Legazpi City---

Legazpi, usually misspelled Legaspi, is a city in the Philippines and the capital of the province of Albay. The city is also the regional center of the Bicol Region. It is sometimes given the monicker Queen City of Southern Luzon. It is a top tourist destination in Bicol as it lies 15 kilometers southeast of Mayon Volcano, the Philippines' most famous volcano. Legazpi was named after Miguel L pez de Legaspi, the Spanish explorer who came to the Philippine islands in the mid 1500s.

REPUBLIC OF THE PHILIPPINES

City of Legazpi
Region: Bicol Region (Region V)
Province: Albay
Population:2000 census—157,010.
Density—769 per km².
Area: 204.20 km²
Barangays: 70
Congressional district: 2nd district of Albay
Class: 1st class; partially urban

Positioned in the geographical center of the peninsula and the two island provinces of Catanduanes and Masbate, it has the strategic advantages of a commercial, institutional, and transportation hub. Legazpi is the southernmost terminus of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) Main Line South. It also has a national port handling export (cement, abaca or Manila helm, and before the operation of Legaspi Oil Company in Barangay Arimbay in early 1960's and Cosay Oil Mill in early 1990's, copra and coconut products). Legazpi Airport, with a runway of 2,280 meters (longer than Bacolod's and Iloilo's), is the region's gateway and trunkline airport. Philippine Airlines has a daily flight to/from Manila using Boeing 737-300s (higher capacity 737-400s are used during peak seasons). SEAir flies from/to Cebu Mondays and Fridays. Alternate sites for relocation of the airport and upgrading into international are Bariis (farther from ashfall) and Alobo (15 kilometers from Mayon's crater). Visit

As a commercial hub, Legazpi is home to malls: the largest mall in Bicolandia is Pacific Mall/Gaisano Metro Legazpi Department Store and Supermarket, serving as the centerpiece of Landco Business Park. Prior to the opening of Landco Business Park, homegrown Liberty Commercial Center (LCC) Legazpi was the region's largest retailer. It has expanded to Naga City (LCC Central Mall). A. Bichara Silverscreen and Entertainment Center is a multi-story haven of shops, bistros, and cinemas. The seat of city and provincial offices and lately blooming into a new downtown, Albay District (also Old Albay or simply Albay as the district was the capital town of the Province before merging with Legazpi) has bistros that remain open till late at night; some shops and restos are open 24/7. Legazpi has three Jollibee stores: two in Port District (LCC and Pacific Mall), and one drive-thru in Albay, beside Mercury Drug/GTS and in front of Quick and Hearty.

A magnet of students, the city hosts two universities: Catholic-run Aquinas University (AUL), and state-run Bicol University (BU), one of the country's biggest. Manila-based educational/training centers have put up shop: AMA Computer University is currently constructing its building along busy Rizal Street, and STI College is a stone-throw away. The first school of medicine in Bicolandia is AMEC-BCCM in Albay District. Singapore-based Informatics is soon opening a branch, the second in Bicol (the first is in Tabaco City). Innodata, a New York-based company, tapped this city's young and dynamic population, putting up a data conversion center operating in three shifts; see http://www.philippinebusiness.com.ph/geographics/legazpicity.htm.

As a financial center, Legazpi City has more than 20 ATM's for 24-hour banking convenience. Its revenue collection for CY 2001 is Php862.97M versus Naga's Php437.66M, and for CY2002, Legazpi collected Php1,016.84M versus Naga's Php453.07M; figures (revenue collection) downloaded from http://www.bir.gov.ph/revcol2001.html and http://www.bir.gov.ph/revcol2002.html The City's hardworking mayor Noel E. Rosal is into widening main thoroughfares, building seawall/promenade, and expanding the seaport.

Legazpi City has two air-conditioned arenas: Albay Astrodome in Albay District and Ibalong Centrum for Recreation (ICR) near Landco Business Park, which for a number of times served as venues of Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) games when teams like Ginebra, Shell, San Miguel, Pop Cola, among others visit Bicol. During the past few years, only Legazpi could host PBA games because other cities in the region do not have air conditioned arenas. The long gown competition of the Miss Asia-Pacific, an international beauty contest, was held in the ICR in 2001. AUL has a brandnew gym (AQ Dome) with PBA/NBA sized courts and ring/boards. It only needs air conditioning and it could host regional and national games, amateur and professional; ditto Divine Word College gym. The city's hotels and convention halls regularly host regional and national conventions and seminars; In 2002, Albay Astrodome even hosted an international convention of the Free Masons; in November 27, 2003, about 4,000 members of the Philippine Institute of Certified Public Accountants (PICPA) attended its 57th annual national convention.

Begun in early 90's and held every October to coincide with Legazpi Port District fiesta, the Ibalong Festival is the grandmother of all festivals in Bicol. Other provinces followed suit: Voyadores and Kaogma in Camarines Sur, Kasanggayahan in Sorsogon, and Katandungan in Catanduanes. Legazpi is also home to Albay's Magayon Festival held the whole month of May. Other parts of Albay now have their own: Tabak in Tabaco City, Oyanggi in Polangui, and Daragang Magayon in Daraga (a first class municipality which is contiguous to Legazpi).

This is my Home town--- Im very proud of my City coz despite Bicol region is regarded as one of the poorest region in the country, Legazpi City has been defying all the odds to lately it has placed 4th in the rankings of industrializing small cities in the country.

I'll be posting pics soon as i can...

Thanx for viewing...

thanks for sharing :okay: welcome to SSC Philippines :hi:

-ty-

ok good luck

thanks for the wonderful photos :okay:

I was just watching a couple of nights ago in Discovery Channel where they featured Pompeii and Mt Vesuvius' eruption in 79 AD. Legazpi is so near Mayon, it makes me scared to live near an active volcano :uh:

Thats a very common presumption of people... :)

Theoretically...it is safer to live near active volcanoes coz, it lets out the energy build-up every now and then. Like in the case of mayon is an average of 6-8 years it will erupt...but recently it has been erupting yearly from 2001-2004 with very minimal energy being released. Its more dangerous to live near a dormant or not so active volcanoes coz they could build-up energy to cataclysmic levels coz they dont release it so often. This is exactly what happened to mt. pinatubo, it had built-up its energy for 600years eventually bursting into catacliysmic levels...taal is also abit dangerous so to speak...its very seldom that it erupts if im not wrong. Moreover legazpi city is way-over the Mayon volcano danger zone radius w/c is 6-8Km from the crater, Legazpi city urban area is around 15 km away. Last time it was affected was 1968 eruption but it was only minor ashfall because there was a sudden shift in wind direction. Wind direction in Albay is usually east-west or west-east. Legazpi is south of mayon :). Its actually an expectacle to watch when its erupting....beautiful :righton: but of course to expense of the eastern & western towns next to mayon...but pyroclastic materials and lava flow are limited to its slopes only...

I would like to invite you all to visit bicol 1 day, and see how our natural wonders there....Sad to say not much is being done by our government to promote the rest of the country.... :(

Man, :applause: Legazpi city is really pictureseque especially with Mayon in the background. hmm... if Southrail literally gets back on its track Legazpi's pacific ocean port would really compliment Manila and the rest of Luzon. Welcome to SSC olineil

yeah... Mayon is very picturesque... and very eye-catching.. I remember a year ago when we had our Bicol Tour that we had a joy ride around the Mayon....so I have seen all the 360degrees of Mayon.....

yeah I hope tha Mayon would be promoted more by the government coz for me its more beautiful than Mt. Fuji.... its a bit neglected.... :D

anyways... Taal is one of our strongest active volcanoes if i'm not mistaken... it may be small... but when it erupts... its very dangerous......

Thank you all...im happy u guys appreciate the photos...

heres an update:

Mayon is not the only beauty in Legazpi...even our women...hehehe as seen here in our Ibalong Festival
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/2a_gal_cntst_ibalo2.jpg

one of the stronger eruptions of Mayon: But still Legazpi City is very safe then
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/_659745_erupt300.jpg

Another Photo of Albay Cathedral (This is where the Pope had a Mass last 1981 if Im not wrong)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/1.jpg

Aerial View of the city & Mayon
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Mayon.jpg

how about pictures of the city itself? I'm interested whether it has very 70-80's look or has it retained its old colonial look

how about pictures of the city itself? I'm interested whether it has very 70-80's look or has it retained its old colonial look

Unfortunately I havn't been home for quite awhile and I dont have updated pics of the city center. Last time I went home about 2 years ago...there was quite alot of developments...the old city center which is the port district is a combination of old and new building...much like those typical philippine city with buildings side-by-side with each other...but much of the newer areas are fast modernizing... The city is also quite clean....id say about a shower or two short of singapore cleanliness....so to speak... ive been browsing the net for nice take of the city center but most I can find are old ones.... i'll see what I can find....

yeah.. that's one thing I noticed in the Bicol region... may towns are clean....

Mayon Volcano is really beautiful... :bow:

Wow—olineil—thanks for posting the super-cool pics that are SO nostalgic to me, since I haven’t been back to my lolo’s hometown since graduating high school way back, back then (before 1980s!). The closest I’ve gotten to “being there” in recent times was watching the DVD “Kailangan Kita” where Aga Muhlach falls for probinsiyana Claudine Barretto—napaka-homesick na!
Your update on our beloved <Ibalon> not only brought back fond memories, but also rekindled pride in my Bikol roots. Mahalo nui loa from Honolulu!

What a beautiful place.

WOWOWEE!!! GREAT PICS.... :eek2: Im impressed...

olineil post mo yong 1st pic mo sa world forum citytalk under city wity with great mountain backdrop... :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

ok i shall do that....this is a great way to promote pinas....cheers!!! :cheers:

Wow—olineil—thanks for posting the super-cool pics that are SO nostalgic to me, since I haven’t been back to my lolo’s hometown since graduating high school way back, back then (before 1980s!). The closest I’ve gotten to “being there” in recent times was watching the DVD “Kailangan Kita” where Aga Muhlach falls for probinsiyana Claudine Barretto—napaka-homesick na!
Your update on our beloved <Ibalon> not only brought back fond memories, but also rekindled pride in my Bikol roots. Mahalo nui loa from Honolulu!

Hello Hawayano....So ur bicolano....where from? Are you from Albay itself or other provinces? If Albay...which city or town? Nice to know there are other bicolano posters here....
:pepper: :pepper: :pepper: :pepper: :pepper: (I miss bicol express & laing)

im not exactly bicolano. but i know that basically my most of my relitves in the philippines are from Sorsogon.. so im basically a half bicolano poster. hehe

shown here is the serene beauty of mayon....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/mtmayon.jpg

But beauty can also be destructive....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/32923351-020_large.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/mayon2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/mayon3.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/32923351-018_large.jpg

:eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:

How did you get up close to take photos like that?

Urbanization....

Peñaranda Park @ Albay District, Legazpi City (Around the park is Legazpi City Hall-left, Albay Provincial Capitol [where the photo is taken from], Capitol Annex-right, Albay Cathedral-far background)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/penarandapark2.jpg

People of Albay & Legazpi City celebrating the 24/7 Month Long Festivities of Magayon Festival around May if im not mistaken
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/magfest_partypeople.jpg

The Newly redeveloped harbourfront walk next to the Legazpi City port
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/legwall_mayon.jpg

15000 capacity Albay Astrodome (The only sports arena that can Host PBA in Bicolandia)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/astrodome.jpg

Daraga Church (the parish church that replaced cagsawa church that was ruined by mayon volcano during the 1814 eruption) this church sits on top of a hill with a panoramic view of mayon, Daraga town, & Legazpi city
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/daragaChurch.jpg

Daraga Town Hall with Daraga Parish Church in the background
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/bldg.jpg




Nature Thrill....

Tiwi Falls (at the town of Tiwi which houses the second largest Geothermal Plant in the world next the Geo plant in California)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/tiwifalls.jpg

Sunset @ Bacacay Beach area, Bacacay Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Sunset3.jpg

Sunrise @ Mayon Camp around 2000ft above sea level
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/sunriseCampMayon.jpg

Mayon Skyline Hotel rest Huts (who would think that there is a Hotel right smack in the middle of Mayon's slopes)....there is....
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/skylinehotel.jpg

Pototan Cave
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/pototanCave2.jpg

Parong Boiling Lake
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/paronglake.jpg

Palale Water Falls
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/palai234.jpg

Misibis beach, Misibis Island off the Albay Gulf
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Misibis4.jpg

Malison Lake, Ligao Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/malison.jpg

Manaet Island
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/corangonisland2.jpg

oh my goodness! :uh: Legazpi is soooo underrated. Bicol should be exposed more. thanks for the pix olineil :okay: --ty

wow these pics are eye-openers! i agree @tyronne, these places deserve more exposures.

Bicol is cool! :lol: Yeah, I know it sounds corny! I've been to Bicol many moons ago for a class trip and even back then it was a wonder to behold. Highlights of that trip was trekking up Mt. Mayon, visiting the geothermal plant at Tiwi, sightseeing in and around Legazpi City and Naga, and visiting the beaches in the area. We stayed at this resort (and I forgot the name of the place) that had black sand and it was weird but yet fascinating to walk on it. :colgate:

WOW! nice pics...ang ganda... ang sayasaya...

buti pa ang Albay may Astrodome...

Legaspi/Albay has so much to offer.

Thanks guys, Im really happy that u appreaciate my posts....nakakataba ng puso :pepper: :pepper: ....I really wish I could do more to promote Bicolandia...but its stil at the mercy of our national government. Our country has all the potential to become a Major tourist destination....our government just have to serve the people and not serve their personal purpose. Just think about this....Here in Singapore, they dont have natural resources and natural tourist spots, their best beach here is way pathetic than out mid quality beaches (man -made), but last year (2004) they managed to attract 30 million toursits. Wow...how ironic.

if PH can do that, Imagine the income generated....
30million x say US$2000/per person on expenses on the trip (just an assumption)= US$60,000,000,000 billion. Wow, Lets just pray that our government are coming to theirs senses now and start doin what they need to do.....Magkaisa tyong mga Pilipino...thats the only way....Cheers
:dance:
lets celebrate the Filipino Spirit!!!!!!

wow.. those pictures are impressive... and yeah.. Bicol, especifically the Mayon has great tourism potential... it's majestic.... thanks for posting those pix! :D

olineil, ano yang "uragon"... or is there such a word?

olineil, ano yang "uragon"... or is there such a word?

"Uragon" this is a very bicolano word that has different meanings depending on how you use or phrase the word. It can be positive or negative.

in general it means "magaling/ talented/ innovative/ cunning"

but if you use it this way:
Ano! Uragon kana!? - (Ano! Kaya mo na ako!?) this would be a threat...
Ay uragon padi!!! - (Ay Hanep pare!!!) a sign of approval
Uragon ka talaga padi! - (Ang galing-galing mo talaga pare) a praise
and many more....

Usually people will comment... "Bicolano? uragon yan" (Bicolano? Ay magaling yan")

well thats it...cheers

:cheers:

oh my goodness! :uh: Legazpi is soooo underrated. Bicol should be exposed more. thanks for the pix olineil :okay: --ty


Very underrated! Looking at these wonderful views that aren't seen is proof that Legaspi and the Mayon region is underrated.

URAGON that is...

uragon gani !

looks like the peeps there know how how to party:)

i first thot uragon is the same with bisaya "uwagon"...

now i know... indeed Bicolanos are URAGON!!!

Albay Park & Wildlife (houses 200+ wild animals including bird sanctuaries donated by generous bicolanos & albayanos)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/AlbayWildlifepark.jpg

Albay Park & Wildlife (viewing the man made lake for boat riding, & the bridge)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/AlbayWildlifepark2.jpg

An Arch Rock formation somewhere in Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/archrockformation.jpg

Another Aerial View of Mayon
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/mayonaerial.jpg

Mayon During Sunset
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/mayonsunset.jpg

:applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause: :applause:

More photos please! :D Bicolandia is indeed a hidden tourist treasure trove!

wow :applause: :applause: :applause:

Misibis Beach looks nice! And the harbourfront! Nice pictures! I've been to Bicol before, but i was really really young then. My memory then was so limited. We used to play at Legazpi's airport. Hehe, a huge playground it was for us. I wanna go back!

whowowow!!! :applause:

hmmm. very interesting. :)

Street Parade Presentation
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ibalongfestival_streetdancers.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Ibalong_Festival_01.gif

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/2a_gal_cntst_ibalo3.jpg

Thanx to Yves Eli Yu for the following photos:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ibalong4-YvesEliYu.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ibalong3-yvesEliYu.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ibalong2-YvesEliYu.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ibalong1_YvesEliYu.jpg

-A little something about Ibalong Festival frm: INQ7.net-

The festival takes its inspiration from the 18th century epic about life in the Bicol peninsula long before the Spanish colonizers came to our shores.

Adapted from "Ibalong," the book on Bicolano folk epic by Dr. Merito Espinas, the festival honors the exploits of three mythical Aryan heroes -- Baltog, Handyong and Bantong -- who came to a rich land called Ibalon, fought several ferocious monsters and wild beasts, safeguarded the mountain crops, brought joy to the villagers and transformed the rich land into what is now the bustling civilization of Bicol.

Started in 1992, the festival aims to instill among Bicolanos everywhere a sense of pride and identity in the rich cultural heritage of Bicol. More than the festival events, the Ibalong is a celebration of the resiliency and indomitable spirit of Bicolanos amid daily challenges.

The street theater's theme is a recreation of the epic's important chapters including the arrival of the three mythical heroes, their conquests and the Ibalong folkways. Performers, mostly youth from the schools in the entire region and only from Legazpi City, will be clad in their indigenous, colorful abaca-inspired costumes and grotesque masks while doing choreographed dances along Legazpi City's main thoroughfares with the world's most perfect cone-shaped volcano, Mt. Mayon, as dramatic backdrop.

There were about twenty contingents from different schools in the Bicol region, which participated in last year's street presentations. Sorsogon's Donsol National High School was the champion for Best in Exhibition as well as in Costume and Props. Camarines Norte State College won for Best in Street Dancing. Albay's Matacon National High School got the Best in Music and Sound award.

Other events during the weeklong Ibalong Festival include band concerts, street parties, smart nights, fireworks, an ecotrek, drag race, ballet workshops, art shows and exhibits, golf tournaments, midnight madness and mallwide sale among others. There will be food fests and cooking demos of Bikolano cuisine like the pinangat, Bikol express and their own version of dinuguan as well as the making of the delectable pili desserts.

Ravanilla enthused that two of the much-awaited Ibalong events are the search for the Mutya ng Ibalong and Lakan ng Ibalong, which draws young Bicolanos from the region and other parts of the country. Mutya ng Ibalong 2003 winner Maria Lourdes Arevalo of Naga City with her court Mayjel Madaong of Daraga, Albay and Haven Marie Angelique Yuboco of Lagonoy, Camarines Sur will lead this year's candidates in the outreach activities. The Mutya candidates will participate in the talent, fashion, gown and swim wear competitions scheduled from Oct. 25 until the coronation night on Oct. 29. Lakan ng Ibalong 2003 winners Lakan Baltog Nel Calveria Jr. of Goa, Camarines Sur, Lakan Handyong Joseph Brimon of Sipocot, Camarines Sur and Lakan Bantong Ali Raza Ahmad of Dita, Legazpi City will relinquish their titles to this year's winners on Oct. 27 at the Peñaranda Park.

Last year, thousands of ibos (a staple Bicolano food of cooked glutinous rice individually wrapped in coconut leaves) lined up the city's Rizal Street for the ibos contests. Reynaldo Lozada of Daraga, Albay and Samson Ardales of Homapon, Legazpi City won the top prizes in the ibos eating contest by consuming nine ibos and eight and half ibos, respectively, for the required time.

For the "Paharalabaan ki Ibos" contest, the Baltog team of Bascaran, Daraga won by making 1,467 pieces of ibos for a total length of 223.63 meters. The Oryol team of Taysan and Bantong team of Mabinit settled for the second and third place by making 1,261 and 1,282 ibos with a total length of 192.22 meters and 195.43 meters, respectively.

Sto. Domingo Church, Sto. Domingo, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/stodomingochurch.jpg

St. Stephen Church, Ligao, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/ligaochurch.jpg

Venezia Hotel
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/venezia.jpg

Tabaco Bay, Tabaco City, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/tabacobay.jpg

San Miguel Island, Albay Gulf Area
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/sanmiguel1.jpg

Arrival tarmac @ Legazpi Airport
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/legazpiarrival.jpg

Somewhere in the Mountainous area south of Legazpi, Showing residential areas & Sleeping Lion Hill
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Bild17.jpg

Another view of Legazpi Pacific Mall
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/pacificmall.jpg

LCC Metro Legazpi Mall & Department Store (2nd Biggest Mall)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Bild11.jpg

The Obelisk @ Legazpi Rotunda ( Marking the old shoreline of legazpi, right side are reclaimed area)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Bild13.jpg

Perenial Problems of Philippine cities (wires)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Bild12.jpg

Maharlika Highway (Pity...this is a highway... :no: ) at least its well maintained)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Bild1.jpg

more to come...

