Legazpi, Ligao and Tabaco Cities, and Albay Province - Compiled Threads [Archive] - Page 69

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 12:32 PM

Aktibidad kan Mayon, nagluya; abnormalidad kan bulkan, peligroso pa (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=112671)
10/10/2009 7:22:06 PM

LEGAZPI CITY - Mayong marhay na dakulang paghiro na nanutaran an Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology sa bulkang Mayon. Temporarmenteng nagluya an abnormalidad kani sa nakalipas na 24 na oras.

Nakapagrehistro sana ini nin limang low frequency volcanic quakes asin sarong high frequency na mas hababa kumparar sa nairehistro kasuogma na nagsakat sa sampulong pagyugyog.

Magin an nairehistrong gas emission nagluya man sa 462 metric tons sana gikan sa 761 kasuogma.

Siringman, padagos pa man giraray na ipinapagirumdom kan Phivolcs an paglikay kan mga residentes na nasa pamitisan kan builkan huli ta anuman na oras pwedesir pa man giraray inin mag-alburuto.

* * *

Public demo kan bagong automated counting machine kan Comelec, isinagibo sa Albay (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=112668)
10/10/2009 7:20:39 PM

LEGAZPI CITY- Isinagibo na sa Albay an kaenot-enoting public demo sa paggamit kan automated counting machine para sa isasagibong eleksyon sa masunod na taon.

Ipiglansar ini sa Albay Astrodome ala-una kasuogma kun saen ginatos na botante an nag-atendir.

Naisagibo ini huli naman sa kahagadan kan Comelec Albay na maipahiling asin maipagamit man sa mga Albayano an makabagong kagamitan para sa poll automation.

Segun ki Comelec Albay Provincial Manager Romeo Serrano an dry run iyu an inatendiran mismo kan mga paratukdo gikan sa Department of Education na mamamayo sa eleksyon asin nagkapira pang imbitadong indibidwal.

Mientrastanto, liwat na ipinagirumdom kan Comelec sa mga botante na sundo sa ultimong aldaw na sana kan presenteng bulan an saindang pagresibe nin mga registrants nganing matawanan nin direcho na makaboto sa paabuton na eleksyon sa masunod na taon.

megalgzp

October 11th, 2009, 01:11 PM

^ ini su nahihiling kong unde construction na building...gari mapapanu na ang landco ki mga buildings...sain na kaya ang magigin parking lot kaini? hehe

Actually that building that is under construction is found in the wyc architecture site. WYC architecture's designs are now materializing in the city. Meaning, more buildings that are really good-looking are anticipated to be built soon. Wow, more to come!!!:banana:

megalgzp

October 11th, 2009, 01:15 PM

;44413504']Legazpi Central Terminal

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs221.snc1/6830_161747308304_589338304_2691421_7490872_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs221.snc1/6830_161819233304_589338304_2691770_6076849_n.jpg''

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs221.snc1/6830_161822243304_589338304_2691802_6832001_n.jpg

The Metro Lifestyle Hub
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs201.snc1/6830_161825833304_589338304_2691824_3925578_n.jpg

Photos by Frank Stoll (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=589338304)

Is that A&W in one kiosk? More spaces are up-for-grab! :banana:

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 01:29 PM

Actually that building that is under construction is found in the wyc architecture site. WYC architecture's designs are now materializing in the city. Meaning, more buildings that are really good-looking are anticipated to be built soon. Wow, more to come!!!:banana:

http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/5/1200x1200/8/DSC01371a.JPG?et=G%2CQC3B1HgM7GS6qcVdrAkg&nmid=281020521

Oo nga ano:

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/7034/picture1zo.jpg
Source (http://www.wycarchitecture.com/commercial/)

megalgzp

October 11th, 2009, 01:47 PM

;44439906']Oo nga ano:

http://img198.imageshack.us/img198/7034/picture1zo.jpg
Source (http://www.wycarchitecture.com/commercial/)

I can see the Dunkin Donuts and KFC logo. Dunkin Donuts I think vacated its space inside PM to be in this building. Another is that there will be a bridge that will connect it to PM.

megalgzp

October 11th, 2009, 02:42 PM

World-class transport terminal up and running in Bicol
Regions
Written by Danny O. Calleja / Correspondent
Sunday, 11 October 2009 20:20

LEGAZPI CITY—The Metro Integ-rated Transport Terminal (MITT) here has started operations providing commuters between the city and all destinations within Albay and the rest of the Bicol region the experience of a world-class public-transport facility.

City Mayor Noel Rosal led the formal opening of the state-of-the-art terminal last week at the corner of Tahao and alternate roads in a simple ceremony attended by top executives of the province.

“This terminal will raise the confidence of investors in Legazpi as a highly commercialized city that serves as the regional government center of Bicol,” Rosal said.

He labeled the P300-million facility put up by private company LKY Group under a 25-year build-operate-and-transfer arrangement as a “futuristic terminal” that will spur economic development in the whole of Bicol.

“Everyone is excited over this futuristic terminal. Even those living in far-flung villages believe that this terminal will bring progress to them,” the mayor said.

The new city terminal will centralize all forms of land transportation that pass through here, including buses plying the routes between Manila and the Visayas-Mindanao regions.  It has also been made the convergence place of all jeepneys and air-conditioned vans that bring commuters to and from various cities and towns of practically the whole Bicol region.

Since the 3.9-hectare facility expects human traffic of more than 80,000 every day, Rosal said the commercial area now being completed to house restaurants, bars and malls will definitely bustle the area with economic activities.

This early, fast-food giant Jollibee and sister company Chowking are preparing to construct a restaurant in the terminal. Jollibee is expected to put up its biggest store at the terminal complex, which will be its fourth in the city.

SM Group’s Save More had also signified its intention to become the operator of the new terminal’s supermarket, a major development that made Rosal ecstatic.

“MITT will be the new center of business in the city,” he said.

Rosal said the formal opening of the terminal was just in time for the arrival of tourists for the region’s Ibalong Festival.

The three-term mayor added that MITT “will beef up the perception of an organized government” in the city.

“People from all walks of life coming in or going out of the city by land will pass through this terminal. As they first see and experience the convenience offered by a modern facility like this, they will surely be surprised and highly impressed,” Rosal said.

“Now the people are saying Legazpi is making a lot of difference with this terminal. Iba talaga ang Legazpi [Legazpi is really different],” Augusto Cubias, an executive officer of the LKY Group that constructed the terminal, said.

As this facility came to operations, discussions of possible investments among investors have started.

“This terminal will do a lot in showing the people what kind of governance Legazpi has,” Cubias said.

Rosal clarified that the project to modernize Legazpi’s antiquated terminal was first offered to local business groups, but it was the LKY Group, a company from Sorsogon City, which responded to the challenge.

He said because of the vision of the LKY Group, what used to be a flood-prone area populated by squatters is now becoming the new central business district of the city.

“We look forward to the coming of more business owners and we wholeheartedly welcome them,” Rosal said.

The mayor also expressed optimism over the future of the Ibalong Center for Recreation, the only convention center in Legazpi, which he said will be rehabilitated soon. The Ibalong Center which has been damaged by past floods is a stone throw away from MITT.

SM Save More is confirmed...:banana: Just got an info from an insider.:banana::banana::banana:

i'malegazpeño

October 11th, 2009, 05:01 PM

I can see the Dunkin Donuts and KFC logo. Dunkin Donuts I think vacated its space inside PM to be in this building. Another is that there will be a bridge that will connect it to PM.

Is this true??..May bridgeway gaya sa LCC Mall Tabaco??...Sa tabi ng Dunkin Donuts sa PM ay may new space ulit...I wonder what will occupy that space...Hehe...:banana::banana::banana:

lipaopao95@yahoo.com

October 11th, 2009, 06:02 PM

papano naman ang parking space ng pacific mall so maliit na pala??

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 08:12 PM

Mutya ng Ibalong 2009 Candidates
http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/8/photos/122/1200x1200/9/09.jpg?et=Cq7lLNNJjsd7cw8Z25Ig%2CQ&nmid=289101119
by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

View more photos here (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/photos/album/122/Miss_Ibalong_2009_Candidates).

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 08:23 PM

Busy Legazpi Port
by rickyloco72 (http://rickyloco72.multiply.com/)

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/pier2.jpg

Brandon32

October 11th, 2009, 08:26 PM

^ isa lang ang masasabi ko dito..paganda ng paganda ang business climate sa Albay and Legazpi!...sana mas maraming papalabas na products kaysa sa pumapasok..hehe

I can see the Dunkin Donuts and KFC logo. Dunkin Donuts I think vacated its space inside PM to be in this building. Another is that there will be a bridge that will connect it to PM.

^ Galing ni ms megz..imagine hindi pa nga tapos yung building ay nahulaan kaagad na parehas doon sa render sa WYC...but do you think the bridge will materialize? looks like the building is too insignificant for a footbridge to link it to the main building..

Sa tingin ko itong WYC ay parang palafox company in-the-making dito sa albay..Kailangan ng Albay yan especially for urban planning...

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 08:32 PM

^ isa lang ang masasabi ko dito..paganda ng paganda ang business climate sa Albay and Legazpi!...sana mas maraming papalabas na products kaysa sa pumapasok..hehe

^ Galing ni ms megz..imagine hindi pa nga tapos yung building ay nahulaan kaagad na parehas doon sa render sa WYC...but do you think the bridge will materialize? looks like the building is too insignificant for a footbridge to link it to the main building..

Sa tingin ko itong WYC ay parang palafox company in-the-making dito sa albay..Kailangan ng Albay yan especially for urban planning...

Mata ka pa! lols. Yup, me too, I don't think there is a need for a footbridge. Maybe in the future if more buildings rise on the lots across PMall and human traffic increases.

Yup, andami pala nilang projects dito sa Legazpi.

Brandon32

October 11th, 2009, 08:36 PM

[dx]

October 11th, 2009, 08:42 PM

^ yup still awake...hehe actually kakagising lang...i slept early and got a troubled stomach...hehe...now im awake...

Hope the WYC should instead put a company based in Legazpi...kagaya ng Sunwest Corporation...kasi sa pagkakaunawa ko naka based ang WYC sa manila eh...

Yes, I like their designs. I really hope their convention center design gets built.
Ako matutulog pa lang. hehe. Maray na Albay!

Brandon32

October 11th, 2009, 08:44 PM

^ Maray na Albay! oo sana magawa yung BICC, baka yun na yung restoration ng ICR...hehe

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 02:42 AM

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 03:18 AM

papano naman ang parking space ng pacific mall so maliit na pala??

^maybe they could build a parking similar to the parking buildings of eastwood aand rustans makati (near glorietta3)

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 04:05 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/SUNSETMTR.jpg

Click Here (http://becoolrunner.com/mayontrailrun/)

^ when i was a kid i thought all volcanoes looked like mt mayon or were shaped just like mt mayon..hehe yun pala one of a kind..behold!

musta naman kaya ang preparations nitong mayon trail run?

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:29 AM

May project din pala ang WYC na isang resort sa bacacay, albay..na browse ko sa website ng WYC...mukhang maganda yung render...dapat sunud-sunod na ito...we need to advetise the blacksand beaches of Bacacay..kasi actually maganda naman sya! mas maganda nga apakan kaysa sa buhangin ng boracay eh...

Maray na Albay!!

Volcanic Jet black sand beaches are actually unique. Hawaii has popular jet black sand beaches. :okay:

^ when i was a kid i thought all volcanoes looked like mt mayon or were shaped just like mt mayon..hehe yun pala one of a kind..behold!

musta naman kaya ang preparations nitong mayon trail run?

Registration is still open. Click here (http://becoolrunner.com/mayontrailrun/?p=3) :okay:

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:30 AM

Arroyo urged to seek $1B in int’l aid (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/inquirerheadlines/nation/view/20091012-229591/Arroyo-urged-to-seek-1B-in-intl-aid)
By Gil C. Cabacungan Jr., Jerome Aning

MANILA, Philippines—An economic adviser of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is urging her to acknowledge that the Philippines cannot recover from Tropical Storm “Pepeng” and Tropical Storm “Ondoy” on its own and that it needs foreign help to get back on its feet.

Albay Gov. Joey Salceda is proposing that the government seek at least $1 billion in foreign grants and concessional loans to be administered by a special reconstruction commission composed of the government, the Church, big business and civil society.

“It is time to admit that we need help in a big way beyond the exigency of disaster response. We can opt to raise taxes or slash other priorities, neither of which is desirable or feasible since it would just shift pesos from the left to the right hand. What we need are new external resources,” Salceda said in a text message.

* * *

Storm aid takes center stage in RP dev’t forum (http://www.bworldonline.com/BW101209/content.php?id=003)

THE GOVERNMENT and its development partners will devote the Philippine Development Forum this year to raising donation commitments for the victims of storms "Ondoy" and "Pepeng," Finance Secretary Margarito B. Teves said on Friday.

The Philippine Development Forum is an annual conference where representatives of the private sector, development partners, and other stakeholders dialogue with top government officials on the country’s key economic issues.

The conference is usually held every March, but, for this year, it has been deferred to November due to conflicts in the work schedule of Cabinet members.

Mr. Teves said the government and the World Bank agreed to make the 5th Philippine Development Forum a venue for soliciting pledges for storm victims at the sidelines of the joint International Monetary Fund-World Bank annual meeting in Istanbul last week.

"One thing that came out of [the meeting] is their [World Bank] willingness to assist the Philippines, which was affected by recent typhoons. We are considering convening the Philippine Development Forum...and largely convert it to a pledging session...We are planning to have it [in the] middle of November," Mr. Teves told reporters.

"The World Bank is planning to send an assessment team to assess the impact of the typhoons and, from there, determine how much the World Bank is willing to give."

The Finance department and the World Bank serve as the forum’s chair and co-chair, respectively.

Mr. Teves said details of the event will still be finalized. He added that the assistance may come in the form of a grant or a loan, or a combination of both.

"The pledging session could provide a menu of options available for us," the Finance chief said.

The National Disaster Coordinating Council has reported that more than 330 people died and around P9.77 billion worth of infrastructure and crops were damaged during the onslaught of tropical storm "Ondoy." As of yesterday afternoon, the death toll from tropical cyclone "Pepeng" has reached 193, while the amount of damage has breached P5 billion.

The Philippine Development Forum Web site showed that among the issues that may be tackled this year are the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs), growth and social climate, economic and fiscal reforms, governance and anti-corruption, decentralization and local government, the Mindanao situation, sustainable rural development, and infrastructure.

The MDGs are a set of goals crafted by the members of the United Nations to substantially reduce poverty and malnutrition worldwide by 2015.

The eight MDGs are: eradicate extreme poverty and hunger, achieve universal primary education, promote gender equality, reduce child mortality, improve maternal health, combat HIV/AIDS, ensure environmental sustainability, and develop a global partnership for development.

In a related development, an economic adviser of Malacañang cited the need to raise $1 billion from external sources for rehabilitation, noting that the global downturn has put a dent on the state’s fiscal resources.

In a text message to reporters last Saturday, Albay Gov. Jose Ma. Clemente "Joey" S. Salceda also called for the creation of an intersectoral group that would carry out the rehabilitation efforts.

"Given the impact of global crisis on our fiscal capacity versus the magnitude of calamity impact, the Philippines should seek $1 billion fresh aid to fund reconstruction," he said. "[We also need a] special public-private reconstruction commission appointed by PGMA (President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo), but headed by dominant business leader."

He said the $1 billion, which is equivalent to P46 billion, should be spent on relocation (P20 billion), infrastructure rehabilitation (P21 billion), and livelihood and agriculture (P5 billion).

Mr. Salceda said Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza I. Cabral and Manila Archbishop Gaudencio B. Cardinal Rosales can serve as co-chairmen of the commission.

"The key tasks are to raise funds, especially grants, prioritize programs and oversee implementation. [The commission will] also serve as clearinghouse for international assistance implemented by the donors themselves," Mr. Salceda said. "Simply, no budget cannot be an excuse. It is our duty to rebuild lives. To do this, it is also time to admit that we need help in a big way beyond the exigency of disaster response." — Alexis Douglas B. Rom

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:47 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/48/m-038.JPG?et=XihrVfvM7AOhF9thpZcsGA&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/20/DSC09377.JPG?et=fJwzK6eVSZ6e1FXzCjiiPg&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/21/DSC09378.JPG?et=%2Ca2jirtl3cLe9MSAlYkv%2Bw&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/22/DSC09380.JPG?et=qi9oX350TsWI2KA9pCu1Ow&nmid=278304889

by zaela (http://zaela.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:48 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/47/m-037.JPG?et=kqypZFYPyYpfnbHIOvCuCw&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/29/DSC09401.JPG?et=UaYiorpPSlydvQDuM5k0UQ&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/36/DSC09410.JPG?et=fKvE1n8ucRdS2kBYlp%2C4Sg&nmid=278304889

http://images.zaela.multiply.com/image/1/photos/59/1200x1200/37/DSC09411.JPG?et=soe5ws5SMVWXCO24kjp0CQ&nmid=278304889

by zaela (http://zaela.multiply.com/)

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 05:03 AM

dx can i ask for a favor? could you post also the WYC render of a beach resort project in bacacay, Albay..maliit kasi tingnan doon sa website nila...and looks like its a good project, too!..thanks

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 05:08 AM

dx can i ask for a favor? could you post also the WYC render of a beach resort project in bacacay, Albay..maliit kasi tingnan doon sa website nila...and looks like its a good project, too!..thanks

Sige, I'll try to look for a bigger version of that image :okay:

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 05:24 AM

Sunrise in Rawis, Legazpi City

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/57/1200x1200/3/Alone-3.jpg?et=5VYrFydr3YhylIRQGD1%2BaA&nmid=289478651

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 05:27 AM

^ WoW! talo pa nito ang manila bay! sobrang talo! hehe...lalo pat kung may skyscrapers na ang legazpi sa old CBD and the Legazpi Boulevard, siram sana mag take pictures! hehe

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 05:29 AM

^ WoW! talo pa nito ang manila bay! sobrang talo! hehe...lalo pat kung may skyscrapers na ang legazpi sa old CBD and the Legazpi Boulevard, siram sana mag take pictures! hehe

Hehe yup. Who knows, baka in the near future, the Legazpi Boulevard could be extended all the way to Rawis. Yung tipong seaside boulevard but the beach is still intact, just like the ones in California or the Mediterranean. hehe

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 05:32 AM

^ true...and this time its a stretch of a beautiful black sand beach!

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 05:35 AM

Two more activities at Misibis Bay Raintree

Pumpabike
http://images.lorrainejo.multiply.com/image/1/photos/115/1200x1200/3/DSC09213.JPG?et=5Jic%2Co5XpLviJEw29nCsvw&nmid=278292299

Windsurfing
http://images.lorrainejo.multiply.com/image/1/photos/115/1200x1200/33/DSC09463.JPG?et=4YBpvwGY3PtdJsjAOEoRUw&nmid=278292299

by lorrainejo (http://lorrainejo.multiply.com/)

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 05:41 AM

i see..so if one want to learn ow to wind surf..ganyan ang gagawin nya...galing!!! sige para maging popular ang wind surfing sa albay gulf!

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 05:43 AM

i see..so if one want to learn ow to wind surf..ganyan ang gagawin nya...galing!!! sige para maging popular ang wind surfing sa albay gulf!

Yung pumpabike pala is a 'human-powered hydrofoil'

In8f0C_B9HA

bDnY_XrnEZg

Looks fun. sige sanang untol :lol:

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 07:46 AM

^ i see i thought yan yung dry run pag mag aaral ka ng sind surf...its another activity pala..great.sige we should maximize the use of the Albay Gulf to lure tourists and investors..

poknat

October 12th, 2009, 09:19 AM

^^ interesting yung pumpabike na yan ah. :)

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 10:26 AM

Mayon Volcano's sulfur dioxide emission rate increases (http://www.gmanews.tv/story/174413/mayon-volcanos-sulfur-dioxide-emission-rate-increases)
10/12/2009 | 01:18 PM

State volcanologists on Monday observed a nearly 350-ton increase in the sulfur dioxide emission rate of Mayon Volcano in Albay province in the Bicol region. In its latest update, the Philppine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said that the volcano emitted 853 tons of SO2 in the past 24 hours.

Phivolcs recorded only 505 tons last October 10; 761 tons last October 8, and 350 tons last October 7. While the volcano’s steaming activity remained moderate and while the crater glow remained obscure, Phivolcs said that they detected seven volcanic earthquakes during the past 24 hours – bringing to 43 the number of volcanic earthquakes recorded from October 5 to 11.

Mayon Volcano’s status, however, remained at Alert Level 2, which is characterized as "a state of unrest which could lead to more ash explosion or eventually to hazardous magmatic eruption."

Phivolcs said the 6-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone (PDZ) around the volcano and the 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the southeast flank are off-limits due to the threat of sudden explosions and rock falls from the upper slope.

"Active river channels and those areas perennially identified as lahar prone in the southeast sector should also be avoided especially during bad weather condition or when there is heavy and prolonged rainfall," Phivolcs added.

Last July 10, the agency raised the alert at Mayon from Level 1 to Level 2 after noting a “moderate unrest."

Alert Level 1 means there is low-level unrest with slight increase in seismicity. There is also a "slight increase in sulfur dioxide gas output above the background level. A very faint glow at the crater may occur, but no conclusive evidence of magma ascent." At this level, no eruption is imminent, Phivolcs said.

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:06 PM

http://img395.imageshack.us/img395/5223/3c74d3b81422.jpg

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:10 PM

Legazpi Grand Central Terminal

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/4737BEFC-1422.jpg

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/47375C59-1422.jpg

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/4736D3E1-1422.jpg

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/47367276-1422.jpg

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/4735E4E0-1422.jpg

From gobicol.com (http://www.gobicol.com/index.cfm?action=gallery.details&photo_id=108599)

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:12 PM

Salceda proposes creation of body to handle financial aid from foreign donors (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=234781)
By Mar S. Arguelles

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 12 (PNA) - Albay Governor Joey S. Salceda proposed the creation of a Special Public-Private Reconstruction Commission to handle fresh financial aid given by external sources to fund reconstruction efforts after the calamities that recently affected Metro Manila and its neighboring regions in Luzon.

Salceda, a top economic analyst, said the country needs to seek US$ 1-billion fresh aid from international communities, to overcome the impact of global crisis and the calamities caused by tropical storms "Ondoy" and "Pepeng" that left hundreds of people dead, millions of families homeless and billions of pesos in damages to public and private infrastructure, agriculture and livelihoods in Metro Manila and some provinces in Luzon.

Salceda said the government has to ask for fresh aid to parry the impacts of global financial crisis and calamity that are affecting the country’s fiscal capacity.

