queborac in Bgy. Abella, LCC, Diversion, governance,” Heinze said.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 63 4/6/2018 2:22:56 PM STORYA NIN PAG-ASA (INP) or Stories of Hope in English is a travelling photo exhibit that features success stories of the ordinary people. It intends to revert from the negativity that we usually encounter through various media. Hence, the triumphs of the of ordinary people as they face their own struggles and challenges ST RIES Iare highlighted. : It aims to inspire and encourage the mass of Filipino people who H PE are already weary of the negative news they often see and hear. In Bicol, O

A CHAIN OF VOLUNTEERISM AND POSITIVITY this special project of the Office of the Vice-President was initially By EMELYN M. SALGADO started through Ms. Leanne Montemayor Zuniga who was selected as the Lead Convenor for Camarines Sur and eventually for the whole Bicol region. “When the Office of the Vice-President requested me to be the Lead Convenor of the INP Project of Camarines Sur, I was so honored and overwhelmed that our beloved Vice-President would think of entrusting me with a project that is close to her heart. I worked with for some special events, Sieg Borromeo, a social advocate accepted without reservations as I knew it was an opportunity for me and a dependable consultant for such project, and Zalrian Zuniga- to give back to our community, by showing them that a simple person Sayat, a photo correspondent of no less than the European Pressphoto can be an inspiration to our nation, such as VP Leni.” The popular Agency. The JCI Senate Malu Bonita, and the incoming President of JCI marketing and Events Specialist of Naga said. Carinosa, Russel Pua-Tan and President Domar Sara, also helped in the conception of the exhibit and its launching. Thereafter, she pooled her trusted colleagues for this project. The core committee was formed with Nemesia “Bebot”Perez, a veteran UN The groups and organizations which assisted the Core Committee volunteer and human advocate, power couple Andy and Ning Ning included the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Avenue Belmonte, who are also into events production, writer and events Plaza Hotel, SM City Naga, Robinson’s Place Naga, ZY-NERGYNITY organizer Emi M. Salgado, whom Leanne Zuniga-Montemayor has Events Management, Images by Ryan Studio, Biggs Diner, JCI Carinosa

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 64 4/6/2018 2:22:57 PM Jaycees, JCI Pili Isarog. Overall, the INP Committee from the Office of the Vice-President, headed by Michael Galvez, guided the Cam Sur Group for the initial exhibition in Naga City. Hence, the project had a soft launch at the SM City Naga on March, 2017.

The forerunner of the story owners was Supt. Errol Garchitorena, a stow-away who turned into a high-ranking CIDG officer in Bicol. Then, the gathering of stories began. The INP Core Committee set up a list of criteria and procedures to screen the stories. Around ten to twelve stories were gathered for the Pledge of Commitment signing between the story owners and the Lead Convenor of CamSur. It was attended by VP Leni Robredo. Stories of Hope came to life.

Gathered for this inspiring event were: a janitor who turned into a CPA-Lawyer, another lawyer who graduated at 60 years old, a Naga City street sweeper who completed a Psychology degree at USI, a laundrywoman who was able to send all her children to college, a Binondo peddler from Magarao turned millionaire, a head teacher who left his secure post to become a mobile teacher to the far-flung islands, among others.

It took the Core Committee another month or so to complete a final series of twenty stories, all filled with positivity and triumph amidst all the struggles life has offered. It also gave them a lead time to solicit for sponsors and other logistics needed for their grand project launching. The formal exhibit was opened in August 18 at the Activity area of Robinson’s Place Naga. Coinciding the death anniversary of DILG Secretary Jesse Robredo and the opening of his museum at the Civic Center, the INP Exhibit opening was graced by VP Leni and Sen. Bam Aquino, Sen. Kiko Pangilinan, and Sen. Rissa Hontiveros. Lead Convenor of Kaya Natin, Harvey Keh, was also present.

“This is our answer to the blanket of negativity that is around us…” As VP Leni spoke, a significant mass of Bicolanos were encircled BAYLON around the Robinson’s Place atrium from the ground floor up to the third. The event was overwhelmingly welcomed by the public. Twenty two large canvass with inspiring sepia images of the INP story- owners (who were called the INP Champs) and their corresponding REYNALDO life stories filled the Atrium’s exhibit spaces. The 100 voices sang a heartwarming song of being a proud Nagueno, as if Secretary Jesse Robredo’s civic spirit was suddenly alive. Most were teary-eyed at the

PHOTOS BY PHOTOS height of the program, especially the INP Champs. They attended the event full of pride and humility, altogether. They brought with them their families to cherish the moment to stand next to the country’s Vice-President and be recognized for their life’s achievements. Apart from the exhibit, there has also been an outpour of volunteerism to keep the project going. One has already donated to make the canvasses as a coffee table book. INP champs themselves are inquiring on how they can help sustain this advocacy work.

The INP caravan has just began. Next is the gathering of the stories from Albay, then Sorsogon, Catanduanes, and so on, until all of the inspiring stories of the Bicolanos from all its provinces are heard and appreciated by many. The INP Committee intends to make this project a beacon of light in times of hopelessness and pessimism. So far, the rays of positivity are showing off.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 65 4/6/2018 2:22:58 PM 19TH CENTURY FAIR MAKES 8TH REVIVAL FOR PEÑAFRANCIA FIESTA

By JUAN ESCANDOR JR.