Arrival tarmac @ Legazpi Airport
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/legazpiarrival.jpg


I like this photo. Mayon really dominates the region's landscape, you can see it in almost every photo, from every vantage point. :okay:

Saint Agnes Academy (Private Primary & Sec School) Sis school of St. Scho i believe
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/0406_StAgnes3.jpg

St. Agnes
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/0406_StAgnes2.jpg

St. Agness
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/0406_StAgnes1.jpg

Bike owners Having a day At Legazpi Airport
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/3400Dsc00687.jpg

Legazpi's Antiqued PNR station
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/3P5010129.jpg

Our Decades old Trains (I pray that the new Southrail rehab will finally bring to an end to bicolanos suffering)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/3P5010143.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/3P5010091.jpg

Train boarding Platform
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/3P5010010.jpg

Quezon Ave in legazpi port district & CBD
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/legazpi175.jpg

Another biew of the Obelisk
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/legazpi174.jpg

Legazpi City HAll, Albay District, Legazpi
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/2002-11-15019.jpg

Eureka ! Have you heard about the new resort near the Mighty Mayon Volcano? It's the Misibis Spa Resort. It was inaugurated by the Miss Earth Beauty Pagent contestants last November:

Watch the virtual tour. Word Class. Ang Ganda.

http://www.misibis.com/virtual_tour.asp


Btw Olineil, the Filipinas at the parade are Beautiful, like me ))

What's the recipe for Spicy Bicol Express btw

Yes Ive just stumbled upon this site yesterday....il be posting the images now....
:eek2: :eek2: :eek2: even I am in shock on what I saw....

Here it is----photos at the bottom----
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/map.gif
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-1.jpg

Site Plan
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/homesalesmap.jpg

LEGAZPI CITY--A world-class beachfront spa resort, with a long stretch of fine white sand and complete with modern facilities, is now in full development in Barangay Misibis, Bacacay, Albay, by prominent Bicolano businessman Elizalde "Zaldy" Co.

"It's a very strategic and fully nature-packaged beauty resort where one can absolutely feel in one setting as if he is in Palawan, Phuket, Bali, Maldives, Boracay, and Waikiki, or perhaps better," Co said.

Dubbed as an architectural structure at its finest, the Misibis Spa Resort and Residences is aimed at being the next world-class tourist destination in the country.

It will be boosted by the new international airport that is being planned for construction in the province, particularly in Barangay Alobo in nearby Daraga town.

The place offers a panoramic view of the Mayon Volcano, Sula Channel (galleons and ships' sanctuary in times of typhoon), Pototan Cave in Batan Island (known for its teeming terraces of waterfall like contour of pools of water overflowing from its "cauliflower" structure, and its exotic underground rivers), Bac-Man geothermal site and Nag-asu Lake (the "burning" lake of Albay), among other features.

Just 20 minutes away from the resort is an underground river called Pighologan Cave.

Actually, though the resort will be fully operational by March 2006 yet, many tourists, both local and national have already visited the resort.

40 hectares

The Misibis resort is a 40-hectare beachfront property nestled at the south coast of the Pacific Ocean via a three-km route to the Sula Channel.

Co said that though at present the resort has only two big function rooms, it will soon open the following amenities and services: restaurant and bar, poolside bar, lagoons, more function rooms, souvenir shop, sauna and spa, grand main lobby, a chapel, infinity pool, business center, beachfront cabanas, auto terrain vehicles, driving range, indoor games, tennis court, water sport activities, marina, and horseback riding.

"It's more than a five-star hotel, since right now the construction of two or more big villas and six or more clusters are in the process. People coming here will not only enjoy the tranquil beauty of the beach or other scenic spots that it can offer, but, of course, also the state of being private just like in a hotel," Co explained.

He added that just like in any other world-class beach resort, this too, would offer numerous infinity pools where one can appreciate the conducive and exclusive atmosphere of the place.

Co said the project entails an initial cost of 250 million pesos, although he admitted that it could further reach up to a billion of pesos for its full development.

Ronald Bejerano, senior architect and project manager, added that the proposed project would have a main clubhouse that can accommodate 200 to 300 guests.

Five clustered houses surrounding the layered and infinity pools will cascade from the main clubhouse.

Cable car will also be constructed, offering a grand panorama of the site and its connecting islands.

Total development, including construction of high-end residential, areas will be completed in three years.

"Generally, construction materials will be local to promote our own product and give value to its competitiveness to imported products, yet some detailed finishing will come from the Asian region.

World-class

Co, 34, owner of the popular Legazpi Renaissance Garden and Country Club located at the heart of Legazpi City, told the Inquirer that what makes the Misibis resort world-class is its style.

It is Filipino-Asian in nature -- although influenced by the prominent beach resorts in Thailand, Indonesia, America, Maldives and some parts in Europe to where he has been. But he denied that it is in many ways a copycat, "for Misibis is largely very Filipino in character"-from the materials being used, the perspectives and designs, the employees, architects, engineers, contractors, interior designers, and of course, the naturalness of the place-which would make every Filipino very proud of.

"Most of the architects, engineers, contractors, and interior designers that I have employed were previously working abroad. They're that world-class, plus the fact that I let them come with me to other places abroad for them to see the modern and novel trend-setting styles of beach resorts," Co said.

As to the materials and equipment utilized, Co revealed that some of them were bought abroad, especially from America.

"This only refers to the toilet bowls, bath tubs, jacuzzis, tiles, the roofing of the villas and clusters," Co said.

As to the interior designs-wood, highly commercialized mineral commodities like pebbles and crafted materials-he stressed that they utilize local yet highly first-class and unique materials to adopt them to the discriminating tastes of tourists.

"Sometimes if the materials are not available in Tabaco, Albay, we order them from Cebu, Manila and Palawan or in some parts of Asia. So, this is indeed a Filipino-Asian in character. We try to preserve here the dazzling, natural and exotic beauty of Asia," he said.

Eco-tourism

The highlight of the resort focuses not just on the said amenities, but also on the "wild side" of the place -- the presence of a wildlife sanctuary.

This is in connection with the local government's declaration that most part of Cagraray Island is an eco-tourism zone.

Co said the purpose is for other tourists, who can't afford to go to the resort, to at least just roam around the area and experience the exhilarating beauty of the island and commune with nature.

"Majority cannot afford to come to the resort, but we can't deny them the alluring beauty of the place, so we have thought of developing a wildlife area," the young development-oriented businessman said.

He added that since it's world-class, most likely it will be the Class A that can afford to come, but having the eco-tourism area will enable other classes of people to enjoy the place.

"Somehow the idea here is related to the Phuket, Thailand Beach resort wherein foreigners will have to pay 2,000 dollars while domestic tourists from all over the Philippines will pay only 50 percent. Of course locals will pay discounted rates," Co said.

Travel time

Tourists interested to visit Misibis may take the route of Sula Channel in Bacacay town, wherein a motorized boat can ferry them across the channel and they can either take a 15-minute jeepney ride or a 25-minute boat ride to the resort.

Guests who wish to bring their cars can proceed directly to the Roro Port A and mount their cars onto the barge.

Another way is through the Legazpi port on board public sea transport, which is about one-hour drive by water to the resort's private port.

Now that there's a road under construction in Barangay Sula going to Barangay Misibis in Cagraray Island, tourists who wish to visit Pototan and Nag-asu Lake in Manito, Albay, will no longer take the main Batan Island area and the long way road just to reach these places.

The newly constructed road in Misibis will enable them to take off from Barangay Mosboron and cruise by 40 minutes to Pototan for its awesome underground river-cave.

By Gil Francis G. Arevalo and Ronnie Lorejo Inquirer News Service Published: September 16, 2003

Pics...Pics...Pics... :) :) :)

Main Gate With the Miss Earth Winners..
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-5.jpg

Inauguration
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/1104-001LCC.jpg

Main Gate
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/Earth-7CHOICE.jpg

One of Miss Earth Winners Havin a time in the sun
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Gate Emblem
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Gate
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Architects Rough House Renderings
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Cable Car connecting other Islands
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View from Cable Car
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Typical Road Network Under construction
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Miss Earth Activities
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/gate.jpg

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http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/1104-003HV.jpg

visit for more details.....www.misibis.com (http://www.misibis.com)

And who said Philippines cant achieve such feat....If we all work together, we are gonna make things Happen....Cheers :cheers:

Manila Bulleting Article on misibis:

Ms. Earth beauties help
save a historical jewel

By Rhaydz B. Barcia , Correspondent

CAGRARAY ISLAND, Albay—By holding a pro-environment activity, the candidates of the recent Ms. Earth beauty pageant gave valuable help in preserving this historical jewel of Bicol.

Ms. Earth 2004 Priscilla Mereilles and her court set foot on this historical island to plant pili seedling in Barangay Misibis at the wide stretch of white sand girding about 11 hectares of greenery and panoramic scenery.

Mereilles was with Ms. Earth-Air Muriel Celemine of Martinique, Ms. Earth-Fire Kahaia Lesage of Tahiti, Ms. Earth-Wind Yanina Gonzales of Paraguay and Thea Foejkaer of Denmark, Natalija Grubovik of Macedonia, Sara Lundemo of Sweden, Liesel Holler of Peru and Katherine Gonzales of Uruguay.

Unknown to Ms. Earth beauties and to many, this place is considered a historical jewel, because of the archeological relics that were found here between l879 and 1881 by Juan Alvarez Guevarra.

According to the archeological findings, sacred burial jars were found in two of at least 28 caves in the island and local historians suggest that these archeological evidences could prove that Cagraray Island was the cradle of Bicolano civilization about 200,000 to 300,000 years ago.

But that is not the only reason Mereilles described the area a “paradise on earth.”

The island is also seeing the rise of a P500-million residential resort that is frequently filled with the rich and famous.

The residential resort was developed by businessman Elizaldy S. Co of Sunwestville Realty and Development Corporation, one of the more reputable property developers in the region.

The Misibis Residential Resort boasts of exclusive residences with five-star amenities on a 20-hectare property of powdery white sand.

“Our advocacy is to help fellow Bicolanos to uplift their lives through the positive features this investment may bring forth to the community. Let us change the status of Bicol as the second-poorest region in the entire country.”

“Let us change the perception that Bicol can be proud no more than Mayon Volcano. Let us put Bicol on the map, and let everyone take an active part creating Misibis a place seemingly a paradise within reach,” Co said.

“It adheres to the principle of creating a balance between development and the concern and care for the environment. We will have our own sewerage treatment plant to ensure that the natural beauty of Misibis is never exploited through willful neglect of environment,” he added.

Dean Barbers, the Philippine Tourism Authority general manager, said that the opening of the residential resort here will help to uplift the economic growth of Bicol from poorest region to progressive region.

“This new resort is even better than Mount Amanpolo. This is the new tourist destination not only in the country but throughout the world because of unique and world class style,” Barbers said.

The place offers a panoramic view of Mayon Volcano; Sula Channel, which used to be the sanctuary of galleons in time of typhoons during the Spanish era; the well-known burning Nag-asu Lake and Bacman geothermal plant in Manito.

Adjoining the resort are several caves and captivating limestone formations. The unexplored Pototan Cave in neighboring Batan Island can be reached by a fleeting boat ride.

Just 20 minutes from the resort is another underground river called Pighologan Cave and after a 25- to 30-minute boat ride, tourists can visit the “wild monkey” sanctuary in Manaet Islet here.

Maria Ravanilla, the DOT regional director, told The Manila Times that the new resort is the biggest breakthrough in Bicol tourism.

“We’re happy that we have Zaldy Co in Albay, an active partner of government to develop Bicol through tourism promotion. We’re on the process of marketing and promoting this resort in the international market,” Ravanilla said.

“The provincial government of Albay constructed the cable car in this area and Albay can soon be like a Hong kong where tourists could see the picturesque landscape of adjacent Legazpi City and its adjacent areas,” said Vice Gov. James Calisin of Albay.

Misibis could be reached or take the route of Sula Channel in Bacacay, wherein a motorized boat can ferry them across the channel and can take a 15-minute jeepney ride or a 25-minute boat ride to the resort.

Co said less affluent visitors can reach the residential resort at a minimal cost once the provincial government approves the operation of the cable car this year.

Processo Taduran Jr., the cable car’s project engineer, told The Manila Times that the P10-million cable car project could accommodate at least 6 passengers.

This project was built in Barangay Sula with two stations in Sitio Pasulmoc and the other in Bukanan with 660 meters distance from station to station at about 37 elevation from Sula channel with 10 to 15 minutes travel time.

“With the strong support of the community, government agencies our company will continue to preserve the Cagraray Island while development is in progress,” said Co.

Pics fron another resort operator in misibis:
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/view-j.jpg

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An old ship wreck
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/ship.jpg

Cave at misibis
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/misibis/cave-1.jpg

Just a few more development and this beachfront could realy rival phuket, bali, etc....with the proper Development & promotion from government. I just hope this doesnt end up like boracay which became over commercialized but no proper facilities to sutain the growth of the tourist population....

These pictures are great pictures of the attractions but they're also great proof about how wonderful and unique the Philippines is. If you look at those pictures with the Miss Earth delegates, some of those pictures were not taken during the month-long stretch of the pageant but AFTER the show was done. The main winner (Brazil) and the other three winners remained in the the country for some time for appearances, but a good number of the other delegates (some semi-finalists, finalists and a lot of non-placers) wanted to see more of the country. So they found time to extend their stay and joined the four winners in going to more sites and parts of the country. And they had already visited many places during the pageant activities weeks before, but they wanted more!
The main winner Miss Earth is from Brazil and she's cool but one of the other winners Miss Paraguay's Yanina Gonzalez (they kept spelling her name wrong through the whole thing - GonzaleZ it's a Z not S) is the best and I hope she comes back to the Philippines!!

ThisFire :)

Bicol is a natural wonder. Don't you know that during the Manila-Acapulco Galleon Trade, the POrt of Legazpi was the entry port of SPanish Galleons going in and out of Manila. Hence, the port served as stop over for Galleons when a storm was at bay but many Galleons caught shipwrecked by the shore due to unavoidable circumstance.

I love the picture of the church bell tower left protruding after the volcanic eruption. A good location for a movie scene.

New development in Bicol. From now on, I'd make my post short.

New P101-M port seen boosting trade in Bicol

LEGAZPI CITY -- Completion in June of a P100.8-million commercial port in the village of Pantao in Libon town is expected to spur trade in the Bicol region, southeast of Manila, with the arrival of more cargo and passengers, an official said.

The port is also expected to bolster eco-tourism especially in the third district of Albay province, which includes the towns of Libon, Polangui, Oas, Ligao, Guinobatan and Camalig, said Rene Agao, acting manager of the Port Management Office here of the Philippine Ports Authority.

Update for Misibis Residential & Spa Resort...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/IMG_2173.jpg

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The place is sprawling with activity...and its not even at full-swing operations yet...I just checked the Site Plan of the residential subdivision...about 95% of the lots are already sold....My God!!! Ive been contemplating on Buying for investment but I guess, all the lots will be taken the next time I go home...Sob!!! Singhot....

I can Imagine the place in like 3-5yrs from now....Wowwww....cant wait to be there....

RDC APPROVES SITE FOR NEW LEGAZPI CITY International AIRPORT

The Regional Development Council (RDC V) has unanimously approved the barangay of Alobo in Daraga, Albay as the final site for the proposed New Legazpi City Airport. The approval took place during the RDC meeting last June 2002 attended by DepEd Secretary Raul Roco and DBM Secretary Emilia Boncodin in their capacities as Cabinet Officers for Regional Development (CORD) for Bicol Region.

The Alobo site prevailed over the erstwhile contender Bariis site, situated in Legazpi City, after technical evaluation in the Pre-Feasibility Study and Master Planning Study conducted by the Phil. Jac. Inc. It was indicated that the development cost in Alobo will be cheaper by about P1.12 billion. Rough estimates showed that Bariis site would require P5.48 billion while Alobo site would only need P4.36 billion.

While most factors tended to indicate that both sides are equally capable of accommodating a new airport of international standards, other considerations such as accessibility to Legazpi City, estimated earthwork volume, and relocation of structures still favored to Alobo site. Approximately, Alobo is 20 minutes drive by car from the city proper while Bariis is a little farther with 50 minutes travel time. Estimated total earthwork for Alobo will be 2.1 million cu.m. while for Bariis will be 5.3 million cu.m. for cut and fill each. Only around 20 nipa houses within Alobo need to be relocated while Bariis has at least 50 households within the site. Further, at its northern approach, a relocation site is being developed with at least 150 families already in place.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Albay had previously favorably endorsed and supported the Alobo site through SP Resolution No. 64-2002 dated May 28, 2002

wow! ang ganda naman jan.

Legazpi City Wharf Project:

Soon to be the commercial hub of Legazpi City, the nearby Port of Legazpi will attract tourists and local residents as well, and will serve as a vital link to Misibis Residential Resort.

Same developer of Misibis Spa & Residential Resort is developing a jumpoff point wharf from Legazpi city port area. Here are the Scale Model Pics....

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/wharf2.jpg
The Marina and facilities for small boats

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/wharf1.jpg
A birds eye view of the future Wharf

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/wharf3.jpg
A cable car will take visitors to this hill to enjoy the spectacular view of the city, with the majestic Mayon Volcano in the background. Hehehe I think Legazpeños are going cable car crazy nowadays, 2 cable cars in 1 province...cool..

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/wharf4.jpg
Visitors can shop and dine here, or simply take a stroll at the boulevard

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/_654675_town300.jpg
This will be the view from the top of the Hill on tthe 3rd pic w/c will be serviced by the cable car...

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20Wharf/wharf.jpg
The arrow is where the wharf will be located.

Great news! I think the Bicol region is being underrated as a tourist gem. The news about the new Legaspi International Aiport will surely put the city and region on the world map of "hot spots" for the more discerning tourists. :)

I thought Mt. Mayon has already lost it's perfect cone? From the looks of the pictures, it still looks perfect. ;-)

Not true...the truth is Mt. Mayon is near perfect cone but not a perfect cone. Its just more proportioned and the slope is smoother and more "suabe" than that of Mt. Fuji so its way more beatiful to look at....thanks for visiting the thread guys...

I'll include the whole bicol n here...

PROJECTS TO INTEGRATE BICOL
INTO MAINSTREAM OF DEVELOPMENT

Six major projects were named extremely vital in putting the Bicol Region in the mainstream of the country's development.

In the meeting of the Regional Development Council 5 (RDC5) Executive Committee on 28 June 2002, Cabinet Officer for Regional Development (CORD) for Bicol, Secretary Raul S. Roco, suggested that more focus be given to the implementation of six priority projects. These are:

1. Development/Improvement of the Matnog Port Facilities - Matnog, Sorsogon
2. Development of Pantao Port - Libon, Albay
3. Mabolo By-Pass Bridge - Naga City
4. Camarines Sur-Catanduanes Roll On Roll Off (RORO) Facilities - Camarines Sur and Catanduanes
5. Capalonga-Bagong Silang Road Project - Camarines Norte
6. New Legazpi City Airport - Legazpi City, Albay

If completed as planned, these projects which are basically access infrastructure facilities are expected to increase domestic and international flow of commerce in Bicol, as well as enhance the region's comparative advantage against other regions in terms of greater transport viability.

The Regional Directors of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC), Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG), and the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) respectively assumed their tasks of overseeing the successful implementation of these projects.

Source: National Economic and Development Authority, Region V

I am not agreeable to the proposed location of the New Legaspi International Airport. I think it is a waste of money. The ideal place to put the new proposed International Airport should be somewhere around Iriga. If you look at the map of Bicol, Iriga is right in the center of Naga and Legaspi. Locating it beside Legaspi would be detrimental to Naga's development. The Naga-Legaspi Corridor should be developed with the future in mind. Building it in Legaspi would be provincial to the letter.

noli

I am not agreeable to the proposed location of the New Legaspi International Airport. I think it is a waste of money. The ideal place to put the new proposed International Airport should be somewhere around Iriga. If you look at the map of Bicol, Iriga is right in the center of Naga and Legaspi. Locating it beside Legaspi would be detrimental to Naga's development. The Naga-Legaspi Corridor should be developed with the future in mind. Building it in Legaspi would be provincial to the letter.

noli

hmmm.. u have a point there...

but you may be considering naga, iriga, and Legazpi only how about the other provinces of bicol? Since its gonna be an international airport it will be best suited to be located in Albay province, not because im Albayano...but Albay is geographically in the center of bicol region (not only the mainland bicol but including masbate and catanduanes). Theres a RO-RO port at tabaco city to catanduanes, albay is next to sorsogon which has a ro-ro port in matnog going to masbate and to samar & layte area. Albay is also next to Cam sur, the cam sur to cam norte. So international airport is more feasible in albay. Regarding naga's detriment, I dont agree...coz the Pili airport is enough to sufice Naga's needs. Naga has been a very dynamic city, yeah its the center of bicol peninsula but not the center of Bicol region geographically. In addition, the Pantao International port is already in Albay so it would be best to compliment it with and international port.