The Albay governor, who is among the senior economic advisers of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, said the US$ 1-billion financial aid would finance reconstruction of various infrastructure destroyed by "Ondoy" and "Pepeng".

The fresh aid would also be used to finance relocation of thousands of families displaced by the calamities at P20 billion; infrastructure rehabilitation at P21 billion; and livelihood and agriculture at P5 billion.

These total P46 billion of which P27 billion will fund rehabilitate projects destroyed by "Ondoy", P12 billion for "Pepeng" and P7 billion for "Frank".

To safeguard the financial assistance given by external sources, Salceda said a special public-private reconstruction commission should be created by President Arroyo to be headed by dominant business leaders with Manuel V. Pangilinan as chairman with Social Welfare Secretary Nerissa Cabral and Cardinal Gaudencio Rosales as co-chairs and with department heads and business groups, NGO representatives and international NGO representatives as members.

He said, to spearhead this effort, the reconstruction commission composed by government, church, big business and civil society should be constituted by the government.

“It will operate like the original CCPAP (Coordinating Council for the Philippine Assistance Plan) headed by businessman Roberto Villanueva of AGPI. The CCPAP has since evolved into the CCPSP which operates the BOT Center under DTI,” Salceda said.

The Office of Civil Defence (OCD) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) are proposed by the governor to form the secretariat, whose key tasks are to raise funds especially grants, prioritize programs and oversee implementation.

They will also serve as clearing house for international assistance implemented by the donors themselves using the cluster approach.

The reconstruction commission should request the United Nations and World Bank to coordinate an international pledging session either in Spain or Japan possibly in November.

“It is our duty to rebuild lives. To do this, it is also time to admit that we need help in a big way beyond the exigency of disaster response the two other alternatives are to raise taxes or slash other priorities,” he said.

“We are neither feasible nor desirable since they just shift pesos from the left to the right hand. What is needed are new external resources,” he said. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/MSA/cbd/

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:19 PM

Legazpi Port District and Mayon

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/Embarcadero-6.jpg

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:20 PM

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/7C.jpg

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 12th, 2009, 04:26 PM

Ligñon Hill Nature Park

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/30/DSC051861.JPG?et=PwLdc637S64cayV3UxSPkQ&nmid=256627463

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by ervinparaoyan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

Brandon32

October 12th, 2009, 05:21 PM

;44494898']http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/7C.jpg

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

Bicol's largest luxury mall...the Embarcadero will have its grand opening this October 2009!

Parang may fountain features din ito kagaya sa marquee mall..naging discussion yun dito many threads back...sana paganahin nila yun sa grand opening! yahooo!!!

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 01:42 AM

SSS eases loan renewal process (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=513722&publicationSubCategoryId=63)
(The Philippine Star) Updated October 13, 2009 12:00 AM

MANILA, Philippines - State-run pension funds, which have been swamped with loan applications after the destruction brought by two killer typhoons, are now bending over backwards in an effort to service the growing number of claims. The Social Security System (SSS) has trimmed the requirements and procedures for loan renewals.

SSS president and chief executive Romulo Neri said the agency has stopped requiring its members to pay 50 percent of an existing loan before they can borrow again. In a phone interview, SSS spokesperson Joel Palacios explained that under the new rule, the balance of a previous loan will be deducted from the approved amount of the new loan. For instance, a member with a previous loan balance of P20,000 will be able to borrow P4,000 if his loan renewal is approved at P24,000.

Loan applicants must have posted at least 36 contributions, six of which must be within the past 12 months. SSS salary loans range from a minimum of P1,000 to a maximum of P24,000 payable in two years with a two-month grace period.

SSS said applications for loan renewals ballooned to nearly 45,000 after it relaxed its loan policies. The pension fund also advised its members to get their checks at the Office Services Department at the 2nd floor of the SSS Corporate headquarters in Diliman Quezon City.

“SSS normally mails the checks to members, but we believe it would be faster and more secure if we release it directly to the members,” Neri said. “Many of our members lost their homes and stay with relatives. Their checks might get lost or get returned to SSS.”

Members are advised to call the SSS hotlines at 917-7777, 920-6401, or 920-6446 to 55 to verify if their checks are ready for pick up. They must bring their SSS biometric card or identification documents such as tax identification number ID, driver’s license, passport, NBI clearance, permit to carry firearms, marriage contract, and PRC ID. Those without IDs must present a barangay and police clearance.

Meanwhile, Pag-IBIG members in Northern Luzon who have existing housing and short-term loans can apply for a three-month moratorium at the Pag-IBIG branch nearest their place, Vice President and Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC) chairman Noli de Castro said yesterday.

De Castro said the Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-IBIG Fund) Board of Trustees also approved the allocation of home reconstruction and rehabilitation loans of up to P150,000 to members with existing housing loans.

“We are still assessing the damage done by typhoon ‘Pepeng’ in Northern Luzon. I have instructed the management of Pag-IBIG to immediately allocate the needed funds for lending,” De Castro said. Pag-IBIG has also approved P3.1-billion worth of calamity loan applications.

De Castro said he has also directed Pag-IBIG to release another P3 billion for calamity loans. He said because of the increasing number of applications, processing of loans will now take up to 10 days. The Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) yesterday said 63,242 members affected by storm “Ondoy” have received their P20,000 calamity loan as of Oct. 9.

GSIS senior vice president for National Capital Region/Luzon & Vismin Group Dionisio Ebdane Jr. said of the 118,526 loan applications, 103,145 were already approved. “We have already disbursed P2 billion of the P5.5-billion allocation for the victims of Ondoy,” he said at the weekly Kapihan sa Manila Hotel media forum.

The P20,000 calamity loan is offered to GSIS members residing in a government declared calamity area. The loan matures in three years at an interest rate of eight percent per year. Contractual employees affected by the storms may apply for the loan if they have worked with the government for at least three years.

Ebdane said members can apply for the loan through their GSIS electronic cards (E-card) in all GSIS offices as well as GSIS stalls in selected SM malls. Those who lost their E-cards in the flood may apply for the loan at the GSIS head office in Pasay City or at any GSIS branch nationwide.

GSIS members whose cards are intact are also encouraged to apply for new ones. Ebdane said the government has also allocated P550-million worth of calamity loans for GSIS members in Tuguegarao, Cagayan Valley and Albay who were affected by typhoon Pepeng. –With Helen Flores and Pia Lee-Brago

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 01:46 AM

Parang may fountain features din ito kagaya sa marquee mall..naging discussion yun dito many threads back...sana paganahin nila yun sa grand opening! yahooo!!!

Another idea for added attraction at Embarcadero/Legazpi Harbor:

A water fountain straight from the sea, just like this one in Geneve, Switzerland

http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/6987/genevaredjed27eau.jpg

Hehe, just an idea.

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:31 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree accomodation

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs193.snc1/6492_151451998867_840213867_3371718_2700701_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151452018867_840213867_3371722_6194289_n.jpg

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151452013867_840213867_3371721_632020_n.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151452023867_840213867_3371723_6923059_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs193.snc1/6492_151452113867_840213867_3371738_1660797_n.jpg\

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151452103867_840213867_3371736_2301322_n.jpg

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs193.snc1/6492_151452118867_840213867_3371739_1217597_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/lorrainejlo)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:34 AM

More Misibis Bay Raintree

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151455558867_840213867_3371789_4340066_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151455593867_840213867_3371794_2094554_n.jpg

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http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs193.snc1/6492_151455648867_840213867_3371802_6747077_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=840213867)

Brandon32

October 13th, 2009, 02:44 AM

^ yes misibis is the first of its kind in bicol...but like in sports such as tennis,a player winning his/her first grandslam could propel him/her to stardom or among the elites, however he/she needs still to prove it that indeed she/he belongs to the top by winning another grandslam...in short, Albay needs to have another resort or hotel of its kind in order to cement its status as one of the few provinces on the tourist's radar.

Maray na Albay!!

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:49 AM

Winners of the Mayon Photo Walk for A Cause

First Place : Charism Z. Sayat
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2teAoKCrQAAHh-@go1/9432-146129333056-128936358056-2408616-2810402-n.jpg?et=KsHre5gOY0QH1BSGkEjqww&nmid=0

Second Place: Simvale Z. Sayat
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2tiwoKCrQAAGunm1E1/9432-146129318056-128936358056-2408614-4927566-n.jpg?et=s3eUJBb1h3GeRbn6hDGjYA&nmid=0

Third Place :Iris Fenella R. Bello
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2tnwoKCrQAAGwdoss1/9432-146129238056-128936358056-2408601-8237196-n.jpg?et=YInd5nUyOd1D5ePt1t1h9A&nmid=0

More info here (http://mayonphotowalk.multiply.com/journal/item/1)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 03:12 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/212/DSC053201.JPG?et=cH5cQ%2BSLbvmTBIukMKDp2Q&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/168/DSC052561.JPG?et=P47tfozEevcfTJ9Egcq6Dg&nmid=256627463

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by ervinparaoayan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 03:18 AM

St. Raphael Church Belfry, Legazpi Port District

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3381/3649811887_488ab1f6e0.jpg

by digishooter (http://www.flickr.com/photos/digishooter/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 03:20 AM

Just 5 of Legazpi's many restaurants and food outlets:

* * *

Legazpi Restaurant Guide
Source (http://www.philippinesinsider.com/luzon/bicol/legazpi-restaurant-guide/)

There are a lot of places to wine and dine at Legazpi City to please even the most disconcerting connoisseur. The City is rich is its gourmet Bicol Cuisine and you will also find the words best dishes right here. Finding these establishments will not be hard because the locals will be very pleased to give you directions. The following are the best restaurants we found in Legazpi.

1.Graceland: This place is famous for its pastries. You will see a lot of the locals come here for lunch. Graceland is basically a fast food restaurant and bakery shop all in one. Their lunch menu consists of burgers and fries. Their Tapa food is highly recommended. Meals here cost on average $5. Their store is very near to near Saint Raphael Church, which is hard to miss when you’re touring this amazing city.

2.Cres Restaurant: This is a Chinese owned restaurant. We were pleasantly surprised to find out that u will not only find Chinese food here, but also the best Filipino style home cooking. The friendly staff and manager will make you feel you are part of the family. A favorite dish here is the ever fiery Bicol Express, a dish primarily made from chili peppers in coconut milk. Meals in Cres Restaurant will average around $5, which is really cheap by local standards.

3.Smoke & Grill: If you find a hotel near the airport, then this is a great place to have a quick meal. This place is a short walk from the airport, so if your hotel is nearby you should be in the same neighbourhood as this place. Recommended dish here would be the sizzlers and crispy pata. It’s a real party atmosphere here especially at night. Try the cocktails here.

4.Bigg’s Diner: This diner themed restaurant is a home grown one in the Bicol region. This place has a retro 1950s to 1970s feel to it. It has lots of collectibles from that era. This place has a branch that’s always open 24 hours 7 days a week right in the middle of the city. This is a boon for foodies who want great food at the middle of night. Meals cost between $5-$10 depending on what you eat and how much you eat. They have a delicious menu of typical Filipino menu and western cuisine.

5.Waway’s Restaurant: if you are in the mood for some great hot chili pepper-based Bicolano cuisine, then this is the place to come. As you already know this place serves very spicy food and that can be your warning label. On the other hand, the coconut milk base gravy balances out everything. You should try the crabs and squids, a true sea food delight. Waway’s is on Penaranda Street, that has a large section of busy hotels in the area.

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 03:20 AM

joks_25

October 13th, 2009, 05:51 AM

Short info lang; Pantao port is operational again.

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 07:08 AM

Short info lang; Pantao port is operational again.

That's good. I hope it will start serving its intended purpose. :okay:

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 07:09 AM

http://img66.imageshack.us/img66/7038/37090236.jpg

LEGAZPI CITY MOVES FORWARD TOWARDS A 100% SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT

The City Government of Legazpi finds strong alliance and support from the Civil Service Commission in implementing a 100% smoke-free environment policy based on the CSC’s latest Memorandum Circular 17, series 2009 dated May 29, 2009 signed by Chairman Ricardo Saludo.

Said Memorandum Circular provides guidelines and directs ALL government offices to make all areas of their premises and grounds totally free from smoking. Smoking may be allowed but in a designated smoking area in OUTDOOR SPACES ONLY. There are guidelines in putting a smoking area, and these will be fully discussed to the public.

Legazpi City is the first local government unit (LGU) which recognized the importance of the CSC policy.

At the press conference hosted by Mayor Noel Rosal at Legazpi City Hall today, Civil Service Commission Director for Albay – Mr. Arpon U. Lucero said that a series of events tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23, 2009, will be held in collaboration with Legazpi City’s Smoke-Free Committee to fully inform and educate the public about 100% smoke-free environment policy of the government. Civil Service Commission is also celebrating its 109th anniversary this September.

Among the activities include foot parade from BU Grounds to Albay Penaranda Park at six o-clock in the morning (6:00AM), a slogan contest, and forum at the Ibalong Conference Room (ICR) Hall at 9:00AM. The theme is: “TOWARDS 100% SMOKE-FREE ENVIRONMENT”.

The Department of Health is also implementing the Rules and Regulations Promoting a 100% Smoke-Free Environment among public and private hospitals, clinics, etc based on DOH Administrative Order No.10. Likewise, the DILG has previously issued two memorandum circulars already directing all local government units to strongly implement and enforce the Tobacco Regulation Act of 2009 or the RA 9211. DENR-EMB is also celebrating the international ozone layer day. These agencies, with full support from the Department of Education (DepED) and the Commission on Higher Education (CHED), the City’s Smoke-Free Committee and the people of Legazpi City are hopeful towards a 100% smoke-free environment.

Source (http://smokefreelegazpi.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 07:42 AM

Albay Gulf Landing Monument
Rawis coastline

Built in 1995 to commemorate the 50th Anniversary of the Landing of the Allied American Forces in Legazpi City, which led to the City’s liberation from the Japanese occupation forces

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/682/32305393.jpg

Calm Albay Gulf

http://img101.imageshack.us/img101/849/48697551.jpg

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

wise_zech

October 13th, 2009, 08:25 AM

;44522326']Misibis Bay Raintree accomodation

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs193.snc1/6492_151451998867_840213867_3371718_2700701_n.jpg

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs173.snc1/6492_151452018867_840213867_3371722_6194289_n.jpg

magkano kaya ang rate d2?

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 10:30 AM

magkano kaya ang rate d2?

Hi! I'm not sure about their rates. You can check http://misibisbay.com :)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 10:30 AM

1st youth empowerment summit 2009 in Bicol set (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=234965)

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 13 (PNA) - All preparations are in place for the holding of the 1st Youth Empowerment Summit '09 set on October 23 to 25, this year sponsored by the Philippine Navy-Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) here.

Navy Commodore Joel Babas NAVFORSOL commanding officer said the summit dubbed as “Kabataan, Ngayon na” will be participated in by 150 youth from Albay at Costa Rita Resort in Sto. Domingo town in Albay.

Babas said the summit aims to enhance youth awareness and active participation to community-based programs, which will contribute to personality development and social consciousness.

These activities will include team building sessions, promote advocacy on strengthening disaster risk management at the community level, orient each participant on climate change and its effect, and to develop youth’s social consciousness and responsibility towards community development.

The three-day training was under the auspices of the Navy in cooperation with the Bicol University (BU) – University Student Council and United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines (UNYAP), a conduit partner of NAVFORSOL as part of the multi-sectoral and multi-dimensional approach towards the realization of the advocacy program.

“We have engage the most dynamic and valuable stakeholder in the community, the youth sector, as our partners in youth empowerment,” Babas pointed out.

The summit expects the participants to be empowered with renewed techniques in managing their duties and responsibilities in their respective community.

The training will teach the youth to respond to the current issues and concerns of society and challenged to initiate programs or projects that they may execute in their community-based organizations for a positive change, and be more motivated in rendering service towards the betterment of their area, through meaningful and responsible actions.

Disaster authorities said the country is constantly visited by calamities with a high frequency of occurrence, with severe consequences in losses.

They said calamities have impacted adversely on the economic development and social stability of various communities with this program.

With this, there is a need to rally the support of government and non-government institutions in order to prevent emergencies, mitigate their effects and ensure the provision to those in need.

It is in this context that the Navy and the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) in Bicol have collaborated on various activities to develop consciousness and implore support of various sectors on strengthening disaster risk management at the community level.

The program would focus on the need to take a proactive stance on the holistic concept of disaster risk management instead of mere disaster response and to involve and enhance the risk management capability of the local government units.

Earlier, the Navy and other members of various sectors convened the 1st Bicol Stakeholder’s Summit last August 29, 2009 here to promote DRR advocacy.

During the forum, the general assembly affirmed its unequivocal support on the passing of Senate Bill 3086 titled: “Strengthening Philippine Disaster Risk Management by Institutionalizing the National Disaster Risk Management Framework, Appropriating Funds therefore and other Purposes.”(PNA)
LDV/LQ/MSA/cbd

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 10:42 AM

Arroyo signs order for reconstruction commission (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20091013-229850/Arroyo-signs-order-for-reconstruction-commission)
By Rey M. Nasol
Inquirer Southern Luzon
First Posted 14:48:00 10/13/2009

LEGAZPI CITY, Philippines—The proposed reconstruction commission, a so-called "bypass route" that will quicken fund sourcing and hasten the country's coping mechanism against the effects of calamities, has been signed into an executive order by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, said Joey Salceda, economic adviser to Ms. Arroyo and current Albay Governor, on Tuesday.

Salceda proposed the creation of a special commission for Philippine reconstruction after Tropical Storm "Ondoy" and Typhoon "Pepeng" ravaged the central part of the country and the northern Luzon areas barely two weeks ago.

"Given the impact of the global crisis on our fiscal capacity versus the magnitude of calamity impact, the Philippines should seek fresh aid amounting to $1 billion to fund reconstruction," he said.

The special public-private reconstruction commission composed of representatives from the government, church, big business and civil society should be constituted by the government to spearhead the effort, he added.

Salceda explained that the special commission will operate like the original Coordinating Council for the Philippine Assistance Plan headed by businessman Roberto Villanueva of Atlantic Gulf Philippines

Inc.

The CCPAP has since evolved into the Coordinating Council for Private Sector Participation which operates the BOT Center under DTI.

The Office of Civil Defense and the National Economic and Development Authority will form the secretariat, whose key task is to raise funds especially grants, prioritize programs and oversee implementation, is spelled out in the proposal.

Its members shall be appointed by the President but it will be headed by a dominant business leader with Social Welfare Secretary Esperanza Cabral and Cardinal Rosales as co-chairpersons and the secretaries of departments and heads of business groups and nongovernment organization as members.

The OCD and NEDA will form the secretariat and will also serve as a clearing house for international assistance implemented by the donors themselves using the cluster approach.

Breakdown of the P46 billion is as follows: relocation, P20 billion; infrastructure rehabilitation, P21 billion; and livelihood and agriculture, P5 billion.

The P46 billion will be allocated for typhoon victims, broken down as follows: P27 billion for Ondoy; P12 billion for Pepeng; and P7 billion for Typhoon "Frank" which hit Romblon and Visayan provinces in June 2008. Ondoy's impact was on infrastructure while "Pepeng" devastated swaths of agricultural land. Both calamities, however, surfaced a policy need for relocation for the affected population. In the case of Pepeng, it is the need to relocate those vulnerable to landslides while in Ondoy's case, there is the need to resettle informal settlers living beside riverbanks and lakeshores at risk to flooding.

The Reconstruction Commission should request the United Nations and the World Bank to coordinate an international pledging session either in Spain or Japan possibly in November. Salceda said government is duty-bound to rebuild lives when big help is needed beyond the exigency of disaster response that usually comes in the form of two alternatives in the form of raising taxes and slashing other priorities.

The last two (taxes and slash) are "neither feasible nor desirable since they just shift pesos from the left to the right hand," he added. He explained that what is needed are new external resources. In its 5 a.m. update on Tuesday, the National Disaster Coordinating Council reported a P7.17-billion damage due to Pepeng. This was broken down into: P1.14B-infrastructure; P6.02B-agriculture; and P.003 billion in private property. It also said that Ondoy resulted to P3.68 billion damage to infrastructure and P6.76B to agriculture.

Brandon32

October 13th, 2009, 01:22 PM

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:32 PM

^ galing talaga ni gov salceda...hope the reconstruction will be implemented properly...para mabilis ang recovery ng mga lugar na nasalanta ng bagyo at baha...dapat isama na sa reconstruction ang reforestation para may taga salo na ng mga tubig ulan na rumaragasa pababa galing sa mga bundok!

I agree.

There is a need for this reconstruction commission to ensure that the aid the country receives will be used properly.

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:32 PM

Authorities on full alert as Mt. Mayon displays signs of heightened restiveness (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235024)
By Mar S. Arguelles

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 13 (PNA) - Mayon volcano continues to show signs of restlessness signified by high level of sulfur dioxide emission and high and low frequency volcanic quakes, prompting disaster authorities to strictly enforce the “no entry” rule in designated danger zone areas surrounding the volcano.

Police and military personnel manning the 12 checkpoints along the danger zone at the volcano’s down slope are closely on guard for any human activity inside the designated “no man's land" areas covering the towns of Sto. Domingo, Daraga, Camalig, including the cities of Ligao, Tabaco and Legazpi.

Col. Marlou Salazar, commanding officer of the Army's 901st Brigade said they have prepositioned 35 trucks in case an evacuation order is given by the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) once the volcano's alert status is raised to level 3.

Quakes and high level of sulfur dioxide disgorged by Mt. Mayon were clear signs that the volcano continues to be on heightened state of restiveness, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Monday.

Phivolcs bulletin on Tuesday said the volcano disgorged 791 tons of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) for the past 24 hours, which is way above the fluctuating range recorded during the past three days.

The agency seismic instruments detected only seven high and low frequency volcanic earthquakes, bringing the total to 43 quakes recorded since last October 5.

Scientists said the volcano’s abnormality levels are indication of a possible eruptive state.

Phivolcs scientists are continuously observing Mayon volcano's fluctuating seismic precursors such as quakes, gas emission and ground deformation as these are indications that the volcano's seismic activity may possibly lead to an explosive eruption.

Phivolcs advisory said high and low frequency harmonic quakes were detected by seismic instruments, signifying that magma intrusion is developing in the volcano’s crater vent.

Ed Laguerta, Phivolcs resident volcanologist, said the agency seismic networks have recorded about over a hundred earthquakes rocking the volcano this October.

He said the agency is still assessing the abnormal state of the volcano based on given parameters like ground deformation, volcanic quakes and gas emission, and crater glow.