TARTED by Bishop Francisco Gainza in 1875 as part of discovered from the church annals the 19th century agricultural and the weeklong celebration of the feast of the Our Lady industrial fair which Gainza initiated. of Peñafrancia, the Archdiocese of Caceres through He said the Caritas-Caceres, formerly known as the Caceres Caritas-Caceres, Inc. opened the revival of trade fair Social Action Foundation, Inc., is in-charge of the trade fair. named in the bishop’s honor for its eighth-time since Real said the first level of the apostolate of Caritas-Caceres in the 300th year celebration of the devotion to the Our the work of mercy which is followed by the works of development Lady of Peñafrancia in 2010. including assistance to livelihood to the poor families. It ran from September 7 to 17, this year. He said the proceeds of the trade fair will be spent to the SOfficially, the Peñafrancia fiesta is a prayer-devotion to the Bicol development work of the Caritas-Caceres. patroness that lasts nine days and this year it will start on the second Real said there are 80 aircon booths of which 60 booths have Friday of Sept., then culminates after a week on Saturday in a religious already been reserved. fluvial procession over Naga River from the market to the Basilica. He said the trade fair will promote Filipino-made products to “Bishop Gainza organized a fair, agricultural and industrial, when help small and medium enterprises. pilgrims were flocking to the old Naga City. So, it was the time to The trade fair is held in collaboration with the Department exchange goods and products while celebrating the feast of the Our of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the city government of Naga City. Lady of Peñafrancia,” relates Fr. Marcel Emmanuel DP. Real, executive Edna Tejada, DTI provincial director, said the installation and director of Caritas-Caceres and the head of the trade fair. use of aircon booths already costs P1.3 million even as she said the Real said the revival of the trade fair started in 2010 when it was trade fair is income generating.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 66 4/6/2018 2:23:00 PM Tejada said the DTI had been in partnership with the Caritas-Caceres since 2010 in holding the trade fair. She said the DTI helps in mounting the trade fair based on its experiences and inviting small and medium producers. “Together, we identify who to be invited in the trade fair. Our number one requirement for the exhibitor is that the products to be sold must be made in the Philippines,” Tejada said. She said the trade fair includes exhibitors from

PHOTOS BY REYNALDO BAYLON other regions but they do not allow traders but producers. “This (Gainza trade fair) is a platform where the producers can introduce their products in the market. If local producers gain confidence in this fair, which is provincial level, they can now try the regional or national fairs,” Tejada said. Real said that for the past seven years the exhibitors keep coming back which could mean they are satisfied with the trade fair. He said the exhibitors do not only gain from the on-site sales but from orders from entrepreneurs visiting the trade fair.

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 67 4/6/2018 2:23:01 PM HE air pollution concentration level in the 2. Continuing public information campaign that will city is still within the standards set by the be conducted by the ASBU Environmental Enforcers Department of Environment and Natural Section. The task will include the promotion of the Resources. This, after the Anti-Smoke proper maintenance and operation of vehicles; TBelching Unit (ASBU) of the local government b) placing of IEC stickers with hotline number unit here found out that a significant number of on private and public vehicles, inspection of the automobiles passed the random road side vehicle required standard garbage bins inside public utility emission testing conducted late last August 2017. vehicles, and the strict implementation of the nationwide smoking ban in public places and to all But the Naga City Airshed Governing Board passenger vehicles. headed by Mayor John G. Bongat wanted to intensify all the measures that the city government is adopting 3. Random Road side Vehicle Emission Testing. This if only to ensure the protection of the environment, approach is to be undertaken by the City ENRO especially when it comes to the monitoring of smoke together with the Public Safety Office Task Force belching vehicles and the imposition of appropriate COMET, the Land Transportation Office and the sanctions on the vehicle owners as provided by law. NAGA’S AIR Naga City Police Office. LTO and NCPO personnel will join as deputized members the Anti-Smoke The City Environment and Natural Resources Belching Unit (ASBU), which is composed of 15 to Office (City ENRO), however, observed that the QUALITY 20 members. massive construction of malls, which draws several hundreds of carbon monoxide-emitting vehicles The random roadside inspection will be undertaken daily, is one of the main factors that threaten the IS ‘GOOD,’ on motor vehicles with visible emission. The ASBU city’s air quality. will use portable emission test equipment for ANTI-SMOKE diesel-powered vehicles. Bongat said that “it is important that the emission levels within the city are kept within the BELCHING The entry and exit areas of Concepcion Grande, emission standards to protect the health of the Mabolo, Peñafrancia and Bagumbayan will be the people and the environment.” REPORT SAYS common monitoring locations selected at random where on-the-spot roadside emission testing Based on DENR’s 6 levels of air quality for of vehicles will be conducted. Specific areas of suspended particulates, which is categorized into operations will vary so that fleeing smoke belchers JASON B. NEOLA Good, Fair, Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups, Very By will easily be caught. Unhealthy, Acutely Unhealthy, and Emergency, Naga’s air quality is so far rated “Good.” “We are going to intensify the implementation of the RA 8749, specifically the provisions that tackles Concern about air quality, according to the smoke belching, when we resume our operations City ENRO, will be resolved by staging a massive on the last quarter of 2017,” says Jayson T. Vargas, awareness campaign and education which is going ASBU team leader. to be conducted thru initiatives that will sustain the implementation of R.A. 8749, otherwise known as ASBU personnel have just recently completed their the Clean Air Act of 1999. refresher training course for Diesel engine and Motor Engine Mandatory Preventive Maintenance. It is included also in the actions to be taken the The training boosted the technical know-hows of regulation and control of smoke belching vehicles the group on diesel motor engine. plying the city and the decision to encourage active and strong public participation in the prevention, The July-August ASBU Operations Report: Total control and reduction of air number of vehicles inspected and undergone pollution. random smoke belching test was 85; 22 have failed the road side emission testing and 63 passed the For effective pollution road side emission testing. management and control, the following strategies and activities will be implemented:

1. Effective and well- coordinated information, education and communication information and education campaign which will be developed for stakeholders, motorist, operators and drivers of public utility vehicles. The campaign will bring environmental awareness and culture of voluntary compliance with environmental regulations among motorists. By means of an effective IEC, stakeholders will appreciate the way how environmental regulations are being complied.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 68 4/6/2018 2:23:04 PM MNWD, LGU NAGA, PNP, NCPNP ADVISORY COUNCIL AS SIGNATORIES

MOA INKED FOR PROTECTED AREA By JASON B. NEOLA INSIDE MINP

ROTECTING, conserving, managing, and sustaining the 664 hectares of precious watershed located at the Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP) in Bgy. Panicuason is one of MOA priority programs of the Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD). SIGNING. P (Left to Right, Upper The watershed is under joint management of the MNWD and LGU Naga. Photo) MNWD Board Knowing that this program can never be successful without the help of the stakeholders Chairman Jorge T. Palma, and the community, the MNWD forged partnerships with agencies, both government and Naga City Mayor John G. private, and the civil society, to realize the aim of ensuring the supply of potable water for the Bongat, NCPO Acting City future generations. Director, PSSupt Jonathan O. Panganiban and PSupt It started with 5 partners in the late 1990s to 30 at present. Board Chairman Jorge T. Palma vowed to have a total of 40 partners by the end of Venerando F. Ramirez.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 69 4/6/2018 2:23:05 PM the year. “It has to be a concerted effort of all stakeholders not only of the water district alone. We have to further intensify our efforts in protecting, managing, and sustaining our watershed. ” he said. Thus, the partnerships with multi- agencies for the MINP’s welfare.

Monday last week, August 7, 2017, Mayor John G. Bongat, representing LGU Naga City, Naga City Police Office Acting City Director, PSSupt Jonathan O. Panganiban, Mr. Jorge T. Palma representing the PNP Advisory Council, and AGM Virginia I. Nero, signed a Memorandum of Agreement (Right to Left, Middle Photo) MNWD ACTING GENERAL (MOA) seeking cooperation in protecting, managing, and MANAGER Virginia I. Nero, MBTC Branch Head Glenn P. Abiog conserving the MINP. and Mr. Mohammad Sahlik Geray of Islamic Education Foundation Inc. The event was held at the Board Room on the second floor of the water district building in the presence of City Hall Officials, PNP Personnel, MNWD staff, and the MNWD Board of Directors.

In his speech, Mayor Bongat lauded the MNWD for its various projects to ensure the protection of the MINP. Protecting the MINP is protecting Naga City, “It is a rare privilege for MNWD to be able to tap ground water sources since we don’t have the luxury of surface water as source of potable water, hence, we need to sustain these programs with continuous and well-planned steps,” he said.

Furthermore, Mayor Bongat said we have to look into how to tap the water flowing from Mt. Isarog to the rivers (Left to Right, Lower Photo) NAGA CITY ADMINISTRATOR and streams for agricultural purposes. He concluded that we FLORENCIO T. MONGOSO, JR. AND MNCCI PRESIDENT GILBERT ALBERO during the MOA signing also have “to educate the public in a judicious and continuous for Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP) Conservation Program at MNWD manner on how to save and use water wisely.” Board Room on August 8, 2017.

GO FOR ONE GOAL. (Left to right, seated) MNWD Board of Directors, Mr. Adolfo L. Olivan, Ms. Monina Lily A. Claveria, MNWD Board Chair Jorge T. Palma, Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat, NCPO Acting City Director, PSSupt Jonathan O. Panganiban and PSupt. Venerando F. Ramirez. (Left to right, standing) Mr. Jamil Enguero, MNWD Engineering and Planning Division Manager Virgilio I. Luansing, Mr. Mohammad Sahlik Geray of Islamic Education Foundation Inc, MNWD Board of Director, Dr. Marilissa J. Ampuan, MBTC Branch Head Glenn P. Abiog, MNWD Acting General Manager Virginia I. Nero, City Administrator Florencio T. Mongoso, Jr., MNWD Water Section Officials, Engr. Gilbert Eleazar and Mr. Aniceto Vicente Rubio, MNWD PR Consultant Sarah Imperial, and ABS-CBN correspondent Rona Jane Nuñez.

