Naga and Iriga Cities, and Camarines Sur Province [Archive] - Page 114

oragon.com

March 4th, 2010, 07:18 AM

Naga City Works for Transparency and Accountability

Three women looking in two books (Courtesy Randyvic Villaflor-Naga City Visitors Center)
The city of Naga publishes the charter every three years, detailing the city’s responsibilities to the people.
Enlarge Photo
Three women looking in two books (Courtesy Randyvic Villaflor-Naga City Visitors Center)
The city of Naga publishes the charter every three years, detailing the city’s responsibilities to the people.

An Interview With Jesse Robredo

A medium-sized city in the Philippines has developed a reputation as a model of good government practice. It is not a reputation earned through a single act or declaration, but through one action after another, month after month, year after year. Naga has served its people consistently and reliably, winning their confidence and trust.

Jesse Robredo has been the elected mayor of the city of Naga for most of the last 20 years. He came into city government with two advanced degrees and experience working in a consumer foods corporation.

Naga has received more than 150 awards — international, national, and regional — for its sound and innovative practices. It has been recognized for cost effectiveness by Foreign Direct Investment magazine and for its excellence in public service by the United Nations. Mayor Robredo governs the city with a 13-member city council, and he talked with eJournal USA managing editor Charlene Porter.

Question: Mr. Mayor, how do you describe the connection between good governance and economic development?

Jesse Robredo: It’s important to us that we demonstrate good governance practices in order to secure the confidence of our constituency and the taxpayers. Confidence will encourage businesses to invest in the city. Confidence will encourage them to pay the necessary taxes so that we can use the money for investing in infrastructure and investing in other activities related to promoting the development of the city.

Good governance means applying the rule of law, being transparent in all the transactions at City Hall, setting metrics in all that we do, and making these metrics known to everyone. We’re making City Hall accountable to certain measurable standards that we have to convey to the residents of the city.

It’s not just saying, “Oh, we practice good governance in Naga.” Instead, we say, “These are the specifics of how we do it. This is what you can expect of the city government. These are the obligations required of us as we serve the people and develop the city.”

Q: Give me some examples of those specifics you mention.

Robredo: Since 2001, we have been issuing what we call a Citizens Charter. We passed a local law requiring City Hall to have the Citizens Charter updated every three years. That charter tells you exactly what the city government is going to do for residents of the city. For instance, issuance of business permits, issuance of building permits, who is responsible, what are the fees, and the like.

All that information is published in a book. The book is distributed to residents of the city so they know exactly what they can expect of their City Hall. This minimizes corruption significantly. When you know the procedures, when you know who is responsible for the procedures, it makes the system transparent and accountable.

We have another local law that compels us to have nongovernmental organizations and representatives present in everything that we do in the city. That law, in fact, establishes what we call the Naga City People’s Council. It is a federation of all nongovernmental organizations in the city. This council nominates their representatives for committees of the city government. In the committee in the city council, they are part of the quorum. They can vote; they can debate with the elected officials. That law was passed sometime in the mid-1990s.

Prior to that, we did the first-ever referendum in the Philippines when people were asked to vote on certain development issues that would have long-term impact on the development of Naga. So we called the vote, and I think it was the first and only time a local government unit asked people to vote on development issues. The citizens were asked, first, whether they would like the city to put up a new commercial district; second, if they would allow the city to borrow money to fund this new district; and third, whether the city should impose what we call a color coding of tricycles [motorcycles with side cars]. These are motorcycle public utility vehicles, and we wanted to color code them to facilitate passenger access and delineation of the different routes. It was a traffic management issue.

When we conducted the referendum on the new commercial district, essentially we were trying to build stakeholdership for that idea among the public. Significant public money was needed to develop it, so that was why we had the vote. After that vote, support for the project was not just from the city council but all throughout the city. We had to ensure continuity of support for the project. When you have that, you promote predictability, stability, and inspire business confidence.