Precise Leveling results indicate the volcano edifice remains inflated at 6.0 mm swelling at the Buang lines while Lidong lines posted a 1.0-mm inflation.

The volcano did not exhibit crater glow due to cloudy sky prevailing in the volcano’s crater.

Alert level 2 remains hoisted over Mayon Volcano and Phivolcs strongly recommended that the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone including the 7-km extended danger zones be off limits to any human activity due to threat from sudden explosions and rockfalls from the upper slopes of the volcano. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/MSA/cbd

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:33 PM

Albay to pilot test climate change measures in school curriculum (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235016)

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 13 (PNA) – The province of Albay would pilot test the climate change adaptation and mitigation subjects once the guidelines in its integration with elementary and secondary schools are finalized, the Center on Initiatives and Research on Climate Change Adaptation (CIRCA) here said on Tuesday.

CIRCA’s executive director Manuel Rangaza said Education Secretary Jesli Lapus has recently directed the technical staff of the Department of Education (DepEd) to fine-tune the guidelines and implement them next school year.

This means that the DepEd is finally integrating climate change adaptation (CCA) subjects in all public and private elementary and secondary schools nationwide next year but it will be piloted in Albay, Rangaza said.

Why Albay? Rangaza said that is because the province has also piloted in the country the campaign on CCA and it has all the inputs and knowhow on the subject matter obtained by the CIRCA, a special office under the office of Gov. Joey Salceda created for the sole purpose of instituting measures towards the mitigation of climate change effects.

Two years ago, Salceda initiated and hosted the National Conference on Climate Change Adaptation (NCCA), a conference that came out with the Albay Declaration on Climate Change Adaptation.

Salceda said the Albay declaration called for the mapping out of local and national policies to arrest the imminent threats posed by global warming and other environmental issues.

He said the initiative led to the passage of the Philippine Climate Change Act focusing on CCA and mitigation.

"This makes the province a mainstream of CCA in the country's educational system," Rangaza said.

As this developed, Dominador Peralta Jr., Commission on Higher Education (CHED) Bicol regional director, said he has issued a directive to all state colleges and universities, including private universities and colleges across the region to also integrate CCA in various social science subjects.

He also directed various higher education institutions in the region to coordinate with concerned agencies in propagating global warming awareness in schools and adopt strategies on advocacy on CCA and mitigation.

"Bicol has been exposed to various climate change risks such as tropical cyclones, storm surges, flooding, and landslides, hence it is our civic duty to take action against climate change through collaboration with scientist, academe policy makers, media and the community," Peralta added.

Meanwhile, Lapus, believing that education is the solution to poverty, directed the whole education community to hold activities that would highlight the celebration of the International Day for the Eradication of Extreme Poverty on October 17 to 23. The theme of the celebration is "Stand United, Fight Poverty".

As the main focus of the observance, Lapus said in his order that all public school officials should hold programs in support of Millennium Development Goals (MDG), which include the eradication of extreme poverty and hunger, the achievement of universal primary education, improvement of maternal health and combating HIV/AIDS diseases.

"Let us celebrate this international event on a very practical way such as community conduct of vegetable gardening, tree planting, livelihood training programs and provision of social services for the underprivileged," he said.

Other activities the schools may undertake are the holding of remedial classes in Science, English, and Mathematics.

As part of the celebration in the Bicol region, DepEd regional director Celedonio Layon said they will also enter into an agreement with non-government organizations and government organizations on child sponsorship program.

Through the Adopt-A-School Program, DepEd partners will be mobilized for the rehabilitation of school buildings and classrooms, Layon said. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/DOC/cbd

Brandon32

October 13th, 2009, 02:46 PM

;44543440']I agree.

There is a need for this reconstruction commission to ensure that the aid the country receives will be used properly.

^ with this attitude of salceda im beginning to have confidence that all the road constructions and including the rehabilitation of the pantao port are properly implemented and that high standard and quality are met..:cheers::cheers:

Brandon32

October 13th, 2009, 02:51 PM

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 02:51 PM

^ with this attitude of salceda im beginning to have confidence that all the road constructions and including the rehabilitation of the pantao port are properly implemented and that high standard and quality are met..:cheers::cheers:

I really hope so. :okay: At least we can see that the governor is working not only for Albay but also for the typhoon-hit areas in Luzon.

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:16 PM

More Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/60/DSC052341.JPG?et=iHJCEy%2BIk8kF7XkQ3nlXYA&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/4/photos/19/600x600/166/DSC052541.JPG?et=g2QgZdkQv%2CG0frc1CIwBJw&nmid=256627463

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/58/DSC052301.JPG?et=Ac9X4LhKpCrqc%2BvLTkNMaw&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/115/DSC01337-Large1.JPG?et=tE4aHJH3B16xegrw24wQmw&nmid=256627463

by ervinparaoayan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:19 PM

More Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/87/DSC-09091.JPG?et=YM3wv7uGUEi2ccwyTp89xg&nmid=256627463http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/88/DSC-09101.JPG?et=WbXDnc%2BH%2B%2CxStvPs8kV4zA&nmid=256627463

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/195/DSC052901.JPG?et=dL9T4jpVTDZfLUbUx0Ys9Q&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/89/DSC-09181.JPG?et=gU3ZPurRrH78tSoLmqJUWQ&nmid=256627463

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/135/DSC-08031.JPG?et=Ti%2Bo2Q1nnw%2B0eZq6r1IQWg&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/151/DSC01320-Large1.JPG?et=9WWYbQbrFl5PU87JRrE7IA&nmid=256627463

by ervinparaoayan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:22 PM

More Misibis Bay Raintree

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/208/DSC053141.JPG?et=aFZRd%2B7WXBn%2CA5ee7AXfSw&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/157/DSC052391.JPG?et=TaxAq05mBfW02ZNs6OOIEw&nmid=256627463

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/167/DSC052551.JPG?et=5L632JZO7dPuJ0PNpwOsOw&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/139/DSC-09251.JPG?et=ho8k2Gbr5%2C4F4vxxOWQImQ&nmid=256627463

by ervinparaoayan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:25 PM

ATV in Misibis

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/61/DSC-00491.JPG?et=%2BhWh6ra8rzzSkPiEycFsHw&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/3/photos/19/600x600/94/CSC-01201.JPG?et=MlagSIrE4QU%2ChgLyx1h1yQ&nmid=256627463

http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/145/DSC-09501.JPG?et=Jn3Kz%2CvhbH%2B32xLXzZlnIw&nmid=256627463 http://images.ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/image/2/photos/19/600x600/148/DSC-10191.JPG?et=4Zt3gAWS23uXlbeQqg4j1w&nmid=256627463

by ervinparaoyan (http://ervinparayaoan.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:28 PM

13th OK Bikol opens October 22 at SM Megamall (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p091013.htm&no=92)
by AC Belleza

Bicol's best products featured

Legazpi City (13 October) -- The 13th Orgullo kan Bikol regional trade fair will showcase anew Bicol's best products on October 22-25 at the SM Mega Mall in Mandaluyong City. The Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) and the Department of Tourism (DOT) Bicol regional offices will also bring "Gayon Bikol sa OK Bikol" featuring the best tourist destinations in the region, giving the event an appealing socio-cultural touch.

"Featured products for this year's Orgullo kan Bikol include wearables, home furnishings, gifts and holiday decors, and food with special setting on "bayong", creative handicrafts, and OTOP", Jocelyn L.B. Blanco, DTI Bicol regional director said.

Blanco said amidst the many challenges that we are facing right now, we are still confident to generate sales of P10 million for the four-day trade fair. A total of 134 Bicolano entrepreneurs will be selling their products to institutional buyers and the general public as well.

Among the six provinces Albay has the biggest number of exhibitors with 33 MSMEs, followed by Camarines Sur with 24, Sorsogon with 14, Catanduanes 9, Camarines Norte 6, and Masbate 5.

Aside from the regular MSMEs assisted by DTI, 43 Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) beneficiaries/entrepreneurs will be joining OKB. All these beneficiaries are assisted by DTI through the livelihood program under CARP.

Albay Governor Joey Sarte Salceda, also the Bicol Regional Development Council chair, is expected to keynote the opening program at 10:00 a.m. on October 22, 1009 at SM Mega Mall. OK Bikol is a project of the DTI-Region V, Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region V, OK Bikol Association, PhilExport Bicol and local government units (LGUs). (DTI/PIA) [top]

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:36 PM

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/155/invitationtoapplyforeli.png

Source (http://www.dgmarket.com/tenders/np-notice.do~4480875)

[dx]

October 13th, 2009, 05:46 PM

AQ hosts ASEAN Human Rights info campaign in Albay (http://www.aq.edu.ph/index.php?p=main&s=news&taskId=article&id=194)

Students from different schools and other groups in Albay attended a human rights awareness campaign by the Philippine Working Group (PWG)for an Association of South East Asian Nation (ASEAN) Human Rights Mechanism, October 1, at the Daragang Magayon Hall dubbed Human Rights: Asan na yan sa ASEAN?

The event, conducted in cooperation with the Commission on Human Rights as the European Commission's implementing partner for the project "Enhancing the Role of national Human Rights Institutions in the Development of an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism," was part of a nationwide university roadshow aimed at raising the public's awareness of ASEAN and its role in promoting and protecting the human rights of the peoples in the Region.

It is part of the PWG's awareness efforts in anticipation of the establishment of an ASEAN human rights body.

In a letter to the University, PWG for an ASEAN Human Rights Mechanism Chair Wigberto Tañada said the roadshow is an effort to popularize ASEAN and its impact on human rights in the region, as well as in the Philippines in particular.

The AQ College of Arts, Sciences, and Education and the Commission on Ethics and Advocacy sponsored the said event.

Brandon32

October 13th, 2009, 06:38 PM

;44551370']http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/155/invitationtoapplyforeli.png

Source (http://www.dgmarket.com/tenders/np-notice.do~4480875)

^ there! are we expecting something worldclass here, again!?

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 01:47 AM

^ there! are we expecting something worldclass here, again!?

I hope so. :okay:

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 01:47 AM

4,130 enlist for November 15 career service exams (http://www.pia.gov.ph/?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p091013.htm&no=95)

Legazpi City (13 October) -- A total of 4,130 examinees have enlisted for the November 15, 2009 Professional and Sub-Professional written examinations, according to the Civil Service Commission (CSC) Bicol regional office here.

The commission noted that the deadline of application for the last career examination for this was last September 30, this year.

In the Bicol region, designated testing centers are in this city and Naga City.

A total of 2,624 for professional and 286 for sub-professional examinations registered in this city; while some 1,506 for professional and 298 for sub-professional signed up in Naga City.

Career service examinations, CSC Bicol said, can be taken once every three months and up to four times only.

Examinees who fail on the fourth attempt can apply for the same level of examination only after two years from the date the fourth failed examination was taken. (CSC V/PIA)

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 01:50 AM

Albay, igwang bastante na suplay para sa pag-eexport nin mga gulayon sa mga lugar na nadanyaran kan kalamidad (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=113180)
10/13/2009 7:20:17 PM

LEGAZPI CITY- Preparado an provincia kan Albay enkasong kaipuhanan kaning mag-export nin mga gulayon sa ibang parte kan nasyon na labi-labing nadanyaran kan kalamidad partikularmente sa Northern asin Central Luzon. Ini an nagin pag-asigurar kan Albay Agriculture Rehabilitation kasabay kan pahayag na dagos-dagos an pambabariwas kan ahensya nin mga seedlings sa mga parauma nganing magdagos-dagos man an produksyon.

Kumpyansa an ahensya na magigin bastante an suplay nin gulayon sa provincia dawa pa ngani magpadara nin produkto sa ibang lugar. Abuton pa soboot nin tolong bulan antes makarekober an mga pananom na gulayon na nadanyaran kan mga bagyo kun kaya siyertong kakaipuhanan kan mga apektadong lugar an suplay mula sa ibang parte kan nasyon.

Mientrastano, piglalaoman man na sa masunod na bulan produktibo na an mga pananom na enot ng ipinambariwas sa mga parauma digdi sa provincia kan Albay.

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 04:41 AM

Islets near San Miguel Island

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/61/500x500/4/Islet-4.jpg?et=0o7v%2CvSKs1GD3ottvpGt0w&nmid=289847581 http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/61/500x500/9/Islet-9.jpg?et=X4K0nb7RuTcruOEEN1NMOw&nmid=289847581

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/61/500x500/14/Islet-14.jpg?et=BHt8K%2BkCRhVxPxdQGcW9Lg&nmid=289847581 http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/61/500x500/13/Islet-13.jpg?et=kWoMriukITL8JXWzaaFIYA&nmid=289847581

great photos by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

i'malegazpeño

October 14th, 2009, 05:16 AM

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 05:50 AM

^ saan kaya nila itatayo ang NBN?

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 06:52 AM

Looks like WYC Architecture is the arch. firm of choice for many Legazpi businesses. Here's another project they did.

Unionbank Legazpi renovation

Rendering
http://img67.imageshack.us/img67/8595/picture1rv.png

Old pic of construction
http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r244/Legazpeep/DSC06783.jpg
by Monsi

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 06:52 AM

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 06:58 AM

Here's another one, also designed by WYC Architecture

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/5720/picture5su.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v739/dxpsycho/100_7528.jpg

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 06:58 AM

Here's another one, also designed by WYC Architecture

http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/5720/picture5su.png

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v739/dxpsycho/100_7528.jpg

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:00 AM

Goldstreet

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/8289/picture4s.png

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/6846/goldstreet.jpg

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:08 AM

Can't find a good photo of this one but it's the building on the extreme right in the second photo.

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/5660/picture2aw.png

http://i146.photobucket.com/albums/r244/Legazpeep/Lakandula2Penaranda.jpg
by Monsi (on photo: asphalting of Lakandula Drive)

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:13 AM

Can't find a bigger version of this image of a proposed beach resort in Bacacay

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/441/picture6w.png

Also by WYC Architecture

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:13 AM

Can't find a bigger version of this image of a proposed beach resort in Bacacay

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/441/picture6w.png

Also by WYC Architecture

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 07:23 AM

^ thanks dx...looks like a portion of the sea will be reclaimed for this project..very interesting ..saan kaya banda yan itatayo sa bacacay?

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:47 AM

^ thanks dx...looks like a portion of the sea will be reclaimed for this project..very interesting ..saan kaya banda yan itatayo sa bacacay?

Yup, looks like an interesting project. I hope it will go from proposed to approved to under construction. hehe

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 07:47 AM

PCIC readies P127-M fund for calamity stricken famers (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235148)

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 14 (PNA) — The Philippine Crop Insurance Corporation (PCIC) in Bicol said some P127 million fund is ready to finance payments to farmers across the country whose agriculture produce have been destroyed in the wake of Ondoy and Pepeng.

The PCIC advisory said it is now working double time to fast track the indemnity payment to farmers whose farm produce were destroyed by the two typhoons that hit the country.

The amount represents the claims or amount covered by farmers who insured their palay and corn crops with the state-run crop insurance firm, said PCIC President Jovy C. Bernabe.

In Bicol, PCIC will pay about P13 million to various farmers hit by the recent natural calamities, according to PCIC OIC regional manager Corazon SM. Realubit.

“Our adjusters are now working double time and have started paying farmer-clients promptly,” said Realubit.

She assured farmers who availed of the insurance program that the Corporation has the available funds to pay all their legitimate claims, and would be more than willing to extend help because it is part of its commitment and social responsibility to provide assistance to small and marginalized farmers.

Realubit has encouraged farmers to have their crops, farm animals and other agricultural investments insured with PCIC now because climate change and other natural calamities have made farming riskier than before.

“It’s about time our farmers should realize the importance of crop insurance. Without insurance, they have lesser chance to recover and rebuild their farm lands from natural calamities like what we are experiencing now,” said Realubit. (PNA)
FFC/LQ/MSA/cbd

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 09:02 AM

;44584508']Yup, looks like an interesting project. I hope it will go from proposed to approved to under construction. hehe

...and to completion to full operation...hehe

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 09:07 AM

what i appreciate in Legazpi's urban growth is that... it is developing not as a typical philippine city and all, you know...something modern..something of international standard...sensya na sa pagyayabang ah...pero talagang ganun eh...

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 09:36 AM

^Hehe, slowly but surely

...and to completion to full operation...hehe

Haha, oo nga pala. Yup!, hope so too.

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 09:36 AM

Mayon's toxic gas soars back with 1,272 tons a day rate
By Rey M. Nasol

LEGAZPI CITY -- Mayon volcano continues to manifest signs of abnormality with very high level of sulfur dioxide emission (SO2) on Wednesday, high and low frequency volcanic quakes, that prompted disaster authorities to strictly enforce the “no entry” rule in designated danger zone areas surrounding the volcano.

Police and military personnel manning the 12 checkpoints along the danger zone at the volcano’s down slope are closely on guard for any human activity inside the designated “no man's land" areas covering the towns of Camalig, Daraga, Sto. Domingo, the cities of Ligao, Tabaco and Legazpi.

Col. Marlou Salazar, commanding officer of the Army's 901st Brigade said earlier that the task force Mayon had prepositioned 35 trucks in case an evacuation order is given by Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) chairman Joey Salceda, once the volcano's alert status is raised to level 3.

Quakes and high level of sulfur dioxide disgorged by Mt. Mayon were clear signs that the volcano continues to be on heightened state of restiveness, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Wednesday.

Phivolcs bulletin on Wednesday said the volcano released 1,272 tons of Sulfur Dioxide (SO2) for the past 24 hours monitoring period from Tuesday till Wednesday, which is way above the fluctuating range recorded during the past several days. The said rate of emission is record high during the last two-months observation period.

Gas emission trends from Mayon’s crater showed high unrest with 971 ton per day on the 12th of October, 853 tos per day on Oct. 11 2009, and 505 tons per day on Oct. 10, all are way above the baseline data of only 500 tons per day.

The agency seismic instruments detected only six high and low frequency volcanic earthquakes, bringing the total to 56 quakes recorded since last October 5.

Scientists said the volcano’s abnormality levels are indication of a possible eruptive state.

Phivolcs scientists are continuously observing Mayon volcano's fluctuating seismic precursors such as quakes, gas emission and ground deformation as these are indications that the volcano's seismic activity may possibly lead to an explosive eruption.

Phivolcs advisory said high and low frequency harmonic quakes were detected by seismic instruments, signifying that magma intrusion is developing in the volcano’s crater vent.

Ed Laguerta, Phivolcs resident volcanologist, said the agency seismic networks have recorded about over a hundred earthquakes rocking the volcano this October.

He said the agency is still assessing the abnormal state of the volcano based on given parameters like ground deformation, volcanic quakes and gas emission, and crater glow.

Precise Leveling results indicate the volcano edifice remains inflated at 6.0 mm swelling at the Buang lines while Lidong lines posted a 1.0-mm inflation.

The volcano did not exhibit crater glow due to cloudy sky prevailing in the volcano’s crater.

Alert level 2 remains hoisted over Mayon Volcano and Phivolcs strongly recommended that the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone including the 7-km extended danger zones be off limits to any human activity due to threat from sudden explosions and rockfalls from the upper slopes of the volcano.

Mayon Volcano, famous for its nearly perfect conical shape, has a height of over 2,400 meters.

The volcano, said to be the most active in the country, has erupted at least 50 times since 1616. Its worst eruption buried Cagsawa town and killed 1,200 people in 1814. An eruption in 1993 killed more than 70 farmers.

Mayon erupted again in 2006.

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 09:36 AM

Peasant group fears another aggravated rice crisis looming
By Rey M. Nasol

LEGAZPI CITY -- The militant Kilusang Magbubukid ng Pilipinas-Bikol (KMP-Bikol) sounded alarm bells on the alleged looming aggravated rice crisis as agricultural damage caused by Tropical storms Ondoy and Pepeng, have already reached P18 billion.

According to Felix Paz, chairman of KMP-Bikol and concurrent national council member of KMP, “As with last year we are about to experience another round of the aggravated rice crisis but this time climate change has become a very major factor compounded by the fact that it is the government’s policy of massive land use conversion of agricultural lands and crop conversion that has caused this crisis in the first place. From 6 million hectares of Philippine rice lands, now it is just 4 million hectares and still decreasing,”

“The country’s average daily rice requirement is 35,000 metric tons (MT) and initially the Department of Agriculture (DA) said that they will just get from the unaffected provinces but as it is almost all the major rice producing provinces have been affected and now another low pressure area is battering Bicol, Visayas and Mindanao. The so-called buffer stock is good for 60 days but considering the extent of the damage and the need to feed the victims this will fall short of what is needed. This is the reason behind the DA’s move to again import more rice this early, but this is again just last year a band aid solution,” Paz said.

“It is like a slap on the Filipino people’s face that we as an agricultural country is the top rice importer in the world and yet that is our staple. To date we are again to import 250,000 MT of rice but this will also be coming from countries like Thailand, China and Vietnam which are also being ravaged by the same storms, of course when push comes to shove they will of course prioritize the food for their own people, leaving us with little or nothing at all,” the peasant leader said.

“As of now farmers have only harvested 5.7 million metric tons (MT) of rice in the fourth quarter of 2009 or almost 10 percent off the target of 6.4 million MT and with four to five more storms coming our way then we are in for tough times. What must be done now is to strictly enforce the price ceiling on basic goods especially rice and for the long term stop the massive land use conversion and crop conversion policies of the regime. Another aspect is for the government to have a comprehensive climate change adaptation and disaster risk reduction plan to prevent one crisis from aggravating another,” Paz added.

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 09:37 AM

Camping tots stay put at jamboree site
By Rey M. Nasol

CAMALIG, Albay -- The Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council of Albay has declared a ‘code blue’ at a landslide-prone town and has recommended a stop to all camping activities at a jamboree site for very young school children in Manito town.

Governor Joey Salceda told this writer that he has already declared a ‘code blue’ which means people should stay put in their houses and the children were advised not to travel back home to Legazpi and their respective places of origins.

Salceda’s advisory early this morning said, “the organizers are hereby advised to limit activities on camp site and control the movement of pupils.”

Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO) director Cedric Daep also told the INQUIRER that he has recommended for a suspension of travel of the affected campers in Manito to avoid river channels and seaboards along the road going back to Legazpi.

Salceda said that the PDCC and the local disaster councils were already advised to execute measures to prevent untoward incident related to low pressure area that has pounded moderate to heavy rains.

“The Municipal Health Office (MHO) of Manito is placed under ‘code blue’ and together with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) are hereby instructed to provide teams on site with standby emergency vehicles,” Salceda said.

Salceda said that he had to see to it that Manito hospital must be in full support to PHO. “Unecessary movement outside camp site is hereby discouraged, DepEd is hereby instructed to put school buildings open as temporary safe shelters.”