Although I wouldn't mind it to be in Iriga, its just not as feasible when you consider the whole of Bicol's wellfare.

it was really nice shots.....ang ganda pala ng Legaspi! may potential to become a tourist spot ng bansa.....and eventually metropolis.....

it was really nice shots.....ang ganda pala ng Legaspi! may potential to become a tourist spot ng bansa.....and eventually metropolis.....

Thanx man...even though I really want Legazpi City to become a buzzlin metropolis...i dont want it to end up like Metro Manila (no offense there) Although Legazpi is now already buzzlin on its own right.... I still love its fresh air and safety & security.

I'm lovin' the photos! :D Talk about another well kept secret in terms of tourism destinations. ;)

Uniting the two powerhouse cities of Legaspi and Naga into one is something akin to that of the Subic-Clark. Subic-Clark is not in the center of Central Luzon but it will serve as a big magnet for industries that will later spread to other parts of Central Luzon. The national government realized that each of them acting alone, S/B won't be able to compete efficiently and effectively. In the same manner, once Naga and Legaspi become one integrated unit and attract investments, the rest of the Bicol Region will follow. That's also what's happening with Cagayan de Oro/Iligan Corridor. They are acting as one unit and hence spreading the investments to its immediate area in Northern Mindanao.

noli

Uniting the two powerhouse cities of Legaspi and Naga into one is something akin to that of the Subic-Clark. Subic-Clark is not in the center of Central Luzon but it will serve as a big magnet for industries that will later spread to other parts of Central Luzon. The national government realized that each of them acting alone, S/B won't be able to compete efficiently and effectively. In the same manner, once Naga and Legaspi become one integrated unit and attract investments, the rest of the Bicol Region will follow. That's also what's happening with Cagayan de Oro/Iligan Corridor. They are acting as one unit and hence spreading the investments to its immediate area in Northern Mindanao.

noli

point taken...

Lets see how NDC decides on this. Anyway they are the ones conducting the feasibility studies about this... although last time I heard its already approved. If this happens I hope the national government would decide on building a highspeed highway thru-out the bicol peninsula. Widening the existing highway we have but making it a dedicated highway with proper exits all the way to manila.

Hey noli...are you from Cam sur or something...why dont you post pics if u have...lets integrate the whole bicol on this thread...cheers..welcome pala sa SSC...

ive seen catanduanes on tv last year. there are hidden gems there. pati na rin sorsogon... whale-watching.

ive seen catanduanes on tv last year. there are hidden gems there. pati na rin sorsogon... whale-watching.

Yeah thats true... there is a very nice beach in catanduanes fronting the pacific ocean if im not wrong one of my friends been there and he said its a semi nude to nude depends on ur preference...well this still I got to see. In donsol, sorsogon..not only can u whale watch but u can actually swim with the whale sharks that feed on the planktons from the dosol river delta.

Hi Olineil,

Actually, I am from Laguna. But I sure hope this would not preclude me from joining your group. Mind you, I can sing Sarong Bangui as good as a fellow from Guinobatan or Polangui.

Talking about highway, I would say you should start small first before going on a grand scale. As I say, connecting these two powerhouses with a high speed highway is a good start. But before asking First Taray about this request, you should prepare first the feasibility studies for this project. A year or two ago, I remember First Taray was furious because a certain Quezon province official was asking for financial help bereft of any feasibility studies. Thereupon she was castigated by First Taray.

So the ball is in the courts of Govs. Villafuerte and Bichara. They can organize a consortium or partnership and maybe together they can even solicit infrastructure investments from Japanese investors. Every now and then I always get to read news of the Govs. of Cavite and Batangas making their trips to Japan soliciting investors for their infrastructure projects.

(By the way, I don't have anything against First Taray. One of the best professors I had was also a Ms. Taray and I learned from her a lot.)

Arroyo says tourism, infra are key to Bicol growth
Inquirer News Service | May 31, 2005

BACACAY, Albay -- President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo said here last week that both the promotion of tourism and investing in infrastructure projects were the keys to boosting the economy of the Bicol region, southeast of Manila.

"There's no doubt that Bicol's majestic Mayon Volcano continues to draw tourists from around the world, but at this point in time, there should be more-other than that-to help Bicol's tourism," the President said in her visit to the Misibis Residential Beach Resort, a world-class residential resort and beachfront spa on Cagraray Island in this town.

"That's why I would say now that I'm encouraging them to savor other attractions in the region like surfing along the Pacific side of Bicol, such as in Caramoan, Camarines Sur and the province of Catanduanes, 'butanding' [whale shark] sightings in Donsol, Sorsogon, and even manta ray sightings in Ticao in Masbate," she added.

The President said it was on her agenda to make Bicol one of the popular tourism destinations in the country, after the resort island of Boracay, for the region has potentials to boost of economic tourism zones.

For purposes of infrastructure and investment, President Arroyo said she had roughly divided the country into four parts -- with Bicol included in the central Philippines together with the Visayas and some parts of northern Mindanao -- primarily for tourism.

She added that a potential international airport in the village of Alobo in Daraga town in this province was also one of her priorities together with the Naga City airport, which will has a budget allocation for improvements.

This is good news, at least President Arroyo is not disregarding the Bicol Region in her agenda. I actually saw her on Inq7 webcast of 24 oras, she was actually walking the sands of misibis having a good time...She beat me to the post...lol, I really want to visit misibis when I come back home...

Olineil,

Those are excellent pictures of Bicol, especially Mt. Mayon. I don't know why I have not visited this Bicol thread before. The sites are beautiful!

Anyway, is there still an NPA insurgency situation in the Bicol - Sorsogon area? For years, this has been a problem in the area that deters people from vacationing there.

Olineil,

Those are excellent pictures of Bicol, especially Mt. Mayon. I don't know why I have not visited this Bicol thread before. The sites are beautiful!

Anyway, is there still an NPA insurgency situation in the Bicol - Sorsogon area? For years, this has been a problem in the area that deters people from vacationing there.

Unfortunately there are still NPA's in Bicol, though they are not as active as before. Generally, city and urban areas nowadays are very peaceful. I would say 100x more peaceful than Manila. Only on the really far flung Barrios that NPAs exist. I even have a friend here in Singapore that was one of the NPA operatives during the early 90's. He was a graduate of UP Diliman, now hes back in the fold of the government and working here...contributing to our economy.

mt mayon is just magnificent!!!

Thanks enmundtanso!!!!

Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo Visits Misibis!
Monday, June 06, 2005


By Archie C. Abache


PGMA VISITS MISIBIS … that was one of the shinning moments of the young life of Misibis Residential Resort, where no less than the highest official of the land, Her Excellency Gloria Macapagal- Arroyo graces the occasion of the Inaugural and Blessing of its newly installed Boardwalk; the book launching of Cagraray: a Bicol Island-World; and the Groundbreaking of Misibis Clubhouse and Cabanas.


As early as six o’clock in the morning of May 27, 2005, the abled staff and personnel of the combined-effort of the member-companies of Sunwest group sees to it that the two-week preparation for the event would proceed as smoothly as planned. But prior to this momentous occasion, the Resort Construction team headed by the well renowned experts in high-end resort and community development, the Excore, Inc., EGP Lopez and Partners, TechnoSphere Consultants Group, Inc. (TCGI), DCI-Architects and the CJTenorio Builders; without discounting the skills and workmanship of the locals, work hand-in-hand in bringing out the best that Misibis could offer in this side of the world. Misibis Residential Resort is a paradise of modern and luxurious amenities with Mediterranean romance and beauty, and the graciousness and hospitality of Asia. The highlight of the Resort focuses not only on the construction itself but most of all on building a first-class community to cater to the everyday life of our client and his family. The Misibis Residential Resort recently received the accreditation from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) and the Department Of Tourism for the 62 ha. Misibis Land, Inc. (82 rooms Resorts and Enterprise Village, Retirement Village and Vacation Villas & Eco Tourism Village), thus the Resort was evaluated and qualified as a Class “AAA” resort by the DOT Standards. Only other two tourist destinations in the country had the same prestige, the Boracay and the Fort Ilocandia. The Misibis Resorts and Estates will forever be environmentally sound because of its 60M investment on sewage treatment plant generally accepted in world-class resorts.

Festive mood was in the air, beautiful ladies of the Sunwest Construction and Dev’t Corp. as well as that of the Misibis developer, the Sunwestville Realty and Dev’t Corp were all clad in their colorful sarongs as they waited for the arrival of the guests. Expected to accompany the President were Hon. Joseph Ace H. Durano, Secretary of the Department of Tourism; Hon. Joey Salceda, Representative, 3rd District of Albay; Hon. Maria O. Ravanilla, Director, DOT R-V; Hon. Fernando Gonzales, Governor, Province of Albay, Hon. Mayors Gloria Berango and Noel Rosal of Bacacay, Albay and the City of Legazpi, respectively; plus score of officials both from the government sector and the business sector. Our beloved President and CEO Elizaldy S. Co, was with his family all eager to meet Her Excellency.


From, the President’s first steps on the Misibis was half passed noon, from her sorties around the City of Legazpi, she was flown by the helicopter to the Resort where she was met by a rondalla string band of local children in Filipiñana. There, she was captivated by the serenade of beautiful music as she made her way through the newly installed boardwalk of the Resort. While not far from where the President was to do the Ceremonial Ribbon Cutting, were native costumed dancers as they brushed their bare feet in the pristine white sand to the tune of the string rondalla. After the ribbon cutting, the President with the CEO and guests made their way to the boardwalk pathway made up of dark-toned teak wood and with stylized Mediterranean-Asian inspired gazebos. It’s a landscaped seaside promenade that chains trellises and gazebo areas into a unified outdoor and picnic escape for families, it also integrates a special kiddie play area.


The President was guided by the CEO to where the scale model of the whole project as well as other pilot projects of the company was elegantly displayed. She was informed also of other upcoming tourism projects such as the Sunwest Fisherman’s Wharf and Boulevard in Legazpi City, and the Pantao Port Development area in Libon. From there, the group proceeded to the launching of the cocktail-book CAGRARAY- a Bicol Island-World. The book was authored by Ms. Anita Feleo and sponsored by the Cagraray Environment Protected Development Foundation, Inc. (CEPDFI) headed by Atty. Rodel Batocabe. The CEPDFI was the foundation-arm of the Company tasked for the environmental protection of the whole Cagraray Island as well as the neighboring places.


Not far from the boardwalk was the ground breaking of the Misibis Clubhouse and Cabanas. As the capsule was lowered by Her Excellency, she was briefed of what would the project looked like once finished. She learned that the Main Clubhouse will be featuring a 5-star quality food and beverage outlets – the best Albay has to offer. The Clubhouse will also offer a business center and function rooms for those who wish to mix business with pleasure. Visitors are in for the greatest treat of their lives when a world-class overnight accommodation at the resort casitas with ocean views and first class service opened. The themed swimming pools, the first and one-of-its kind in the region will feature a uniquely designed pool featuring an infinity pool, play pool areas, a lapping pool, decks and poolside sunken bar.


The President, along with the family of the CEO got some minutes of bonding while they walk through the white sand as the tropical breeze of the mid day whistled by. It was such a joyous sight seeing Her Excellency taking time and enjoying the view of the Albay Gulf and the sight of far distant islands of Rapu-Rapu and Batan. The total 2B investment will soon give rise to Spa and Health Clinic, Helicopter and Airstrip, fishing lagoon, indoor, outdoor and as well as total water sport facilities that will make Misibis the talk-of-the-town for all water-sport enthusiasts.


Sumptuous meals of local fine cuisine were served to all the guests as laughter and music abound provided by the ever-talented local children continuously playing their rondalla. The food perfect for the occasion was courtesy of Hotel Venezia.


With all smiles on the President’s lips, was a sight to behold for indeed she was pleased by what she experienced, saw and enjoyed. With all the bright and innovative ideas of our vision-oriented CEO and President of what he would like Misibis to be, laid and shared to the President, surely her return would not be far. For definitely, Misibis Residential Resort is the jewel of an experience fit for a queen.

Pictures....to follow...

Albay officials back Arroyo

MUNICIPAL and barangay officials of the 15 towns of Albay—from mayors and vice mayors down to the barangay captains and councilors—have expressed their full support and confidence in the leadership of President Arroyo as they acknowledged that government’s programs and projects have improved their lives.

In a resolution passed by the League of Municipalities of the Philippines-Albay chapter, the town officials said they and their constituents will remain united and loyal behind the President who “received the mandate of the Filipino people in the last election, particularly in Albay where she won overwhelmingly.”

The officials said they are confident in her efforts to improve the country’s economy and “bring progress and development that will improve the lives of the people.”

“She alone can lead the country in all aspects of development and be at par with our neighboring Asian countries” because of her “sterling qualities of a good leader, qualities which other world leaders . . . have acknowledged,” the league’s resolution stated.

Besides the LMP-Albay resolution, the Sangguniang Bayan of the 15 towns of Albay also passed separate resolutions expressing unequivocal support to the Arroyo administration.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Tabaco, one of the three cities of Albay, likewise passed Resolution No. 045-2005 “strongly supporting Her Excellency President Arroyo’s programs for economic recovery.

“We commit our support to you and your administration because we believe in your sincerity, your integrity . . . your capacity to run the country and save it from chaos,” the Commitment for Unity from the municipality of Camalig said.

The officials of Tiwi said, “ . . . she has exhibited the qualities of a great leader, always choosing the right even though it may be unpopular and displaying a strength of character in surmounting the challenge in a manner that every Filipino could look up to and be proud of.”

The municipality of Tiwi is thankful for the President’s “steadfast support” to their ceramics industry through the One Town One Product Philippines Program and the establishment of the Tiwi Pasalubong Center.

In their resolution, the officials of Malinao town stressed they will reject extracons*titutional, radical and authoritarian solutions to the country’s problems.

“We will not be swayed by any destabilization propaganda by people agitating to topple the duly constituted authorities,” the municipality of Malilipot said.

The mayors who expressed their unwavering support to the President and her administration include Mayors Juan Garcia of Guinobatan, president of the LMP-Albay chapter; Jaime Villanueva of Tiwi; Gary Bilasano of Malilipot; Gloria Berango of Bacacay; Emiliana Kare of Malinao; Herbie Aguas of Santo Domingo; Dick Galicia of Rapu-Rapu; Rommel Munoz of Camalig; Dante Arandia of Pio Duran; Jesus Reario II of Oas; Jose Archangel of Jovellar; Agnes Dycoco of Libon; Jesus Salceda of Polangui; Gerry Jaucian of Daraga; Carmencita Daep of Manito; and Alex Burce of Tabaco City.

From rebel hotbed to trading hub

First posted 11:01pm (Mla time) Aug 10, 2005
By Michael Jaucian
Inquirer News Service



Editor's Note: Published on page A13 of the August 11, 2005 issue of the Philippine Daily Inquirer

THE PLACE was no man’s land and a picture of neglect more than a decade ago. Armed encounters between government soldiers and communist rebels had been ordinary scenes in the isolated, mountainous communities in Ligao City in Albay.

Today, the battleground is now a beehive of economic activities that sustain six villages with a combined population of over 10,000.

Pacita Lajara, 46, opened her sari-sari store in 2003 and was netting a daily income of P500 when the 10-hectare Upland Central Economic Zone (UCEZ) started operations. Her earnings have tripled since then, and she now operates a mini-grocery.

Other merchandise stores have sprouted in the zone, a convergent point of the upland barangays of Uma-Uma, Tiongson, Tandarora, Badbad, Tupas and Busac. But Lajara does not mind the competition.

“It’s OK with me,” she said, “What is important is that the basic needs of the community are being met.”

Aside from small sari-sari stores, the UCEZ has a mini fresh
food market, grocery, a copra buying center and even a cockpit.

The ecozone is now considered the second busiest trading center in the city and has alleviated poverty in the area, according to Gov. Fernando V. Gonzalez, who was then Ligao mayor when he began the project.

“Many residents of the six villages have become entrepreneurs in their own right,” he noted. He said that with the presence of various business establishments and ambulant vendors and the good patronage of the villagers, everyone has an opportunity to have a decent living.

Neglected

Before development started in 2001, the place had no road and means of efficient transportation. The villagers traveled by foot or used carts pulled by carabaos to bring vegetables, copra and other crops to the city proper, some 22 km away, to sell their produce.

Mountainous, inaccessible and neglected, it was a perfect haven for New People’s Army rebels.

Today, the upland community has a 14-km, 5-m wide cemented road connecting the zone from the main road. Transport vehicles keep the route busy.

Crops

When the Inquirer visited the area in 2003, no crops were planted along the road. Today, most of the zone property has been planted to hybrid peanut, papaya, cassava, banana, ginger, kamote (sweet potato), palay, pineapple and other high-value crops.

Most of the households inside or near the ecozone own color TV sets, video sets, stereo components. New motorcycles now serve as the primary means of transportation for their farm produce.

Two years ago, Ligao had only one motorcycle dealer, Gonzales said. Now, it has six.

Socio-spiritual life

The UCEZ has greatly improved the economic, social and spiritual life of the people.

Rev. Fr. Ed Ramin of the Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Parish said that since the local government built the economic zone, the villagers’ way of life has become no different from that of city folk.

The villagers, especially the children who used to be timid and shy, have become confident and sociable, Ramin said.

The children are the ones encouraging their parents to hear Mass, he said.

Seeing the promise of prosperity in the area, people from other areas have resettled or moved close to the community. They enjoy the economic, social and cultural activities, such as playing ball games, singing and dancing, and even watching news and movies on cable TV provided by the local government.

Farmer Romeo Pesito, 44, who is an original settler in the ecozone, claimed that since the establishment of the UCEZ, he does not feel lonely anymore.

Today, he said, he is very happy because after farm work, he has now plenty of recreational activities, including cockfighting. Yes, there is a cockpit.

Pesito said he used to walk several hours on barefoot just to sell his crops to the market. Sending his children to school and earning a livelihood was calvary to him.

Zero crime

According to Busac village chief Luis Pernia, farm-to-market roads and mechanized means of transport have made the villagers more productive, industrious and dedicated to farming. The villagers and the businessmen from the city, other provinces and even Metro Manila now find it very easy to transport their goods, he said.

Moreover, he said, there was no reported incident of crime against person or property.

“With this countryside development project, expansion of economy and creating employment won’t be hard,” Gonzales stressed.

Soon, he said, he would put up a drugstore and build extension units of a high school and a college in the area.

This thread has been dormant for awhile thought id keep it up to date.

A view from a mountain subdivision overlooking Legazpi City (Imperial Ridge View Subdivision)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/02b.jpg

One of the Houses in the Subdivision
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/01b.jpg

Another House
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/05b.jpg

Another View of the City
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/03b.jpg

The Sleeping Lion Hill
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/07b.jpg


Porta Azure Click for the Site... (http://www.asialeisureescapes.com/pa_intro.htm)

Built in the 1980s, these beautiful Filipino Villas with Malay and Balinese influence were redesigned and refurbished in 2003.

A perfect example of Filipino ingenuity in quality design, its stark shades and colorful interiors make these villas an exhilirating experience.The breath-taking scenes offer a great escape to a world of natural wonders with the Mayon Volcano with its world famous perfect cone serving as an imposing backdrop to the refreshing vista. The inspiration for the concept of the property stems from the story of the fiery Mayon volcano that erupted and buried the nearby villages in 1883. Indigenious materials that are abundant in Bicolandia are mixed with a notable architectural design. The property is located south of Legazpi City with a 200 meter beach front facing Albay Gulf. One of its many amenities is its pool with a cascading waterfall carved out from the huge lava rocks from the Mayon volcano.

This property is designed by Internationally reknowned designer Ernest Santiago who has been featured in international magazines as well as CNBC news asia for his ingenuity in creating unique Filipino designs. The design is collaborated by Landscape Architect Dante Sayzon and the furnitures are designed by Santiago with Jun Listana, an exporter from Albay.

More of Porta Azure Pics
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image09.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image08.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image07.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image06.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image05.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image04.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image03.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image02.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Legazpi%20city/pa_image10.jpg

Hope U guys like it...

Thanks for the fab pics Olli - they're great! I'm a new member and joined just today - I'm trying to attach some pics of Legazpi (hometown) but I'm not sure how to....I noticed that I can't make any attachments according to my posting rules - why is this?

That's Beautiful. Thank you.

Thanks for the fab pics Olli - they're great! I'm a new member and joined just today - I'm trying to attach some pics of Legazpi (hometown) but I'm not sure how to....I noticed that I can't make any attachments according to my posting rules - why is this?

Look for Paano MagPost ng Pic Thread (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=200800) ...It should Help you get know how to post pics.

Genereally:
1. Go to www.photobucket.com open an account there.
2. Once u have ur account u should be able to upload your pics to the account u opened.
3. Once Pics are uploaded...at the bottom of each pic there will be a field with this syntax: [IMG]xxxx.jpg[IMG], copy(ctrl+c) this to clipboard then Paste (ctrl+V) it on the posting window in skyscrapercity.com
4. Once u submit ur reply u should be able to see ur pics.