Q: You mention the actions the city took to create transparency in permitting and regulation of businesses. Transparent policies are very attractive to businesses as they consider expanding their operations to new areas. Have these Naga City actions paid off with business investment?

Robredo: The biggest mall operator in the Philippines is Shoemart ,or SM. They set up a mall in the new commercial district, creating 2,000 jobs and an investment worth 1 billion [Philippine] pesos [US $21.3 million]. The reason they were able to do this was because of the referendum that established Central Business District 2. Central Business District 2 was legislated by city government and developed so we can create more space for commercial development in the city. That referendum ensured constituency support.
Jesse Robredo seated at desk and gesturing (Courtesy Randyvic Villaflor-Naga City Visitors Center)
Mayor Jesse Robredo says, “Good governance means applying the rule of law, being transparent in all the transactions.”

The outcomes really are supported by the processes. When we invest infrastructure money, we always say we need to do more with less, so that we can do more. When you save government money, government is able to do more. So for us, it is a combination of using legislation, engaging the constituencies, and securing support so that we’ll be able to come up with new areas and sites for development. When you do that, and people realize they are getting their money’s worth, you go back to the cycle of collecting taxes.

We raised taxes twice in the last five years. On both occasions, the Chamber of Commerce passed resolutions effectively saying, “City Hall, go ahead, raise property taxes.” This speaks of how we have changed the attitude of city residents. When taxpayers are saying, “Go ahead, raise taxes,” it tells you they are confident about how their money is being spent, they’re involved in the development of city planning, and they are willing to share the burden. That’s the most important aspect of how we do our work in the city.

Q: How big a city is Naga?

Robredo: Around 160,000 live in the city full time, but the daytime population is about 300,000 to 350,000 as people come into the city to work and study. We have three universities, and most of the jobs in the region are in the city. The computation of national government fund transfers to the city is based on the nighttime population, so you might say we’re getting the shorter end of the bargain. But in the bigger view, these people contribute to the economic development of the city, so we don’t mind it.

Q: As you were growing up in the Philippines, Ferdinand Marcos was in power. His era is now recognized as being seriously corrupt. What influence might those years have had on your philosophy about governance?

Robredo: When I was younger, my career path was geared towards working in a private company and moving up the corporate ladder. But when Senator Benigno Aquino was assassinated in 1983, I joined a left-leaning organization, and it dawned on me that there are more important things in life than getting a good corporate job.

I joined the marches in Ayala Avenue in protest of the death of Senator Aquino. After Marcos left, I was asked if I was interested in working in government. I was able to take a one-year leave from my company, and they allowed me to return home to Naga to work in government. After a year of working in the government, people asked me to run for mayor. So I said, “Why not?”

Q: And you were only 29 years old?

Robredo: Yes, when I took over during my first term, I was only 29. I served three terms from 1988 until 1998. Then I was out of office for three years because of term limit laws. Then I was reelected in 2001, and I’ll serve until 2010.

Q: So as the People Power movement forced Marcos out of power, you became a young man with greater visions for his country?

Robredo: That’s correct. And as they say, you better put your money where your mouth is. I was single then; it was a good time for me to work in the government without too much pressure from family and with more time to think about what I could do for the community and the city.

Q: You have received significant recognition and attention for the policies that you have worked to put in place there. What kind of ripple effect are your actions and the attention you have received causing in other cities and communities in the Philippines?

Robredo: We have what we call the People’s Empowerment Law of the city. Now they have passed a similar law in probably five other cities in the country and several more towns. So the concept of sharing power and empowering the constituency is a trend that will continue in the future.

The People’s Empowerment Law recognizes the contribution of organized groups in the city. There’s a people’s council and they have a voice in all the committees of the city. The more difficult challenge is how you engage regular households, where people aren’t interested in policy but are just interested that garbage is collected, street lights are functioning, and roads are paved. The basic services provided. So we said, “Let’s come up with another form of engagement that will allow the regular household to talk to us.” So we passed the I-governance law: “I” stands for information openness, inclusive governance, interactive engagement and innovative management.