Salceda, maintaining a zero casualty plan said the province is in close coordination with Manito MDCC for support and that Manito should be on alert status for the higher vulnerability.

This writer also tried to proceed to Legazpi but roads were impassable particularly in front of the municipal hall of Camalig with roaring sounds and rampaging chocolate-like flood together with boulders at knee deep.

The flood in Camalig has isolated the towns of the third district of Albay that prevented students, workers and travelers going to and from Legazpi City.

The APSEMO is also accounting for related flash flood incidents in Maipon, Guinobatan town and the perennially flooded portion of Barangay Padang in Legazpi City which also isolated the city of Tabaco and the rest of the first district of Albay.

Daep said that for the past 12 hours monitoring, the different rain gauges installed around the province have recorded an average of 7.2 milimeters with peak of 68 mm from 2 am until 9 am. “There were even higher recorded rains in other parts of the province and that the average is 7.2 on our readings but we still have to compare it with the official findings of the Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical and astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa),” Daep said.

Director Bernardo Alejandro of the Office of Civil Defense (OCD) Bicol has also advised for an evacuation of the camping tots in Manito and added that military trucks were already fielded to assure the safety of the children from their camps to their temporary shelters.

A radio caller sought help of Director Alejandro to safely evacuate five families from Padang area who have fled to St. Calire monastery at the boundary of Sto. Domingo and Legazpi. Said residents are from areas near the spillway which was ravaged by ‘Reming’ in Nov. 30, 2006.

In response to the call, Alejandro assured a rescue team and vehicle to transfer the affected residents at the area to safer ground.

The provincial engineering office has immediately fielded heavy equipment to allow light vehicles to pass trough Camalig area. Motorcycles and small cars were able to traverse the flooded area at around 10:30 am. However rains continue to pound the province posing still undetermined damages to the perennially flooded areas.

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 11:30 AM

;44494898']http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/7C.jpg

by Microidea Creations (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

Probably the most beautiful modern man-made structure in the bicol region so far...:cheers::cheers:

olineil

October 14th, 2009, 02:00 PM

;44583298']Goldstreet

http://img203.imageshack.us/img203/8289/picture4s.png

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/6846/goldstreet.jpg

But Goldstreet was Designed by Arch. Del Rosario he designed and supervised the construction of this project when I was still in college. He was our professor in one of our subjects every year. If I am not wrong some of my classmates were involved in the construction drawings of this redevelopment.

I am confused though why WYC is claiming this to be their project... could be an internal arrangement between the two architects. :)

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 02:28 PM

But Goldstreet was Designed by Arch. Del Rosario he designed and supervised the construction of this project when I was still in college. He was our professor in one of our subjects every year. If I am not wrong some of my classmates were involved in the construction drawings of this redevelopment.

I am confused though why WYC is claiming this to be their project... could be an internal arrangement between the two architects. :)

Yikes. I wasn't aware of that. I just saw it in WYC's website. Yeah, maybe it was a collaboration between the two architects. Apologies to Arch. Del Rosario. :)

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 02:29 PM

Albay suspends classes (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20091014-230033/Albay-suspends-classes)
By Rey M. Nasol
Inquirer Southern Luzon
First Posted 17:08:00 10/14/2009

CAMALIG, Albay, Philippines—Classes in the primary and secondary levels in the province of Albay was suspended Wednesday after a low pressure area estimated northeast of Borongan, Eastern Samar, brought heavy rains in the province.

The suspension was announced by Governor Joey Salceda as part of the province's preventive measure, said Abundio Nuñez, Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (Apsemo) plans and operations division chief.

Nuñez said the governor also declared a "code blue" or "heightened alert" in the landslide-prone town of Manito, where an ongoing Boys Scouts of the Philippines Jamboree organized by the Albay Council was being held.

The Apsemo has yet to receive the total number of participants in the jamboree, which was already canceled Wednesday morning.

Salceda said he had already declared a "code blue," which means people should stay put in their houses and the boy scouts were advised not to travel back home to Legazpi and their respective places of origins.

Salceda's advisory early Wednesday morning said, "the organizers are hereby advised to limit activities on the camp site and control the movement of the pupils."

Apsemo director Cedric Daep said he had recommended the suspension of travel of the affected campers in Manito to avoid river channels and seaboards along the road going back to Legazpi.

Salceda said the provincial and local disaster councils were already advised to execute measures to prevent untoward incident related to the low pressure area that had moderate to heavy rains.

"The Municipal Health Office (MHO) of Manito is placed under 'code blue' and together with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) are hereby instructed to provide teams on site with standby emergency vehicles," he said.

Salceda said he had to see to it that the Manito hospital be in full support to the PHO.

"Unnecessary movement outside camp site is hereby discouraged, DepEd is hereby instructed to make school buildings open as temporary safe shelters."

He said the province was in close coordination with Manito MDCC for support and that Manito should be on alert status for the higher vulnerability.

Some roads were impassable, particularly in front of the municipal hall of Camalig, due to rampaging chocolate-colored and knee-deep flood carrying boulders.

The flood in Camalig has isolated the towns of the third district of Albay, preventing students, workers and travelers going to and from Legazpi City.

The Apasemo was also monitoring related flash flood incidents in Maipon and Masarawag villages in Guinobatan town and the perennially flooded portion of Barangay Padang in Legazpi City, which also isolated the city of Tabaco and the rest of the first district of Albay.

Daep said that for the past 12-hour monitoring, the different rain gauges installed around the province had recorded an average of 7.2 millimeters of rainfall with peak of 68 mm from 2 a.m. until 9 a.m. Wednesday.

"There were even higher recorded rains in other parts of the province and that averaged 7.2mm on our readings but we still have to compare it with the official findings of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa)," Daep said.

The provincial engineering office immediately fielded heavy equipment to allow light vehicles to pass through Camalig area.

Motorcycles and small cars were able to traverse the flooded area at around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. However, rains continued to pound the province even up to the late afternoon.

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 02:33 PM

Classes in Bicol University College of Agriculture and Fisheries suspended to prepare for more evacuees (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235265)
By Mike dela Rama

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 14 (PNA) – Albay Governor Joey Salceda on Wednesday ordered the suspension of classes at the Bicol University College of Agriculture and Fisheries (BUCAF) in Guinobatan, Albay in order to clear the classrooms for use as evacuation centers.

Heavy rains brought by a low pressure area (LPA) in the eastern part of Visayas and Mindanao caused flooding in Albay and Sorsogon today, prompting Salceda to also order the suspension of classes in elementary and secondary levels throughout the province earlier.

“We already ordered deployment of six Army trucks to Manito town in order to assist the participants of a jamboree,” Salceda said.

According to the governor, even an LPA brings so much rainfall.

“We need to use Doppler radar coupled with rain gauge to definitely determine the density of rainfall,” Salceda said.

The governor also urged all municipal and city disaster coordinating councils to effect evacuation of all residents depending on their assessment of their respective areas. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/MDR/cbd/

[dx]

October 14th, 2009, 02:44 PM

Surrendering to Bliss (http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/life/17255-surrendering-to-bliss.html)
Life, Written by Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/life-pic01.jpg

THE province of Albay in Bicol doesn’t exactly conjure images of luxury and pampering. To most people, it just means the ever-rumbling Mayon Volcano, rows of abaca plants, and a great deal of pili nut products. Oh, yes, and who can forget—the devastating typhoons that always seem to batter the area?

Surprisingly, as my friends and I arrived in Legaspi City after leaving Manila’s rain-drenched streets only an hour before, the sun was shining at its mightiest. We were later told that in this part of the country, the weather is actually the reverse of what it is in Metro Manila. So if you feel that vacation itch during the rainy season, the Bicol region is actually the best destination to escape to.

We were on our way to Misibis Bay Raintree, one of only three Philippine establishments that have made it into the Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) of the World group. SLH counts only 500 of the most exclusive establishments in the world which cater to a very discriminating clientele in terms of luxury and hospitality.

Upon our arrival at the airport, we were met by the friendly resort staff and whisked off in a van to its dock at the newly built commercial and entertainment complex, the Embarcadero at the Legaspi port. A fancy welcome of bubbling champagne and suman awaited us, while cool pleasantly scented white face towels did the trick in refreshing and energizing us for the next part of our journey.

We then boarded a fastcraft for the 30-minute ride to the lush and verdant Cagraray Island, located northeast of Legaspi. Everywhere we looked, the calm azure waters provide a delightful contrast to the sunny cloudless sky. The only visible puffs of white were from Mayon Volcano, no longer with the perfect cone, but still unparalleled in its grandeur.

Local folk dancers dressed in colorful costumes welcomed us as we made our way to the Spice Market, the resort’s main restaurant. It being the early morning, and already battling low blood-sugar levels, we eagerly wolfed down our breakfast of fried garlic rice, sunny-side up eggs, and New Look, a very meaty dried fish that we discovered on our visit last year. (It’s called New Look because the specie was only discovered in the waters of Bicol sometime in the 1960s, and has yet to be identified with any scientific name, or so a local fisheries graduate told us.) Super-addicting!

After a hearty breakfast, we were led to our beachfront villas, where a soothing foot scrub and massage awaited us. The villa I was assigned to had a commanding view of the sparkling Albay Gulf and the clear blue sky visible through floor-to-ceiling picture windows. It also had a sundeck with two lounging beds where guests could soak up the rays of the sun.

The main feature of each of the villas is, of course, the king-sized bed and fluffy goose-down pillows all wrapped in 350-thread count linen. It was so heavenly to sink into, it took much effort to get up from after a nap or a night’s rest. Imagine a stunning view of peaking waves and drifting clouds each morning, and lying in a huge comfy bed...now that’s what I call a vacation! Even when it drizzled, it was just so peaceful and serene to lie in bed, under the snug covers, neck cradled by gentle pillows, and look out those windows.

The villa also had a large heated bathroom where guests can bathe using either the generic bottled bathroom amenities or L’Occitane toiletries.

Each villa is assigned a female butler, who conscientiously tidies up the room whenever the guest is out, folds clothes strewn about, hangs wet bathing suits in the outdoor clothes line, and rearranges the hand towels into their original fan shapes. Okay, truthfully, by the second day, this was freaking me out because this was way too OC for me. Personally, I’m the type who needs a little disorder in my life, but I’m sure other guests will not mind the careful attention to detail the butler gives to their room. (The butler also had an annoying habit of waking me up while I was fast asleep, which I suppose can be ascribed to the resort being just in its soft-opening phase and the staff still needing to get used to the ways of guests.)

What I did appreciate was the warm sudsy bath the butler prepared on the dot, at 6 pm, each evening. Returning to the villa from a vigorous yoga workout and soaking in that bathtub even for just 30 minutes was so divinely comforting.

Adventurous guests have lot of activities to choose from, such as jetskiing, windsurfing, skipping on the water via the banana boat ride, snorkeling, lava trekking near Mount Mayon, and doing the zip line. My pal Marianne went scuba diving just off the Misibis dock and was pleasantly surprised to have seen a manta ray with a 6-foot wingspan swim near her and her dive master. She said it was so close, it could’ve been possible for her to just reach out and touch the creature’s belly. And this was just in 30 feet of water.

If you’re not the type who wants to push up your cardiac rates while on vacation, my pals and I, for instance, had a cooking class with the resort’s chief cook, Danny Gonzales, a Batangueño who has learned to whip up feisty Bicolano dishes. We also made pili nut panna cotta under the guiding hand of Pastry Chef Edgar Encinas. (Of course, we playfully berated Chef Edgar for not preparing sugar-free desserts for diabetics and health-conscious guests.)

In the evening, one can enjoy the nightly entertainment provided by the resident lounge singers, sing yourselves hoarse at the videoke room, or just chillax watching a movie in the den. And if you can’t really tear yourself away from your busy urban life, there is a business center where you can check your e-mails, or insanely update your Facebook status detailing all your activities at the resort.

What I love about Misibis Bay Raintree is that feeling of privacy and blissful isolation, where a real vacation of doing nothing is possible. For people like me who have had enough of the chaotic rush of vacationers, the garbage on the beach, as well as the nightly noise and parties of some island resorts, Misibis is really the perfect place to get away from it all.

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 03:54 PM

;44596780']Albay suspends classes (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/regions/view/20091014-230033/Albay-suspends-classes)
By Rey M. Nasol
Inquirer Southern Luzon
First Posted 17:08:00 10/14/2009

CAMALIG, Albay, Philippines—Classes in the primary and secondary levels in the province of Albay was suspended Wednesday after a low pressure area estimated northeast of Borongan, Eastern Samar, brought heavy rains in the province.

The suspension was announced by Governor Joey Salceda as part of the province's preventive measure, said Abundio Nuñez, Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (Apsemo) plans and operations division chief.

Nuñez said the governor also declared a "code blue" or "heightened alert" in the landslide-prone town of Manito, where an ongoing Boys Scouts of the Philippines Jamboree organized by the Albay Council was being held.

The Apsemo has yet to receive the total number of participants in the jamboree, which was already canceled Wednesday morning.

Salceda said he had already declared a "code blue," which means people should stay put in their houses and the boy scouts were advised not to travel back home to Legazpi and their respective places of origins.

Salceda's advisory early Wednesday morning said, "the organizers are hereby advised to limit activities on the camp site and control the movement of the pupils."

Apsemo director Cedric Daep said he had recommended the suspension of travel of the affected campers in Manito to avoid river channels and seaboards along the road going back to Legazpi.

Salceda said the provincial and local disaster councils were already advised to execute measures to prevent untoward incident related to the low pressure area that had moderate to heavy rains.

"The Municipal Health Office (MHO) of Manito is placed under 'code blue' and together with the Provincial Health Office (PHO) are hereby instructed to provide teams on site with standby emergency vehicles," he said.

Salceda said he had to see to it that the Manito hospital be in full support to the PHO.

"Unnecessary movement outside camp site is hereby discouraged, DepEd is hereby instructed to make school buildings open as temporary safe shelters."

He said the province was in close coordination with Manito MDCC for support and that Manito should be on alert status for the higher vulnerability.

Some roads were impassable, particularly in front of the municipal hall of Camalig, due to rampaging chocolate-colored and knee-deep flood carrying boulders.

The flood in Camalig has isolated the towns of the third district of Albay, preventing students, workers and travelers going to and from Legazpi City.

The Apasemo was also monitoring related flash flood incidents in Maipon and Masarawag villages in Guinobatan town and the perennially flooded portion of Barangay Padang in Legazpi City, which also isolated the city of Tabaco and the rest of the first district of Albay.

Daep said that for the past 12-hour monitoring, the different rain gauges installed around the province had recorded an average of 7.2 millimeters of rainfall with peak of 68 mm from 2 a.m. until 9 a.m. Wednesday.

"There were even higher recorded rains in other parts of the province and that averaged 7.2mm on our readings but we still have to compare it with the official findings of the Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (Pagasa)," Daep said.

The provincial engineering office immediately fielded heavy equipment to allow light vehicles to pass through Camalig area.

Motorcycles and small cars were able to traverse the flooded area at around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday. However, rains continued to pound the province even up to the late afternoon.

parang OA ang dating sa akin...siguro dahil hindi pa nakasanayan...but this is a good start...kailangan lang talagang ma condition ang mga kanayunan para sa ganun ay maging habit na...pero syempre pag dating ng summer tanim ng maraming puno...para mas solusyunan talaga ang problema sa baha at landslide na yan...

Brandon32

October 14th, 2009, 04:03 PM

;44597330']Surrendering to Bliss (http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/life/17255-surrendering-to-bliss.html)
Life, Written by Ma. Stella F. Arnaldo

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/life-pic01.jpg

THE province of Albay in Bicol doesn’t exactly conjure images of luxury and pampering. To most people, it just means the ever-rumbling Mayon Volcano, rows of abaca plants, and a great deal of pili nut products. Oh, yes, and who can forget—the devastating typhoons that always seem to batter the area?

Surprisingly, as my friends and I arrived in Legaspi City after leaving Manila’s rain-drenched streets only an hour before, the sun was shining at its mightiest. We were later told that in this part of the country, the weather is actually the reverse of what it is in Metro Manila. So if you feel that vacation itch during the rainy season, the Bicol region is actually the best destination to escape to.

We were on our way to Misibis Bay Raintree, one of only three Philippine establishments that have made it into the Small Luxury Hotels (SLH) of the World group. SLH counts only 500 of the most exclusive establishments in the world which cater to a very discriminating clientele in terms of luxury and hospitality.

Upon our arrival at the airport, we were met by the friendly resort staff and whisked off in a van to its dock at the newly built commercial and entertainment complex, the Embarcadero at the Legaspi port. A fancy welcome of bubbling champagne and suman awaited us, while cool pleasantly scented white face towels did the trick in refreshing and energizing us for the next part of our journey.

We then boarded a fastcraft for the 30-minute ride to the lush and verdant Cagraray Island, located northeast of Legaspi. Everywhere we looked, the calm azure waters provide a delightful contrast to the sunny cloudless sky. The only visible puffs of white were from Mayon Volcano, no longer with the perfect cone, but still unparalleled in its grandeur.

Local folk dancers dressed in colorful costumes welcomed us as we made our way to the Spice Market, the resort’s main restaurant. It being the early morning, and already battling low blood-sugar levels, we eagerly wolfed down our breakfast of fried garlic rice, sunny-side up eggs, and New Look, a very meaty dried fish that we discovered on our visit last year. (It’s called New Look because the specie was only discovered in the waters of Bicol sometime in the 1960s, and has yet to be identified with any scientific name, or so a local fisheries graduate told us.) Super-addicting!

After a hearty breakfast, we were led to our beachfront villas, where a soothing foot scrub and massage awaited us. The villa I was assigned to had a commanding view of the sparkling Albay Gulf and the clear blue sky visible through floor-to-ceiling picture windows. It also had a sundeck with two lounging beds where guests could soak up the rays of the sun.

The main feature of each of the villas is, of course, the king-sized bed and fluffy goose-down pillows all wrapped in 350-thread count linen. It was so heavenly to sink into, it took much effort to get up from after a nap or a night’s rest. Imagine a stunning view of peaking waves and drifting clouds each morning, and lying in a huge comfy bed...now that’s what I call a vacation! Even when it drizzled, it was just so peaceful and serene to lie in bed, under the snug covers, neck cradled by gentle pillows, and look out those windows.

The villa also had a large heated bathroom where guests can bathe using either the generic bottled bathroom amenities or L’Occitane toiletries.

Each villa is assigned a female butler, who conscientiously tidies up the room whenever the guest is out, folds clothes strewn about, hangs wet bathing suits in the outdoor clothes line, and rearranges the hand towels into their original fan shapes. Okay, truthfully, by the second day, this was freaking me out because this was way too OC for me. Personally, I’m the type who needs a little disorder in my life, but I’m sure other guests will not mind the careful attention to detail the butler gives to their room. (The butler also had an annoying habit of waking me up while I was fast asleep, which I suppose can be ascribed to the resort being just in its soft-opening phase and the staff still needing to get used to the ways of guests.)

What I did appreciate was the warm sudsy bath the butler prepared on the dot, at 6 pm, each evening. Returning to the villa from a vigorous yoga workout and soaking in that bathtub even for just 30 minutes was so divinely comforting.

Adventurous guests have lot of activities to choose from, such as jetskiing, windsurfing, skipping on the water via the banana boat ride, snorkeling, lava trekking near Mount Mayon, and doing the zip line. My pal Marianne went scuba diving just off the Misibis dock and was pleasantly surprised to have seen a manta ray with a 6-foot wingspan swim near her and her dive master. She said it was so close, it could’ve been possible for her to just reach out and touch the creature’s belly. And this was just in 30 feet of water.

If you’re not the type who wants to push up your cardiac rates while on vacation, my pals and I, for instance, had a cooking class with the resort’s chief cook, Danny Gonzales, a Batangueño who has learned to whip up feisty Bicolano dishes. We also made pili nut panna cotta under the guiding hand of Pastry Chef Edgar Encinas. (Of course, we playfully berated Chef Edgar for not preparing sugar-free desserts for diabetics and health-conscious guests.)

In the evening, one can enjoy the nightly entertainment provided by the resident lounge singers, sing yourselves hoarse at the videoke room, or just chillax watching a movie in the den. And if you can’t really tear yourself away from your busy urban life, there is a business center where you can check your e-mails, or insanely update your Facebook status detailing all your activities at the resort.

What I love about Misibis Bay Raintree is that feeling of privacy and blissful isolation, where a real vacation of doing nothing is possible. For people like me who have had enough of the chaotic rush of vacationers, the garbage on the beach, as well as the nightly noise and parties of some island resorts, Misibis is really the perfect place to get away from it all.

^ heto siguro ang pagkakaiba ng boracay at ng Cagraray...pag nasa boracay ka ksai para ka rin lang nasa greenbelt eh na may syempre buhangin at tunog dagat..pero maingay talaga

alekcz

October 14th, 2009, 10:56 PM

;44522942']Winners of the Mayon Photo Walk for A Cause

First Place : Charism Z. Sayat
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2teAoKCrQAAHh-@go1/9432-146129333056-128936358056-2408616-2810402-n.jpg?et=KsHre5gOY0QH1BSGkEjqww&nmid=0

Second Place: Simvale Z. Sayat
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2tiwoKCrQAAGunm1E1/9432-146129318056-128936358056-2408614-4927566-n.jpg?et=s3eUJBb1h3GeRbn6hDGjYA&nmid=0

Third Place :Iris Fenella R. Bello
http://images.yves188.multiply.com/image/1/photos/upload/1200x1200/Ss2tnwoKCrQAAGwdoss1/9432-146129238056-128936358056-2408601-8237196-n.jpg?et=YInd5nUyOd1D5ePt1t1h9A&nmid=0

More info here (http://mayonphotowalk.multiply.com/journal/item/1)

wow! goodjob ism and sim! am so proud of you.. barkada ko ini...:banana:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 01:22 AM

^^Welcome, alekcz!

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 01:22 AM

NAVFORSOL commemorates 7th foundation anniversary (http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&fi=p091014.htm&no=62)
by DF Nieva

Legazpi City (14 October) -- Commodore Joel Babas AFP, commander of Naval Forces Southern Luzon (NAVFORSOL) led the culmination of the 7th Foundation Anniversary through a series of simple but meaningful activities last October 5 at the navy headquarters here.

In his message to the Fleet-Marine Team, Babas stressed, "We will work as a pride of the Philippine Navy and as a vital partner of Southern Luzon Command towards peace and progress in our area of operations.