2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 70 4/6/2018 2:23:06 PM HE Metropolitan Naga Water District (MNWD) showcased its best practices and experiences in protecting and conserving the watersheds it manages MNWD T within the Mt. Isarog Natural Park (MINP). PUSHES SUSTAINABLE Representatives from DENR Central Office, DENR Regional Office V, DENR ECOTOURISM Southern Luzon Cluster, National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP), Bicol University DEVELOPMENT (BU), Central Bicol State University of Agriculture (CBSUA), Department of Tourism (DOT) MIMAROPA, and Local Government Units of the Cities of Naga, Legazpi, and Parañaque were at the Protected Area Office (PAO) in Bgy. Panicuason, Naga City last August 11, 2017 for a learning visit.

REPRESENTATIVES from DENR Central Office, DENR Regional Office V, DENR Southern Luzon Cluster, National Mapping and Resource Information Authority (NAMRIA), National Commission on Indigenous People (NCIP), Bicol University (BU), Central Bicol State The event was formally opened by Domingo L. Ramos, the Punong Barangay University of Agriculture (CBSUA), Department of Tourism (DOT) of Panicuason. MIMAROPA, and Local Government Units of Naga, Legazpi, and Parañaque City at the Protected Area Office (PAO), during learning visit last August 11, 2017 at Panicuason, Naga City. Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat acknowledged and welcomed the participants even as he expressed his gratitude for the visit to the MINP. He emphasized the harmonious relationship obtaining between the MNWD and LGU and commended the water district for having a dynamic and visual oriented Chairman. MNWD Chairman of the Board Jorge T. Palma shared the best practices and stories behind the success of the Integrated Watershed Management Program (IWMP) for the The Malabsay Falls ecotourism development project was also discussed. He two watersheds being managed by the MNWD, the Anayan –Rumangrap and Kanilisan- presented the newly repaired structures within the compound including the foot Nabuntulan Watersheds. He said “that the sustained collaboration with the stakeholders and trail, guard house, water system, and the solar powered Visitor Information Center inclusion of the immediate community by the watershed proved to be a valuable catalyst (VIC) building. The city mayor also presented the plans of DENR, DOT, and the LGU towards the successful conservation, rehabilitation, and protection of the MNWD-managed of maximizing the utilization of resources to cater to the needs of local and national watersheds inside MINP.” tourists, through responsible ecotourism programs while protecting and conserving the MINP. The MNWD’s plans and programs for sustainability and replication of its watershed management projects were presented to the visiting group. The briefing regarding MINP was presented by Bonifacio P. Azur, Planning Officer II, DENR-PENRO. Among the highlights cited were the proclamation of MINP In behalf of the City ENRO, Alec Francis Santos of the Naga City Arts, Culture, and as a protected area by virtue of Proclamation No. 214 series of 2002, the DENR Tourism Office (ACTO) presented the LGU’s plans and programs for the protection and plans, the different reforestation measures including rehabilitation and management conservation of the MINP through eco-tourism development which focused on the benefits activities undertaken with the help of other agencies in order to ensure sustainable of eco-tourism to the community by creating more livelihoods, commercial expansion by development, environmental protection, and preserve the economic and ecological increasing revenues brought by increasing number of tourists visiting the area, environmental values of the protected area. protection through responsible ecotourism, and maximizing public awareness about all these programs.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 71 4/6/2018 2:23:07 PM HE city government of Naga is determined to reduce to the minimum, if not totally CONGRESS HELD FOR eradicate cases of maternal deaths in poor communities INDIGENT PREGNANT brought about by pregnancy and childbirth delivery. TIt was found out that most of the MOTHERS pregnant mothers in impoverished areas By JASON B. NEOLA have limited resources to improve their knowledge on safe childbirth delivery.

“Inadequate knowledge on maternal FOLLOWING care before, during and after child delivery SUBJECT also put the mothers at great risk,” says MATTERS: Dr. Joen Sebastian, a community medical doctor who partners with the Ginhawang Nagueño and the City Social Welfare and ANTENATAL AND Development Office in organizing the safe POSTNATAL CARE, motherhood congress which was conducted RESPONSIBLE last July 25, this year. PARENTHOOD AND FAMILY PLANNING, FIRST 1000 DAYS OF LIFE, BLOOD-TYPING AND URINALYSIS DIPSTICK, BLOOD PRESSURE MONITORING AND CHECK- UP WITH DOPPLER AND VACCINATION, NUTRITIONAL COUNSELLING AND TEENAGE PREGNANCY COUNSELLING. PHOTOS BY JOSE COLLERA

The Ginhawang Nagueño (GN) program was created by Mayor John G. Bongat under EO 2014-094. The program addresses sanitation, education, health and nutrition, and livelihood needs. It now covers 25 communities in 14 barangays with 800 families belonging to the poorest of the poor.