Cheers...For further help look for the Paano MagPost ng Pic thread.

Ur from Legazpi? Nice...are u currently based there now?
Im from Legazpi too...My actual Home town is Daraga. Welcome to Skyscrapercity.com!!!

Thanx Dancethigy...Glad u appreciate it... :cheers:

thanks for all the pics olineil.
i enjoyed them very much.
looking forward to your next photo posts. hehe :)

These ones aren't all that great, but I thought I'd share them also:


Legazpi City seaport
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legazpiseaport.jpg

Legazpi Tourist Inn. check out the cables hehe
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legaspitouristinn.jpg

Bichara Mall at night
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall2.jpg

Pacific Mall Cinemas
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/PacificMallinterior.jpg

Ibalong Centrum For Recreation
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/IbalongCentrum.jpg

LCC Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LCCmall.jpg

Downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiCitydowntown3.jpg

a road to downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/toDowntown.jpg

Casablanca Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/CasablancaHotel.jpg

Bichara Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall.jpg

Avenrose Suites at Legazpi Country Club, Rennaissance Gardens
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AvenRoseSuites.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodome.jpg

Albay Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayHotel.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodomeinterior.jpg

Restaurants at the Capitol Center
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayCapitolrestaurants.jpg

These ones aren't all that great, but I thought I'd share them also:


Legazpi City seaport
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legazpiseaport.jpg

Legazpi Tourist Inn. check out the cables hehe
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legaspitouristinn.jpg

Bichara Mall at night
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall2.jpg

Pacific Mall Cinemas
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/PacificMallinterior.jpg

Ibalong Centrum For Recreation
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/IbalongCentrum.jpg

LCC Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LCCmall.jpg

Downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiCitydowntown3.jpg

a road to downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/toDowntown.jpg

Casablanca Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/CasablancaHotel.jpg

Bichara Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall.jpg

Avenrose Suites at Legazpi Country Club, Rennaissance Gardens
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AvenRoseSuites.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodome.jpg

Albay Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayHotel.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodomeinterior.jpg

Restaurants at the Capitol Center
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayCapitolrestaurants.jpg

Wow, nice... Thanx for the Photos. Havnt been home for the past 2 years. U from Legazpi too? I miss HOME so much. Hopefully I can go home next year and flood this forum with Legazpi Pics...hehehehehe....Welcome to SSC.com!

any renderings of the airport in the press yet ? when will it be built/finished ?


The Regional Development Council (RDC V) has unanimously approved the barangay of Alobo in Daraga, Albay as the final site for the proposed New Legazpi City Airport. The approval took place during the RDC meeting last June 2002 attended by DepEd Secretary Raul Roco and DBM Secretary Emilia Boncodin in their capacities as Cabinet Officers for Regional Development (CORD) for Bicol Region.

The Alobo site prevailed over the erstwhile contender Bariis site, situated in Legazpi City, after technical evaluation in the Pre-Feasibility Study and Master Planning Study conducted by the Phil. Jac. Inc. It was indicated that the development cost in Alobo will be cheaper by about P1.12 billion. Rough estimates showed that Bariis site would require P5.48 billion while Alobo site would only need P4.36 billion.

While most factors tended to indicate that both sides are equally capable of accommodating a new airport of international standards, other considerations such as accessibility to Legazpi City, estimated earthwork volume, and relocation of structures still favored to Alobo site. Approximately, Alobo is 20 minutes drive by car from the city proper while Bariis is a little farther with 50 minutes travel time. Estimated total earthwork for Alobo will be 2.1 million cu.m. while for Bariis will be 5.3 million cu.m. for cut and fill each. Only around 20 nipa houses within Alobo need to be relocated while Bariis has at least 50 households within the site. Further, at its northern approach, a relocation site is being developed with at least 150 families already in place.

The Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) of Albay had previously favorably endorsed and supported the Alobo site through SP Resolution No. 64-2002 dated May 28, 2002[/QUOTE]

any renderings of the airport in the press yet ? when will it be built/finished ?

So far nothing yet...its just feasibility studies. Ive been checking with the Government website abd ATO for further info but i cant find further detail about the Airport, I guess its not a priority project fro now.

These ones aren't all that great, but I thought I'd share them also:


Legazpi City seaport
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legazpiseaport.jpg

Legazpi Tourist Inn. check out the cables hehe
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legaspitouristinn.jpg

Bichara Mall at night
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall2.jpg

Pacific Mall Cinemas
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/PacificMallinterior.jpg

Ibalong Centrum For Recreation
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/IbalongCentrum.jpg

LCC Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LCCmall.jpg

Downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiCitydowntown3.jpg

a road to downtown
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/toDowntown.jpg

Casablanca Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/CasablancaHotel.jpg

Bichara Mall
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicharaMall.jpg

Avenrose Suites at Legazpi Country Club, Rennaissance Gardens
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AvenRoseSuites.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodome.jpg

Albay Hotel
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayHotel.jpg

Albay Astrodome
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayAstrodomeinterior.jpg

Restaurants at the Capitol Center
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/AlbayCapitolrestaurants.jpg

the pacific mall cinema lobby is great! :D

I wonder if anyone else has other photos of Pacific Mall/Gaisano in Legazpi.
I haven't seen any other shots except for the ones on the website (www.landcopacific.com)
So whoever's got 'em, share 'em here. hehhee

By the way, I read somewhere that they're mulling to build another mall with the Sleeping Lion Hill as backdrop. Wonder if that's part of that Wharf that olineil posted here a while back...

Anyway, Pacific Mall will open in Naga City as well. And last I've heard Robinsons Department Store will open before year's end, I guess as the anchor store for E-Mall in Naga also.

How I wish Legazpi's leaders would be as proactive in getting all these new businesses as well. Legazpi City has so much potential when it comes to these type of things, but somehow there's something that is still lacking. Good governance... maybe? I dunno...

I wonder if anyone else has other photos of Pacific Mall/Gaisano in Legazpi.
I haven't seen any other shots except for the ones on the website (www.landcopacific.com)
So whoever's got 'em, share 'em here. hehhee

By the way, I read somewhere that they're mulling to build another mall with the Sleeping Lion Hill as backdrop. Wonder if that's part of that Wharf that olineil posted here a while back...

Anyway, Pacific Mall will open in Naga City as well. And last I've heard Robinsons Department Store will open before year's end, I guess as the anchor store for E-Mall in Naga also.

How I wish Legazpi's leaders would be as proactive in getting all these new businesses as well. Legazpi City has so much potential when it comes to these type of things, but somehow there's something that is still lacking. Good governance... maybe? I dunno...

Thats Great News for Naga City. Mayor Jesse Robredo is really one of the most Proactive officials Naga city has ever had. Mind u legazpi has already caught up...maybe not as lively as Naga but in terms of annual Revenues Legazpi surpassed Naga a few years back. If im not wrong it was P800M (Legazpi) and (P400M) Naga. Thats half of at least what Naga can produce. The New MAyor of Legazpi, Mayor Noel Rosal has almost if not equal to proactivity of Mayor Robredo, young and Proactive.

Thanks for the tips Neil - yes I'm from Legazpi originally, now living in London. I was actually born in Calamba, but we moved to Legazpi when I was just a baby, so yeah I suppose I am more Bicolano than Tagalog. By the way, what do you think of the idea of merging Legazpi and Daraga? Their combined population would be around 330,000, and would surely catapult Legazpi into the Philippines' Top ten biggest cities ( I think currently, it is not even in the top 20 - neither is Naga....) Legazpi's population is currently almost 200,000 and Daraga roughly 130,000. Since they are practically contiguous with each other I think they might as well merge. Residents of both towns commute on a daily basis so in practice they already function as one city, whatever the politicians say. Just a thought, that's all .....

http://photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/th_4282020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4282020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4292020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4342020Legaspi.jpg

The Pacific Mall is clearly visible as the ovals-shaped building in the foreground. To the right is the Port area and wharf, next to the Sleeping Lion Hill.
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4352020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4322020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4302020Legaspi.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4362020Legaspi.jpg

Perfect Cone undiminished by all the recent eruptions!http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4382020Mayon20volcano.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4392020Mayon20volcano.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/4412020Mayon20volcano.jpg

Wow! Excellent pictures. Dr. I feel very, very good now. The best picture of Mayon I have ever seen.

Thanks lochinvar!! I hope you saw the others I posted in page 5 - easily missed as they're right at the bottom of the page - more to follow soon!

Finally i get a closer look of Legazpi's cityscape. Hmmmn awesome pics. thanks drfeelgood.

BTW, is the there really a strong competition between naga and legazpi? which of the two is the greatest city in bicolandia?

:eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2: :eek2:
Shit Na Malagkit!!! Uragon ang Pics mo!!! Sorry for the French cant help it....

Finally i get a closer look of Legazpi's cityscape. Hmmmn awesome pics. thanks drfeelgood.

BTW, is the there really a strong competition between naga and legazpi? which of the two is the greatest city in bicolandia?

In a sense yes. I guess basically, only the constituents have the sense of pride for each city. But Economically, these 2 cities are complementing each other and are benifiting from each other.

very nice aerial pic. thanks!

wow u made me miss this place even more!! thanks...yeh i agree easily the best picture of Mayon here so far!...i like the first Pic too!!...i can cleary see the MALL...
is it true there will be an SM in Legaspi?....can anyone confirm??


yeh based on my observation...i seem to have notice a rivarly between Naga and Legaspi...maybe pride...

BEAUTIFUL!!! Haven't been to Bicol but i'll make sure to visit the place this coming summer! :D

I love all the pics here, the city looks simple but inviting. The aerial shots are all spectacular and the beauty of the volcano is just superv. Cheers all and good job.

Maurag ka padi. marhay iyan na pig gigibo mo, para mas dakol an mag duman na turista satuya. :applause: Taga sain ka satuya padi? Taga sorsogon palan ako, dakol akong barkada dyan sa Legazpi. Siguro oras na para maaraman ninda gabos kun nano kagayon an lugar ta.

Marhay na bangi!


BC

It depends on what we mean by 'greatest city'...in terms of population Legazpi is bigger than Naga. These are the figures given by the 2000 Census: Legazpi: 157,000 (190,000 - 2005 estimate), Naga: 137,000 - (158,000 - 2005 estimate). However, in terms of land area I think Naga is definitely bigger as it encompasses several smaller towns and even ricefields and forests! Actually within Albay province, these municipalities are all bigger than Legazpi in land area: Oas, Ligao and Daraga.
On the other hand, if Legazpi and neighbouring Daraga are to be merged as one city, their combined population would be around 320,000 - not only far bigger than Naga, but would place Legazpi in the nation's Top 10 biggest.

I have seen press reports about a proposed SM in Legazpi but I'm not sure if this is definite or confirmed. Hopefully it is - the more the better! Well, actually I do have some doubts with malls as they might kill off local businesses or smaller shops, but in the whole I agree, it is a sign of progress.

Thanks everyone for your comments!
I hope you've all seen the other pics I posted on the bottom of page 5 - I might have to repost them as they're easily missed.

I hope I'm making some contribution into putting Bicol in the map as I always get the impression that our region is the Cinderella of the Philippines , i.e, pretty, but neglected. Let's hope that's about to change!

Salamat uragon! Taga Legazpi ako ( sa Bonot) - may mga classmate akong taga Cumadcad buda Castilla, Sorsogon. Next time, pag-uli ko, muya kung mailing ang mga whale sharks kan Donsol - dai pa ngani ako nakaduman. Last time nag day-trip kami sa Rizal beach sa Gubat! Marhay man tag nag-asenso na man ang Sorsogon - city na ngani!

Thanks for the tips Neil - yes I'm from Legazpi originally, now living in London. I was actually born in Calamba, but we moved to Legazpi when I was just a baby, so yeah I suppose I am more Bicolano than Tagalog. By the way, what do you think of the idea of merging Legazpi and Daraga? Their combined population would be around 330,000, and would surely catapult Legazpi into the Philippines' Top ten biggest cities ( I think currently, it is not even in the top 20 - neither is Naga....) Legazpi's population is currently almost 200,000 and Daraga roughly 130,000. Since they are practically contiguous with each other I think they might as well merge. Residents of both towns commute on a daily basis so in practice they already function as one city, whatever the politicians say. Just a thought, that's all .....

Great pics, dr.

My grandma was from Daraga, and she used to tell us stories before that there were talks and plans on merging Legazpi and Daraga to form one city way back in the days, but the people of Daraga would not agree.

I think it just makes sense to make it one, as opposed to two separate functioning entities, each with their own government office 45 minutes apart from each other ( Legazpi City Hall and Daraga Municipal Hall).

But last I've heard, the mayor of Daraga town is seriously considering converting Daraga into a city sometime soon.

But either way, both places are alive and bustling that you won't even notice that you're not in Legazpi anymore once you cross the borderline.

Wowww!!! Maurag! Bigla na lang duminakol ang mga Legazpeño digdi. Hehehehe...aluyon na ako naga-alat na magkaigwa ki Legazpeño forumer or even Bicolano in General digdi. Marhay na pag-abot saindo Gabos...Padakulaon ta ining Thread na ini...invite nindo Friends nindo sa Legazpi or Bicol to come to this forum and post to Kingdom come para maging-buhay ang forum kang mga Bicolnon. Kaypuhan ta ki Bicol Based forumer para igwa kita ki maga-update pirmi satuya.

To the Bicolanos: Have u ever been to Misibis Residential & Spa Resort...I think this is 1 hell of a project for Bicol...I have posted Pivs of the Place a pages back, if u havnt heard of it. Its the very first cable car in Bicolandia.

In reply to the Merging of Legazpi & Daraga: I think what will really happen is not the mergin of Daraga & Legazpi as one Government but they are gonna merge Legazpi and Daraga in terms of population to convert its status as Metro Legazpi (I think this include other township as well, like Camalig and Sto Domingo. This is what they did to Naga, they added the other towns to it, so it became Metro Naga.

Mga Padi, Im from Daraga palan. Taga Harong Pagkamoot Subd (HP Subd.) some people also call it Pag-Ibig Subd. Hehehehe...

Thanks Olineil.

There's this one forum in www.albay.com.ph, about Albay and Legazpi but it's not as user-friendly as this one, in my opinion.
I would always get lost navigating through threads and replies and stuff.

But this is a very good way to stay in touch with our hometown, and some of its people online. It is always great to hear news about home.

Thanks Olineil.

There's this one forum in www.albay.com.ph, about Albay and Legazpi but it's not as user-friendly as this one, in my opinion.
I would always get lost navigating through threads and replies and stuff.

But this is a very good way to stay in touch with our hometown, and some of its people online. It is always great to hear news about home.

Im actually an member of that forum. Its true what u said. This forum is very user friendly. And very organized.

I like the fact that they painted LCC Metro in fresh, vibrant colours. Like so many other Philippines cities, Legazpi has its fair share of grey, drab, post-war buildings. Does any one have any old, pre-war photos of the city? I'm curious to know what Legazpi looked like in the colonial era. With regards to the post-war buildings and contemporary ones, architecturally, at least, there are some improvements. It looks like they also redesigned the Legazpi Tourist Inn - its more attractive than I remember it. And unless, my imagination is playing tricks on me, I'm convinced they added another 3 or 4 storeys to the Albay hotel.

I like the fact that they painted LCC Metro in fresh, vibrant colours. Like so many other Philippines cities, Legazpi has its fair share of grey, drab, post-war buildings. Does any one have any old, pre-war photos of the city? I'm curious to know what Legazpi looked like in the colonial era. With regards to the post-war buildings and contemporary ones, architecturally, at least, there are some improvements. It looks like they also redesigned the Legazpi Tourist Inn - its more attractive than I remember it. And unless, my imagination is playing tricks on me, I'm convinced they added another 3 or 4 storeys to the Albay hotel.

Some 'historical' photos. Not that much but I thought it was fun to see before and after images:

Saint Agnes' Academy:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/saa1.jpg

St. Agnes' Academy now:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/0406_StAgnes1.jpg

Cagsawa Church waaaaaaay back in the day:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cagsawaold.jpg

Cagsawa National Park as it stands now:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/CagsawaNationalParknow.jpg

Olineil, any updates on the Legazpi Wharf/Cable car project? I'm so excited about this one - can't wait!!

Wow! Thanks Matteo for posting the historical pic of my old school, St Agnes. The main building looks like it hasn't changed that much! Where are you from yourself?

Olineil, any updates on the Legazpi Wharf/Cable car project? I'm so excited about this one - can't wait!!

Go to www.misibis.com, updates will be posted there if there is one. Last time I checked, no updates. But this will definitely be built because the Legzapi Wharf will be a standoff point for Misibis Residential Resort aside the via Sula Channel ferry ride and the future bridge to built by the Government.

Cagsawa Church waaaaaaay back in the day:
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cagsawaold.jpg



thanks for sharing. this is the first time i see the whole church.

I've checked, but so far, no news yet - well, let's hope it goes according to plan! I think it will be a major boost to Bicol tourism.

I'm still amazed looking at drfeelgood17's big aerial shots.
I just love the ocean, and the shoreline, the volcano.
Very good shots, indeed.

I was looking at the structures and noticed that the old public market is already flat. Are they gonna be doing something else there?
By the way, I read in a news report that Legazpi just opened their newly constructed public market. Anyone know where this is located now?

How about updates on the Mayon Imperial Hotel, the one atop the hill overlooking the entire city?

Anyway, here's a little something for you all.
If you went to this school, you'll know what this is :) :

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicolUniversityIcon.jpg

I'm still amazed looking at drfeelgood17's big aerial shots.
I just love the ocean, and the shoreline, the volcano.
Very good shots, indeed.

I was looking at the structures and noticed that the old public market is already flat. Are they gonna be doing something else there?
By the way, I read in a news report that Legazpi just opened their newly constructed public market. Anyone know where this is located now?

How about updates on the Mayon Imperial Hotel, the one atop the hill overlooking the entire city?

Anyway, here's a little something for you all.
If you went to this school, you'll know what this is :) :

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/BicolUniversityIcon.jpg

Yup, yup, The Almighty Acacia Tree in Bicol University Main Campus going to Nursing Building & Engineering Building. Which schools were u guys from? What Batch?

Lets ask Dr. how old his Photos are? From there maybe we can give a hunch if the flattened old market was rebuilt. Last time I was in Legazpi, the Plans for that area was another LCC mall that was supposed to be designed by Palafox. I dont know whatever happened to it. During the Bidding Process for the redevelopment of that area Robinsons, SM, LCC, and other Mall giants Bidded for the Project. I was even surprised that LCC was allowed to Bid, totally out of sane thinking. Yeah Romy Tan was smart to Buy all the Big Lots in Legazpi so that other Mall chains couldnt come in. But during that time Public officeials should have been smarter to give the winning bid to an outsider so that competition will arise. Alas, the Pineda Family actually had this insight, so they sold their 5ha. land to Landco to develop what is now tha largest Mall in Bicol. U can instantly see the benifits from this. People now have a choice where to buy. The whole econmy of Legazpi was Boosted so as to now it can produce 2x the amount of reveneus Naga can do. Hope SM comes in soon or Robinsons.

I always thought it was the Reynoso family who owned the land that Pacific Mall is now on...hmm.
I think it just sucks how the owner of LCC Malls is monopolizing the retail market there. I guess that explains why Robinsons decided to put up shop in Naga City. Now Landco Pacific is developing 12 hectares of land in Naga also.

So where is this Tutuban Center type mall that's supposed to be built in Albay, if there is one to still be built at all?

So where is this Tutuban Center type mall that's supposed to be built in Albay, if there is one to still be built at all?

As far as I know It was supposed to be the Old Public Market that u saw flattened in the pictures. I really dont know if it pushed thru. That was supposed to be designed by Palafox and Funded by LCC w/c they won the bidding by means of alleged under the table process.

Regarding the Pineda ownership of the Land of Landco Pacific. Im 100% sure it was the Pineda's who owned it. I did a Technical Write-up of this project during my college years. It was supposed be very Grand, but Asian Financial Crisis Struck. There was supposed to Be a 8-Level 5 star hotel & Parking Building just behind Pacific Mall linked via skybridge, all power, communication lines are underground(this was implemented), they were supposed to plant Grown trees there so they dont need to wait for it to grow, and whole lot of buildings that are supposed to be zoned together depending on the services offered. And also a Modern Philtranco Terminal. The Mall was supposed to be 5 levels (3 levels implemented+mezzanine @ third) and house 6 Very Modern Cinemas(only 2 was pushed), and mall was supposed to be longer than how it was built today. Hayyy...Asian Crisis...I hope it never happened, we might have been a NIC(Newly Industrialized Contry) by now. :bash:

[QUOTE=olineil]

I did a Technical Write-up of this project during my college years. QUOTE]

I would love to read your write-up on this one... :)

I would love to read your write-up on this one... :)

Hehehe...I wish I reaaly could. Alot of the details are there, even the Scale Model Pictures. Unfortunately the file where i did it was in my Jurassic Pentium 1 PC in the Philippines during my college days. :bash:

First posted 11:33am (Mla time) Oct 11, 2005
By Joel Francis Guinto
INQ7.net

(UPDATE) TWO communist rebels were killed and another was captured in separate encounters with government troops in the northern and central Philippines, reports said Tuesday.