Babas added, "We must stand together as one with one heart for us to face all of the challenges that lie ahead. As God Gives to see the light, let us drive to finish the work we have at hand. We must do everything which would foster real peace between the command and other units of the Armed Forces of the Philippines and so with the civilian sector."

Earlier, the command led several activities benefiting Team NAVFORSOL and its foremost stakeholders, the community, highlighted by tree planting, feeding program, Handog sa Kapus- Palad, media night, and the anniversary ball.

On the other hand, NAVFORSOL ladies, led by Mrs. Josie Babas, spearheaded an Outreach Program for the Special Education Center here, with a feeding program and orientation on dental hygiene. The children were also treated to a day filled with laughter.

Furthermore, "Handog Para sa mga Kapus Palad" was formally launched with Social Action Center (SAC) and United Nations Youth Association of the Philippines (UNAP) as conduit partners. The program intends to give wheelchair to deserving beneficiaries from indigent families in Bicol.

To help sustain, further strengthen relationship, and express gratitude to the unwavering support of the media, the Public Affairs Office of NAVFORSOL, lead by Lt Darwin F Nieva PN, hosted a night for the press people.

Finally, NAVFORSOL personnel, together with their families, were ushered to a time honored tradition Navy Anniversary Ball. The activity was held at the newly rehabilitated "Fleet-Marine Quarterdeck" a newly refurbished facility that shall cater to activities to uplift the moral and welfare of personnel. (NAVFORSOL/PIA) [top]

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 01:23 AM

Salceda welcomes PGMA creation of Special National Reconstruction Commission (http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p091014.htm&no=56)
by MS Arguelles

Legazpi City (14 October) -- Albay Gov. Joey S. Salceda yesterday welcomed President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo's creation on Monday the Special National Public-Private Reconstruction Commission to study the causes of the weather abnormalities, what actions to take to prepare the country, and the cost such actions will entail.

The commission will also handle fresh aid given by external sources to fund reconstruction efforts destroyed by typhoons Ondoy, Pepeng, and Frank in Metro Manila and neighboring regions in Luzon.

The President made the announcement during the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) cum Cabinet meeting held Tuesday in Dagupan City.

The chief executive has signed the executive order the other day, but she said it has not yet been authorized for release by Executive Secretary Eduardo Ermita which explains why the E.O. still has no number.

The President said she issued the executive order because of the magnitude of the impact of the recent calamities that hit the country in the midst of the global financial crunch that also affected fiscal capacity.

The Commission was tasked to undertake a study on the causes, costs and actions to be taken in the wake of the three typhoons that caused enormous damage to the country.

It will also undertake the rehabilitation plan for wrecked infrastructure and other priorities; prioritize programs as well as oversee implementation of these programs.

The special commission that will be headed by a business leader will also raise funds, especially grants, to fund reconstruction.

It will also serve as a clearing house for international assistance implemented by donors themselves using the cluster approach.

The Chief executive designated Finance Secretary Margarito Teves and a church leader as co-chairs with all department heads and business groups, representatives of Philippine and international non-government organizations as members.

Furthermore, the Commission was also tasked to request the United Nations and the World Bank to coordinate an international pledging session.

Salceda said under his proposal the country needs to seek $1 billion fresh aid from international communities, to overcome the impact of global crisis and the magnitude of the calamity that recently wrought havoc to the country.

Salceda, a senior economic adviser of President Arroyo, said the $1-billion financial aid would finance reconstruction of various social and infrastructure programs destroyed by Tropical Storm Ondoy and Pepeng.

The fresh aid would be used to finance relocation of thousands of families displaced by the calamities at P20-billion; infrastructure rehabilitation at P21-billion; and livelihood and agriculture at P5-billion.

This totals P46-billion of which P27-billion funding to rehabilitate projects destroyed by Ondoy, P12-billion for Pepeng and P7-billion for Frank.

"The commission will operate like the original CCPAP (Coordinating Council for the Philippine Assistance Plan) headed by businessman Roberto Villanueva of AGPI. The CCPAP has since evolved into the CCPSP which operates the BOT Center under DTI, Salceda said.

The Office of Civil Defence (OCD) and the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) to form the secretariat, key tasks are to raise funds especially grants, prioritize programs and oversee implementation. (PNA/PIA) [top]

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 01:24 AM

Salceda’s disaster motto (http://opinion.inquirer.net/inquireropinion/columns/view/20091014-230094/Salcedas-disaster-motto)
By Belinda Olivares-Cunanan
Philippine Daily Inquirer
First Posted 23:48:00 10/14/2009

I caught Albay Gov. Joey Salceda in Manila as he planned to return to his province due to continuing rains there. I congratulated him for his idea on the rehab commission that his former teacher has adopted. Salceda cracked that he merely picked up the idea floated in this column two weeks ago about the need for a “mini-Marshall Plan” for RP that could source funds from, among others, the Climate Change Adaptation Fund for Third World countries that the rich economies have been ostensibly aiming to put together in so many conferences. Salceda, who joined us at the 14th UN Climate Change Conference in Poland last December, agreed that RP’s devastation could indeed be a “test case” in the run-up to the crucial 15th Conference in Copenhagen this December. I noted that RP would be competing with so many disaster-stricken areas in Asia-Pacific such as Indonesia, India and Samoa, but Salceda pointed out that the earthquakes in Indonesia and Samoa are tectonic in origin whereas the floods here were manifestations of climate change.

In an aside he lamented the blame game going on in the midst of the disasters, stressing that the reason his calamity-stricken province was able to recover from the supertyphoons two years ago was “because we stopped blaming one another and got to work.” Salceda’s motto in calamities: First, let’s prepare, then let’s help, then let’s learn, and then let’s blame. Sound advice.

* * *

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 01:38 AM

^ heto siguro ang pagkakaiba ng boracay at ng Cagraray...pag nasa boracay ka ksai para ka rin lang nasa greenbelt eh na may syempre buhangin at tunog dagat..pero maingay talaga

Yup, Misibis is for the vacationer who really wants to get away from it all: the crowds, the noise and the stress.

parang OA ang dating sa akin...siguro dahil hindi pa nakasanayan...but this is a good start...kailangan lang talagang ma condition ang mga kanayunan para sa ganun ay maging habit na...pero syempre pag dating ng summer tanim ng maraming puno...para mas solusyunan talaga ang problema sa baha at landslide na yan...

Yes it may seem like overkill but then again, as they say, better safe than sorry. :okay:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 02:29 AM

13th “Orgullo kan Bikol” opens at SM Mega Mall (http://positivenewsmedia.net/am2/publish/Business_19/13th_Orgullo_kan_Bikol_opens_at_SM_Mega_Mall.shtml)
By Mar S. Arguelles

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 15 (PNA) –- Bicol’s best products entrepreneurs across the region will showcase their products at the 13th "Orgullo kan Bikol" regional trade fair on October 22-25 at the SM Mega Mall in Mandaluyong City, the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) regional office said on Wednesday.

The DTI, with the Department of Tourism (DOT) Bicol regional offices, will also bring in the trade fair “Gayon Bikol sa OK Bikol” featuring the best tourist destinations in the region, giving the event an appealing socio-cultural touch.

“Featured products for this year’s Orgullo kan Bikol include wearables, home furnishings, gifts and holiday decors, and food with special setting on 'bayong', creative handicrafts, and OTOP”, Jocelyn L.B. Blanco, DTI Bicol regional director said.

Blanco said amidst the many challenges that we are facing right now, we are still confident to generate sales of P10 million for the four-day trade fair.

A total of 134 Bicolano entrepreneurs will sell their products to institutional buyers and the general public as well.

Among the six provinces, Albay has the biggest number of exhibitors with 33 micro-small medium enterprises (MSMEs), followed by Camarines Sur with 24, Sorsogon with 14, Catanduanes nine, Camarines Norte six, and Masbate five.

Aside from the regular MSMEs assisted by DTI, 43 Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP) beneficiaries/entrepreneurs will join the OKB. All these beneficiaries are assisted by DTI through the livelihood program under Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP).

Albay Governor Joey Sarte Salceda, also the Bicol Regional Development Council chair, is expected to keynote the opening program at 10:00 a.m. on October 22, 1009 at SM Mega Mall.

OK Bikol is a project of the DTI-Region V, Department of Tourism (DOT)-Region V, OK Bikol Association, PhilExport Bicol and local government units (LGUs).(PNA)

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 02:41 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots
by neutron19 (http://neutron19.i.ph/blogs/neutron19/?p=70)

http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/5365/lagoonpool2500.jpg http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/6928/lagoonpool500.jpg

http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/8204/img10034500.jpg http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/3725/pool1x500.jpg

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 02:42 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots
by neutron19 (http://neutron19.i.ph/blogs/neutron19/?p=70)

http://img444.imageshack.us/img444/2064/img0841be500.jpg http://img339.imageshack.us/img339/2127/img00019o500.jpg

http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/1210/tablepiece500.jpg http://img377.imageshack.us/img377/7370/hilltop500b.jpg

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 02:44 AM

LCC Rewards Plus. The Power to Get More.

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/9669/billboardgirlshop.jpg

What is the LCC Rewards Plus?

The LCC Rewards Plus is the LCC Customer Rewards program that rewards members with points every time they shop in ALL LCC STORES & participating partner establishments. Earned points can be used to purchase ANY merchandise at ANY LCC store. The LCC Rewards Plus Member also enjoys numerous exclusive privileges like discounts and free items from LCC and participating partner establishments.

Membership is valid for two years from the date of application.

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/2870/rpsteps.jpg

How do I become an LCC Rewards Plus Member?

1. Buy an LCC Rewards Plus Membership Kit at designated cashier's booths of LCC Department Store, LCC Supermarket or LCC Expressmart for only P88.

2. Use the card immediately to earn points.

3. Fill out completely the application form included in the kit.

4. Submit the application form at the LCC Customer Service Counter and personalize your card.

5. Claim your personalized LCC Rewards Plus card and coupons within 3 days from the date of purchase and enjoy earning your points.

Source (http://bicolguide.blogspot.com/2009/10/lcc-rewards-plus-power-to-get-more.html)

kaniguan78

October 15th, 2009, 03:07 AM

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 03:49 AM

Maray na Albay!

Marhay na Albay saindo gabos! I got this from a reliable source. Zaldy Co is planning to put up a flying school in Albay, parang Misibis Aviation School yata ang pangalan. The structure being constructed near Pristine that we see pag naglalanding ang plane is actually a hangar. I think we have a photo of that somewhere here in the forum. Hope this pushes through, this would be a first fr Bicol.

That's interesting. :okay:

Excerpt from Bicolano trader allots P5 B for various projects (http://beta2.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleid=78655)
By Marianne V. Go, Philippine Star

...However, he also has a planned social, low-cost housing project in Legazpi City, an aviation company known as the Misibis Aviation Company which rents out three executive helicopters and a 29-seater Jetstream exective jet, and a possible renewable mining project which is still in the feasibility stage.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 04:03 AM

Marhay na Albay saindo gabos! I got this from a reliable source. Zaldy Co is planning to put up a flying school in Albay, parang Misibis Aviation School yata ang pangalan. The structure being constructed near Pristine that we see pag naglalanding ang plane is actually a hangar. I think we have a photo of that somewhere here in the forum. Hope this pushes through, this would be a first fr Bicol.

you mean these?:

http://i762.photobucket.com/albums/xx265/Albay_Kodaks/slia036.jpg

http://i762.photobucket.com/albums/xx265/Albay_Kodaks/slia039.jpg

Great plan! aand a good start for Albay aviation industry!

Maray na Albay!

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 04:06 AM

^I think the second photo is the under construction hangar. I've been in that building in your first photo. It's like a hall that can be used for small conventions or receptions inside Aeroville subdivision. :okay:

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 04:16 AM

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 04:20 AM

^ yup looks like the second photo is the hangar underconstruction...so most probably Co's company has also secured a piece of property within the BIA for this aviation school...This is great for all those who planned to be pilots someday...theres no need to go anywhere...there will be an aviation school in our backyard!:banana::banana:

Yeah, if this pushes through, it will be good news for Bicolanos who dream of becoming pilots. Siguro the short term goal is to train new pilots for Misibis' three aircraft: three helicopters used for Mayon aerial tours and one 29-seater Jetstream executive jet used to transport luxury guests from Manila to Legazpi.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 04:25 AM

^ probably..for a company to maximize the use of its air assets, an aviation school is the perfect idea!

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 04:40 AM

I think Albay's Guicadale Development platform is a good response to UN's call for adoption of measures, allocation of funds, and initiation of technology transfers to reduce the risks of disasters (which are unfortunately expected to escalate in frequency and intensity in the next few years). I saw a bit of Salceda's interview on ABS-CBN's morning show earlier where he said that organizations around the world are more than willing to help people who are affected by the effects of climate change. I hope that through his international connections, he continues to secure more funding for the Guicadale project.

* * *

UN exec to RP: Build, plan for disasters (http://newsinfo.inquirer.net/breakingnews/nation/view/20091013-229843/UN-exec-to-RP-Build-plan-for-disasters)
by Veronica Uy
INQUIRER.net
First Posted 12:54:00 10/13/2009

MANILA, Philippines – Countries vulnerable to the harsh effects of climate change like the Philippines need to build and plan for disasters as the weather events become “more extreme” and “more intense,” United Nations Undersecretary General John Holmes said Tuesday.

But in Pasig City, which he visited Monday, Holmes said he was most struck by the standing water that was expected to remain there in the next two months or more. He expressed concern for the people who have stayed on in their houses trying to go on with their lives, wading in these waters and being exposed to various diseases.

The government, he said, “should look for ways to get rid of the standing water.”

At a press conference Tuesday, Holmes said “chronic vulnerability [in many parts of the world] has not gone away,” and the consequences of climate change in the coming years were expected to worsen that vulnerability. And with the global economic meltdown, international humanitarian aid may not be as generous in the coming years.

That’s why, he said, countries vulnerable to climate change effects needed to adopt measures, allocate funding, and initiate technology transfers to reduce the risks of disasters that were the sure effects of climate change.

“We cannot stop disasters, but we can reduce the impact if we take measures in advance like not build on flood-prone areas, implement the right kind of water management, build houses and schools that can withstand floods and earthquakes,” he said.

“Governments can make good investments. These do not cost much compared to responses after disasters that are more expensive,” he added.

Holmes said that $12 billion were spent globally every year in response to disasters, and he expected the amount to increase because of global warming.

The UN official, who is in the country to see for himself the effects of the storm “Ondoy” (international name: Ketsana) and typhoon “Pepeng” (international name: Parma), said the UN was likely to revise its flash appeal to the international community for the Philippines in the next two to three weeks after finishing the assessment of the destruction in northern Luzon caused by Pepeng.

At the same time, Holmes also said he was impressed by the Philippine government’s response to the twin disasters, particularly its “speed” and “effectiveness.”

He said the UN system adopted precautions against possible corruption in the distribution of relief goods and aid, including working with UN agencies and other non-government organizations in the country.

“The help goes straight to the people. They either survive or not. The effects are very visible. The risk of diversion or corruption is lower in relief operations than in other kinds of aid. It’s not usually a major problem. The concern is always there but the effects of the relief are immediately seen,” he said.

Of the $74 million targeted for Ondoy operations, the UN has received $19 million worth of commitments from the international community. Outside the UN flash appeal, $25 million more were given directly either to the government or non-government organizations.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 04:47 AM

^ ang galing ng ating mga local leaders...at saka ang galing ng vision ni salceda para sa albay! galing! galing! galing!

arkijo

October 15th, 2009, 05:05 AM

MARHAY NA ALBAY SAINDO GABOS! YEHEY! NAKABALIK NAMAN AKO DIGDI SA MANILA FROM BAGUIO CITY. :banana: SANA NASA MAGAYON NA KAMUGTAKAN ANG ALBAY SA NGANA!

arkijo

October 15th, 2009, 05:08 AM

;44629344']LCC Rewards Plus. The Power to Get More.

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/9669/billboardgirlshop.jpg

What is the LCC Rewards Plus?

The LCC Rewards Plus is the LCC Customer Rewards program that rewards members with points every time they shop in ALL LCC STORES & participating partner establishments. Earned points can be used to purchase ANY merchandise at ANY LCC store. The LCC Rewards Plus Member also enjoys numerous exclusive privileges like discounts and free items from LCC and participating partner establishments.

Membership is valid for two years from the date of application.

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/2870/rpsteps.jpg

How do I become an LCC Rewards Plus Member?

1. Buy an LCC Rewards Plus Membership Kit at designated cashier's booths of LCC Department Store, LCC Supermarket or LCC Expressmart for only P88.

2. Use the card immediately to earn points.

3. Fill out completely the application form included in the kit.

4. Submit the application form at the LCC Customer Service Counter and personalize your card.

5. Claim your personalized LCC Rewards Plus card and coupons within 3 days from the date of purchase and enjoy earning your points.

Source (http://bicolguide.blogspot.com/2009/10/lcc-rewards-plus-power-to-get-more.html)

.... MAS LALONG GUMAGANDA ANG SERVICE NG LCC. PARANG SM NA RIN NA MERONG REWARD CARD. WOW!:banana:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:46 AM

Green vs greed (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=514169&publicationSubCategoryId=66)
TAKIN' CARE OF BUSINESS By Babe Romualdez (The Philippine Star)
Updated October 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The creation of a “Reconstruction Commission” to assess the damage caused by Ondoy and Pepeng as well as solicit funds for rehabilitation efforts is a smart and timely move by PGMA. I talked with PLDT chair Manny Pangilinan – who had been chosen to head this new body – but I was not sure whether to congratulate or condole with him since the task is obviously enormous. Manny just laughed and agreed the task ahead is indeed a big challenge for him personally.

MVP is probably the only one who has the credibility to solicit the huge funds necessary for this gargantuan task. Our friends from the international community are very happy to see that he is at the helm of this body because of his credibility. MVP has the experience to efficiently utilize the funds necessary and decide which projects to prioritize.

GMA should include some of the best people for this new body like Joey Salceda whom I was listening to the other night on ANC. Joey was in fact the one who proposed the creation of the reconstruction commission, and whatever you may say about GMA’s economic adviser, there’s no question he knows what he is talking about. The Albay governor was cited by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) as a model worthy to emulate for instituting disaster preparedness and mitigation programs in his province. A few months ago, the UN hailed Albay for initiating risk reduction programs to achieve “zero casualty” during disasters. As a matter of fact, Salceda ordered preemptive evacuation for over 70,000 residents in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides. So instead of adding to the relief and evacuation problems of the national government, Albay ended up donating a million pesos for Metro Manila victims.

Another one is our friend, Architect Jun Palafox, who says now is as good a time as any to reassess urban planning for Metro Manila. This is an opportunity that must not go to waste, and we can only hope that people will not resort to ningas cogon once they start to see the waters subside and when rehabilitation starts to take shape. It’s rather sad to note that it had to take a disaster like Ondoy and Pepeng for everyone to sit up and realize how big the problem has become. As Jun pointed out, a master plan for Metro Manila has been made as early as 1977 with specifications regarding building heights, easements and recommendations on what must be done in flood-prone areas. But as usual, greedy developers took shortcuts and corrupt government employees turned a blind eye on building code and zoning violations, like 5-meter requirements for easements reduced to just one meter, for instance.

Over the years, many developers have carved out subdivisions from hills and mountains – obviously contributing to the susceptibility of surrounding areas to floods and earthquakes. Whether it’s true or not that there are spirits residing in the mountains, one can’t help but wonder if indeed, there is wisdom in the warning of some ethnic groups not to disturb the mountains for fear of awakening the wrath of the spirits dwelling within. Be that as it may, there is no question that our building code must now take into consideration the unpredictability of weather patterns due to climate change, and the increasing susceptibility of Metro Manila and other provinces to floods and other calamities. As pointed out by some urban planning experts, standards must now be changed to take into account climate change and other factors.

Clearly, there is a need for a more novel approach to construction using non-traditional methods and new materials that would be flexible enough to allow water to pass through without weakening the structure. A tragic incident which happened during the height of the flood was the death of Smart co-founder David Fernando when the perimeter wall of his house in Loyola Grand Villas collapsed. We’re sure the wall was sturdy, but there’s a big possibility that it was not made to withstand a strong flood and mudflow such as the one brought by Ondoy, aggravated by the fact that incessant rains must have considerably weakened the wall.

Of course, there is Loren Legarda who has been warning people about risk reduction measures and the need to go “green.” All these disasters could have been averted if only people paid more attention and if LGUs exercised stronger political will to root out informal settlers along creeks, the banks of Pasig River and its tributaries. Everyone agrees the squatter settlements have been a major cause of the clogging of waterways, and they must not be allowed to return primarily because they will be risking their lives once again, and secondly, their presence will just hamper rehabilitation efforts and set it back to zero.

LGUs could learn a thing or two from Gina Lopez who has been successful in cleaning up esteros and relocating the squatters because she also made sure the relocation side had adequate facilities, and that relocatees would be provided livelihood opportunities as well. In simple words, she did not just uproot these people from the river banks and leave them to hang and dry. As Joey Salceda noted, Gina is doing a good job, so she would undoubtedly have useful inputs for the reconstruction commission.

One thing is clear: we need a “green” president (but not necessarily a “greenhorn” of a leader who has no experience and is wet between the ears) who can get rid of the greed for power and greed for profit by corrupt officials and unscrupulous developers. More importantly, we need someone who has the experience and the vision to see what lies ahead in the future of this country.

* * *

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 05:59 AM

^ there! again...very nice concept...but the hardest part here is the implementation phase...lets be positive though...hope we learn from our mistakes and experiences..this is the time for a real CHANGE!

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 06:27 AM

Naku! ang legazpi city website hanggang ngayon hindi pa gumagana! ang bagal naman ng team na designated sa website na yan! mayor rosal...our city needs a good online presence at mukhang patulug-tulog yang mga impleyado mo na assign sa IT dept...kick them out, mukhang nasasayang lang sa kanila ang mga taxes na binabayad ng sambayanan!

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:08 AM

^Hehe, yup, we're all waiting for the launch of the official website. In fairness to the developers behind the site, they encountered some snags in procuring information and other details needed for the website.

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:10 AM

Army chief visits Bicol
(http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235410)
DARAGA, Albay Oct. 15 (PNA) -- Lt. Gen. Delfin Bangit, Philippine Army (PA) commanding general, lauded his soldiers in Bicol for the series of tactical offensive initiated by the Army that lead to the neutralization of communist guerrilla fronts in the region and the recovery of numerous high powered firearms.

Bangit, who visited the 901st Army Brigade here and the 2nd Infantry Battalion in Ligao City on Tuesday, told his field commanders in a command conference that despite the offensive pursued by the Army in the six Bicol provinces, he urged his men to continuously serve the people in the pursuit for peace and development in the countryside.