GN Program Manager Eric Jason Salvino said that the safe motherhood congress sought to help decrease the number of maternal deaths in poor communities. The activity, which was conducted in the form of seminar cum medical check-up, tackled Aside from raising the awareness on the following subject matters: antenatal and safe motherhood and responsible parenthood, BUNTIS CONGRESS. postnatal care, responsible parenthood and A medical doctor from the Naga City the activity also aims to identify the teenage family planning, First 1000 days of life, blood- Hospital conducts blood-typing on several pregnant mothers in LERCs so that they can typing and urinalysis dipstick, blood pressure pregnant mothers who attended the safe be provided with linkages for support from the motherhood congress monitoring and check-up with Doppler and City Population and Nutrition Office (CPNO) vaccination, nutritional counselling and and the Adolescent Care Unit of the Bicol teenage pregnancy counselling. Medical Center.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 72 4/6/2018 2:23:16 PM NAGA HOSTS NATIONAL SUMMIT FOR AGRICULTURISTS, LIBRARIANS

profession, as well as cross-cutting technologies on resilience and sustainability to increase food GRICULTURISTS came to security, competitiveness and product safety in this city last July 17 for the the light of the ASEAN regional integration. 5th National Congress and 2017 Philippine Agriculturists In his brief remarks, Bongat mentioned Summit at Villa Caceres Hotel at least four objectives that the Naga City here, with Sen. Cynthia Villar, Agriculture Office has been pursuing in enhancing chairperson of the Senate urban agriculture and productivity. These are Committee on Food and Agriculture, as guest of to provide technical assistance to farmers via Ahonor and speaker. improved crop production technology, with emphasis on low cost production techniques; to Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat welcomed increase the production of grains (rice and corn) the participants who tackled during the whole day and other food crops within the key production summit the theme, “Enhancing the agriculture areas; to enhance the productivity and increase profession towards a resilient and sustainable farm incomes through a diversified livelihoods agriculture in the global economy.” approach, and; to promote organic farming techniques to increase agricultural sustainability. President Arthur R. Baria of the Philippine Association of Agriculturists, Inc. said the summit Also this week, the three-day 4th PHOTOS BY REYNALDO aimed to provide its members the venue to International Conference on Child and Young BAYLON discuss issues and updates on the agriculture Adulthood Librarianship was opened last July 19,

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 73 4/6/2018 2:23:17 PM also at Villa Caceres with Mayor Bongat welcoming the guests.

Spearheaded by the National Library of the Philippines, the conference sought to highlight the importance of stakeholders engaging in information access and libraries as vital means of developing reading culture, bring together stakeholders, and influence decision-making process for the enrichment and expansion of access to information. It also aims to advocate the important role of libraries for children and young adults.

Moreover, the city mayor last July 21 addressed as keynote speaker the joint general membership conference and induction of officers of the Camarines Sur chapters of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) and the Association of Local Government Accountants (ALGA) at La Piazza Hall, Avenue Plaza Hotel here.

The twin event, according to outgoing PICPA Camarines Sur Chapter President Maria Lourdes Terbio, is coincidentally a culminating activity of the Annual Accountancy Week which is being celebrated nationwide.

Accountants, both from the private and public sectors from the cities of Naga and Iriga and the whole province of Camarines Sur, have come to gather and participate in the celebration of the important event.

PHOTOS BY REYNALDO BAYLON

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 74 4/6/2018 2:23:28 PM EARTHQUAKE By JAM MADRID DRILL SHAKES

CSNHS the sound of siren at exactly 2:00 p.m., more than 8,000 students, faculty members and STUDENTS, employees of the Camarines Sur National High School (CSNHS) went out of their classrooms TEACHERS ATand offices, with their hands on top of their head as they rushed out the street.

This was the scene at the CSNHS during the conduct of the “duck, cover and hold” activity for the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) held Thursday, June 29, and spearheaded by the National Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (NDRRMC).

Aside from the “duck, cover and hold” action, the students and teachers also demonstrated their skills and preparedness in firefighting, medical and first aid treatment, and tactical rescue operations or high angle rope rescue operations where victims were rescued from a high building using rope rescue equipment.

CSNHS Disaster Risk Reduction Management (DRRM) Coordinator Moises Cortes said that the simulated response to an earthquake was one way of assuring the parents of the students, as well as the public that everyone in the school was safe.

“We want to assure the parents that everyone is safe here

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 75 4/6/2018 2:23:34 PM DROP, COVER, HOLD ON. Students and teachers of the Camarines Sur National High School rush out of their campus and spill safe unto the street during the Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake and Fire Drill.

PHOTOS BY “This is important in our school because Cam High has a very big population and the main campus is too crowded. Joining the

REYNALDO BAYLON JOSE COLLERA group is one way of serving the school when disaster occurs,” Tanay stated.

Established in 1902, Naga City-based Camarines Sur National High School is the oldest secondary school in Camarines Sur and one of the biggest public secondary schools in Bicol with a total student population of 10,870 for teachers, and the School Youth students and almost 400 employees. Disaster Risk Management Group (SYDRRMG) composed of around The conduct of the Nationwide 200 students from Grades 7 to 12 as Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) in the school’s responders in times of a schools was pursuant to DepEd Memorandum disaster or calamity. 76 dated June 1, 2017, which aimed to test the contingency plans of government agencies “We inculcate disaster for an earthquake with the impact of a 7.2 awareness to our students to magnitude. With this, all schools and DepEd prepare them when an actual offices were directed to conduct earthquake disaster strikes. We encourage parents to drills simultaneously. let their children join the trainings being at Cam High, that’s why we give focus on the safety conducted by the school for them to feel The drill was supported by the Naga of the students. The planning was easy because our secured inside the school, and knowing that City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management principal was very supportive in giving programs their children is knowledgeable when it comes Office, Bureau of Fire Protection, Public for us to be able to focus when it came to disaster to preparedness and mitigation on disaster,” Safety Office, Naga City Police Office, and the preparedness.” Cortes added. Philippine Red Cross.