At 8:45 a.m. Sunday, combined forces from the Army's 9th Infantry Division and 65th Infantry Battalion engaged an undetermined number of New People's Army (NPA) fighters in a gun battle in Zone 2 village, Pio Duran town, Albay province, Army spokesman Major Bartolome Bacarro said.

A member of the NPA liquidation squad, Alex Losabia alias Ka Alfie, was killed after a brief encounter, Bacarro said.

Losabia and his men were reportedly extorting money from residents in the area, he said.

A .45-caliber pistol, three loaded magazines, and a belt bag were recovered from the scene, he added.

Earlier on Sunday, patrolling elements from the Alpha Company of the 69th Infantry Battalion encountered a group of NPA guerillas in Calulut village, San Fernando City in Pampanga province, Bacarro said.

fighter Jomar Layug was killed and one of his comrades, Narciso Layug, was injured and captured after the 10-minute firefight.

The two were allegedly with a 20-man NPA platoon led by Ernesto Bulosan alias Ka Emong and were extorting money from poultry farm and sugar cane plantation owners in the area.

A cache of firearms, including a 30-caliber carbine rifle, a .22-caliber rifle, a rifle grenade, and subversive documents was recovered.

Both incidents occurred the same day the rebels killed five soldiers and two civilians in an ambush in the southern Philippines.

The NPA is the armed wing of the Communist Party of the Philippines (CPP).

The guerrillas, who have been waging a war since the late 1960s, have vowed to intensify attacks nationwide to force the ouster of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

The rebels, who are on US and European lists of terrorist organizations, suspended their Norwegian-brokered talks with the government last year, saying it has done little to remove them from the lists.

The government responded by announcing last week a suspension of security passes for 97 rebel negotiators, paving the way for their arrests.

An Old Pic of Cagsawa Ruins
http://www.easternsamar.de/files/grafik/phils/cagsawa%20albay.jpg

http://img329.imageshack.us/img329/3365/mayon24ok.jpg

An Old Artist Pencil Rendering of Mayon
http://myweb.ph.inter.net/~c1perez/montanomayon.jpg

Tabaco City, Albay Well known for its Sikad-Sikad(PediCab) & Cutllery
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/tabacostreet.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/sikad.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/souvenir.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/palengke.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/sikad2.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v505/jimmyjaspers/church.jpg

In 1850, Luis Enriques de Guzman led an expedition from Panay to the Islands of Masbate and Ticao, and to the region named Ibalon. The Augustinian missionary, Father Alonzo Jimenez, christianized the first inhabitants of Ibalon, Camarines and Burias.

In July 1573, Juan de Salcedo, with 120 soldiers, explored Ibalon and founded the town of Santiago de Libong.

Visit the Hanging Road to Joroan. Steep cliff high along the highway going to Joroan which keeps one's breath hanging as one traverses this road. It overall the wide blue Pacific Ocean and a breathtaking trip over this road brings a memorable experience for visitors and tourists. A stop over on one side of the spot of the highway is a must for travelers.

They have many caves to explore. One is Naglaus Underground River. Another natural formation in Jovellar which is largely unexplored underground river. It is 300 meter long. Abamboo craft is used to negotiate the tunneled river. It looks very mysterious and wiered but an excellent place for a bewildering and strange feeling.

Another place to go is the Mayon Resthouse. It nestles on the eastern slopes of Mt. Mayon at an altitude of 2,700 ft. An excellent summer resort with almost similar temperature with Baguio at 28 degrees celcius. It is popularly known as "heaven on earth" because of the hanging clouds and the pleasant climate where cool and invigorating air could be experienced. From this height, visitors see the panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean and the different towns, lakes, villages, fields and other mountains. Accessible through tabaco, motor vehicles of any type could be used to reach it.

The world's nearly perfect cone is the Mayon volcano . It stands majestically at 7,946 ft. from the broad base about 10 km radius. The crater 2, 451 meters above sea level and with a diameter of .5 kms. It has notched rim where a pool of building hot lava boils and rich coal deposits could be found. Sulfuric streams and gases continually emit from this crater. It derived its name from the world "magayon," meaning beautiful. Its name been regarded as a symbol not only at Albay but also the Philippines within the orient. Since, 1616 , Mt. Mayon was recorded to have erupted 40 times and the worst was on February 1, 1814 which buried the settlements of Cagsawa and Budiao in the town of Daraga. The latest eruption was in June 21, 1999.

Cagsawa Ruins originally, the words was "Kagsawa. " It was derived from Kag,"who does or owner" and Sawa, meaning "a python" which suggested " one who collects snakes" or perhaps " a snake charmer." On its worst it signifies "excesses" from sawa (pronounced in "maragsa" on the last syllable) meaning "too much." Fr. Francisco Aragoneses, OFM, former curate of Kagsawa and Budyaw, seemed to confirm the notable "overindulgence" of people during the time. in fact, he affirmed the 1814 Mayon eruption as "divine justice." The Febuary 1, 1814 Mayon eruption, recorded as the worst which reportedly killed 1,200 people, caused the Kagsawa Church to be submerged in the fast action of mudflow. Only the belfry remains prominent today.

They also celebrate different festivals. These are few of the many festivals they celebrate. One is Karangahan Albay. A grand Albayano celebration. Rooted in tradition, it is an expression of wealth and good leaving brought about good harvest, which is why it is always celebrated in May. Its origin having had religious overtones, it naturally absorbed the Catholic Maytime Santacruzan, Reyna Elena and Dotok as an integral part. It is highlighted by a series of street presentations of the legends and the origins of the names of the different municipalities, each unique unto itself, which lends variety, specially a lot of color to each dispiction. It is declared as a grandiose but elegant spectacle of profuse merry-making befitting a truly grand celebration. It is a total provincial celebration, but the ground shows are held at the Provincial Capitol grounds in Legazpi City, the capital of the Province of Albay.

Another is the Bicol Food Festival. A festival of Bicol cuisine such as Pingat and Laing , Bicol express, the Tinotongan, Inolokan or Tilmok, Pecadillo, and Cocido.

Visit all of these at Albay!!!

I love bicol!!! tell me is bishop sorra still ruling legaspi??

Olineil, Your story of Cagsawa, as related by Fr. Aragoneses, was reminiscent of another famous town whose people's overindulgence was punished also by God. But instead of volcanic ash, Sodom was engulped with fire. Is there also a version of Lot's wife in Cagsawa?

Mount Mayon's gonna erupt again?!? :D

Photo Credit to Elvin Marcelo of Pbase

Camalig Albay (where the famous Pinagat is from, also hometown of Eddie Garcia)
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23287848.jpg

Pinangat (wow nalalway na ako)
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/pinangat4.jpg

Another Cagsawa Ruins Pic
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23287024.jpg

From anonther Vantage Point Viewing Mayon
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286960.jpg

Misibis Beach
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/27872457.jpg

Daraga Town Church
http://www.lwua.gov.ph/wallpapers/grfx_wallpaprs/Oldchurchdaraga.jpg

Mayon Skyline Hotel
http://lesstear.tripod.com/my_pix/thumbnails/400x300/P4030009.JPG

Mayon International Hotel (The sole 5-star hotel in Bicol...not sure if its still in operation though)
http://www.snunit.k12.il/seder/volcanoes/gifs/mayon1a.jpg

Mayon in Action
http://news.bbc.co.uk/olmedia/655000/images/_656668_cascade300.jpg

http://news.bbc.co.uk/olmedia/655000/images/_656668_old300.jpg

I'll Include Sorsogon Here too...

Sta Magdalena, Sorsogon
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/27947391.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286964.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286962.jpg

A beach in Sorsogon
http://www.lwua.gov.ph/wallpapers/grfx_wallpaprs/Sorsogonbeach.jpg

http://www.malapascua.de/Volcanoe-Map/Mayon__Philippines/Vulkan_MAYON-2/Mayon-Kletterer.jpg

http://www.malapascua.de/Volcanoe-Map/Mayon__Philippines/Vulkan_MAYON-2/Mayon-1994-OnTop.jpg

http://www.malapascua.de/Volcanoe-Map/Mayon__Philippines/Vulkan_MAYON-2/Mayon-OnTheEdgeSummitalCrater.jpg

Tiwi Geothermal Field
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286953.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286952.jpg

Dhio Endhekka Resort, Buang, Tabaco City, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/43022410.jpg

Sorsogon Province
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286965.jpg

Lagonoy Gulf, Tiwi, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286955.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286949.jpg

Tiwi, Albay Nature Shots
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286957.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286958.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286959.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23289801.jpg

I Love his Photos, very refreshing...ahhhh...I miss Bicol...

Excellent pictures. Thanks a lot for posting these pictures.

hmm... is it just me, or the pictures aren't showing up...?

^^you're referring to olineil's post, right? no, i can't see them either. paging olineil :D

Its showing up on my side...hmmm.... :hi:

EDIT: Ok i confirmed with my office PC that the Pics are not showing up...should show up now...Tell me if it still doesnt work. ENjoy!

thanks, olineil. they're working fine now :)

great shots olineil !

great shots olineil !
Yup - i can confirm that Olineil's pics are showing up on my PC too! Very scenic! Thanks

Yup, yup, The Almighty Acacia Tree in Bicol University Main Campus going to Nursing Building & Engineering Building. Which schools were u guys from? What Batch?

Lets ask Dr. how old his Photos are? From there maybe we can give a hunch if the flattened old market was rebuilt. Last time I was in Legazpi, the Plans for that area was another LCC mall that was supposed to be designed by Palafox. I dont know whatever happened to it. During the Bidding Process for the redevelopment of that area Robinsons, SM, LCC, and other Mall giants Bidded for the Project. I was even surprised that LCC was allowed to Bid, totally out of sane thinking. Yeah Romy Tan was smart to Buy all the Big Lots in Legazpi so that other Mall chains couldnt come in. But during that time Public officeials should have been smarter to give the winning bid to an outsider so that competition will arise. Alas, the Pineda Family actually had this insight, so they sold their 5ha. land to Landco to develop what is now tha largest Mall in Bicol. U can instantly see the benifits from this. People now have a choice where to buy. The whole econmy of Legazpi was Boosted so as to now it can produce 2x the amount of reveneus Naga can do. Hope SM comes in soon or Robinsons.
Actually, according to the press reports I read, the new public market was recently opened (I think either this May or June) by Gloria Arroyo herself. By the way, the pics I posted are from January 2004 - so too early for the new market to show up. I guess we just have to ask our relatives back home to take new pics of the market and other city sights. Let's keep this post alive guys!

Tiwi Geothermal Field
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286953.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286952.jpg

Dhio Endhekka Resort, Buang, Tabaco City, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/43022410.jpg

Sorsogon Province
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286965.jpg

Lagonoy Gulf, Tiwi, Albay
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286955.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286949.jpg

Tiwi, Albay Nature Shots
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286957.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286958.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23286959.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/olineil/Albay/23289801.jpg

I Love his Photos, very refreshing...ahhhh...I miss Bicol...
I love the pic of the coastal road to Tiwi - very scenic indeed! Isn't there a highway that links Tiwi to Camarines Sur, or do you have to drive back to Ligao?

Yup, yup, The Almighty Acacia Tree in Bicol University Main Campus going to Nursing Building & Engineering Building. Which schools were u guys from? What Batch?

Lets ask Dr. how old his Photos are? From there maybe we can give a hunch if the flattened old market was rebuilt. Last time I was in Legazpi, the Plans for that area was another LCC mall that was supposed to be designed by Palafox. I dont know whatever happened to it. During the Bidding Process for the redevelopment of that area Robinsons, SM, LCC, and other Mall giants Bidded for the Project. I was even surprised that LCC was allowed to Bid, totally out of sane thinking. Yeah Romy Tan was smart to Buy all the Big Lots in Legazpi so that other Mall chains couldnt come in. But during that time Public officeials should have been smarter to give the winning bid to an outsider so that competition will arise. Alas, the Pineda Family actually had this insight, so they sold their 5ha. land to Landco to develop what is now tha largest Mall in Bicol. U can instantly see the benifits from this. People now have a choice where to buy. The whole econmy of Legazpi was Boosted so as to now it can produce 2x the amount of reveneus Naga can do. Hope SM comes in soon or Robinsons.
I thought this old tree was actually the one near the airport, on the way to Divine Word College - but maybe I'm wrong here.
RE:SM- I remember when I was a kid (early 1980s) , during the Marcos dictatorship, there were already plans to build an SM branch near where the old site of the Philtranco terminal - but as usual it became a white elephant, and nothing came of it. Hopefully this time, it will become a reality!

I thought this old tree was actually the one near the airport, on the way to Divine Word College - but maybe I'm wrong here.
RE:SM- I remember when I was a kid (early 1980s) , during the Marcos dictatorship, there were already plans to build an SM branch near where the old site of the Philtranco terminal - but as usual it became a white elephant, and nothing came of it. Hopefully this time, it will become a reality!


The lot that Pacific Mall is on now, isn't that the old site of the Philtranco terminal? I might be wrong...
It would be nice if SM decides to set up shop in Legazpi for their Bicol region operations, if they are planning on doing it at all. But I think now it's a fight between Naga City and Legazpi City, the two premiere cities in the region. Robinsons Department Store is opening in Naga by year's end.

Keeping my fingers crossed...

Anyway, that wharf that they are planning to build in the city looks awesome, with cable cars and all. But the cable cars over at that Misibis resort are great too. They remind me of the one I've been on in HK, well the view... It's awesome, though

Misibis Resort cable cars:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec1.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec3.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec2jpg.jpg

Ocean Park, HK:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/oceanp2.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/ocpark1.jpg

The lot that Pacific Mall is on now, isn't that the old site of the Philtranco terminal? I might be wrong...
It would be nice if SM decides to set up shop in Legazpi for their Bicol region operations, if they are planning on doing it at all. But I think now it's a fight between Naga City and Legazpi City, the two premiere cities in the region. Robinsons Department Store is opening in Naga by year's end.

Keeping my fingers crossed...

Anyway, that wharf that they are planning to build in the city looks awesome, with cable cars and all. But the cable cars over at that Misibis resort are great too. They remind me of the one I've been on in HK, well the view... It's awesome, though


Misibis Resort cable cars:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec1.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec3.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec2jpg.jpg

Ocean Park, HK:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/oceanp2.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/ocpark1.jpg

Well, there's nothing to stop SM from setting up shop in both Legazpi and Naga if they think it's lucrative enough. My only concern is that this proliferation of malls will kill off local businesses, or turn downtowns into ghost towns. But I suppose air-conditioned malls will always be popular in the Philippines due to its hot climate.

drfeelgood17:

Well, there's nothing to stop SM from setting up shop in both Legazpi and Naga if they think it's lucrative enough. My only concern is that this proliferation of malls will kill off local businesses, or turn downtowns into ghost towns. But I suppose air-conditioned malls will always be popular in the Philippines due to its hot climate.


I guess you're right. Cause even Landco Pacific is building a mall in Naga even if they had built the first one in Legazpi about 4 years ago. But either way, I won't mind. I love malls, wherever they're put. hehe. dude, if I had the means and loads of money, I'd build my own mall too in Legazpi! hehehe. I'd stuff it with winding escalators and dancing fountains!

But even after Pacific Mall was built. I haven't heard or read any negative comments and stuff regarding its effect on local businesses in the area. And even its direct competition LCC Mall is still alive.

But none could compare to Philippine malls, I'd still say. Just my opinion.

Hey, any of you guys heard about the rumor that there was a proposal to convert Bicol University to University of the Philippines Bicol campus?

by the way, I saw olineil's photo in the Davao City forum. :)
great to see the face behind the poster. (of real aweome photos, i might add)

I thought this old tree was actually the one near the airport, on the way to Divine Word College - but maybe I'm wrong here.
RE:SM- I remember when I was a kid (early 1980s) , during the Marcos dictatorship, there were already plans to build an SM branch near where the old site of the Philtranco terminal - but as usual it became a white elephant, and nothing came of it. Hopefully this time, it will become a reality!


This is that enormous acacia tree by the soccer field, Bicol University
It is by that pathway leading to the old high school department building.

drfeelgood17:

Well, there's nothing to stop SM from setting up shop in both Legazpi and Naga if they think it's lucrative enough. My only concern is that this proliferation of malls will kill off local businesses, or turn downtowns into ghost towns. But I suppose air-conditioned malls will always be popular in the Philippines due to its hot climate.


I guess you're right. Cause even Landco Pacific is building a mall in Naga even if they had built the first one in Legazpi about 4 years ago. But either way, I won't mind. I love malls, wherever they're put. hehe. dude, if I had the means and loads of money, I'd build my own mall too in Legazpi! hehehe. I'd stuff it with winding escalators and dancing fountains!

But even after Pacific Mall was built. I haven't heard or read any negative comments and stuff regarding its effect on local businesses in the area. And even its direct competition LCC Mall is still alive.

But none could compare to Philippine malls, I'd still say. Just my opinion.

Hey, any of you guys heard about the rumor that there was a proposal to convert Bicol University to University of the Philippines Bicol campus?

I agree...now if I had the money, I would landscape the city's streets and plant palm trees on the pavements like in European cities. I would add new plazas and fountains, I would re-paint the buildings and get rid of those ugly post-war structures. I would extend the boardwalk all the way to Sto Domingo and build nice art deco buildings all along it like in Miami's Ocean Drive. Finally, I would ensure that the expressway goes all the way from Manila to Legazpi (why should it stop in Cavite??) Ah...so much time and so little money hehe - there's always the lottery!

Have you got photos of hotels in Legazpi/Albay?

Anyone? olineil?

The lot that Pacific Mall is on now, isn't that the old site of the Philtranco terminal? I might be wrong...
It would be nice if SM decides to set up shop in Legazpi for their Bicol region operations, if they are planning on doing it at all. But I think now it's a fight between Naga City and Legazpi City, the two premiere cities in the region. Robinsons Department Store is opening in Naga by year's end.

Keeping my fingers crossed...

Anyway, that wharf that they are planning to build in the city looks awesome, with cable cars and all. But the cable cars over at that Misibis resort are great too. They remind me of the one I've been on in HK, well the view... It's awesome, though

Misibis Resort cable cars:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec1.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec3.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/cablec2jpg.jpg

Ocean Park, HK:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/oceanp2.jpg
http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/ocpark1.jpg
I remember the cable cars in Hong Kong. We went there when I was a kid - I think it was to this resort called Ocean Park, it was like a mini- Disneyland, but with focus on marine life such as seals and dolphins.

by the way, I saw olineil's photo in the Davao City forum. :)
great to see the face behind the poster. (of real aweome photos, i might add)
Hmmm I 'm not sure which pics of Olineil you mean. Which Davao forum was it (there are several I think...)

Hmmm I 'm not sure which pics of Olineil you mean. Which Davao forum was it (there are several I think...)

you know what, maybe it wasn't olineil whom i saw now that i think about it... hmm sorry, man.

but it was a picture of a guy and his sister sa pearl farm resort...........

"Finally, I would ensure that the expressway goes all the way from Manila to Legazpi (why should it stop in Cavite??)"

Not all highways are built by the U.S. federal government. In California, some are built by the state. Estado de Bicol will become an entity sooner or later. (Yes, the current proposal is to call each region Estado.) Estado de Bicol better act on its own if they want a better road system. Don't depend on the federal government of the Philippines. The better place to start is to connect the two major cities of Naga and Legaspi. If the federal government see that the project is successful, then they will surely have the incentive to connect Bicol to the proposed SLEX southern terminal which is Lucena. Also the proposed International Airport should be built in Iriga, not in Legaspi. Naga and Legaspi should join together to build a stronger axis. Separately, their marketing potentials are diminished. Encourage Ateneo de Naga and Bicol University to do a feasibility study for this kind of project. Estados de Central and Western Visayas are already starting to flex their muscles by getting the initiative to have their islands connected by bridges.

"Finally, I would ensure that the expressway goes all the way from Manila to Legazpi (why should it stop in Cavite??)"

Not all highways are built by the U.S. federal government. In California, some are built by the state. Estado de Bicol will become an entity sooner or later. (Yes, the current proposal is to call each region Estado.) Estado de Bicol better act on its own if they want a better road system. Don't depend on the federal government of the Philippines. The better place to start is to connect the two major cities of Naga and Legaspi. If the federal government see that the project is successful, then they will surely have the incentive to connect Bicol to the proposed SLEX southern terminal which is Lucena. Also the proposed International Airport should be built in Iriga, not in Legaspi. Naga and Legaspi should join together to build a stronger axis. Separately, their marketing potentials are diminished. Encourage Ateneo de Naga and Bicol University to do a feasibility study for this kind of project. Estados de Central and Western Visayas are already starting to flex their muscles by getting the initiative to have their islands connected by bridges.