He also cited the Army’s role in giving support to local government units in times of calamities and in bringing basic social and humanitarian services in the remote communities that are always threatened by atrocities committed by the communist insurgents.

Maj. Gen. Ruperto Pabustan, commanding general of the 9th Army Infantry Division, in briefing the Army chief said his command initiated over 30 offensive across the Bicol peninsula that led to the dismantling of a guerrilla front “Pluto” in the island province of Catanduanes.

Pabustan said the tactical offensive also resulted in the death of 15 communist rebels, four rebels captured, 43 surrendered and over 50 high powered firearms recovered.

Pabustan also reported that the soldiers from the 901st Infantry Brigade unearthed skeletal remains from at least five grave sites in remote villages of Maninila and Taplacon in Camalig town a former insurgency hot spot in Albay. The cadavers were believed to be victims of “salvaging” by the New People’s Army (NPA) rebels, he added.

Pabustan said the series of offensive launched by the Army against the communist movement in Bicol is indeed the determination of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) to crush the remaining communist fronts in the region by 2010.

The AFP has placed Bicol among the top national priority areas where internal security operations would be heightened against the NPA rebels operating here.

Pabustan, said the Bicol peninsula, Davao in Mindanao and Negros in the Visayas are among the top three regions placed under the national priority areas to initiate an aggressive Internal Security Operation against the rebels.

He said the Army has signed a memorandum of agreement (MOA) with the National Philippine National Police (PNP) in Bicol for jointly intensifying internal security operation in the entire region. (PNA)
FFC/LQ/MSA/cbd

garycooper

October 15th, 2009, 08:13 AM

;44635632']Green vs greed (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=514169&publicationSubCategoryId=66)
TAKIN' CARE OF BUSINESS By Babe Romualdez (The Philippine Star)
Updated October 15, 2009 12:00 AM

The creation of a “Reconstruction Commission” to assess the damage caused by Ondoy and Pepeng as well as solicit funds for rehabilitation efforts is a smart and timely move by PGMA. I talked with PLDT chair Manny Pangilinan – who had been chosen to head this new body – but I was not sure whether to congratulate or condole with him since the task is obviously enormous. Manny just laughed and agreed the task ahead is indeed a big challenge for him personally.

MVP is probably the only one who has the credibility to solicit the huge funds necessary for this gargantuan task. Our friends from the international community are very happy to see that he is at the helm of this body because of his credibility. MVP has the experience to efficiently utilize the funds necessary and decide which projects to prioritize.

GMA should include some of the best people for this new body like Joey Salceda whom I was listening to the other night on ANC. Joey was in fact the one who proposed the creation of the reconstruction commission, and whatever you may say about GMA’s economic adviser, there’s no question he knows what he is talking about. The Albay governor was cited by the United Nations Development Program (UNDP) as a model worthy to emulate for instituting disaster preparedness and mitigation programs in his province. A few months ago, the UN hailed Albay for initiating risk reduction programs to achieve “zero casualty” during disasters. As a matter of fact, Salceda ordered preemptive evacuation for over 70,000 residents in areas vulnerable to flooding and landslides. So instead of adding to the relief and evacuation problems of the national government, Albay ended up donating a million pesos for Metro Manila victims.

Another one is our friend, Architect Jun Palafox, who says now is as good a time as any to reassess urban planning for Metro Manila. This is an opportunity that must not go to waste, and we can only hope that people will not resort to ningas cogon once they start to see the waters subside and when rehabilitation starts to take shape. It’s rather sad to note that it had to take a disaster like Ondoy and Pepeng for everyone to sit up and realize how big the problem has become. As Jun pointed out, a master plan for Metro Manila has been made as early as 1977 with specifications regarding building heights, easements and recommendations on what must be done in flood-prone areas. But as usual, greedy developers took shortcuts and corrupt government employees turned a blind eye on building code and zoning violations, like 5-meter requirements for easements reduced to just one meter, for instance.

Over the years, many developers have carved out subdivisions from hills and mountains – obviously contributing to the susceptibility of surrounding areas to floods and earthquakes. Whether it’s true or not that there are spirits residing in the mountains, one can’t help but wonder if indeed, there is wisdom in the warning of some ethnic groups not to disturb the mountains for fear of awakening the wrath of the spirits dwelling within. Be that as it may, there is no question that our building code must now take into consideration the unpredictability of weather patterns due to climate change, and the increasing susceptibility of Metro Manila and other provinces to floods and other calamities. As pointed out by some urban planning experts, standards must now be changed to take into account climate change and other factors.

Clearly, there is a need for a more novel approach to construction using non-traditional methods and new materials that would be flexible enough to allow water to pass through without weakening the structure. A tragic incident which happened during the height of the flood was the death of Smart co-founder David Fernando when the perimeter wall of his house in Loyola Grand Villas collapsed. We’re sure the wall was sturdy, but there’s a big possibility that it was not made to withstand a strong flood and mudflow such as the one brought by Ondoy, aggravated by the fact that incessant rains must have considerably weakened the wall.

Of course, there is Loren Legarda who has been warning people about risk reduction measures and the need to go “green.” All these disasters could have been averted if only people paid more attention and if LGUs exercised stronger political will to root out informal settlers along creeks, the banks of Pasig River and its tributaries. Everyone agrees the squatter settlements have been a major cause of the clogging of waterways, and they must not be allowed to return primarily because they will be risking their lives once again, and secondly, their presence will just hamper rehabilitation efforts and set it back to zero.

LGUs could learn a thing or two from Gina Lopez who has been successful in cleaning up esteros and relocating the squatters because she also made sure the relocation side had adequate facilities, and that relocatees would be provided livelihood opportunities as well. In simple words, she did not just uproot these people from the river banks and leave them to hang and dry. As Joey Salceda noted, Gina is doing a good job, so she would undoubtedly have useful inputs for the reconstruction commission.

One thing is clear: we need a “green” president (but not necessarily a “greenhorn” of a leader who has no experience and is wet between the ears) who can get rid of the greed for power and greed for profit by corrupt officials and unscrupulous developers. More importantly, we need someone who has the experience and the vision to see what lies ahead in the future of this country.

* * *

Why not JOEY SALCEDA for PRESIDENT?

Now I understand why he goes for green! ( Pun not intended. :))

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:20 AM

Off-road Challenge, Ibalong Festival
Tahao Road, Legazpi City

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/5/photos/123/600x600/31/31.jpg?et=aO7Y5Bu8D2WL6xyydjJlfw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/6/photos/123/600x600/33/33.jpg?et=cp%2BIUAnI7yl6VhALgTB4gw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/12/photos/123/600x600/21/21.jpg?et=7PKmXsurEjLnPIhQhaLSlw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/25/25.jpg?et=nCCzTHG6lxsAsrx0k3LKrQ&nmid=290097897

Photos by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:23 AM

Why not JOEY SALCEDA for PRESIDENT?

Now I understand why he goes for green! ( Pun not intended. :))

Hehehe!

I think he's more than capable. I wasn't really a Salceda supporter. In fact in the last election, we supported his opponent, Gov. Gonzales. But I can see that with Salceda at the helm, Albay is in good hands.

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:24 AM

More of the Off-road challenge, Ibalong Festival
Tahao Road, Legazpi City

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/24/24.jpg?et=aRzH2mvBFdPpTqvlBj37GQ&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/15/15.jpg?et=88LCvW%2BNij7jJWO5%2BJ53ZQ&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/11/11.jpg?et=1rrZ57hgnUcH8U1Gh2p%2BYw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/12/photos/123/600x600/32/32.jpg?et=%2BrClwNqjQOSSeV%2B3EEuJfg&nmid=290097897

by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 08:25 AM

;44639412']^Hehe, yup, we're all waiting for the launch of the official website. In fairness to the developers behind the site, they encountered some snags in procuring information and other details needed for the website.

^ could you elaborate on the " procurement of information" thing? is there a need to procure information such as news article about the city and all? as i understood like in your website's case...you researched for updated news articles regarding our city and province available online, then made appropriate quotes..then after which you can already published it in the website,tama ba ako? thanks

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 08:31 AM

^ could you elaborate on the " procurement of information" thing? is there a need to procure information such as news article about the city and all? as i understood like in your website's case...you researched for updated news articles regarding our city and province available online, then made appropriate quotes..then after which you can already published it in the website,tama ba ako? thanks

Hehe, got a PM for you.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 08:35 AM

Why not JOEY SALCEDA for PRESIDENT?

Now I understand why he goes for green! ( Pun not intended. :))

^ well before he even set sight on presidency...he should first put Albay ahead as one of the most progressive and developed provinces in the Philippines...siguraduhin nya muna na atleast 80% of the entire population ng Albay ay hindi na considered POOR...

Now I understand why he goes for green! ( Pun not intended. :))

^ haha...uy pading romy haen ka na?! si madihon mong governess matibayunon!

garycooper

October 15th, 2009, 09:31 AM

;44639688']Off-road Challenge, Ibalong Festival
Tahao Road, Legazpi City

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/5/photos/123/600x600/31/31.jpg?et=aO7Y5Bu8D2WL6xyydjJlfw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/6/photos/123/600x600/33/33.jpg?et=cp%2BIUAnI7yl6VhALgTB4gw&nmid=290097897

Photos by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

Uy, magoyonon ining ginibo nindang ini ah. Sain daw na banda ini, siguro sa may Gogon na ano? o Bariada?

Sisay man an mga nagparticipate didgi? Siguro kadaklan mga dayo gayud ano?

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 09:35 AM

^^I think sa may Tahao Road area po. Harani sa bagong bus terminal. I think the first photo is taken from the area where the temporary terminal was placed. Tamang-tama gari man nanggad pang offroad duman lalo na pag naguuran:lol:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 09:37 AM

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/3012/87161388198479771387201.jpg
Opening soon at the LKY Metro Transport and Lifestyle Hub

Monsi

October 15th, 2009, 10:32 AM

From the PNR thread...

http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/34/74/101944743/2_853687527l.jpg

^MRR in Legazpi ca. 1934

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 10:34 AM

From the PNR thread...
MRR in Legazpi ca. 1934
http://photos-p.friendster.com/photos/34/74/101944743/2_853687527l.jpg

Another vintage photo! This one goes into my collection. hehe.

aventurera

October 15th, 2009, 10:57 AM

;44639412']^Hehe, yup, we're all waiting for the launch of the official website. In fairness to the developers behind the site, they encountered some snags in procuring information and other details needed for the website.

Yeah, heard of it too! But I learned that the developers were given the data already, as in everything. It is a hard copy though. The developers do not want to encode it anymore. I am not sure though if the encoding of the data to web files is included in the contract.

In fairness to the local government, it does not have an IT Section or Unit yet. The existing IT personnel are actually "multi-tasking". So, I think this is one thing that the local government should look into, to iron up the issues in web development, etcetera - create the IT unit and put up permanent personnel, so that they will be focused on the IT work.

dc88

October 15th, 2009, 11:23 AM

thought id share something, this might be a repost.
http://img205.imageshack.us/img205/2804/img02g.jpg
http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/1848/img05q.jpg
http://img169.imageshack.us/img169/587/img07c.jpg
http://img517.imageshack.us/img517/7945/img09y.jpg

Now u know a bit of our History here in Legazpi city!

Taken from Aquinas Univ. website

joks_25

October 15th, 2009, 11:46 AM

^^^wow, nice old photos. thanks!

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 02:53 PM

Yeah, heard of it too! But I learned that the developers were given the data already, as in everything. It is a hard copy though. The developers do not want to encode it anymore. I am not sure though if the encoding of the data to web files is included in the contract.

In fairness to the local government, it does not have an IT Section or Unit yet. The existing IT personnel are actually "multi-tasking". So, I think this is one thing that the local government should look into, to iron up the issues in web development, etcetera - create the IT unit and put up permanent personnel, so that they will be focused on the IT work.

Thanks aventurera...yup hope the local government would hire permanent personnel to man its IT unit...its a very important component now that legazpi is envisioning itself to be an IT hub of the province and of the bicol region

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 03:03 PM

;44639784']More of the Off-road challenge, Ibalong Festival
Tahao Road, Legazpi City

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/24/24.jpg?et=aRzH2mvBFdPpTqvlBj37GQ&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/15/15.jpg?et=88LCvW%2BNij7jJWO5%2BJ53ZQ&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/11/11.jpg?et=1rrZ57hgnUcH8U1Gh2p%2BYw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/12/photos/123/600x600/32/32.jpg?et=%2BrClwNqjQOSSeV%2B3EEuJfg&nmid=290097897

by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

^ its indeed the city of Adventure!:banana::banana:

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 04:02 PM

;44641700']http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/3012/87161388198479771387201.jpg
Opening soon at the LKY Metro Transport and Lifestyle Hub

^ parang bago man itong tummy yummy..sana masarap pagkain dito at affordable at big servings..hehe

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:31 PM

^ its indeed the city of Adventure!:banana::banana:

Indeed!

^ parang bago man itong tummy yummy..sana masarap pagkain dito at affordable at big servings..hehe

Yup, it's probably a new homegrown business. Meanwhile, according to the marketing officer of LKY, they're hoping for a grand opening if at least 50% of the tenants are open, hopefully by December '09. Savemore supermarket could take up to 6 months construction, so it surely won't be part of the grand opening; DIY Hardware and 7 Degrees Restaurant will take about one month construction, so baka pwede daw makahabol. Tummy Yummy Diners is aiming for a month-end opening just in time for Undas. :okay:

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:32 PM

;44551370']http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/155/invitationtoapplyforeli.png

Source (http://www.dgmarket.com/tenders/np-notice.do~4480875)

I hope this is the one with the Mayonish architecture. I love that design.

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:37 PM

Legazpeeps and Albayanos...

Just a simple update...:)

I read in a streamer posted in the fences of Albay Astrodome:
Soon to open: National Broadcasting Network, Channel 8, Legazpi, October 2009...:banana::

God bless!:)

Yahoo this is so good!!! We have ABS-CBN (4), ABC (6), NBN (8), GMA (12), SBN (21), STUDIO 23 (23), and QTV (but don't know what frequency un). More or less 7 free TV stations. Wow dami na nito! :banana:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:37 PM

Meanwhile, all systems go for the 2009 Mayon Trail Run this Sunday, Oct. 18, 2009

http://img301.imageshack.us/img301/2025/sunsetmtr.jpg

Updates:

21k Race Schedule is revised to 6:00AM Start Time, 5K will follow right after.

- This is due to difficulty of deploying of over 200 volunteers across the trails in the dark. There will be over 100 Marshals and 100 emergency Response personnel, 4 ambulances, 1 helicopter, 5 ATV, 20 mountain bikers.

7 Water Stations

-Locations

Top of Estanza -3k

Foot of Estanza -5k

Foot of Ligñon – 9.5k

Top of Lignon – 9.8k

Bonga Intersection – 13k

Lava Front – 15k

Back of Ligñon – 20.5k

Water will be serve in plastic water bags (popularly known as ice water plastics) containing filtered water. Gatorade will be serve in Lava Front & Top of Ligñon in finish line.

No Changes in Trails…Since this is trail running expect the distance to reach 21.5 -22k should the runner take the longer edge of the Bonga Gulley.

Free packed dinner Bicolano food (spicy bicol express & pinangat) with banana will be serve after Race Briefing on October 17, 2009 to the first 150 registrants. (To know if your qualified, check your race bibs.,.Number 150 below), the venue is also full of restaurants, in case you don’t qualify for the free food and still want to eat there.

Emergency Numbers to know:

Please use this only in real and severe emergencies only.

09053415188

09228987079

for minor concerns please coordinate with race marshals, they will be present all around the trails.

Other Concerns, please call 09175588929

3 Turn around plastic strings.

locations : Top of Estanza -3k , Top of Ligñon 10k, Lava Front 16K, please make sure the strings are visible to the marshals at the turn around, since they will look for this before giving you another one.

Some parts of the trail are very very muddy, should it rain..it will be very sticky and slippery going downhill 1.5k from estanza and about 4oo meters going down Ligñon. Please be cautioned and wear the right shoes for trails.

Source (http://becoolrunner.com/mayontrailrun/?p=131)

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 05:41 PM

;44659566']Indeed!

Yup, it's probably a new homegrown business. Meanwhile, according to the marketing officer of LKY, they're hoping for a grand opening if at least 50% of the tenants are open, hopefully by December '09. Savemore supermarket could take up to 6 months construction, so it surely won't be part of the grand opening; DIY Hardware and 7 Degrees Restaurant will take about one month construction, so baka pwede daw makahabol. Tummy Yummy Diners is aiming for a month-end opening just in time for Undas. :okay:

^yung savemore mag coconstruct pa sila? bakit? san ba sila magput up ng store? diba tapos na yung building ng metro lifestyle hub? i thought sila ang magiging anchor store ng lky?

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:43 PM

;44629344']LCC Rewards Plus. The Power to Get More.

http://img131.imageshack.us/img131/9669/billboardgirlshop.jpg

What is the LCC Rewards Plus?

The LCC Rewards Plus is the LCC Customer Rewards program that rewards members with points every time they shop in ALL LCC STORES & participating partner establishments. Earned points can be used to purchase ANY merchandise at ANY LCC store. The LCC Rewards Plus Member also enjoys numerous exclusive privileges like discounts and free items from LCC and participating partner establishments.

Membership is valid for two years from the date of application.

http://img70.imageshack.us/img70/2870/rpsteps.jpg

How do I become an LCC Rewards Plus Member?

1. Buy an LCC Rewards Plus Membership Kit at designated cashier's booths of LCC Department Store, LCC Supermarket or LCC Expressmart for only P88.

2. Use the card immediately to earn points.

3. Fill out completely the application form included in the kit.

4. Submit the application form at the LCC Customer Service Counter and personalize your card.

5. Claim your personalized LCC Rewards Plus card and coupons within 3 days from the date of purchase and enjoy earning your points.

Source (http://bicolguide.blogspot.com/2009/10/lcc-rewards-plus-power-to-get-more.html)

LCC is Bicol's pride!!! I'm glad that LCC is updating. I hope it will have a nice website also.

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:43 PM

Yeah, heard of it too! But I learned that the developers were given the data already, as in everything. It is a hard copy though. The developers do not want to encode it anymore. I am not sure though if the encoding of the data to web files is included in the contract.

In fairness to the local government, it does not have an IT Section or Unit yet. The existing IT personnel are actually "multi-tasking". So, I think this is one thing that the local government should look into, to iron up the issues in web development, etcetera - create the IT unit and put up permanent personnel, so that they will be focused on the IT work.

Got your PM! Hehe. I agree, the city government should prioritize IT if it wants Legazpi to be recognized as an IT Hub. One of the best ways to promote the city is through the Internet. Nowadays, when people want to check out a place, the first thing they do is to Google it. And basing on wowlegazpi.com's web statistics, there are a lot of people from all over the world searching for information about Legazpi and Albay.

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:47 PM

^yung savemore mag coconstruct pa sila? bakit? san ba sila magput up ng store? diba tapos na yung building ng metro lifestyle hub? i thought sila ang magiging anchor store ng lky?

Oo nga ano?! Maybe they want a bigger one. Hmmm SM City na lang kasi hehe.

DIY is a big plus!

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 05:48 PM

Yahoo this is so good!!! We have ABS-CBN (4), ABC (6), NBN (8), GMA (12), SBN (21), STUDIO 23 (23), and QTV (but don't know what frequency un). More or less 7 free TV stations. Wow dami na nito! :banana:

^ tapos puro teleserye ang palabas?:lol::lol::lol:
time for a change...dapat maraming airtime yung sa business news, weather and climate forecast,etc...

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:49 PM

^yung savemore mag coconstruct pa sila? bakit? san ba sila magput up ng store? diba tapos na yung building ng metro lifestyle hub? i thought sila ang magiging anchor store ng lky?

I think the Lifestyle Hub is almost finished based on the photo below, tenants are probably in the process of moving in and customizing their units.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs201.snc1/6830_161825833304_589338304_2691824_3925578_n.jpg
by Frank Stoll

However, the supermarket component (see red-colored area in site development plan below) is not yet done.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/site-development-0615091.jpg

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:52 PM

LCC is Bicol's pride!!! I'm glad that LCC is updating. I hope it will have a nice website also.

Hehe, 'Love and care for all consumers..." I don't know if peeps here still remember that old LCC jingle ('90s). :lol:

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:52 PM

;44639688']Off-road Challenge, Ibalong Festival
Tahao Road, Legazpi City

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/5/photos/123/600x600/31/31.jpg?et=aO7Y5Bu8D2WL6xyydjJlfw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/6/photos/123/600x600/33/33.jpg?et=cp%2BIUAnI7yl6VhALgTB4gw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/12/photos/123/600x600/21/21.jpg?et=7PKmXsurEjLnPIhQhaLSlw&nmid=290097897

http://images.tomfalconjr.multiply.com/image/2/photos/123/600x600/25/25.jpg?et=nCCzTHG6lxsAsrx0k3LKrQ&nmid=290097897

Photos by Tom Falcon Jr. (http://tomfalconjr.multiply.com/)

This was the vacated bus terminal. This lot is for sale. Hope Robinsons or SM will get this soon.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 05:53 PM

^ i see...so confirm na talaga ang SM savemore sa the Metro...ano na kaya ang magiging anchor store ng Embarcadero nyan? kung pasorosyalan...pwede nila iinvite ang rustans...hehe...atleast makita ng rustans kung gaano ka elegante ang lugar...at para maisipan na rin nila mag put up ng starbucks store sa embarcadero...hehe

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 05:54 PM

Let's wait and see. :)

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 05:56 PM

This was the vacated bus terminal. This lot is for sale. Hope Robinsons or SM will get this soon.

^ more or less 10 hectares daw yan na vacated lot ng bus terminal...yup hope too...kasi strategic masyado ang lugar...look ang lapit sa bus terminal...malapit sa airport...kung dagat naman manggagaling...andyan lang malapit sa legazpi port or at the pantao seaport...

by the way sabi ni joks operational na daw ang pantao seaport...this means completo na ang Albay...may international port(legazpi and tabaco) at regional port(pantao) great development!!!