To strengthen the programs on disaster risk For his part, Eris Joseph Tanay, a Grade reduction, CSNHS has created the School Disaster 12 student and president of SYDRRMG said Risk Reduction Management Group (SDRRMG) that the conduct of the drill was very important.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 76 4/6/2018 2:23:36 PM NAGA’S STEVIE WONDER NAGA MAYOR BONGAT: Feels honored to ADJUDGED CHAMP; ONWARD be a partner for PWD endeavors TO THE NATIONAL FINALS By JASON B. NEOLA

HE elimination round of Himig Naga Mayor John G. Bongat thanked the Tanglaw Season 2 has Philippine Chamber of Massage Industry for chosen a visually impaired male Visually Impaired, Inc., the event’s organizer, singer from Barangay Carolina, for choosing Naga as this year’s venue of the here, to compete in the national competition. He said the city government is finals of the annual musical always ready and more than willing to extend help competition for persons with to the PWD sector if only to ensure the triumph disability (PWDs) on December 4, this year at the of its activities. TSky Dome in SM North Edsa, Quezon City.. massage as they are also gifted with a good voice, The event was conducted with the city that may lead them to becoming professional Aside from 45-year-old Rico Morillo, who government of Naga as co-organizer thru its performers.” earned the judges’ nod to be the champion in Persons with Disability Affairs Office (PDAO) solo singing competition, the other winners during headed by Christopher S. Molin as officer-in- There were at least 40 visually impaired the regional elimination held last September 21 charge. individuals who participated in the contest, which were the Naga City’s VIP Chorale Group for choral served as the official local talent search for those competition and the Handseers Band for band For his part, Butch Robredo, national to represent Bicol in the grand finals. competition. Morillo is fondly called here as the president of the Philippine Blind Union (PBU), local version of the famous Stevie Wonder. praised the contestants in all the 3 categories for their eagerness and preparedness to participate in Legazpi City’s Janie Marilag and Jeffrey Cuela the contest. He said that “our visually-challenged took the 2nd and 3rd places, respectively, in solo friends here are not only good in providing body singing contest with Viva Legazpi Band garnering the 2nd place in the battle of the bands.

BLIND SINGING SENSATIONS. Top photo (clockwise, from top) shows Naga City’s BAYLON Handseers Band performs before the applauding crowd at the jam-packed Atrium of Robinsons Place Naga; the VIP Chorale Group; the Viva Legazpi Band and soloist Rico

REYNALDO Morillo. PHOTOS BY PHOTOS

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 77 4/6/2018 2:23:37 PM ARTIST: ROMUALDO ROMMEL PEREZ’S

THE CURRENCIES OF LIGHT AND AIR

A review of Romualdo Rommel Perez’s “Tindero” series

By DENNIS B. GONZAGA

Transactions of Time in a The Impressionists were also able to close this apparent gap between the space-bound nature of the visual arts and the linear Space-Bound Art Form progression of time. By choosing subjects en plein air and by emphasizing the shifting qualities of ambient light, they introduced the idea of paintings as organic extensions of reality rather than the Japanese contemplation of wabi-sabi, emphasis is just being arbitrarily embellished conjectures. The Impressionists given on the impermanence of things. A thing is beautiful resisted idealized and curated representations of the world. Instead, because its existence is fleeting and because it flows freely they became true witnesses to the raw and spontaneous unfolding IN with the passage of time. of reality. Time usually is a difficult element to accommodate in any Impressionism itself drew inspiration from the literati critique of the Visual Arts. The language of the Visual Arts is space. Its paintings of East Asia, through the Japanese sumi-e and techniques, its disciplines, its stylistic themes, and its forms are typically ukiyo-e. The delicateness of Japanese black ink washes and the manifested within the spatial bounds of length, height, and depth. unorthodox angles and “snapshot” techniques of woodblock art Images are indelibly frozen within the confines of a canvas, a film, or prints are evident in most Impressionist works. a blueprint. They are immortalized in platforms of permanence where time has no claim. Perez’s marketplace of visages

This apparent incompatibility found resolution in the traditional These creative postulations are apparent in Perez’s “Tindero” ink wash paintings common in East Asian art. The austerity of colors series. In addition, his use of watercolor—one of the hardest and the swiftness of the strokes, combined with a refined understanding mediums to master—and his choice of subject adds layers of of how light interacts with surfaces and terrains, expresses a profound discourse to his current body of work. meditation on the natural flow of time.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 78 4/6/2018 2:23:39 PM The currency of the craft

Similar to his subjects, Perez peddles his craftsmanship with a unique blend of kinesis and precision. He carefully plans his light source and moderates his brush strokes to suggest motion. He showcases control and comprehension of the medium.

He understands the nuances of watercolor. Instead of following contemporary trends that emphasize static photorealism, Perez allows his watercolor washes to flow freely. He carefully selects which elements require detail and precision and lets the rest of the medium settle into its natural state.