Estado de Bicol? I'm not aware of any such estado - this is the first time I've heard of this. Where did you find out about this? I would really like to know if this is happening (I doubt it...).
Also bear in mind that despite many similarities, the US federal system is quite different from the very centralised Philippine system of government. I'm also not sure that we should necessarily copy all things American. We've already been doing this for several decades, and look where our country is right now - hardly an Asian tiger...Furthermore, your suggestion would simply give the central government an excuse to abandon their responsibilities and commitments to the regions, which is the last thing we need right now. When Bicol becomes more developed economically, then your idea of financial independence might sound more feasible. It just isn't the case at the moment.
Regarding the new airport, with all due respect to Iriga and its citizens, I'm not sure how locating the airport there will result in a stronger axis, as you put it. For one thing, most of Bicol's cities are located south of Naga and Iriga: Tabaco, Ligao, Legazpi and Sorsogon are now all cities. Placing the airport in Iriga would skew the balance of development towards Camarines Sur. Moreover, there is already an airport in nearby Pili, so this option would not be cost-effective. I think it is more feasible to keep the new airport in the Legazpi area given that both Albay and neighbouring Sorsogon are the region's main tourist destinations. What would really strenghten the Naga-Legazpi axis would be: a) an expressway linking the 2 cities and/or b) an inter-region rail-link. But perhaps, this is beyond the financial means of our region! And this is why we need more, not less "federal help" from Manila. We also need to keep the Southrail project alive - I don't see why Northrail should be more of a priority.

you know what, maybe it wasn't olineil whom i saw now that i think about it... hmm sorry, man.

but it was a picture of a guy and his sister sa pearl farm resort...........

Oh yes, I think I saw that one! Great pics though! By the way, does anyone remember Imelda Park? What has happened to it? I'm not sure if it still exists. The last time I was in Legazpi, I didn''t see it at all. We used to go there for our evening strolls when I was a kid and there was this big sculture of lovers kissing, surrounded by fountains. My cousins used to joke that it was Ferdinand and Imelda making love - gullible little me believed them!! Perhaps it was bought by one of Madame's cronies?

you know what, maybe it wasn't olineil whom i saw now that i think about it... hmm sorry, man.

but it was a picture of a guy and his sister sa pearl farm resort...........

Maybe its me if u meant the Cebu thread. We were at Shangrila Mactan during my honeymoon. Yeah that was my sis when they visited us.

^^ ^^ ^^ ^^

Seems u guys wer so BZ posting when I was sleeping hehehehe....Nice to hear from u guys specially ur opinion on things to come for Legazpi and the Bicol Region. Have to go...prep p me for work...hehehehe

^^ ^^ ^^ ^^

Seems u guys wer so BZ posting when I was sleeping hehehehe....Nice to hear from u guys specially ur opinion on things to come for Legazpi and the Bicol Region. Have to go...prep p me for work...hehehehe


hehhe. sorry dude, we were talking about you when you weren't here...
but we like your pictures. :) hehe.

You got more to come right? heheeh

Oh yes, I think I saw that one! Great pics though! By the way, does anyone remember Imelda Park? What has happened to it? I'm not sure if it still exists. The last time I was in Legazpi, I didn''t see it at all. We used to go there for our evening strolls when I was a kid and there was this big sculture of lovers kissing, surrounded by fountains. My cousins used to joke that it was Ferdinand and Imelda making love - gullible little me believed them!! Perhaps it was bought by one of Madame's cronies?


This is really tiny, and judging by the look of it, a really really old photo as well, but I think this is what you're probably talking about:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/freedom.jpg

Well, what do you know! It appeared larger than I expected. Ha!

This is really tiny, and judging by the look of it, a really really old photo as well, but I think this is what you're probably talking about:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/freedom.jpg
Yes!! That's exactly the park and sculpture I was talking about! Thank you so much!! :cheers:

You seem to have a treasure-trove of old pics Matteo - where do you get them, if you don't mind me asking?

I think drfeelgood need to brush up with current events. He seems to be in limbo. The Visayan and Mindanao forumers are already very much aware of this federal movement. It seems like you are hibernating.

This is really tiny, and judging by the look of it, a really really old photo as well, but I think this is what you're probably talking about:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/freedom.jpg

Nice, I used to play there every sat morning when my mom n I visit our cousins in the nearby housing area. I had a very traumatic experience there, one saturday when I was playing alone in the stage area near the shoe play house, one white Van pulled over the street suddenly and I saw at least 3 adults rushed towards me, so I was so shocked and perplexed what are they up to...then I remembered my mom told me that child abduction is common those days and being sold...so she said I must be vigilant. So out of scare and quick thinking I sprung up and ran my ass off like nobody's business...when I was running towards the street bonot street I saw two bikers trying to intercept me...I guess with Gods help I managed to turn right quick to the street where my cousins house were and they stopped chasing me...up until now those images are still hunting me.

I think drfeelgood need to brush up with current events. He seems to be in limbo. The Visayan and Mindanao forumers are already very much aware of this federal movement. It seems like you are hibernating.
Before you accuse me of hibernating or ''being in limbo'', could you please give us concrete proof of the existence of ''Estado de Bicol'' or ''Estado de Mindanao'', as you put it, otherwise I will be justified in accusing you of living in cloud-cuckoo land and having wild, psychedelic delusions. Of course I'm aware of the federal movement - but at the moment, they are purely just that, movements are not to be confused with actual, existing states. I was discussing Bicol's actual, existing, economic situation, not some Alice-in-Wonderland scenarios, so therefore I don't need to ''brush-up'' on my current affairs because it's perfectly clear who's hibernating here!
Go easy on the narcotics and in future, think before you write!

I love the pic of the coastal road to Tiwi - very scenic indeed! Isn't there a highway that links Tiwi to Camarines Sur, or do you have to drive back to Ligao?

Yes there is actually, Ive been wanting to go thru that road. They say its very scenic and exhilirating cos its next to a ravine or somthing.

Nice, I used to play there every sat morning when my mom n I visit our cousins in the nearby housing area. I had a very traumatic experience there, one saturday when I was playing alone in the stage area near the shoe play house, one white Van pulled over the street suddenly and I saw at least 3 adults rushed towards me, so I was so shocked and perplexed what are they up to...then I remembered my mom told me that child abduction is common those days and being sold...so she said I must be vigilant. So out of scare and quick thinking I sprung up and ran my ass off like nobody's business...when I was running towards the street bonot street I saw two bikers trying to intercept me...I guess with Gods help I managed to turn right quick to the street where my cousins house were and they stopped chasing me...up until now those images are still hunting me.

Gosh, that does sound pretty traumatic! Poor you...so I guess you're mother was right about kidnappers? Either you over-reacted and panicked or they were really after you....what do you think? Come to think of it, I now remember similar rumours of child-kidnappers, but I always thought they were jokes my yayas used on me to keep me well-behaved...so maybe there was an element of truth in all this.

Estado de Bicol? I'm not aware of any such estado - this is the first time I've heard of this. Where did you find out about this? I would really like to know if this is happening (I doubt it...).
Also bear in mind that despite many similarities, the US federal system is quite different from the very centralised Philippine system of government. I'm also not sure that we should necessarily copy all things American. We've already been doing this for several decades, and look where our country is right now - hardly an Asian tiger...Furthermore, your suggestion would simply give the central government an excuse to abandon their responsibilities and commitments to the regions

You can check the Philippine Economy Threads...there should be a thread dedicated to Federalism.

As for my personal opinion. Im pro fedralism-Parliamentary...or in general decntralization of government. I believe Bicol Economy is Robust enough to be left as a separate entity. Bicols GNP & GDP is Bigger than what we actually get from national appropriation of the Budget. Manila is the Head of the Philippines that is Choking the Rest of the Body. Take Cebu for an example...if only we are already Parliamentary Cebu could've overtaken Manila by now. But the thing is Most of the Peoples taxes goes to Manila Projects that only goes to waste coz of unrellenting Rallies in the capital, and too much politicking that obstructs national projects that was supposed to have been implemented long ago for the good of the people.

If we go Federal-Parliamentary Bicol would become a separate State with a separate Law that would be appropriate for the people. We produce and consume our own coffers. We promote Bicol on our own...eventually competition between states would start which would be very good for the economy.

All Photo credits goes to their respective owners...

Dankalan Beach in Bulusan (My fathers Hometown)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/dankalan.jpg

The prestine Bulusan Lake
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/bulusanLake.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983894.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983891.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983886.jpg

Trail around Bulusan Lake
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983886.jpg

Barcelona Church
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983873.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Sorsogon/35983865.jpg

All Photo credits goes to their respective owners...

Caramoan
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/35983981.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/gota.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan6.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan5.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan4.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan3.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/35983988.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan2.jpg

Lake Buhi
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31011889.jpg

Naga City
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006567.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006571.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006584.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006590.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006618.jpg

Did I say "Estado de Mindanao?" Read again. Stop hibernating. Or I guess you prefer to be in limbo all the time. By this time, I am sure you have read already Olineil's advice to you.

Did I say "Estado de Mindanao?" Read again. Stop hibernating. Or I guess you prefer to be in limbo all the time. By this time, I am sure you have read already Olineil's advice to you.

Guys settle down. We dont need these on this thread. Peace ok. Afterall we are all Pinoys right.... :nocrook:

All photo credits to their respective owners...

Naga City Cathedral
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church1.jpg

Old Albay District, Legazpi city Cathedral
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church2.jpg

Barcelona, Sorsogon
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church3.jpg

Camalig
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church4.jpg

Tabaco City, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church5.jpg

Tiwi, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church6.jpg

Malinao, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church7.jpg

Malilipot, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church8.jpg

Bacacay, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church9.jpg

Sto. Domingo, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church10.jpg

Daraga, Albay
http://www.estanli.net/blog/wp-photos/church11.jpg

Those who love Baroque Architecture Enjoy...

Thanks, olineil--fascinating pics, and they've made me consider making another trip to Bikol when I go back to Manila in this upcoming year--Viva Ibalon!

You can check the Philippine Economy Threads...there should be a thread dedicated to Federalism.

As for my personal opinion. Im pro fedralism-Parliamentary...or in general decntralization of government. I believe Bicol Economy is Robust enough to be left as a separate entity. Bicols GNP & GDP is Bigger than what we actually get from national appropriation of the Budget. Manila is the Head of the Philippines that is Choking the Rest of the Body. Take Cebu for an example...if only we are already Parliamentary Cebu could've overtaken Manila by now. But the thing is Most of the Peoples taxes goes to Manila Projects that only goes to waste coz of unrellenting Rallies in the capital, and too much politicking that obstructs national projects that was supposed to have been implemented long ago for the good of the people.

If we go Federal-Parliamentary Bicol would become a separate State with a separate Law that would be appropriate for the people. We produce and consume our own coffers. We promote Bicol on our own...eventually competition between states would start which would be very good for the economy.

Ok let me clarify my point: I have nothing against federalism per se, nor am I necessarily against a parliamentary system. In fact, I totally agree with your point that Bicol like, other regions, are being exploited by the central government and not getting enough back from the taxes they pay to Manila. Aleco's extortionate electricity charges are a case in point. Despite the fact that most of Luzon's electricity comes from Bicol's geothermal plant, we get the highest rates in the country! So, again, the move towards decentralization is unquestionably sound.
However, my point was simply that it makes no economic sense to locate the new airport in Iriga, when nearby Pili already has one! However, some people don't seem to understand basic English and so this idiot called lochinvar, just because someone happens to disagree with his point, starts insulting me and attacking my posts on a personal level. If you read his first reply you can see how totally out of context he was - I was talking about the current economic situation here in Bicol and he replies by talking about California! Then he goes on talking about estado de Bicol (which I have never heard of in my life). Philippine regions are not equivalents of US states - it is a different system, neither innately better, nor worse. It all depends on the country's political and economic context. I also wanted to ask whether by using California as an example, this federalism that he is touting is merely another instance of the RP aping everthing that is American. Clearly this was all too much for his pride and so he launches this stupid and vindictive tirade.

Guys settle down. We dont need these on this thread. Peace ok. Afterall we are all Pinoys right.... :nocrook:
Yes, you're right - I won't dignify his latest moronic post with a reply - suffice to say that his attitude to debate is unfortunately very 'pinoy' -i.e, instead of constructive debate, we have personal insults and bickering. Enough said....Surely there is a moderator who's meant to deal with troublemakers like these?

Legazpi 1959



http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/legazpi59.jpg

Legazpi 2005

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/leg20wall_mayon.jpg

I forgot to mention that the Legazpi 2005 is courtesy of the Albay Tourism website:
http://tourism.albay.gov.ph/portraitspage.html

It's an excellent site with lots of pics!

http://photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/th_4_20030903140049.jpg

Can Pili handle a jumbo jet? If it can, can Bicol Estado handle financially two international airports? Two international airports for a small estado just to satisfy the egos of two cities? So Daet is also going to install one also because their reasoning is it is too far for them to go to Legaspi? This is idiotic.

Legazpi 1959


HMMMM... Is it just me, or Lingyon (sp?) Hill seemed to have disappeared here...?
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/legazpi59.jpg


And it's here...
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/leg20wall_mayon.jpg


or maybe i just sniffed too much of that stuff today... nyehehehe

All Photo credits goes to their respective owners...

Caramoan
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/35983981.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/gota.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan6.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan5.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan4.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan3.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/35983988.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/Carmoan2.jpg

Lake Buhi
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31011889.jpg

Naga City
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006567.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006571.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006584.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006590.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/CamSur/31006618.jpg

I like the Naga LCC - very sleek and neat!

I like the Naga LCC - very sleek and neat!


I agree!

By the way, these are good resolution photos. Are these your own personal shots, olineil.

Wake up oli, we want your photos! Heheheh just kidding.

or maybe i just sniffed too much of that stuff today... nyehehehe
You know what Matteo? That's exactly what I was thinking as I looked at the 1959 photo again!! But on second thoughts, the angle is somewhat different, I think the 2005 pic was taken from a more leftward position, hence the famous hill is visible - otherwise....hmmm ...aliens?

Can Pili handle a jumbo jet? If it can, can Bicol Estado handle financially two international airports? Two international airports for a small estado just to satisfy the egos of two cities? So Daet is also going to install one also because their reasoning is it is too far for them to go to Legaspi? This is idiotic.

So this means its also idiotic to turn DMIA into and international hub when NAIA is only 1.5hrs drive?

Practically people from daet will go to Manila coz at the current situation of Vehicle travel time to Legazpi doesnt make sense for them compared to going to Manila, and this is thanx to Imperialistic Manila, thats y we are in this sorry state. But given the fact that Naga and Legazpi still emerged as an economic power house inspite of the unrellenting crazyness in Manila means Bicol is resilient enough to stand alone. So i dont see y we cant build an airport each in every city when the need calls for it.

You know what Matteo? That's exactly what I was thinking as I looked at the 1959 photo again!! But on second thoughts, the angle is somewhat different, I think the 2005 pic was taken from a more leftward position, hence the famous hill is visible - otherwise....hmmm ...aliens?

I changed my mind again...even if the angle was a bit different, the hill should still show up somewhere in the 1959 pic, where it is nowhere to be seen! Spooky....

Actually the New 2005 photo is photoshop manipulated. Mayon was moved to the left so that it would fit the capture. Then i think Lignon Hill was moved to the right.

Legazpi 1959
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/legazpi59.jpg
You can see from here...the most prominent Building is right smack below the crater of mayon in the pier area.

Legazpi 2005
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/leg20wall_mayon.jpg
From here, that prominent building is in the right most part of the Photo. From there u can guage how much Mayon was moved to fit the pic. Then Lignon hill was also moved to the right. That explains y it was not in the 1950's pic.

or maybe i just sniffed too much of that stuff today... nyehehehe

I agree!

By the way, these are good resolution photos. Are these your own personal shots, olineil.

Wake up oli, we want your photos! Heheheh just kidding.

These photos a from the Coffers of Pbase.com Thanx to our Compatriots there that have visited bicol. There actually more in that site. I just chose a few.

Originally Posted by lochinvar

Can Pili handle a jumbo jet? If it can, can Bicol Estado handle financially two international airports? Two international airports for a small estado just to satisfy the egos of two cities? So Daet is also going to install one also because their reasoning is it is too far for them to go to Legaspi? This is idiotic.


So this means its also idiotic to turn DMIA into and international hub when NAIA is only 1.5hrs drive?

Practically people from daet will go to Manila coz at the current situation of Vehicle travel time to Legazpi doesnt make sense for them compared to going to Manila, and this is thanx to Imperialistic Manila, thats y we are in this sorry state. But given the fact that Naga and Legazpi still emerged as an economic power house inspite of the unrellenting crazyness in Manila means Bicol is resilient enough to stand alone. So i dont see y we cant build an airport each in every city when the need calls for it.

I don't get this...
Who said anything about two international airports in Bicol? Or anything about satisfying egos?

But as far as an airport of international standards for the Bicol region, for me it makes sense to have it in Legazpi. It is geographically the center of the region. Almost all of the government regional offices are there. Plus it will be used for several other purposes not just for domestic travel. Tourists can go directly to Bicol from other countries. It's not just for Legazpi or Albay's development, but it is beneficial to the entire region. The airport in Pili doesn't need to be upgraded to be of international standards, it can be a domestic airport like what it is now. And if people from Daet thinks that it makes more sense to go to Manila rather than Legazpi, then so be it. It's not just people from Daet who would be using the airport, you know.

Just my opinion. Am I right? Wrong? hehee i duno, probably still had sniffed way too much. nyehehehehee. biro lang.

Actually the New 2005 photo is photoshop manipulated. Mayon was moved to the left so that it would fit the capture. Then i think Lignon Hill was moved to the right.


Ohh. ok. Still a good shot though.

Photo time! Some pics courtesy of www.visitalbay.com and www.seemayon.cjb.net. Nice sites, check them out sometime, ok.


Mayon Skyline. Is the planetarium open yet?

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/MayonSkyline.jpg

Mayon Skyline Hotel, on the slopes of Mayon Volcano

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/MayonSkylineHotel.jpg

Another shot of downtown Legazpi City

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legazpiportview.jpg

Tiny little island... cute. hehe

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/island.jpg

Diving in Albay

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/diving.jpg

A little collage

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/collage.jpg

I apologize, but this one's completely waaaay off the topic.

Anyway, I was in this one online forum and came across this little thing.
It gave me good chuckle.
Some of you might've read something like this before:

Enjoy:

The US INS recently released this list of names of Filipinos who changed their names when they became naturalized U.S. Citizens. Who knows...you might encounter them one day.


Filipino Names =>US Citizen Names

Gregorio Talahib =>George Bush
Macario Maldonado =>Mac Donald
Remegio Batungbacal => Remington Steel
Victoria Malihim => Victoria Secret
Bienvenido Jurado => Ben Hur
Juanito Lakarin => Johnny Walker
Federico Hagibis => Federal Express
Esteban Magtaka => Stevie Wonder
Jaime Bondoc => James Bond
Leon Mangubat => Tiger Woods
Burgos Bahag-Hari => Burger King
Kasimiro Bukaykay => Cashmere Bouquet
Maria Kalas => Mary Kay
Rogelio Dagdagan => Roger Moore
Topacio Mamaril => Top Gun
Restituto Pruto => Tutti Frutti
Samuel Tampipi => Sam Sonite
Francisco Portero => Frank Porter
Diosdado Durante => Deo Dorant
Roberto Controlado => Bert Control
Marcelo Controlado => Muscle Control
Carpio Llanes => Carpool Lanes
Ligaya Anonuevo => Happy New Year
Ligaya Almundo => Joy To The World
Eustacio Campana => Taco Bell
Julia Buboyog => Jollie Bee
Dionisio Manglupa => Disney Land
Dionisio Daigdig => Disney World

So I won't be kicked out of the Legazpi/Albay/Mayon thread, here's a photo of the Headless Monument, and the old old public market that burned down in the mid-1990s. hehehehe

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/headlessmonument.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/OldMarket.jpg

^ :lol:names, so Y they put up the headless statue again?

^ :lol:names, so Y they put up the headless statue again?

As far as I know it's been up in front of the city postal office.

Legazpi Pacific Mall
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/41926022.jpg

Venezia Hotel (Same developer constructing Misibis Residential Resort)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/albay24rn.jpg

A book about Cagraray Island (where misibis is found)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/cagraray9ja.jpg

Somewhere in Bicol
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/TZ20071016331133.jpg

Biggs Diner (Bicol Homegrown Fastfood chain)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/IMG_3536.jpg

A Bicolana Babe... :omg:
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/nagagirl3gv.jpg

I apologize, but this one's completely waaaay off the topic.

Anyway, I was in this one online forum and came across this little thing.
It gave me good chuckle.
Some of you might've read something like this before:

Enjoy:

The US INS recently released this list of names of Filipinos who changed their names when they became naturalized U.S. Citizens. Who knows...you might encounter them one day.