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 05:57 PM

;44660360']I think the Lifestyle Hub is almost finished based on the photo below, tenants are probably in the process of moving in and customizing their units.

http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs201.snc1/6830_161825833304_589338304_2691824_3925578_n.jpg
by Frank Stoll

However, the supermarket component (see red-colored area in site development plan below) is not yet done.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/site-development-0615091.jpg

Yeah ito nga. SM Savemore is finally months to go. SM brand is here at last in Legazpi City and this is not a hearsay anymore!!!:banana: I can feel that SM cannot resist the temptation to put up the grandest SM City in Legazpi hehehe:lol:

megalgzp

October 15th, 2009, 06:00 PM

^ more or less 10 hectares daw yan na vacated lot ng bus terminal...yup hope too...kasi strategic masyado ang lugar...look ang lapit sa bus terminal...malapit sa airport...kung dagat naman manggagaling...andyan lang malapit sa legazpi port or at the pantao seaport...

by the way sabi ni joks operational na daw ang pantao seaport...this means completo na ang Albay...may international port(legazpi and tabaco) at regional port(pantao) great development!!!

My friend told me also about the revival of Pantao. This is a very good slash to the naysayers of this Pantao haha. Bichara, Salceda and Rosal are very good!:banana:

[dx]

October 15th, 2009, 06:04 PM

Bicol, Central Visayas forge tourism partnership (http://businessmirror.com.ph/home/regions/17347-bicol-central-visayas-forge-tourism-partnership.html)
Written by Danny O. Calleja / Correspondent
Thursday, 15 October 2009 21:02

LEGAZPI CITY—The Bicol region and Central Visayas have complementing tourist attractions that, when promoted together, will give tourists more options to stay. It is thus to the mutual benefit of the two regions that the forging of a mutual tourism promotion drive is now in the works.

And with the recent opening by Cebu Pacific of direct flights between here and Cebu, the mutual tourism promotion initiative has become more necessary to boost each region’s tourism industry, Maria Ong-Ravanilla, the Department of Tourism regional director for Bicol, said here over the weekend.

Ravanilla said these direct flights three times a week make tourists from Cebu only an hour’s flight away from Bicol’s ecotourism and world-class sporting destinations.

Among Bicol’s more modern attractions is the Camarines Sur Water Sports Complex, located within the capitol compound of Camarines Sur. It played host to the Cobra Ironman 70.3 Philippines, an international triathlon competition that drew over 2,000 tourists last month. It also serves as a regular venue of the yearly international cable wakeboard competition.

Another is the Gota Village Resort in coastal Caramoan, Camarines Sur, which was the chosen venue for two consecutive years of the Koh Lanta, the French franchise of the reality show series Survivor, now being aired by Europe’s major broadcast channel TF1 to an audience of over 12 million worldwide, Ravanilla said.

There are also five places in Bicol identified as key ecotourism sites of the Philippines: the Mayon Volcano in Albay; Mount Isarog in Camarines Sur; the whale shark interaction site and firefly watching in Donsol; the Bulusan Lake in Bulusan; and the Prieto Diaz bird-watching mangrove cove, all in Sorsogon.

Mayon Volcano, the world’s most perfect cone, is one of the 17 protected areas in the Bicol region. It is endowed with diverse natural resources, which is beneficial to students and other environment enthusiasts in the conduct of research and ecotourism activities. There is an ongoing Mayon Volcano Natural Park Eco-tourism Project being conducted for an integrated ecotourism activity in the area, Ravanilla said.

Bulusan Lake is a favorite destination for nature lovers because of its surrounding forests that boast of exotic flora and fauna. It lies 2,084 feet upon the slope of the still-active Mount Bulusan, which is also famous among mountain climbers.

The Prieto Diaz bird-watching site is a vast mangrove-reforestation area located at a wide cove along the western coastline of the Pacific Ocean. It is now a protected sanctuary of flocks of various species of birds.

Sorsogon also has several natural-spring resorts of both cold and hot waters in Irosin town, while the Nag-aso Burning Lake within the vast Bacon-Manito forest reservation recently developed by the Philippine National Oil Co. down its geothermal energy field is another must-visit wonder of nature, Ravanilla said.

In Camarines Sur the Consocep Mountain Resort, nestled on the shoulders of Mount Isarog at an elevation of 1,800 feet above sea level, is another ecotoursim destination in Camarines Sur. It features cool mountain air made more refreshing by the presence of two big waterfalls, Tumaguiti and Bulalacao.

In Masbate the protected manta-ray sanctuary at the Ticao Pass is also a big contributor to the region’s impressive ecotourism performance, while the province’s yearly International Rodeo Festival has been a sporting event attracting both foreign and local enthusiasts.

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 06:04 PM

^yeah...ang pantao port is very strategic port know why? it a half way point to two of bicol's biggest cities(legazpi and naga) and two emerging cities(ligao and iriga)

alekcz

October 15th, 2009, 07:43 PM

;44626556']^^Welcome, alekcz!

thanks dx!

Brandon32

October 15th, 2009, 07:51 PM

welcome to the thread alekcz! where you from? enjoy posting!

olineil

October 15th, 2009, 08:46 PM

^yeah...ang pantao port is very strategic port know why? it a half way point to two of bicol's biggest cities(legazpi and naga) and two emerging cities(ligao and iriga)

Very true... also majority of the commercial shipping trade and lanes are rather in the western seaboard of Albay. Maybe the eastern seaboard cities of the Philippines should make a trade pact to increase the shipping traffic between cities so as to enhance the commercial activity on the eastern front. :)

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 01:59 AM

Vegetable seedling distribution program, ipig-urgulyo kan Albay (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=113378)
10/14/2009 8:06:02 PM

LEGAZPI CITY- Labi-labing pig-urgulyo kan lokal na gobierno an vegetable seedlling distribution program kani na tabang sa tahaw kan naeeksperienciahan na kakulangan sa suplay nin gulayon.

Segun ki Jojo Elvira, Albay Provincial Agriculture Consultant na napapanahon soboot an pag-ani kan saindang produkto kan mga paraumang nabenepisyaran kan sinambit ng programa.

Ini sa tahaw na man kan naeeksperienciahan na kakulangan sa suplay nin gulayon sa Pilipinas matapos madanyaran kan magkakasunod na bagyong Ondoy asin Pepeng an Northern Luzon na ikinukunsiderar na vegetable basket kan nasyon.

Dai sana man soboot ini makakatabang sa pangangaipo kan Albay sa suplay nin gulayon kundi preparado man ining mag-export nin gulayon sa mga nadanyaran kan kalamidad partikularmente sa Metro Manila, Northern asin Central Luzon.

Sa rekord kan lokal kan gobierno labi sa 20 mil na parauma an nabenepisyaran kan sinambit ng programa gikan sa pitong banwaan kan Albay kun saen kadaklan sa mga ini an nakatalaan ng mag-ani kan saindang mga produkto.

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 02:03 AM

http://img158.imageshack.us/img158/3097/comelec2bforum.jpg

COMELEC AUTOMATION 2010 – Smartmatic-TIM consortium that won P7.2 billion poll automation contract with the Commission on Elections, represented by Miguel E. Avila, (upper right corner) visits Bicol region to conduct election forum regarding the election counting machines features and reliability, the forum was participated by Local Government Units (LGUs), Department of Education (DepEd), students, media and other stakeholders, held at Albay Astrodome last Monday (Oct. 12). (Alex Cal/PIA)

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 02:04 AM

Albay Gov to pursue Doppler radar
By Rey M. Nasol

LEGAZPI CITY – Albay governor Joey Salceda who is a zero-casualty advocate is pursuing the Doppler radar installation to fully enable the weather forecasting agencies against devastating rains that occur even in the absence of a typhoon.

“The weather system is so deceiving nowadays and low pressure areas don’t necessarily have its name, fortunately the disaster preparation systems in our province are in place,” Salceda said referring to the community rain gauges coupled with the alertness of barangay disaster councils and the municipal disaster councils.

Salceda said the DCCs and BCCs were quick in responding to the emergency situation Wednesday and the province had attained a zero casualty report.

“We suspended classes in elementary and high school and the Bicol University College of Agriculture and Fisheries (BUCAF) has been cleared for classrooms used as evacuation center for those living at the low lying areas in Guinobatan, Albay,” Salceda said.

There were some 909 persons reported to have been pre-emptively evacuated to BUCAF from Barangay Maguiron.

“We ordered six army trucks to Manito Jamboree site to fetch the stranded school pupils there. The lesson today is that even a Low Pressure Area (LPA) can bring so much rainfall. I suggest that rainfall content be clearly included in PAGASA forecasts and bulletins,” Salceda explained.

“We are again reminded of the need to put up the Doppler radar which costs some P600 million from the Japan Internation Cooperation Agency (JICA) being the source of the grant,” Salceda said.

Salceda said that with the Doppler radar in place somewhere in Catanduanes province, forecasted would have longer (at least 6 hours) lead time to determine the rain content of tropical cyclones and give ample time for disaster authorities to decide and implement the appropriate preventive measures.

The governor said that although rain gauges are good instruments to determine the rainfall rate, it however, do not tell weathermen the amount of rain before it falls.

Salceda said Thursday morning the classes have been resumed in all levels across the province of Albay and that the routes going to Tabaco City from Legazpi as well as those going to Manila were restored after clearing operations of lahar and boulders were immediately conducted in Barangay Padang, Legazpi City and in Camalig town.

The Doppler Radar System will provide the region with early warning both for disaster mitigation and climate change adaptation, said Albay Governor Joey Salceda. The JICA set aside the total amount of P594,353,777 during a meeting of the Regional Development Council here last May 6, according to Science and Technology Secretary Estrella Alabastro.

Aside from the radar, the fund will be used for other projects under the Comprehensive Partnership in Science and Technology on Climate Change and Countryside Development project, she said. The Bicol region is battered frequently by typhoons. The Pagasa has warned that at least five more tropical cyclones would enter the Philippine Area of Responsibility (PAR). (RMN)

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 02:10 AM

Found this study/rough draft for a brochure for Misibis Aviation. It's just a study, though.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/side1_study1.jpg

Source (http://peppercliff.blogspot.com/)

garycooper

October 16th, 2009, 02:14 AM

This was the vacated bus terminal. This lot is for sale. Hope Robinsons or SM will get this soon.

Well, this I suppose is the area that SM was eyeing before it even went to Naga. I hope with the success of SM Naga, they will take a second look at a possible SM Legazpi. And I also hope the protector of Pacific Mall will no longer be a hindrance to SM's entry for the sake of Legazpi's progress. Sayang yung opportunity. :ohno:

six

October 16th, 2009, 04:17 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0002-3.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0003-6.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0004-5.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0024-2.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0029-2.jpg
The Beauty of the Philippines... shining through
Philippine Airlines... shining through (remember this song?)

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 04:26 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0029-2.jpg
The Beauty of the Philippines... shining through
Philippine Airlines... shining through (remember this song?)

^^Nice pics! You also captured one of the lamp posts in Ligñon Hill hehe. Yup, I remember that old PAL ad. One of their best ads. :okay:

4ss-d8Hf498

six

October 16th, 2009, 04:33 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0001-4.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0009-6.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0013-4.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0015-4.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0016-4.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0017-5.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0018-6.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0021-3.jpg
Chowking Kiosk is open from 4 - 9AM and 2 - 9PM.
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0027-3.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0028-3.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0030-5.jpg
Bitter gourd plants at the foot of Ligñon Hill.

six

October 16th, 2009, 04:40 AM

Albay Products
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0032-3.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0033-1.jpg
http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0034-3.jpg

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 04:50 AM

^^Very nice photos, six! Especially the ones taken in Ligñon. Where else in the country can you find a park such as this with a fantastic 360 degree view of a world-famous volcano and of course, the city and the gulf below. :okay:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 04:52 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0021-3.jpg
Chowking Kiosk is open from 4 - 9AM and 2 - 9PM.

Bukas na pala yung Chowking outlet sa Ligñon. Perfect for breakfast after jogging up the hill or for a light dinner while relaxing after a long day at work. I hope a cafe will also open for coffee-holics. :colgate:

garycooper

October 16th, 2009, 05:03 AM

http://i87.photobucket.com/albums/k153/sixth2006/PICT0030-5.jpg
Bitter gourd plants at the foot of Ligñon Hill.

Magayonon na talaga diyan sa Lignon Hill. Yugun mo yun, may tanom pang amargoso! :)

Very nice pics SIX. Thank you and Keep up the good work!

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:07 AM

^ hindi talaga tinantanan ng chowking ang lignon hill...kung may chowking eh d malamang magtayo rin dyan ang jollibee at greenwich ng kiosks..pano na yung mga local delicacies? sana may puto, ibos, suman na mga itirinda dyan sa kiosks...pti su native na cocoa drink...i remember sa camalig may dairy factory...pwede sinda dyan mag supply ki fresh cows milk and chocolate drinks...masustansya pa!

Thanks six for sharing the pix, they are wonderful...

Maray na Albay!

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:10 AM

Magayonon na talaga diyan sa Lignon Hill. Yugun mo yun, may tanom pang amargoso! :)

Very nice pics SIX. Thank you and Keep up the good work!

bitter gourd pala sa ingles ang marigoso(amargoso?) ano ang tamang albay-bicol term ng ampalaya? hehe marigoso ang aram ko eh...thanks

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 05:10 AM

sana may puto, ibos, suman na mga itirinda dyan sa kiosks...pti su native na cocoa drink...i remember sa camalig may dairy factory...pwede sinda dyan mag supply ki fresh cows milk and chocolate drinks...masustansya pa!

Thanks six for sharing the pix, they are wonderful...

Maray na Albay!

That's a very good idea! Dapat may tindahan man ki traditional na mga mirindalan na authentic Bicolano hehe

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 05:11 AM

;44686192']^^Very nice photos, six! Especially the ones taken in Ligñon. Where else in the country can you find a park such as this with a fantastic 360 degree view of a world-famous volcano and of course, the city and the gulf below. :okay:

In Tagaytay, the People's Park in the Sky...you can have a 360 degree view of Laguna Lake, Balayan Bay, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Talim Island and other provinces as well.

http://photos.friendster.com/photos/01/15/9475110/1_578900704l.jpg

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 05:12 AM

Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285264740_736779740_3880539_5852696_n.jpg

welcome treats
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285229740_736779740_3880533_4465451_n.jpg

welcome drinks
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285224740_736779740_3880532_1745401_n.jpg

the beach
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285249740_736779740_3880536_7141527_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736779740)

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:15 AM

^ naks! ok hakz posing mo dyan ah...hehe...oo nga noh, maypagkaparehas ang features na background na yan sa may legazpi port area...

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 05:15 AM

More Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots

sunrise
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285299740_736779740_3880545_2627530_n.jpg

sea foam
http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285294740_736779740_3880544_6000695_n.jpg

pool
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285309740_736779740_3880547_7283704_n.jpg

cloudy day in Misibis
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285324740_736779740_3880548_48441_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736779740)

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 05:16 AM

^ naks! ok hakz posing mo dyan ah...hehe...oo nga noh, maypagkaparehas ang features na background na yan sa may legazpi port area...

supog pa ko sa pagposing dito....:lol:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 05:17 AM

In Tagaytay, the People's Park in the Sky...you can have a 360 degree view of Laguna Lake, Balayan Bay, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Talim Island and other provinces as well.

Yup! Ligñon's advantage is it's accessibility, just a few minutes away from the city. :okay:

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:19 AM

^ OT:hehe ok lang yan...ano height mo pading hakz?

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 05:20 AM

More Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots

a suite
http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285344740_736779740_3880551_7183393_n.jpg

hillside
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285334740_736779740_3880549_4407955_n.jpg

fastcraft transfers
http://photos-h.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285364740_736779740_3880554_2224142_n.jpg

infinity pool at night
http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285369740_736779740_3880555_1009753_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736779740)

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:21 AM

In Tagaytay, the People's Park in the Sky...you can have a 360 degree view of Laguna Lake, Balayan Bay, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Talim Island and other provinces as well.

http://photos.friendster.com/photos/01/15/9475110/1_578900704l.jpg

^ talaga? kita pati yung sa cavite side? or immediate vicinity lang ng tagaytay? ganda rin pala sa peoples park!

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 05:21 AM

^ OT:hehe ok lang yan...ano height mo pading hakz?

:lol::lol: 179 cms.

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:24 AM

^ tangkad ah!

;44687170']More Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots

hillside
http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285334740_736779740_3880549_4407955_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736779740)

Ok yung pagkakakuha nito ah...galing!

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 05:25 AM

^ talaga? kita pati yung sa cavite side? or immediate vicinity lang ng tagaytay? ganda rin pala sa peoples park!

yup, Tagaytay is already in Cavite....Taal Volcano is part of Batangas, Talim Island is part of Rizal Province-considered as the Philippines largest freshwater island...it's divided among Binangonan and Cardona, i guess

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:32 AM

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 05:44 AM

;44681418']Found this study/rough draft for a brochure for Misibis Aviation. It's just a study, though.

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/side1_study1.jpg

Source (http://peppercliff.blogspot.com/)

What places in the country have its own aviation industry?:

1. Manila
2. Cebu
3. Clark-Subic
4. Ilocos?

Pagmagkataon pang lima ang Albay na magkakaroon ng sarili nyang aviation industry...maganda ba pakingggan ang Misibis Airways? hehe lets see!

garycooper

October 16th, 2009, 05:56 AM

In Tagaytay, the People's Park in the Sky...you can have a 360 degree view of Laguna Lake, Balayan Bay, Taal Lake, Taal Volcano, Talim Island and other provinces as well.

Actually it's not 360 degrees hakz if you are at People's Park. Maybe 275 degrees only because you cannot view the other side of Cavite because it is covered. Manila and the coastal towns of Cavite (Bacoor, Kawit, Cavite City, etc.) cannot be seen from People's Park.

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 05:59 AM

Actually it's not 360 degrees hakz if you are at People's Park. Maybe 275 degrees only because you cannot view the other side of Cavite because it is covered. Manila and the coastal towns of Cavite (Bacoor, Kawit, Cavite City, etc.) cannot be seen from People's Park.

What I meant is that You can have a 360 degree view up there. I ain't saying that you can actually see the whole of Cavite.

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 06:00 AM

^ there, thats what im thinking,too!

hakz2007

October 16th, 2009, 06:01 AM

What places in the country have its own aviation industry?:

1. Manila
2. Cebu
3. Clark-Subic
4. Ilocos?

Pagmagkataon pang lima ang Albay na magkakaroon ng sarili nyang aviation industry...maganda ba pakingggan ang Misibis Airways? hehe lets see!

There is no aviation industry in CamSur but it has an aviation school, the Aeronautical Academy of the Philippines in Canaman, Camarines Sur. The students there are trained in Manila.

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 06:12 AM

^ that's cool!

Pading Romy

October 16th, 2009, 06:33 AM

;44686934']Misibis Bay Raintree snapshots

http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285264740_736779740_3880539_5852696_n.jpg

welcome treats
http://photos-c.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285229740_736779740_3880533_4465451_n.jpg

welcome drinks
http://photos-e.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs211.snc1/7816_186285224740_736779740_3880532_1745401_n.jpg

the beach
http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc1/hs231.snc1/7816_186285249740_736779740_3880536_7141527_n.jpg

Source (http://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=736779740)

Fuertihon na talaga an Misibis.Marhay na Albay sa Gabos! asin sa Gabos Marhay na Panahon! Como Esta Pading Brandon?

Pading Romy

October 16th, 2009, 06:34 AM

aw anong nangyari ta an post ko daa dai ipo-post without approval from moderator.naban ako mga padi?

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 06:39 AM

^uy pading romy...long time no post! how are you?

Pading Romy

October 16th, 2009, 06:43 AM

I'm ok padi.been travelling,kamusta weather dyan?an satuyang mayon? grabe man an bareta kan bicol digdi sa manila.airport ako padi waiting for my flight to bacolod.masskara fest baga ninda ngunyan.wara man ki inanod sa mga forumers?

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 06:47 AM

^ buti naman...an paghuna mi ngani ika su saro sa mga inanod ta wara kang ribok-ribok for the past thread...lalo na kan after kan ondoy buda pepeng...su mga manila based na forumers tabi nag sound off digdi...kaw lang su ngonyan pa lang...iyo baga maskarra festival sa bacolod..dae ko man aram ang weather sa albay ta nyaon pa ako digdi sa cebu..

Pading Romy

October 16th, 2009, 06:55 AM

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 07:00 AM

^ hehe..hindi pa ako nakarating ng bangkok..what its like? ilang years ba ahead sa atin ang thailand in terms of infrastructures?

padi si governadora ta sikatunon ngonyan...pirmi nababasa ang pangaran sa diaryo lately...hehe

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 08:20 AM

na stuck ako for 2 days in cebu for ondoy,then nasa bangkok ako for pepeng. ata gari naga breakdance an eroplano.hehe.Marhay na Albay sa Gabos!

Maray na Albay Pading Romy! Glad you're back.

I'm ok padi.been travelling,kamusta weather dyan?an satuyang mayon? grabe man an bareta kan bicol digdi sa manila.airport ako padi waiting for my flight to bacolod.masskara fest baga ninda ngunyan.wara man ki inanod sa mga forumers?

Herak kan Dios, wara man. Wow, Masskara Fest!

aw anong nangyari ta an post ko daa dai ipo-post without approval from moderator.naban ako mga padi?

Haha, dai man tabi Pading Romy. Nagsi-nok lang ang SSC, kaya kung minsan may for approval na posts daa.

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 09:35 AM

Costa Palmera Resort
Sto. Domingo, Albay

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/8462/2625660675fgual3.jpg

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/4462/2625669317wgipl3.jpg

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/6788/262566042xyvlqm3.jpg

http://img240.imageshack.us/img240/7346/263606669ffcjum3.jpg

Photos by http://studioworkplus.com

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 09:40 AM

Ligñon Hill snapshots
by Rudy (http://picasaweb.google.com/rudydelosreyes)

Pavilion
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/IMG_8763.jpg

Walking up the hill
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/IMG_8711.jpg

http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/IMG_8712.jpg

Planespotting: PAL and CEB
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/IMG_8749.jpg

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 09:44 AM

Apl de Ap's Take Me to The Philippines
Proud to be Pinoy!

YA6zddnMISQ

Features Mayon Volcano, Cagsawa and other renowned Philippine destinations

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 10:27 AM

Australia's Get Lost Magazine features Donsol (and also Legazpi's ATV to Mayon's Lava Wall)

After last issue's feature article of Iloilo's Dinagyang Festival, GET LOST! magazine again put the Philippines in the limelight, gracing the front and back cover of the magazine.

Front cover
http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Cover-front.jpg

Back cover
http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Cover-back.jpg

Get Lost! is an Australian travel magazine published quarterly, with high quality glossy print and features the 'not so common' and unique travel destinations. For Philippine destinations having been featured on 2 successive issues is a very rare opportunity to showcase what the country has to offer to the Australian market.

This issue's Philippine feature is the Donsol whale shark experience. The magazine ranked it as #1 in its Top Five Trips, the editor and staff's pick of the best trips that they can find for the quarterly issue.