In “Induljencia”, Perez plays with asymmetries, contrasts,

The palpability and ubiquity of his subject matter is a textures, and washes to showcase the flurry of a crowd. The elderly source of both nostalgic delight and critical inquiry. He recreates vendor is painted vividly. In contrast, the passing crowd is rendered his milieu, his homeland, through its unheralded gatekeepers: in soft and muted washes. Aside from creating the illusion of depth, street vendors. Perez highlights the peripheries of our urban the composition highlights pace—the briskness of the crowd is a sensibilities. His series discards the monoliths and monuments sharp contrast to the lethargy and disquiet of the vendor whose that constantly loom over our perceptions and impressions. wares remain unsold. The palette also succeeds in conveying Instead, he pays tribute to the margins, to the mundane. Here atmosphere. Watercolor typically expresses a cooler ambiance. But lies the primary strength and quality of his “Tindero” series. Perez is able to use the medium to convey a sense of humidity. His subtle palette and brushstrokes are appropriate in that they do not overpower the deeper elements of his discourse. In “Mga Lobo ni Lolo”, Perez lets his watercolor flow freely. Perez exercises a deft restraint in choosing which visual His palette and composition are limited, perhaps by design. His elements to emphasize and which ones are to be relegated into background is a cascading nebula serving only to enhance the compositional ambience. detailed craftsmanship he commits to the central character. He lets the element of light fill in the rest of the compositional space. The

A scrutiny of his preferred subjects also reveals an same effect is evident in “Naghihintay, Pamaypay” and “Mr. Takatak.” important point: Perez depicts ambulant vendors rather than stall-based traders. He renders an elderly taho vendor in a brief Conclusion respite, sorbeteros whose ubiquitous presences are defined by the distinct shape of their carts, a cigarette vendor cradling Although Perez works with a variety of pigments which his wooden box as if it were an infant, an old woman selling include oil and acrylic, his creative statement and vision are more scapulars and rosary beads amidst a crowd of apathetic church- pronounced in watercolor. In terms of visual signature, he is able goers, and other similar images of informal merchants surviving to showcase the refinement of traditional impressionistic plein air along the cracks of the urban terrain. In a sense, Perez expresses techniques combined with a reserved trace of neo-realism. movement and urgency. He is both sympathetic and blunt in his appropriation of his source material. His “Tindero” series is a well-articulated body of work that not only reveals his identity and maturity as a visual artist, but His characters are slightly off-center, suggesting passage also showcases his capacity as a cultural worker. He is both painter and outcome. His washes reflect the vitality of impermanence and social commentator. He has the potential to be an artist at and uncertainty. His utility of ambient light captures the the peripheries, capturing transient images of the marginal and precariousness of the human condition. He challenges the the marginalized and bringing these to the consciousness of the viewer to see past the imprimatur of propriety and pay closer privileged center. attention to the grit and the grime that fuels the very heart of his city. Editor’s Note: Rommel Perez’ watercolor artwork featured in this review are on display at the Best of Bicol Showcase and DA’s Perez’s renderings are never stationary. Even when they ASPIRE Trade Fair and Exhibits of the ongoing 2017 Bicol Business are depicted in their moments of respite, his vendors are always Month at the SM City Naga Activity Center. in the midst of activity. Perez relies on subtle disproportions and dynamic points of view to constantly remind us that the flow of time is a central theme in his works.

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 79 4/6/2018 2:23:39 PM COMMERCIAL AND LIVESTOCK RAISING

SP : HIGHLIGHTS

HE uncontrolled proliferation As provided in Ordinance No. 2017-053, of flies in the upland barangays we declared a moratorium for opening up of new of the city has posed serious commercial farms (i.e. poultry-, hog- or other TH STAT inconvenience and even public livestock-raising facilities consisting of more than SHALL PRO OT health concerns to the residents 300 heads of chickens and/or more than 50 heads IN STRIALI ATION of said communities. Given of hogs or livestock excluding their sucklings) for a period of five years from the effectivity of the AN F LL the city government’s mandate to promote public welfare and safeguard its said local law. Commercial farms with PLOY NT Tcitizenry’s well-being, it acted vigorously and valid business permits are BAS ON SO N launched several investigations to determine the allowed to continue A RI LT RAL cause of this problem. Alas, from these enquiries, operation, provided V LOP NT the uncontrolled commercial and backyard no expansion shall be AN A RARIAN poultry and livestock production in the area was undertaken within five R FOR THRO H pointed out as one of the major culprits. years. This rule IN STRI S is necessary Raising of chicken and pigs is indeed a to prevent THAT A F LL major part of agriculture. It is indispensable for further AN FFI I NT the economic growth of the community and the aggravation S OF H AN food security of the people. However, it can no of the AN NAT RAL longer remain unsupervised. present R SO R S AN HI H AR As such, the Sangguniang Panlungsod of O P TITIV IN Naga, thru the sponsorship of Councilors Mila Arroyo, Julian Lavadia Jr. and Cecilia De Asis, BOTH O STI decided to enact last 8 August 2017 an ordinance AN FOR I N that will regulate the operation of commercial AR TS and backyard poultry and livestock farms in Naga City. Ordinance No. 2017-053 generally seeks to -1987 CONSTITUTION, ARTICLE XII (§ 1, ¶ 2) - balance our pursuit for progress, on one hand, and our right to balanced and healthful ecology, on the other hand. MILA SD. RAQUID-ARROYO CITY COUNCILOR [email protected] [email protected]