The budget of the city is published and is accessible to anyone. These tools are catching on elsewhere in the Philippines. In 2001 we passed the first citizens charter in the Philippines, and now there is a national law that requires everyone to have a citizens charter.

We have another project: Reinventing the City School Board. We are partnering with a nongovernmental organization, the Synergeia Foundation. Basically the focus is improving the quality of public education by enhancing parent participation and empowering the schools. So these are innovations that are more related to governance rather than just bringing in new resources.

I’ve gone to other provinces to advocate and to speak on these issues as a resource person. So we’re competent and confident enough to be a resource city in all of this.

The opinions expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect the views or policies of the U.S. government.

www.america.gov

oragon.com

March 4th, 2010, 07:47 AM

Update on Porta Mariae

Target Completion: September 2010 or before Peñafrancia Celebration

Features:

4-storeys high which is divided into 4 different functions:
1st floor - Entrance
2nd floor - Stairs
3rd floor - gallery
4th floor - observatory deck

The arch shall be the entrance of "Ina" andas during the "Traslacion"

Statues, images and other adornment at the arch are all bronze cast created by Mr. Jun Vicaldo of Libmanan, Cam. Sur

Naga City Deck

March 4th, 2010, 08:23 AM

Soon to rise Mcdo and Shell
Corner Almeda Highway

this time ung kuha galing sa kanto hehe

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_5194.jpg

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_5195.jpg

Naga Boy

March 4th, 2010, 09:10 AM

I am not too thrilled about the San Jose Church. My mother comes from there, and i go there a couple of times or more every year. It just saddens me that they had to cover the facade with new plaster or cement or whatever it is that they put over the original facade of the church.

The historical value of the facade is covered if not lost. For me its not all about aesthetics.

Kaya lang yaon na yan diyan eh. I just hope that they at the very least approximated what the facade of the church really looked like in the past.

I have the same thoughts about the Naga City Cathedral.

I agree 100%.

The same thing happened lately to Buhi Church- same color, same natural cement look of the newy renovated San Jose Church.:ohno:

That facade looks good for a newly built church- but for ancient churches with historical values? I don't know.

aidz

March 4th, 2010, 09:37 AM

may problema na naman SSC... in and out ako kahit kalalogin ko pa lang...

oragon.com

March 4th, 2010, 10:02 AM

^^^^
korek!

ung ibang posts me kahi san napupunta...hehehe

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 10:11 AM

CamSur waste management program nagrecebing suporta gikan sa dayuhan (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/camsur-radio-release/camsur-waste-management-program-nagrecebing-suporta-gikan-sa-dayuhan.html)

An programa kan govierno provincial sa epektibong pagmanehar kan basura sa laog kan Capitolyo Provincial naka-recebi nin suporta en forma nin mga makinang panahi gikan sa dayuhan na grupo, an Foundation Heetens Helpgoodcenter Philippines, Inc. na naka-base sa Holland.

An mga nasambit na makina gagamiton sa pag-producir nin mga produkto arog kan folders, envelopes, bags, place mats asin table covers gikan sa mga sachet kan shampoo, coffee, juice asin iba pang pamatos na gibo sa kabaing na materyales.

Maroromdoman na namuknâ an ofecina kan Solid Waste Management Section – PGSO CamSur nin huli sa padagos na pagtulod kan advocacia kan govierno provincial, sa pangengenot ni Gobernador LRay Villafuerte, manungod sa pagtaong mahiwas na atensyon sa basura tanganing malikayan an maraot na epekto kaini sa kapalibutan partikularmente sa mga baha na puedeng mangyari nin huli kan mga baradong agihan kan tubig.

Sa lindong kan programa tinatawan atensyon an pagkolekta kan mga basura, particularmente idtong dai natutunaw dawa sa paglihis nin halawig na panahon, tanganing i-conventir an mga ini na maging mga produktong puedeng ipabakal asin pagkakakitaan o kaya liwat pakinabangan an ibang mga bagay gikan sa basura.