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butnading-8.jpg http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butnading-9.jpg

For getting to the #1 spot, Get Lost! organised a 10-day adventure of the whale shark encounter and island hopping...

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-6.jpg http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butnading-7.jpg

Now here's the full 5-page article...

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-1.jpg http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-2.jpg

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-3.jpg http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-4.jpg

http://i135.photobucket.com/albums/q128/shyaman_king/Butanding-5.jpg

Monsi

October 16th, 2009, 11:03 AM

;44693916']
http://i1015.photobucket.com/albums/af278/dxb_01/IMG_8749.jpg
^Me like! Two higher capacity narrow twins...Airbus A320 both!

garycooper

October 16th, 2009, 11:09 AM

;44695354']Australia's Get Lost Magazine features Donsol (and also Legazpi's ATV to Mayon's Lava Wall)

:applause::applause::applause::applause::applause:

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 11:16 AM

^ galing! dapat talaga alagaan natin itong mga whalesharks na ito kasi dudumugin talaga ng mga tourista(foreign and local) itong donsol sorsogon na ito...hope world class resorts would start construction in the area...and of course budget but neat and comfortable accommodations for local tourists

joks_25

October 16th, 2009, 11:49 AM

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 11:59 AM

^^^this is great! also a contest is being aired in Discovery channel asia in SHARK WEEK, the price is trip for two in Donsol Sorsogon. it is sponsored by manila ocean park, its in the website but i just dont know how to post a print of a website.

Short info lang po: bukas na ang Tabaco City Mall

At last, nabuksan man giraray ang controversial na Tabaco City Mall. Thanks for the info, joks!

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 12:05 PM

Albay's award-winning APSEMO at work:

* * *

Albay disaster council braces for floods and landslides as typhoon 'Ramil' approaches (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=2&sid=&nid=2&rid=235700)
By Mar S. Arguelles

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct. 16 (PNA) --- Disaster authorities in Albay are bracing for floods, mudflows and landslides as Typhoon Ramil (Lupit) enters the country, bringing with it heavy rains and winds.

Albay Governor Joey Salceda, Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) chair, directed on Friday disaster authorities here to prepare disaster mitigating measures for floods, mudflows and landslides in the event typhoon Ramil passes by, threatening floods and landslide-prone villages across the province.

He said, “Even if Ramil is not projected to 'direct hit' Bicol, Albay must intensively prepare for floods, lahar and landslides as the overarching risk of this cycle of extreme weather events.”

Salceda instructed the Albay Public Safety Emergency and Management Office (APSEMO) to retrain and retool its disaster preparedness strategies particularly using the lessons from Ondoy and Pepeng.

The disaster preparedness strategy will focus on floods, and landslides in 173 flood and landslide prone villages in Albay.

For landslides, the strategy will be barangay-led evacuation and the activation of the Landslide Advanced Monitoring Team tasked to check rain gauges put up in strategic areas and updating their village evacuation plan.

Special focus will be on villages in Manito, Libon, Tiwi, Bacacay and Cagraray island where landslides have been an occurrence.

For floods, there is a need for more conscious employment of resources and strategies as flooding would be complicated by movement of lahar from Mt. Mayon.

Salceda ordered the APSEMO to acquire ten 10-man rubber boats at P465,000 each using the province calamity fund enabled by the State of Calamity of the National Government.

The 35 military trucks prepositioned at Mayon evacuation in Camp Ola should be alerted for dispatch in the event of flooding and landslides takes place, the governor said.

Given the province's topography, agricultural base and barangay-based disaster response, APSEMO has commenced emergency procurement of 173 bamboo rafts under Albay's Noah's Ark- Balangay ng Barangay program.

The bamboo raft costing P10,000 each will be distributed to the 173 flood prone barangays especially in the lahar-prone areas of Guinobatan, Camalig, Daraga, Legazpi and Sto. Domingo and the floodplains of the Third District which are susceptible to the backflows from overflows of Bato Lake and swelling of river system in the Rinconada area of Camarines Sur.

Salceda said the rubber boats are for urban areas while the raft will be most appropriate in rural areas.

The APSEMO has procured 1,000 portable public address systems at P6,000 each for distribution and use of 720 barangays, 38 parishes, NGOs and CSOS, colleges and universities and other critical institutions for use in the mass mobilization for preemptive evacuation.

The Community Flood Emergency Response Teams (CERT) or the four-man Balangay ng Barangay Team will manage the rubber boats and bamboo rafts equipped with rubber boots, hard hats, search flashlights, personal protective equipment, hand globes, utility ropes, life vests, ring bouy.

APSEMO should also alert the Albay Health Emergency Management specifically for health impacts of flooding, Salceda said.

For food and relief, he said the provincial social welfare office must replenish the inventory of prepositioned rice packages after the utilization for Typhoons "Ondoy" and "Pepeng" preemptive evacuation.

The provincial health office was directed to ensure availability of medical supplies to Rural Health Units, provincial hospitals and at PHO public health central station particularly for water-borne diseases and for the management of our evacuation centers.

Meanwhile, the provincial engineering office was instructed to be ready with equipment for clearing of roads, chain saws and other equipment used for clearing typhoon debris.

Salceda, a policy adviser of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, said he is worried and fearful of the economic consequences of three consecutive destructive extreme weather events particularly on the outlook for 2010.

He said he is disturbed about the rice and corn supply demand basket in Isabela, Nueva Ecija, Pangasinan from which Albay imports half of its 300,000-MT rice requirements.

Only P18 billion including five percent of the annual staple output has so far been affected by "Ondoy" and "Pepeng", he said.

“The impact on vegetables is another thing and that is only the direct output. The second round effects on livestock, agri-processing industries and rural commercial activities which use agriculture as feedstock input and the impact on farmers incomes which underlie the demand (mass consumption base) for the output of services and industry,” Salceda explained. (PNA)
LAP/LQ/MSA/cbd/

Brandon32

October 16th, 2009, 12:38 PM

^^^this is great! also a contest is being aired in Discovery channel asia in SHARK WEEK, the price is trip for two in Donsol Sorsogon. it is sponsored by manila ocean park, its in the website but i just dont know how to post a print of a website.

Short info lang po: bukas na ang Tabaco City Mall

^uy bukas na ang Tabcaco City mall...This places this city behind legazpi and naga in terms of number of operating malls within its territory...:banana::banana:

Atleast pwede ng makipag compete ang tabaco city with legazpi and naga...very good development!

sherwinm26

October 16th, 2009, 01:28 PM

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093326.jpg
Albay Gulf
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093327.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093328.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093329.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093331.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093332.jpg
Nag-aso Boiling Lake
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093338.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093339.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093340.jpg
Seaport
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093341.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093342.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093343.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093344.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093350.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093352.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093353.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093356.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093358.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093359.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093360.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093361.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093362.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093363.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093364.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093367.jpg
http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093369.jpg

Monsi

October 16th, 2009, 02:02 PM

^@Sherwin...Sayang, dai nalawos su provincial jamboree dyan sa Manito (nagtunong na kuta su uran kan Wednesday afternoon)...but gari sulit man su lakaw nindo. Salamat sa mga pictures.
Nuarin daw makaantos dyan su extension kan corniche...

Al Khobar, er, Albay Corniche and Jebel Mayon...:)
A matter of ten or fifteen minutes...these grainy shots could have been sharper, brighter. Kasubago, few minutes before it gets dark...
http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/17/1200x1200/21/DSC01389a.JPG?et=h3vLW1HH7pGVoikqLrK0KA&nmid=287752803
http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/17/1200x1200/22/DSC01393a.JPG?et=griRY6xSiUNrG47OVeEVPw&nmid=287752803
http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/17/1200x1200/23/DSC01400a.JPG?et=Bc8AQZsqB%2C5aHYPFIcSVHw&nmid=287752803
^Details...the walkway up close...

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 02:48 PM

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093338.jpg

Great photos, sherwin! Thanks for sharing. Now I know how Nag-aso Boiling Lake looks like. :okay:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 03:01 PM

http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/17/1200x1200/22/DSC01393a.JPG?et=griRY6xSiUNrG47OVeEVPw&nmid=287752803

This is definitely shaping up to be one of the city's most scenic spots. :okay: It won't take long before we see photoshoots happening in this new spot. I hope that the future structures that will surely rise along the new boulevard will have good designs. :okay:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 03:23 PM

Join the Albay Eco-Challenge on Climate Change Adaptation

http://img230.imageshack.us/img230/5307/albayecochallenge1.jpg

alekcz

October 16th, 2009, 04:58 PM

welcome to the thread alekcz! where you from? enjoy posting!

thanks brandon! im from legazpi..:)

sherwinm26

October 16th, 2009, 05:52 PM

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/asale.jpg

Metro Legazpi and Metro Lucena celebrate A+ Grand Anniversary Sale on October 30 to November 2!

Enjoy A+ deals and savings. Metro brings you exciting great buys, special deals and superb discounts of up to 50% on wide selections.

Come and celebrate with us and have a certainly A+ shopping experience!

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 06:49 PM

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 06:49 PM

NNC updates MTPPAN (http://www.pia.gov.ph/default.asp?m=12&r=&y=&mo=&fi=p091016.htm&no=54)
by CP Babaran

Legazpi City (16 October) -- The Medium-Term Philippine Plan of Action for Nutrition (MTPPAN) was formulated in 2005, under the leadership of the National Nutrition Council (NNC), as the country's blueprint to address malnutrition among Filipinos.

In 2008, the PPAN was updated to be more responsive to socio-political and economic developments brought about by global trends. The MTPPAN aims to contribute to the achievement of the country's commitment toward the UN Millennium Development Goals and Targets as well as on poverty reduction and hunger mitigation.

For 2008-2010, the updated MTPPAN is directed towards reducing disparities by prioritizing population groups (e.g. pregnant women, infants and children 1-2 years) and geographic areas that are at risk to malnutrition. Investments shall also be increased in interventions that could impact more significantly on undernutrition such as breastfeeding promotion, complementary feeding, supplementation with Vitamin A and zinc and the appropriate management of severe acute malnutrition.

The NNC and its network at various levels will continue to provide the structure and mechanism for coordinating and integrating the implementation of the updated MTPPAN. (NNC/PIA

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 06:52 PM

Top 10 October 2009 Mechanical Engineers

The successful examinees who garnered the top 10 places in the Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination October 2009 are:

1. Radino Encaya Estoria, Techonological University of the Philippines (TUP-Manila) - 89.35%
2. Cesar Minorias Baron Jr, University of Cebu - 88.80%
3. Marcelo Casquejo Santillan, Bicol University - Legazpi - 88.55%
4. Mark Cecil Mirasol Tano, Cebu Institute of Technology - 87.80%
5. Christopher Magnaye Requinto, Batangas State University- Batangas City - 87.75%
6. Dale Bryan Raiz Pacheco, Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology - 87.40%
7. Christopher Beunavente Sanchez, Bicol University - Legazpi - 87.20%
8. Jan Derrick Hernandez Nidar, University of the Philippines - Diliman - 87.15%
9. Michael Ernani Arce Andres, UUniversity of the Philippines - Diliman - 87.05%
10. Ian Wildon Auino Dizon, University of the East - Caloocan - 86.85%

* * *

Congratulations! Bicol University further solidifies its reputation as a good engineering school. :okay:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 06:55 PM

Port of Legazpi at Night

http://img80.imageshack.us/img80/7550/401635268354e9bf4944o.jpg
by Sir Mervs (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sir_mervs/)

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 06:58 PM

Mayon Reflection

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3495/4015845993_0e56695278_b.jpg
by winwel (http://www.flickr.com/photos/winwel/)

marlowe_cano

October 16th, 2009, 07:08 PM

hello Legazpi City & Albay Province... :banana:

[dx]

October 16th, 2009, 07:50 PM

hello Legazpi City & Albay Province... :banana:

Buenas Dias, marlowe_cano! :)

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093350.jpg

Is Nag-aso far from Manito town proper? This pier looks huge, but I don't see any other structures near it. I guess only fishermen use this pier, and probably the occasional tourists.

Brandon32

October 17th, 2009, 12:18 AM

;44715224']Top 10 October 2009 Mechanical Engineers

The successful examinees who garnered the top 10 places in the Mechanical Engineering Licensure Examination October 2009 are:

1. Radino Encaya Estoria, Techonological University of the Philippines (TUP-Manila) - 89.35%
2. Cesar Minorias Baron Jr, University of Cebu - 88.80%
3. Marcelo Casquejo Santillan, Bicol University - Legazpi - 88.55%
4. Mark Cecil Mirasol Tano, Cebu Institute of Technology - 87.80%
5. Christopher Magnaye Requinto, Batangas State University- Batangas City - 87.75%
6. Dale Bryan Raiz Pacheco, Mindanao State University - Iligan Institute of Technology - 87.40%
7. Christopher Beunavente Sanchez, Bicol University - Legazpi - 87.20%
8. Jan Derrick Hernandez Nidar, University of the Philippines - Diliman - 87.15%
9. Michael Ernani Arce Andres, UUniversity of the Philippines - Diliman - 87.05%
10. Ian Wildon Auino Dizon, University of the East - Caloocan - 86.85%

* * *

Congratulations! Bicol University further solidifies its reputation as a good engineering school. :okay:

dalawa pa kamong taga BU ang pumasok...galing! continue this good habit..:cheers::cheers:

Maray na Albay!

Brandon32

October 17th, 2009, 12:31 AM

;44715064']It's been 8 years since Metro Gaisano Legazpi opened. :okay:

^ And its getting better and better! so kahit magtayo pa ng SM sa legazpi PM and LCC are confident that theres still a huge market for them..Kahit nga may Embarcadero na eh...ma tao pa rin sa PM and LCC and the Bichara silverscreen...This only show how vibrant the economy and the market of legazpi city nowadays..Cheerz!!

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 02:22 AM

Arroyo awards 250 shelter units in Bicol (http://www.mb.com.ph/articles/225052/arroyo-awards-250-shelter-units-bicolhttp://www.mb.com.ph/articles/225052/arroyo-awards-250-shelter-units-bicol)
By ELLALYN B. DE VERA
October 16, 2009, 5:29pm

President Arroyo has awarded 250 shelter units to 840 typhoon-stricken families in Albay province, bringing the total number of delivered shelter units for disaster victims to 31,663 units nationwide.

Under the Core Shelter Assistance Project (CSAP) of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD), President Arroyo turned over 250 Certificates of Ownership to disaster victims at the Tagaytay Resettlement Site in Camalig, Albay. DSWD Secretary Esperanza Cabral said the national government has funded a total of 31,663 shelter units from 2001 to 2009 worth P1.4 billion.

Cabral said Luzon, which is often the most badly hit island has the most number of shelter units with 16,932, followed by Mindanao with 15,269, and the Visayas with 3,083 units. Of the total units in Luzon, 7,108 were built in the Bicol Region. The DSWD chief said the 14.5 hectares resettlement site in Barangay Tagaytay was purchased by the Municipality of Camalig and developed by the National Housing Authority.

“These families are now proud owners of environment-friendly and structurally-strong shelter units that can withstand typhoons with up to 200 kph wind velocity, earthquakes up to intensity four in the Richter Scale and other natural hazards,” Secretary Cabral stated. President Arroyo said that the government will also allocate funds for the construction of a school building in the resettlement area.

The event was also highlighted by the presentation of the 30,000th beneficiary of CSAP. Salvador Oraye, the 30,000th beneficiary, from Sitio Basud, San Rafael, Guinobatan, Albay, has been awarded a Certificate of Ownership at the Quitago Resettlement Site also in Albay.

He also received a check worth P5,000 from President Arroyo. Cabral also acknowledged the support of Habitat for Humanity Philippines, the government of Italy, International Organization for Migration and Senator Juan Miguel Zubiri for the completion of the core shelter units in Camalig, Albay.

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 02:30 AM

PGMA to sign Climate Change law by end-October (http://pia-misorocccam.blogspot.com/2009/10/pia-dispatch-15-october-2009.html)

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo is set to sign into law the Climate Change Act of 2009 on Oct. 30, after the Legislative-Executive Development and Advisory Council (LEDAC) agreed that one of the effective tools to face the global challenge of climate change must be institutionalized. The President today convened LEDAC, which is the advisory and consultative body to the President and the Legislature on various socioeconomic issues, to discuss effective climate change measures.

The law, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia, aims to mainstream climate change into policy formulation, development panning, and poverty reduction programs. It also creates a Climate Change Commission (CCC) to coordinate, monitor, and evaluate the programs and action plans of government relating to climate change. The CCC will be headed by the President. It will be composed of three Commissioners, one of whom shall be the vice-chairperson.

The Commission is mandated to formulate “a framework strategy on climate change, which will serve as the basis for a program for climate change planning, research and development, extension, and monitoring of activities to protect vulnerable communities. Local government units (LGUs) will be the frontline agencies in the formulation, planning and implementation of climate change action plans in their respective areas.

Meanwhile, Congress committed to pass the Philippine Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Act when it resumes its sessions after the All Saints’ Day recess. The measure seeks to strengthen the country’s disaster risk management capability by establishing the National Disaster Risk Management Plan.

The Press Secretary said the bicameral committee will meet with stakeholders and the National Disaster Coordinating Council (NDCC) to fine tune the provisions of the measure based on the recent experiences on typhoons “Ondoy” and “Pepeng.” In the same meeting, the President expressed her gratitude to Congress for approving last night the P12 billion supplemental calamity fund.

“They did it in time for today’s meeting,” he said. The LEDAC also agreed to further strengthen government’s information dissemination on climate change so the “people will understand.” The Office of the Press Secretary will handle the task. Other measures suggested include the creation of a river basin council and more green jobs.

* * *

This comes two years after Albay's Declaration on Climate Change Adaptation. Read about it here (http://www.albaydeclaration.we.bs/).

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 02:33 AM

Closeup of Mayon's crater and summit

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2550/4016351185_878b9b079f.jpg http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2512/4016350599_f77e20df9f.jpg

by Sir Mervs (http://www.flickr.com/photos/sir_mervs/)

Monsi

October 17th, 2009, 02:44 AM

;44704734']This is definitely shaping up to be one of the city's most scenic spots. :okay: It won't take long before we see photoshoots happening in this new spot. I hope that the future structures that will surely rise along the new boulevard will have good designs. :okay:

Very early this morning...
http://images.legazpeep.multiply.com/image/1/photos/17/1200x1200/24/DSC01450a.JPG?et=SvOJJ2Z26b5YuBYbAErkvw&nmid=287752803
More pictures here... (http://legazpeep.multiply.com/photos/album/17)

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 02:48 AM

^^Really nice! I like the reflection on the water. :okay: Kapuntukan looks almost like an island here. hehe

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 02:58 AM

Sunrise in Embarcadero
by Dacel Andes (http://micreations.multiply.com/)

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/69/1200x1200/2/Sunrise-Embarcadero-2.jpg?et=6Dn%2BmuFyPMdGRfBtrpnxBg&nmid=290628533

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/69/1200x1200/6/Sunrise-Embarcadero-6.jpg?et=M6JaGXfPl1Cel2IwoVCebg&nmid=290628533

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/69/1200x1200/4/Sunrise-Embarcadero-4.jpg?et=LpMGX5xDugEkwtgElc80WQ&nmid=290628533

http://images.micreations.multiply.com/image/1/photos/69/1200x1200/11/Sunrise-Embarcadero-11.jpg?et=zgOIf%2BWsZKWfpwTkN7QomA&nmid=290628533

sherwinm26

October 17th, 2009, 03:05 AM

;44717898']

http://i701.photobucket.com/albums/ww17/sherwinm27/101320093350.jpg

Is Nag-aso far from Manito town proper? This pier looks huge, but I don't see any other structures near it. I guess only fishermen use this pier, and probably the occasional tourists.

9 kms (rough road) from Manito town proper. Before daw my biyahe from legazpi to sitio nag-aso pier, ngayon wala na. Only the fishermen and tourists used the pier. 10 meters from the pier is the Nag-aso Boiling Lake.

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 03:10 AM

9 kms (rough road) from Manito town proper. Before daw my biyahe from legazpi to sitio nag-aso pier, ngayon wala na. Only the fishermen and tourists used the pier. 10 meters from the pier is the Nag-aso Boiling Lake.

I see, thanks! 9 kms is quite far, lalo na kung rough road. Good thing the boiling lake is very near the pier. So the easiest way to visit this unique lake is through the Albay Gulf.

[dx]

October 17th, 2009, 03:18 AM

UNDP cites RP's need for a "Disaster Czar" (http://www.gov.ph/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=2001917&Itemid=2)

MANILA, Oct. 15 (PNA) -– The United Nations Development Program (UNDP) has cited the need for the Philippines to have its own specialized disaster management agency and a highly competent “Disaster Czar” to attend to disaster risk mitigation.

Various sectors, including Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro, called for the creation of such agency following the recent onslaughts by Typhoons Ondoy and Pepeng whose heavy rains and strong winds wrought havoc in Metro Manila and the rest of northern Luzon.

The two natural disasters left some 700 casualties in their wakes and put to serious question country’s national disaster preparedness program.

Noting the number and frequency of natural disasters spawned by weather disturbances in the country, UNDP Country Director Renaud Meyer said the Philippines indeed needs such a dedicated disaster agency and an effective and efficient “Disaster Czar.”

A recent newspaper report quoted Meyer as having pointed to Presidential Economic Adviser and Albay Governor Joey Salceda as the man most fit to run such agency, being “one of the country’s models to be emulated for having actually built up preparedness among every level of Albay society and government personnel.”

Meyer pointed out that Salceda has, in fact, developed Albay, his province, as one “that is best prepared to meet contingencies before they happen.”

“A measure of Salceda’s and other Albay officials’ success (in this regard) is the annual decline in casualties, deaths and property damage” from various natural disasters in his province, he added.

Meyer noted that the Albay provincial government and its people not only manage the disaster when it comes and do a good job of doing rescue and relief work, but have also carefully mapped the vulnerable areas of the province and do actual year-round preparedness seminars and drills.

Aside from his key role as Presidential economic adviser, Salceda is also an active campaigner on climate change adaptation. He has pioneered and coined the term “preemptive evacuation” which means “moving people out of disaster path before the actual danger occurs.” It is now an adopted disaster standard operating procedure nationwide.

Salceda’s target – ‘zero’ casualty – in every natural disaster has been the guiding rule for the local disaster councils in Albay, as well as the crisis managers and the private sector groups that support him, who have all put premium value on human life above all.

Helping the Philippines in development planning to support the Millennium Development Goal (MDG), the UNDP noted with approval that in many places, private sector and civil society groups took initiatives to undertake rescue and relief operations by themselves. (PNA)