Filipino Names =>US Citizen Names

Gregorio Talahib =>George Bush
Macario Maldonado =>Mac Donald
Remegio Batungbacal => Remington Steel
Victoria Malihim => Victoria Secret
Bienvenido Jurado => Ben Hur
Juanito Lakarin => Johnny Walker
Federico Hagibis => Federal Express
Esteban Magtaka => Stevie Wonder
Jaime Bondoc => James Bond
Leon Mangubat => Tiger Woods
Burgos Bahag-Hari => Burger King
Kasimiro Bukaykay => Cashmere Bouquet
Maria Kalas => Mary Kay
Rogelio Dagdagan => Roger Moore
Topacio Mamaril => Top Gun
Restituto Pruto => Tutti Frutti
Samuel Tampipi => Sam Sonite
Francisco Portero => Frank Porter
Diosdado Durante => Deo Dorant
Roberto Controlado => Bert Control
Marcelo Controlado => Muscle Control
Carpio Llanes => Carpool Lanes
Ligaya Anonuevo => Happy New Year
Ligaya Almundo => Joy To The World
Eustacio Campana => Taco Bell
Julia Buboyog => Jollie Bee
Dionisio Manglupa => Disney Land
Dionisio Daigdig => Disney World

So I won't be kicked out of the Legazpi/Albay/Mayon thread, here's a photo of the Headless Monument, and the old old public market that burned down in the mid-1990s. hehehehe

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/headlessmonument.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/OldMarket.jpg

Yeah I like the names joke - btw, :cheers:
If I'm not mistaken, that's the Post Office behind, right?
It's been there for as long as I can remember. BTW, does anyone know what the oldest existing building is in the city?

Legazpi Pacific Mall
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/41926022.jpg


Legazpi Pacific Mall is quite big for a less urban city! :)
BTW, am I right that METRO GAISANO is the department store and supermarket chain in LPM? How's it doing?

Legazpi Pacific Mall is quite big for a less urban city! :)
BTW, am I right that METRO GAISANO is the department store and supermarket chain in LPM? How's it doing?

Well Legazpi and neighbouring Daraga have a combined population of around 330,000 - so there is quite a significant market. Plus remember that this Pacific Mall probably caters for other Albay towns and cities as well. But I see you're point, the very urban mall contrasts sharply with the somewhat rural-looking houses in front - looks almost like a subdivision!

Legazpi Pacific Mall is quite big for a less urban city! :)
BTW, am I right that METRO GAISANO is the department store and supermarket chain in LPM? How's it doing?

Not to say Legazpi is Less Urban, but just lesser population in the immediate city boundaries including Daraga. As Dr. said, Daraga & Legazpi combined is 330,000 registered residents, add to that another easily about +-100,000 student population during school year terms, then add to that another +-700,000 for the rest of Albay and additional populace from nearby sorsogon Towns Pacific mall is eaily getting a gross Market of 1.1M of people. Pacific Mall has now become the central Hub of transportation for far flung Towns and sorsogon towns to serve people going home even after midnight, FX taxis and Vans for Rent are available there for u to go home even in the wee houts of the morning.

And Yeah Metro Gaisano is the Anchor Dept. store for LPM.

Well Legazpi and neighbouring Daraga have a combined population of around 330,000 - so there is quite a significant market. Plus remember that this Pacific Mall probably caters for other Albay towns and cities as well. But I see you're point, the very urban mall contrasts sharply with the somewhat rural-looking houses in front - looks almost like a subdivision!

But isn't the mall just part of a business park that Landco Pacific is developing? I've seen the renderings and all about 7 years ago and it included like hotels and other structures. Wonder if they're still pushing those through. I do know that the mall sits right next to Ibalong Centrum.

I like your shots olineil, do you have any more mall photos like the front of it, or interior?

And those other shots from johnreyes.net hala ka! hehehee. just kidding :)

But isn't the mall just part of a business park that Landco Pacific is developing? I've seen the renderings and all about 7 years ago and it included like hotels and other structures. Wonder if they're still pushing those through. I do know that the mall sits right next to Ibalong Centrum.

I like your shots olineil, do you have any more mall photos like the front of it, or interior?

And those other shots from johnreyes.net hala ka! hehehee. just kidding :)
I think Olineil did post some interior shots of PM - specifically the cinema lobby, I think - check out the previous pages.

And those other shots from johnreyes.net hala ka! hehehee. just kidding :)

Thats y i always put "All Photo Credits goes to its respective owners" just wanna play safe u know...hehehehe...I will never claim those are my photos, those are google treasures and Pbase collections...Peace :runaway:

Not to say Legazpi is Less Urban, but just lesser population in the immediate city boundaries including Daraga. As Dr. said, Daraga & Legazpi combined is 330,000 registered residents, add to that another easily about +-100,000 student population during school year terms, then add to that another +-700,000 for the rest of Albay and additional populace from nearby sorsogon Towns Pacific mall is eaily getting a gross Market of 1.1M of people. Pacific Mall has now become the central Hub of transportation for far flung Towns and sorsogon towns to serve people going home even after midnight, FX taxis and Vans for Rent are available there for u to go home even in the wee houts of the morning.

And Yeah Metro Gaisano is the Anchor Dept. store for LPM.

According to the National Statistics Office, these are their population projections for the cities and towns of Albay in 2005.

Legaspi City (Capital)
184,133

Bacacay
66,502

Camalig
61,562

Daraga
113,379

Guinobatan
77,002

Jovellar
20,525

Libon
71,722

Ligao
96,854

Malilipot
31,664

Malinao
39,591

Manito
22,765

Oas
62,077

Pio Duran
50,961

Polangui
78,702

Rapu-Rapu
32,951

Santo Domingo
31,287

Tabaco
120,693

Tiwi
50,804

http://www.nscb.gov.ph/ru5/updates/projections/albay.html

Add to that consumers and 'mallers' from neighbors Sorsogon, Masbate, Camarines Sur (while their Pacific Mall is not yet open). So there definitely is a market. As what olineil said, Albay has a large student population, thanks to the biggest university in Bicol

Thats y i always put "All Photo Credits goes to its respective owners" just wanna play safe u know...hehehehe...I will never claim those are my photos, those are google treasures and Pbase collections...Peace :runaway:

I like your photos though. You guys got me addicted to this forum thingy.

is everyone at work yet?

man, i'm bored...

^:lol:, school hir

^:lol:, school hir

what school do you go to.
the art institute is in schaumburg too, correct?

"All Photo Credits goes to its respective owners"

Handycrafts
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/walldecor.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/sleepers.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/Handycraftsgalore.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/bags.jpg

Bicol Shirts
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/Bicolshirts.jpg

View from Mayon Skyline Hotel
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/ViewfromMayonSkylineHotel.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/Huts.jpg

Somewhere in Albay
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/greeneries.jpg

Cagsawa Wall ruins
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/cagsawawalls.jpg

Mayon Camp 1 (water source when climbing Mayon)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/MayonCamp1.jpg

Laing
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/laing.jpg

Hoyop-Hoyopan(Blow-blow) Cave
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/hoyop-hoyopancave.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/hoyop-hoyopancave2.jpg

Albay Park & Wildlife wishing well
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Albay/albayparkwishingwell.jpg

According to the National Statistics Office, these are their population projections for the cities and towns of Albay in 2005.

Legaspi City (Capital)
184,133

Bacacay
66,502

Camalig
61,562

Daraga
113,379

Guinobatan
77,002

Jovellar
20,525

Libon
71,722

Ligao
96,854

Malilipot
31,664

Malinao
39,591

Manito
22,765

Oas
62,077

Pio Duran
50,961

Polangui
78,702

Rapu-Rapu
32,951

Santo Domingo
31,287

Tabaco
120,693

Tiwi
50,804

http://www.nscb.gov.ph/ru5/updates/projections/albay.html

Add to that consumers and 'mallers' from neighbors Sorsogon, Masbate, Camarines Sur (while their Pacific Mall is not yet open). So there definitely is a market. As what olineil said, Albay has a large student population, thanks to the biggest university in Bicol

Great research Matteo! Thanks, you've really done you're homework :cheers:
Albay's population is growing really fast - amazing for such a small province. Here's a really geeky question, sorry: I wanted to know what criteria are used to convert Philippine municipalities into cities. Based on your table, it doesn't seem to be based on population alone, otherwise how do we explain the fact that Daraga remains a municipality whereas Ligao, which has a smaller population is now a city? Perhaps it is more of a political thing...

Not to say Legazpi is Less Urban, but just lesser population in the immediate city boundaries including Daraga. As Dr. said, Daraga & Legazpi combined is 330,000 registered residents, add to that another easily about +-100,000 student population during school year terms, then add to that another +-700,000 for the rest of Albay and additional populace from nearby sorsogon Towns Pacific mall is eaily getting a gross Market of 1.1M of people. Pacific Mall has now become the central Hub of transportation for far flung Towns and sorsogon towns to serve people going home even after midnight, FX taxis and Vans for Rent are available there for u to go home even in the wee houts of the morning.

And Yeah Metro Gaisano is the Anchor Dept. store for LPM.

ahh okay! have you gone to LPM? Is it very crowded?

ahh okay! have you gone to LPM? Is it very crowded?

Last time I was there...yes its very crowded...weekdays to weekend...lotsa students strolling around the Mall.

Last time I was there...yes its very crowded...weekdays to weekend...lotsa students strolling around the Mall.

how about that Bichara mall olineil, how's that one.
i used to check out their website, but i think it only lasted a couple months online...... www.absec.com.ph

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/devera_house05.jpg http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Olondrez_Old_House_2.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Lasalas_Old_House_2.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Lasalas_Old_House_4.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Gorospes_Old_House_3.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Alindogans_Old_House_4.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Casa_Feliz_3.jpg

wow! that's really old. thanks for the pics.

wow! that's really old. thanks for the pics.

Thanx - glad you liked them!

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/devera_house05.jpg http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Olondrez_Old_House_2.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Lasalas_Old_House_2.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Lasalas_Old_House_4.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Gorospes_Old_House_3.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Alindogans_Old_House_4.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Casa_Feliz_3.jpg

Wow galing! Where are this houses located in Bicol?

Wow galing! Where are this houses located in Bicol?
Thanx
They're actually from Sorsogon province, mostly from the town of Juban. The last pic at the bottom is of Casa Feliz, which has been turned into an inn/guest-house. It's one of the prettiest, I think, but unfortunately photobucket won't let me enlarge it! I also like the second house with its almost New Orleans style balconies and terrace, and also the middle house with the tricylce in front.
Wow... this thread has now been viewed 3,500 + times, let's keep the momentum going guys! :)

Monday October 3, 12:54 PM


Philippine Mining Firm Makes First Gold And Silver Export To HK

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct 3 Asia Pulse - The Rapu-Rapu Mineral Inc. (RPM), a new mining firm in Albay province, has made an initial export 420 kilos of gold and silver to Hong Kong, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau(MGB).

Reynulfo A. Juan, MGB Bicol regional director, said the first shipment made during the first three weeks of September by the Australian-owned mining firm, consisted of 90 per cent gold and 10 per cent silver. ADVERTISEMENT



The gold and silver will be refined in Hong Kong.

Juan said the company paid some P600,000 in taxes to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) district office here.

The RPMI was one of the first mining companies that responded the invitation of the Arroyo administration to invest in the country after the Supreme Court ruled that foreign investors can engage in mining.

Juan said the full blast operation of the Australian firm will spur development on Rapu-Rapu island in particular and the whole Bicol region.

The company will export another 200 kilograms of gold and silver to Hongkong in the next shipment.

In other development, of the 65 cancelled mining tenements nationwide by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) six are located in Bicol which included those of heirs of Vicente Raeses, Samar. Mining Company consisting of three contracts, Cam-Meta Minerals, Inc. and the heirs of Epifanio Landicho.

Juan said that the cancellation of the 65 non-performing mining leases nationwide was issued by DENR Secretary Michael Defensor through DENR Memorandum Order No. 13.

Juan bared that the cancelled mining leases in Bicol are located in the provinces of Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur.

That of Raeses mining lease for marble is located in Panganiban town while sugar mining consisting of three contracts for gold were supposed to operate in Paracale town in Camarines Norte.

Cam-Meta Minerals engaged in chromite is the Lagonoy town and Landicho operates in Del Gallego town, both in Camarines Sur.

Juan said the order dated August 5, 2005, declared as final and executory the cancellation of the 65 non-performing mining tenement in consonance with DENR Memorandum Order (DMO) Numbered 2005-03 and DMO No. 12 series of 2004.

DMO No. 12 provides for the system of monitoring mineral agreements and of maximizing resource potentials of mineral lands while DMO No. 2005-03 provides for the list of cancelled non-performing mining tenements for violations of certain provisions in the mining contracts.

Based on DMO No. 2005-03, the main criterion for the cancellation are the failure of mining contractor to undertake mining activities on the ground over a long period of time and, after due process, where a certain number of mining contractor/permit applicants failed to file their respective motions for reconsideration within and beyond the reglamentary period set under existing laws, rules and regulations.

Juan also said that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau was also directed by DENR Secretary to issue only Exploration Permits (EPs) and not Mineral Production Sharing Agreement or MPSA as the initial mode of entry to pave the way for the full monitoring and assessment of the development of current mining projects in the country.

(PNA)

Interesting read from local news: Galleon Treasure

Traders beat Museum Execs to galleon treasure

Inquirer News Service
This story was taken from www.inq7.net


LEGAZPI CITY-Museum officials here found out too late that fishermen on Rapu-Rapu Island had discovered late last year a sunken Spanish galleon that contained gold and silver coins, jars and other valuable treasures.

More than a thousand 17th- and 18th-century Spanish coins were recovered from the wreckage but only fewer than 20 pieces could be left because the fishermen had quietly sold the items to treasure hunters and collectors, Legazpi Museum curator Erlinda Belleza said, citing a report by two residents of Barangay Viga in Rapu-Rapu.

Rapu-Rapu is about two hours by motorboat from this city. However, it would take another one-and-a-half hours to reach Viga.

The business was so brisk and profitable that fisherfolk in Barangay Viga and neighboring villages temporarily stopped fishing.

Taiwanese, Japanese, Korean and Filipino businessmen and collectors coming from Manila had frequented the village to buy as many coins and other items as possible, the two whistle-blowers said. The price of each coin ranged from P6,000 to P10,000.

Belleza said she had asked the National Museum, through Assistant Director Cecillio Salcedo, to send coin experts and divers to Rapu-Rapu to look for the remaining treasure and other sunken galleons in the area.

She said that as early as November last year, she had heard stories about the treasure found off the island but could not find people who could confirm them.

Risky

Nilo Asuncion, 29, of Viga, and his cousin, Charles Asuncion, 36, who now lives in Barangay Rawis in Legazpi, disclosed that some of those who bought and hid the coins wanted to sell them to the Legazpi Museum so they could make more money. But they were reluctant to do so for fear of being penalized or imprisoned.

"This is the very reason why it took us quite some time before we revealed this and why we consulted Mrs. Belleza instead of the authorities in Rapu-Rapu, the police or the military," Nilo said.

He said there were several instances since late last year when local government officials and policemen collected coins and tolerated risky underwater treasure-hunting so divers could find more items.

Out of curiosity, Charles said he bought four gold and five silver coins, which he believed were the only ones left of the old Spanish coins recovered from the sunken galleon.

He said he bought the coins for P5,500 each.

"I was just interested to see for myself, so I asked one fisherman to show me a sample. At first, he was reluctant to show it unless I would really buy it. So I bought it and the others. But from the time I showed them to Mrs. Belleza, I became aware of the coins' importance and decided not to sell them to a certain Japanese collector," Charles told the Inquirer.

Isabel 2

The four gold coins were dated 1862, 1863 (two pieces) and 1868, while the five silver coins were dated 1792, 1801, 1867, 1882 and 1887.

Belleza noted that the name of Carolus III de Gratia was inscribed on the 1792 coin; Carolus IV de Gratia on the 1801 coin; Isabel 2 and Porlag de Dios Y La Const Reina on each of the 1863 coins; Alfonso X Porlag de Dios on 1868, and Alfonso XII Porlag de Dios on 1882.

"Most of the remaining Spanish coins that Charles has bought have determinant value upon considering its physical condition of being discernible and exceptionally fine, for only two of the silver coins have slightly worn features--the 1801 and the 1887," Belleza said.

Numismatists collect coins not just because of their historical importance but because of their investment value. A coin's value usually increases with time. But most of all, rarity is the foremost determinant in grading coins.

An official of Barangay Viga, who also has a house in Barangay Victory Village in the port area of Legazpi, confirmed the stories about the sunken treasures quietly gathered by the fishermen. Due to his position in the village, he requested not to be named.

Blast fishers

Both Nilo and Charles witnessed how frenzied the local fishermen in their barangay had become, to the point that most of them stopped fishing for months because of the huge amount of money they got from gathering and selling coins.

Nilo recounted that a group of blast fishers in their barangay accidentally discovered late last year that they had blown up jars containing gold and silver coins.

He said some of the fishermen swam underwater and were surprised to find other items such as antique cups, forks, tablespoons, worn-out garments and metal scraps from the sunken ship.

A buyer of scrap, Charles never thought that what he had bought was a part of the sunken vessel. He bought the piece for only P60 per kilo.

"I often came back to my hometown to buy metal scraps. No one told me that it came from a sunken vessel until my Taiwanese buyer told me that this was not an ordinary metal because of its durability. Compared with the metals today, it is not welded and is made of pure bronze and copper metals," Charles said.

Sanctuary

Historians and anthropologists, both here and abroad, have considered Rapu-Rapu Island a sanctuary for galleons, based on historical documents provided by the Legazpi Museum.

Due to strong waves from the Pacific Ocean, many Spanish galleons coming from Sorsogon found Rapu-Rapu a safe haven for their voyage to other parts of Albay. But some of them reportedly sank off the coast of Rapu-Rapu.

"So, most likely, there are still many treasures left. That's why we are asking for the expertise of the National Museum on this matter before it's too late," Belleza said.

In the 18th century, the Spaniards frequented Rapu-Rapu to prepare for an all-out war against Moro pirates. This went on until 1819.

Belleza said Rapu-Rapu was believed to be the springboard for the Moros who raided big towns in Bicol.

Monday October 3, 12:54 PM


Philippine Mining Firm Makes First Gold And Silver Export To HK

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct 3 Asia Pulse - The Rapu-Rapu Mineral Inc. (RPM), a new mining firm in Albay province, has made an initial export 420 kilos of gold and silver to Hong Kong, according to the Mines and Geosciences Bureau(MGB).

Reynulfo A. Juan, MGB Bicol regional director, said the first shipment made during the first three weeks of September by the Australian-owned mining firm, consisted of 90 per cent gold and 10 per cent silver. ADVERTISEMENT



The gold and silver will be refined in Hong Kong.

Juan said the company paid some P600,000 in taxes to the Bureau of Internal Revenue (BIR) district office here.

The RPMI was one of the first mining companies that responded the invitation of the Arroyo administration to invest in the country after the Supreme Court ruled that foreign investors can engage in mining.

Juan said the full blast operation of the Australian firm will spur development on Rapu-Rapu island in particular and the whole Bicol region.

The company will export another 200 kilograms of gold and silver to Hongkong in the next shipment.

In other development, of the 65 cancelled mining tenements nationwide by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) six are located in Bicol which included those of heirs of Vicente Raeses, Samar. Mining Company consisting of three contracts, Cam-Meta Minerals, Inc. and the heirs of Epifanio Landicho.

Juan said that the cancellation of the 65 non-performing mining leases nationwide was issued by DENR Secretary Michael Defensor through DENR Memorandum Order No. 13.

Juan bared that the cancelled mining leases in Bicol are located in the provinces of Camarines Norte and Camarines Sur.

That of Raeses mining lease for marble is located in Panganiban town while sugar mining consisting of three contracts for gold were supposed to operate in Paracale town in Camarines Norte.

Cam-Meta Minerals engaged in chromite is the Lagonoy town and Landicho operates in Del Gallego town, both in Camarines Sur.

Juan said the order dated August 5, 2005, declared as final and executory the cancellation of the 65 non-performing mining tenement in consonance with DENR Memorandum Order (DMO) Numbered 2005-03 and DMO No. 12 series of 2004.

DMO No. 12 provides for the system of monitoring mineral agreements and of maximizing resource potentials of mineral lands while DMO No. 2005-03 provides for the list of cancelled non-performing mining tenements for violations of certain provisions in the mining contracts.

Based on DMO No. 2005-03, the main criterion for the cancellation are the failure of mining contractor to undertake mining activities on the ground over a long period of time and, after due process, where a certain number of mining contractor/permit applicants failed to file their respective motions for reconsideration within and beyond the reglamentary period set under existing laws, rules and regulations.