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problem, as well as to give time for the policies nutrient management practices, as well as A clean and undefiled environment is and strategies to fully set in before admitting the guidelines on pest and noxious and also necessary for nourishing a healthy new players in the market. objectional odor control. Though backyard and productive citizenry. We can strike farms have less stringent regulations in a balance between these two needs As for backyard farms, there is no recognition of their financial capability, thru strategic collaboration between all moratorium, provided they do not expand they are, nevertheless, mandated to stakeholders of the society. In unity, there to the point of being already classified as comply with the provisions of the is strength. a commercial farm. A backyard farm is a ordinance; otherwise, their operation may small-scale poultry-, hog- or livestock-raising be ordered closed by the city government. Tarabang po kita! facilities consisting of at least 100 but not more than 300heads of chicken and/or at It can be noted that there are smaller least 10 but not more than fifty 50 heads of farms that do not fall under the definition hog or other four-legged animals or livestock, of commercial or backyard farms. As for excluding the number of sucklings. them, the provisions of the ordinance will not apply, but their activities shall be Both commercial farms and backyard regulated under the Sanitation Code of the farms must observed Philippines as enforced by the City Health faithfully the Officer and under such laws, ordinances, provided waste rules and regulations applicable to them. management and pollution We are aware of our need for

control poultry and livestock raising and PHOTOS BY systems, their importance in feeding our

population. But food is not the RAMIL C. HERRERA JR. only thing that makes us alive.

JULIAN C. LAVADIA CECILIA V. DE ASIS CITY COUNCILOR CITY COUNCILOR [email protected] [email protected] [email protected]

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2017_NSM .3Q-Vol.8.indd 81 4/6/2018 2:23:47 PM SP : HIGHLIGHTS

SMOKE-FREE CITY

ER THE RECENT 2017 Third Quarter Naga City Poverty and Governance Public MANAGERS, OFFICE HEADS Opinion Poll conducted and published by Ateneo de Naga University’s Social OR PUBLIC UTILITY DRIVERS WHO Science Research Center, 74.2% of those who are aware of the city’s ordinance ALLOW OR CONDONE ANY PERSON prohibiting smoking in public places commented that said policy is not being TO SMOKE IN PLACES SHALL BE Pstrictly followed in Naga. Majority of them suggested that stricter implementation of said PUBLIC local law be done. PENALIZED WITH FINES

By stroke of fate, on the very same day the aforesaid opinion was released to the media – 26 September 2017 - the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga, thru sponsorship of Councilor Jose Rañola, a doctor by profession, enacted Ordinance No. 2017-066 (Smoke- P2,000 for first offense; Free Ordinance of the City of Naga). Perhaps, shared sentiments of the people and their P3,000 for second office; officials, as well as constant dialogue, have paved the way for this coincidence. P4,000, third offense; and P5,000 fine and cancellation of business permit for subsequent offenses. In the newly-passed Smoke-Free Ordinance of the City of Naga, we aim to intensify our campaign against smoking in public places thru the creation of a Smoke- Free Task Force that will aid in the implementation of said local law, conduct information dissemination programs, train enforcement officers, as well as receive, review and process Persons who will smoke in public places will be sanctioned with fines complaints of violations. This task force shall be chaired by the City Health Officer, co- for chaired by the City Health Education and Promotion Officer, and composed of the city’s P1,500 first offense; Legal Officer, Information Officer, Building Officer, Business Permits and License Officer and P2,500, second offense; representatives from the Naga City People’s Council and the Naga City Police Office. P3,5000, third offense; and Further, Ordinance No. 2017-066 mandates that, ninety (90) days after its P5,000, subsequent offenses and effectivity, an inspection team shall, in a regular basis, visit at least once a month business possible imprisonment. establishments within the city and determine their compliance with said local law. Those found non-compliant shall be issued a Citation Ticket which, upon failure of the enterprise to rectify its error, may be a ground for suspension of business license.

Also, managers, office heads or public utility drivers who allow or condone any person to smoke in public places shall be penalized with fines (P2,000 for first offense; P3,000 for second office; P4,000, third offense; and P5,000 fine and cancellation of business permit for subsequent offenses). Persons who will smoke in public places will be sanctioned 100 meters from perimeter of a school, public playground or other facilities with fines (P1,500 for first offense; P2,500, second offense; P3,5000, third offense; and frequented by minors. Selling to minors is strictly not allowed, even if the child P5,000, subsequent offenses) and possible imprisonment. was only instructed to buy for his parent or any adult. In fact, ordering, instructing or compelling a minor to use, light up, buy, sell, distribute, deliver, advertise or just Aside from a campaign for prohibition, the city government is equally earnest on its promote tobacco products is now declared prohibited. crusade for rehabilitation. Under Ordinance No. 2017-066, a Local Cessation Program has been established to provide help to those who have expressed willingness to quit smoking There is a need to be aggressive on regulating smoking in the city. and/or have violated our ordinance so as to prevent further violation and introduce a Smoking is a major cause of serious diseases and, much worse, second-hand healthier lifestyle to our constituents. smokers are the ones who are more at risk of acquiring such illnesses than the actual smokers themselves. Indeed, our policies may infringe upon a man’s right Prevention is always better than cure, however. Hence, in our newly-enacted to enjoy a commodity and a firm’s right to commerce. But, as the maxim goes jura ordinance, we have already provided a policy prohibiting advertisements of tobacco publica anteferenda privatis juribus (public rights are to be preferred to private products outside of the premises of point-of-sale retail establishments, as well as within rights).

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