Kasunod kaini iyo man an pagpasar kan kursong Basic Solid Waste Management Training Program na puedeng alternatibong kurso imbes kan ROTC asin iba pang trainings, partikularmente sa laog kan provincia, sa lindong kan National Service Training Program na nakapalaman sa Acta Republika numerado 9163. An Southeast Asian Institute of Computer Technology (SeaICT) na pinagmamanehar kan govierno provincial an enot na nag-ofresir kan nasambit na kurso.

An Ecological Waste Management Class – (NSTP 1) kan SeaICT an recipiente kan duwang makina asin duwa man an itinao sa Capitol Multi-Purpose Cooperative.

Dagos man na matabang an dayuhan na donor sa pagbenta kan mga produkto sa internacional na mercado. Huli kaini, an halangkaw na kalidad kan mga produkto an ipinanuga kan mga recipiente.

An kikitaon sa lindong kan programa an itatagama sa orog pang pagpahiwas kaini particularmente sa pagbakal nin mga kagamitan asin dugang na mga basurahan.

aidz

March 4th, 2010, 10:29 AM

it happened before... yung mga previous post ko, nasasapawan...

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 11:08 AM

Sobrang pag-init pa ning panahon, padagos sa masunod pang mga bulan - Pagasa Camarines Sur (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=135933)

NAGA CITY - Orog pang mag grabe an init kan panahon na namamatean ngonian sa enterong probensiya ning Camarines Sur o maski an enterong rehiyong Bikol sa masunod pang mga bulan.

Ini man an pagkarkulo na pig gibo ni Mr. Fred Consulta kan Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration digde sa Bombo Radyo Naga ngonian na aga.

Segun ki Consulta,ara-aldaw nagkakaigwa ning 5 milimeters na evaporation na nagkakawsa man ning pag-alang sa tubig sa mga danao sa Buhi asin Bato Lake na pira sana sa pigkukuanan ning tubig.

Posibleng mag-abot sa 10 centimeters an tubig na nawawara sa mga nasabing danao sa laog ning sarong bulan, segun pa ki Consulta.

Piglinaw pa kaini na naglaog pa sana an summer time ngonian na bulan na Marso na piglalaoman na matindi pa astang sa bulan ning Hunyo.

Sa ngonian, rinibong ektarya na ning omahan asin tanuman an apektado kan sobrang init na ini apuwera sa maindatang epekto kaini sa salud kan lambang saro.

Naga City Deck

March 4th, 2010, 11:47 AM

what happened? sabi ni kuya pao something's wrong with ssc?

di umuusad sa kabila. post pa kayo hehe

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 12:57 PM

Sunset at Lago (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/latest-news/sunset-at-lago.html)
March 3, 2010

http://camsur.com/images/stories/CamSurNews/SUNSET%20AT%20LAGO.jpg

High school students savour the sunset at the man-made lake Lago del Rey within the CamSur Capitol Complex during one of their stops while on educational tour.

akosijamir

March 4th, 2010, 01:13 PM

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:15 PM

400 troops off to Bicol (http://www.pna.gov.ph/index.php?idn=1&sid=&nid=1&rid=262344)

MANILA, March 4 (PNA) -- At least 400 soldiers will be deployed around Bicol Region to help in the internal security operations campaign and election duties, an Army officer said here Thursday.

Major Harold M. Cabunoc, 9th Infantry Division spokesperson, said that the newly enlisted soldiers will be equally distributed to all brigades and battalions in the various provinces covering Region 5.

During the graduation ceremony held in Camp Elias Angeles Wednesday, Major General Romulo Supapo, the invited guest speaker said, “You must remain committed to your sworn duties and dedicate your lives in the service of your fellow Bicolanos.”

Hundreds of family members and friends flocked to the camp during the graduation rites presided by Major General Ruperto Pabustan, Commander of the 9th Infantry Division. The soldiers finished their Basic Military Training conducted by the 9th Division Training Unit based here.