Juan also said that the Mines and Geosciences Bureau was also directed by DENR Secretary to issue only Exploration Permits (EPs) and not Mineral Production Sharing Agreement or MPSA as the initial mode of entry to pave the way for the full monitoring and assessment of the development of current mining projects in the country.

(PNA)

This is good news...but I just hope they dont rape the environment after they made use of it.

That's exactly my concern Olineil, according to press reports, check out for example - http://au.news.yahoo.com/051003/3/w6qv.html - this firm will be paying out 600,000 pesos in taxes to the local BIR - a very miserly amount if you consider that this firm is making millions of DOLLARS (not pesos!) from this operation. Some articles have misleadingly called Lafayette a Philippine firm (purely on the basis that it is listed on the Philippine Stock Exchange). In fact, it is 98% Australian owned. So i'm really not sure how much of this wealth will actually benefit local residents.

"All Photo credits goes to each respective owners"

Bagasbas Beach, Daet Camarines Norte (Surfers Paradise)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet2.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet3.jpg

Another Beach in Cam Norte
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/26904563.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/26904562.jpg

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct 12 Asia Pulse - The Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) in Bicol announced Monday that the Pantao International Port in Libon, Albay is now open for all types of sea vessels.

In an official statement, the PPA encouraged all shipping companies in the country especially cargo vessels to use the new port as docking and embarking point of their goods from the different provinces of Visayas and Mindanao regions.

The new International port can accommodate all types of sea vessels regardless of their gross registered tonnage.

The PPA regional office here is the lead agency in promoting the market and business trade of the Pantao Port.

Regional manager Rene Agao said the office has submitted the recommendation to the Bicol Regional Development Council to help in the promotion of the Pantao Port.

Pantao Port is a first class international sea port in Bicol region linking Batangas, Visayas, Mindanao and Asian regions.

Agao said the shipping companies can now utilize the port for docking. It will help reduce the transport cost of their products.

Meanwhile, Albay Governor Fernando Gonzalez said the operation of the port will help improve trade and commerce between the provinces of Bicol mainland and of Visayas as well as Mindanao.

"We will also promote business trade with our neighboring countries particularly in China," Gonzalez said.

LEGAZPI CITY, Oct 6 Asia Pulse - The Philippine Coconut Authority (PCA) research center in Bicol has warned local officials and farmers about the coconut leaf beetle which is considered a new pest for Philippine coconuts.

Mateo Zipagan, PCA research center chief and chairman of the technical working group, explained to the members of the Albay Sangguniang Panlalawigan that the coconut industry should be protected against the spread of the new coconut beetle called Brontispa longissima (Gestro).

The Brontispa longissima is an invasive pest introduced to the country, presumably, in early 2004 via importation of ornamental palms.

Zipagan said this kind of beetle causes great damage to seedlings and mature coconut trees and ornamental palms, thereby killing the young spear and eventually the whole tree.

The young leaves of the coconut, in particular, appear burned or scorched resulting from the feeding damage of the coconut leaf beetle.

"We just started the research and monitoring in the Bicol region to determine whether the said beetle has migrated here," he said.

Zipagan revealed that the province of Cavite is one of the areas in Luzon that has been attacked by Brontispa longissima. The PCA and the local government have set up necessary steps to stop the spread of this beetle, he noted.
He urged local officials to immediately inspect coconut trees in Albay to check the presence of Brontispa longissima and prevent its spread.

Brontispa longissima is a flat and slender beetle, the color is generally black except for the neck and the basal portion of wing, which are yellow-orange to red.

"The adult beetle and its larva stay between unopened leaflets of young coconut spears. They feed on the soft tissues but spare the hardier veins and midribs. They cause decay and drying of affected parts which prevent the tree from bearing fruits," Zipagan said.

He noted that the eggs are difficult to detect because they are inserted in between leaflets. "Planting materials including ornamentals intended for transport to uninfested areas should be inspected well," he said.

Zipagan also admitted that there is no natural enemy - no other insects to prevent the Brontispa longissima from spreading.

The long life span of the adult Brontispa longissima, which is from 75-90 days, makes it the most destructive. Although it is not capable of long flights, it is capable of short distance spread. The insect measures 7.5-10mm and 1.5-2.0 mm wide.

(PNA)

"All Photo credits goes to each respective owners"

Bagasbas Beach, Daet Camarines Norte (Surfers Paradise)
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet2.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/Bagasbasbeachdaet3.jpg

Another Beach in Cam Norte
http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/26904563.jpg

http://i9.photobucket.com/albums/a79/olineil3/Cam%20Norte/26904562.jpg

Nice beach! Where in Camarines Norte is this white sand beach (last pic) ?

Nice beach! Where in Camarines Norte is this white sand beach (last pic) ?

Same here, I just managed to dig this pics from a cam norte dedicated page.

Legazpi Pacific Mall is quite big for a less urban city! :)
BTW, am I right that METRO GAISANO is the department store and supermarket chain in LPM? How's it doing?

Landco Pacific is actually expanding this mall.

Plans are underway for both expansion and rehabilitation of Landco’s existing Pacific Malls. More than Pesos 160 million are marked to expand the Pacific Mall in Legaspi City from 32,000 square meters of lessable space to more than 40,000 square meters by 2006. In 2004 Landco also announced plans for a mixed-use regional shopping and business center in the growing Southern Luzon City of Naga. The project is expected to break ground before the first quarter of 2006.


http://www.metropacific.com/operations/landco.html

Landco Pacific is actually expanding this mall.

Plans are underway for both expansion and rehabilitation of Landco’s existing Pacific Malls. More than Pesos 160 million are marked to expand the Pacific Mall in Legaspi City from 32,000 square meters of lessable space to more than 40,000 square meters by 2006. In 2004 Landco also announced plans for a mixed-use regional shopping and business center in the growing Southern Luzon City of Naga. The project is expected to break ground before the first quarter of 2006.


http://www.metropacific.com/operations/landco.html

Wow this is good news...Lookin forward to seeing LPM bigger and better.

From motorcyclephilippines.com, found some photos of bike riders at an event at the Legazpi Pacific Mall grounds:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds4.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds3.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds2.jpg

Found a photo of the Legazpi Monument that shows part of the old public market on the left, all fenced in. Check out the power cables!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiMOnument.jpg

Billboard of a rendering of the new market that was constructed. I still have no clue as to where this is located...

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/legazpipublicmarketsign.jpg

[QUOTE=Matteo]Found a photo of the Legazpi Monument that shows part of the old public market on the left, all fenced in. Check out the power cables!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiMOnument.jpg

This one thing I really dont like in Legazpi rith now. Actually the thing thats making it worse are the Telephone cables. I hope the city will start an ordinace to force the telecom companies to bury all their cables.

From motorcyclephilippines.com, found some photos of bike riders at an event at the Legazpi Pacific Mall grounds:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds4.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds3.jpg

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/lpmgrounds2.jpg

I bet you Ariel Ayque was there again showing off his BIG BIKE...that guy is so cocky!!! Hope none of u is a relative...hehehehe...Peace.

[QUOTE=Matteo]Found a photo of the Legazpi Monument that shows part of the old public market on the left, all fenced in. Check out the power cables!



This one thing I really dont like in Legazpi rith now. Actually the thing thats making it worse are the Telephone cables. I hope the city will start an ordinace to force the telecom companies to bury all their cables.


I thought Bayantel and Digitel did lay their phone cables underground.

I bet you Ariel Ayque was there again showing off his BIG BIKE...that guy is so cocky!!! Hope none of u is a relative...hehehehe...Peace.

Isn't he the radio personality? hehe. Matteo not a relative. nyehehe

Anyway, off the topic, but still of Albay/Bicol significance, have any of you guys heard about this independent film called "Sarung Banggi"?
Director's name is Emman Dela Cruz.

This was apparently an entry in the 2005 Cinemalaya Indie Film Festival in the PI last July. Check:

:::
SARONG BANGGI (One Night)
by: Emmanuel Dela Cruz
2005 Full-length Film Category

Sarong Banggi, as the Bicol song of the same title suggests, takes place in the span of one night. It opens with a barkada teenage boys in search of carnal pleasure. As they go their separate ways with their respective partners for the night, one of them goes in a different direction. He strikes up a conversation with an older woman, and as the night grows deeper, so does their new relationship. What starts out casually turns intimate and surprisingly tender. In this unusual one nightstand the teenage boy loses his virginity and the more experienced, toughened woman rediscovers her vulnerability.

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Emmanuel Dela Cruz is a screenwriter, filmmaker, theater artist, graphic artist and songwriter. He is a recipient of the GAWAD CCP for the narrative and experimental shorts, the 2nd prize winner of the 1995 FDFPI screenwriting competition for his full-length screenplay "Pain sa Dilim," and co-winner (with Shaira Salvador and Raymond Lee) in the Best Story Category of the 2003 FAMAS Awards for the film "Kailangan Kita". Emman is also a creative consultant for several ABS-CBN teleseryes and has created/co-piloted TV shows like "Tabing-Ilog" and "Martin Late@Night". He was contributing writing for the highly successful telenovela "Pangako Sa Iyo". He is a founding member of BEDBUGS, an underground comics group.

MAJOR CREDIT TITLES

Production Company ufo Pictures
Genre Drama
Director Emmanuel Dela Cruz
Lead Actors Angelo Ilagan
Lead Actress Jaclyn Jose
Supporting Actors Pierro Rodriguez
Alcris Galura
Miguel Guno
Screenwriter Emmanuel Dela Cruz
Cinematographer Miguel Fabie
Musical Scorer Jessie Lasaten
Film Editor Jaime Davila
Production Designer Lena Cobangbang
Line Producer Raymond Lee

http://www.culturalcenter.gov.ph/cinemalaya/2005-sarong.htm

:::


Sorry I got sidetracked, just a fan of indie films, that's all. hehehe



Anyone got photos of the new Pantao International Port?

Here's Tabaco International Seaport, from the Tabaco City website:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/tabacointlseaport.jpg

Isn't he the radio personality? hehe. Matteo not a relative. nyehehe

Anyway, off the topic, but still of Albay/Bicol significance, have any of you guys heard about this independent film called "Sarung Banggi"?
Director's name is Emman Dela Cruz.

This was apparently an entry in the 2005 Cinemalaya Indie Film Festival in the PI last July. Check:

:::
SARONG BANGGI (One Night)
by: Emmanuel Dela Cruz
2005 Full-length Film Category

Sarong Banggi, as the Bicol song of the same title suggests, takes place in the span of one night. It opens with a barkada teenage boys in search of carnal pleasure. As they go their separate ways with their respective partners for the night, one of them goes in a different direction. He strikes up a conversation with an older woman, and as the night grows deeper, so does their new relationship. What starts out casually turns intimate and surprisingly tender. In this unusual one nightstand the teenage boy loses his virginity and the more experienced, toughened woman rediscovers her vulnerability.

ABOUT THE DIRECTOR

Emmanuel Dela Cruz is a screenwriter, filmmaker, theater artist, graphic artist and songwriter. He is a recipient of the GAWAD CCP for the narrative and experimental shorts, the 2nd prize winner of the 1995 FDFPI screenwriting competition for his full-length screenplay "Pain sa Dilim," and co-winner (with Shaira Salvador and Raymond Lee) in the Best Story Category of the 2003 FAMAS Awards for the film "Kailangan Kita". Emman is also a creative consultant for several ABS-CBN teleseryes and has created/co-piloted TV shows like "Tabing-Ilog" and "Martin Late@Night". He was contributing writing for the highly successful telenovela "Pangako Sa Iyo". He is a founding member of BEDBUGS, an underground comics group.

MAJOR CREDIT TITLES

Production Company ufo Pictures
Genre Drama
Director Emmanuel Dela Cruz
Lead Actors Angelo Ilagan
Lead Actress Jaclyn Jose
Supporting Actors Pierro Rodriguez
Alcris Galura
Miguel Guno
Screenwriter Emmanuel Dela Cruz
Cinematographer Miguel Fabie
Musical Scorer Jessie Lasaten
Film Editor Jaime Davila
Production Designer Lena Cobangbang
Line Producer Raymond Lee

http://www.culturalcenter.gov.ph/cinemalaya/2005-sarong.htm

:::


Sorry I got sidetracked, just a fan of indie films, that's all. hehehe



Anyone got photos of the new Pantao International Port?

Here's Tabaco International Seaport, from the Tabaco City website:

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/tabacointlseaport.jpg

Sounds like an interesting film Matteo - I wonder if it's available here in England. Nice view of Tabaco port...btw, what I would really like to see are photos of the little-known and seldom visited towns of Pio Duran, Pantao, Jovellar etc - those on the ''other coast'' of Albay - has anyone got pics of these places? Just curious to know what they look like and whether there are any nice beaches over there - I don't think I've ever been to that side of Albay.

[QUOTE=Matteo]Found a photo of the Legazpi Monument that shows part of the old public market on the left, all fenced in. Check out the power cables!

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/LegazpiMOnument.jpg

This one thing I really dont like in Legazpi rith now. Actually the thing thats making it worse are the Telephone cables. I hope the city will start an ordinace to force the telecom companies to bury all their cables.

Yes, I agree, we should get rid of these unsightly cables! They really ruin the view. Unfortunately, they are a common feature of Philippine cities. Perhaps the local government should give tax incentives to cities that look clean and tidy (cable-free)?

[QUOTE=olineil]


I thought Bayantel and Digitel did lay their phone cables underground.

Yes they Buried them, but only the trunklines. But the dropwires or feed wires t0 the consumers are ran overhead. Sigh...thats y u will see all those sagging teenee-weenee wires.

Banquerojan Falls (near Legazpi)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/bangkerohan_large.jpg

Surfing in Catanduanes

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/App0001l.jpg

Bulusan Lake

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/Bulusan.jpg

Cagsawa resort

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/cagsawa_large.jpg

Church in Barcelona, Sorsogon

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/brclnc01.jpg

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/brclnc90.jpg

Palale Falls
http://photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/th_palale.jpg

Cathedral of St Peter & St Paul, Sorsogon City
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/sorsogon_cathedral.jpg

Catanduanes Reef and Pink Beach

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/catanduanes_reef.jpg

Hey, any of you guys heard about the rumor that there was a proposal to convert Bicol University to University of the Philippines Bicol campus?

Sorry for the very late reply...

Yes when I was still studying Bicol University was studied and proposed to become UPLC. But alot of the student body was opposed to it coz its gonna increase the Tuition Fee rates w/c are already perfectly affordable to the common Bicolanos. Imagine I took architecture for only P1000+ tuition fee per semester, Beat that if u turn it to become UP. And mind u BU engineering campus is one of the best engineer producing schools in the Philippines.

Banquerojan Falls (near Legazpi)

http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/bangkerohan_large.jpg

Would u look at that! I didnt even know that such a falls existed in banquerojan. I luv this forum...I know more about Albay now than when I was there. What an Irony.

Surfing in Catanduanes
http://i10.photobucket.com/albums/a141/drfeelgood17/App0001l.jpg
[/QUOTE]
Beautiful...Any of u knows how to find the nude beach in catanduanes...hehehe...But I guess i will never last a few minutes there w/o embarassing myself. :bash:

^^ Wow! Beautiful pictures @drfeelgood17 :)

postcard shot!

I've recently learned that one of my cousins back home is working for AT&T's call center in Legazpi City. I was actually surprised to know that the city is also keeping up in terms of IT-related enterprises.

I've come across an article a couple of years ago that some US-based company set up shop in Legazpi. (see article and link below)

But I'm actually glad to know this. It's definitely good news.

Olineil, what can you add to this subject?

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Big on Service
A big student population, shopping and service establishments drive business in Legazpi City
Published in Philippine Business Volume 9 No. 1


Need a place to launch a fast food empire? You don’t have to set up in Manila right away – not if you want to do like what Legazpi City’s homegrown Bigg’s – touted by Entrepreneur magazine as the next Jollibee – did it. Despite the presence here of McDonald’s and Jollibee’s four outlets, Bigg’s remains a popular 24-hour hamburger deli in Legazpi City. Perhaps its round-the-clock service is proof that this city (population: 157,010) in fact may be in the league already of those that no longer sleep.

It also appears that youth brings dynamism to a region virtually unknown for many years except for its typhoons and Mayon Volcano’s eruptions. The city is old, and traces its foundation to the Spanish era – but it has a predominantly young population. In particular, thousands of college students study in its universities and spend, shop, eat and drink, bringing good business to a lot of establishments.

The newly-elected City Mayor, Noel Rosal, at 37 years old is also young and appears not to be sleeping at his job, too. He’s fired up with plans. He relates he’s just been to Manila to meet with the Chair of the Philippine Ports Authority (PPA) on talks to improve the city port – an ambitious P500-million undertaking. And before nine o’clock in the morning, Rosal has started to meet with people pitching a P12-million Geographical Information System (GIS) that he says in serious tones would help the city efficiently gather taxes and revenues. With this, City Hall, he says, targets P300 million in annual revenues.

Legazpi City At a Glance

Population
157,010 (as of May 2000)

No. of households:
30,612

Annual growth rate:
2.63

Air transport:
Daily flights between Manila and Legazpi City; airport can accomodate medium range jet planes and light planes for commercial, military, and cargo operations

Land transport:
Regular bus trips to and from Metro Manila (approximately 10 hours); bus and ferry trips from Mindanao and the Visayas via a ferry terminal at Matnog, Sorsogon

Rail tranport:
State-owned Philippine Railway operates regular trips to and from Manila

Water:
Commercial vessels regularly to lock and unload cargoes at Legazpi port

Telecommunications:
Bayantel and Digitel are the two major phone companies; cable and internet services are widely available

Financial institutions:
26 banks, 9 investment/financing firms, 47 insurance companies, 148 lending institutions, 67 registered cooperatives

EDUCATION
Elementary:
40 public and 11 private schools
Secondary:
2 public (with 5 annexes) and 11 private
Tertiary:
1 public and 12 private

“We want to be known as a service city” volunteers Rosal. Legazpi City has no large scale industries or manufacturing facilities. Instead, in this city (534 kilometers south of Manila) surrounded by rolling hills and guarded coolly by the beautiful Mayon Volcano, big business spells the 3S: shopping, studying, and spending.


Mall and Business Park
In December 2001, Pacific Mall — the centerpiece of Landco Pacific’s Landco Business Park in Legazpi — opened to enthusiastic response from residents not only from the city but from towns in surrounding provinces as well. Mall retailing and its attendant services such as dining and entertainment in Legazpi have a ready and huge market potential of almost four million from the surrounding towns in the province of Albay, as well as other provinces such as Catanduanes, Sorsogon, Camarines Sur, and Camarines Norte.

Developer Landco, a Metro Pacific company, took a gamble in the city when it launched its Landco Business Park-Legazpi in 1995. Today, almost 80% of the prime lots within the planned business park is sold. Landco is converting the area into a classy commercial hub, housing retail stores, wholesales stores, showrooms, and service establishments. A zoning plan keeps a special area for hotels and designated row for restaurants and bars.

Before Pacific Mall, Legazpi already had its homegrown Legazpi Commercial Center or LCC, now a huge retail giant with branches in Naga City and Tabaco City. Shopping taps the consumerist bent of the youth population, all the more fired up by the advent of cable television and the Internet.


Schools and Brainpower
Legazpi City is home to two universities. One is the state-owned Bicol University, one of the country’s biggest, acknowledged as an engineering powerhouse and also known for its agricultural/fisheries research. Another one is the Catholic-run privately-owned Aquinas University.

Together with about a dozen other colleges, the city is virtually kept alive, economically by thousands of students coming from the different provinces of the Bicol region. Boarding houses, fast food outlets, clothes shops, and service establishments thrive because of the high demand from students and the young people.

“We produce more than 30,000 graduates a year,” says Rosal, mostly in the field of Information Technology, Engineering, and the professions. Don Bosco Technical and TESDA have recently put up branches here to meet the high demand for education.
This rich minefield of brainpower made New York-based, multinational firm Innodata put up a data conversion center in the city last year – employing 600 local graduates of the city. The center currently operates in three shifts, seven days a week, and thirty days a month.

http://i22.photobucket.com/albums/b332/MatteoMatt/innodata.jpg

In 2001, New York-based Innodata set up in Legazpi city, employing 600 locals residents

Areas for Investments
Tourism is another area where Legazpi City and the province of Albay can further benefit from. Mayon Volcano is of course famous, but the city may need to improve the packaging or promotion of its tourist attractions which could include the province’s beaches and caves, as well as its festivals such as the Ibalong Festival held every October and the Magayon (meaning “beauty / beautiful”) Festival held every May. “We also want to build a world-class golf course here,” adds Rosal.
The City government is accelerating improvements so that the “service city” will be true to its name. Among these is the improvement of airport facilities.

To further boost the image of a shopping capital in the region, Legazpi will build another mall which will cater to the lower-income bracket and will be patterned after the successful Tutuban Mall at Divisoria in Manila.

http://www.philippinebusiness.com.ph/geographics/legazpicity.htm

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Keep in mind that this article was written probably a couple of years ago, so some details might've already changed...