“Always remember to respect human rights of the people you are serving”, Pabustan said in his message. “The key to winning the insurgency problem is our ability to win the hearts and minds of the people”, he added.

More than 3,000 young boys applied to join the Philippine Army during the entrance examinations held last year, a report from the 9ID personnel office said. “This is an indication that the Philippine Army has gained the trust and confidence among the Bicolanos”, said Lt. Col. Ernie Cruz, the Division Personnel Officer. (PNA)

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:16 PM

Kayaking FVR (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/latest-news/kayaking-fvr.html)

http://camsur.com/images/stories/CamSurNews/KAYAKING%20FVR.jpg

Former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos enjoys kayaking at the crystal clear waters of Gota Beach in Caramoan town. FVR was in town last week for the launching of the Eco-Mismo conference held at the CamSur Convention Center, February 27, 2010.

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:25 PM

the students are amazed of what they see -the beauty of CWC and the sunset.

kaya naman maraming educational tours sa CamSur from other provinces...:banana:

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:27 PM

Eco Mismo road show leaves lasting impact in CamSur
(http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/camsur-press-release/eco-mismo-road-show-leaves-lasting-impact-in-camsur.html)
PILI, CamSur – Tourism and other development programs in Camarines Sur are expected to take a more ecological character and be environmentally aware with the staging of the Eco Mismo: The Philippine Conference on Ecotourism and Eco-Productivity held at the Camarines Sur Convention Center Saturday, February 27.

The Eco Mismo is a project of the Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV) chaired by former president Fidel V. Ramos in partnership with the Department of Tourism, Department of Environment and Natural Resources and the province of Camarines Sur for this leg of this road show, designed to share best practices in eco-productivity and help selected areas in the country position themselves as top eco-tourism destinations.

Launched last October, 2009, the Eco Mismo in CamSur is the fifth of the road show series after previous stops in Metro Manila, Cebu, Bohol, South Cotabato and Bohol.

CamSur was a natural choice as venue of the Eco-Mismo forum having been recipient of last year’s Presidential Citation for Best Practices in Tourism Development in recognition of tourism development initiatives launched by Governor LRay Villafuerte that boosted CamSur to the pinnacle of tourism destinations of the country today, as well as earning international acclimation for the province as the best eco-tourism destination in the world by various organizations and publications.

Even as he lauded the province of CamSur for its awesome natural bounties, globally-competitive tourism stature and even greater potential, and Governor LRay Villafuerte for his tourism achievements in his keynote address, Pres. Ramos emphasized that Eco-Mismo would still be very useful to encourage wider and more intensive ecotourism and eco-productively practices in CamSur and the entire Bicol Region.

Also a resource speaker of the conference, Governor Villafuerte talked of ecotourism in the province of Camarines Sur, relating the transformation of the province, largely creditable to development programs centered on daring ecotourism initiatives he launched, from an obscure and impoverished area to what became in a span of just a few years not only an international extreme sports center, an investment hub, a frontrunner in information technology and a world-competitive eco-tourism destination.

The fundamentals of eco-productivity was discussed by Alan Cajes, vice president of Development Academy of the Philippines Center for Sustainable Development, who stressed the need for eco-productivity, also called green productivity, at this time when the population is growing in leaps and bounds.

“Globally, we now require the equivalent of 1.4 planets to support our lifestyles. Put another way, in less than 10 months, humanity will have used ecological services it takes 12 months for the Earth to regenerate.” Cajes warned.

Narzalina Z. Lim, president of Asia Pacific Project Tourism and Hospitality Consultants and Eco-Mismo conference chair, discoursed on Developing Tourism Sites, a very timely investment for CamSur at this point in time when the ecotourism segment is at the height of international growth and with limitless potentials.

Lim likewise lauded Governor Villafuerte’s environmentally friendly development thrusts in Cam Sur, citing among others the province’s inclusion of a sewage treatment plant in Gota Village Resort, a big problem Boracay is facing now and is addressing only after 20 years.

El Nido Resorts environmental manager Mariglo I. Laririt also shared with the conferees the best practices of her tourism firm which is virtually the country’s model in ecotourism and eco-productivity concerns.

The challenges of climate change as regards tourism was discussed in depth by Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan, chief executive officer and vice chairman of WWF Philippines.

A brief open forum followed before DoT regional director Maria Ravanilla capped the conference

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:28 PM

E-Passport isasalida sa Machine Readable sabi kan DFA- Regional Consular Office (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/camsur-radio-release/e-passport-isasalida-sa-machine-readable-sabi-kan-dfa-regional-consular-office.html)

PILI, CamSur—Pigpapaisi kan Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA)-Regional Consular Office na nakabase duman sa ciudad nin Legaspi duman sa mga ma-apply nin pasaporte, sa aga Marso 4 sagkod petcha 5 iyo na muna an ultimong aldaw sa pag-proseso kan mga application sa pasaporte.

Sosog sa report gikan sa CamSur Employment Center, an Mobile Passport Services (MPS) Project kan DFA sa pakikipagtabangan kan govierno provincial pansamantalang isususpendir muna an pag-proseso kan mga pasaporte iyan katakod kan pigtalaan na pag-implementar kan Electronic Passport (E- Passport).

Magiromdoman na kan mga enot na taon sagkod sa presente gamit pa an Machine Readable Passport alagad ini sasalidahan na magpoon ngonyan na bulan nin Marso kan inaapod na E-Passport.

Ginatos na mga aplikante an pirming minadagsa sa capitolyo provincial sa paagi kan CamSur Employment Center tanganing mag- aprovechar kan pag- apply kan pasaporte na dai na maduman pa sa ciudad kan Legaspi. Iyo ini an saro sa mga programa ni Gobernador LRay Villafuerte na dakulang tabang sa mga namamanwaan kan provincia na ipigrani na an siring na serbisyo sa mga tao.

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 01:29 PM

For a Green CamSur (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/latest-news/for-a-green-camsur.html)

http://camsur.com/images/stories/CamSurNews/FOR%20A%20GREEN%20CAMSUR.jpg

Former President Fidel V. Ramos, chairman of Ramos Peace and Development Foundation (RPDEV) came to CamSur for a two-day stint to personally eyeball ecotourism developments in CamSur, which is now reputed to be the best ecotourism destination the world over, and to oversee the conduct of the fifth leg of the roadshow Eco Mismo: The Philippine Conference on Ecotourism and Eco-Productivity held at the Camarines Sur Convention Center Saturday, February 27. Shown in center picture are Vice Governor Salvio Fortuno; Asia Pacific Projects, Inc. (Tourism and Hospitality Consultants) president and Eco-Mismo chairman Narzalina Z. Lim, former President Fidel V. Ramos, Governor LRay Villafuerte and WWF Philippines CEO Jose Ma. Lorenzo Tan.

Naga Boy

March 4th, 2010, 04:25 PM

Eco Mismo road show leaves lasting impact in CamSur
(http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/camsur-press-release/eco-mismo-road-show-leaves-lasting-impact-in-camsur.html)

Also a resource speaker of the conference, Governor Villafuerte talked of ecotourism in the province of Camarines Sur, relating the transformation of the province, largely creditable to development programs centered on daring ecotourism initiatives he launched, from an obscure and impoverished area to what became in a span of just a few years not only an international extreme sports center, an investment hub, a frontrunner in information technology and a world-competitive eco-tourism destination.

Did Gov. LRay mention who his partner was for the invesment/commerical center hub at the CWC during the forum? I think Oragon can answer this since he attended to said occasion.

I heard from aside from a very reliable source that aside from UP Bicol, the governor is partnering with the Ayala Corporation for a business center/IT Hub and a Mall at the CWC proposed business center.

By the Way Ayala Land has already several investments in Naga City thru its Avida Arm.

These are:

Paseo de San Ignacio Retail Hub
San Ignacio Estates
San Francisco Village 1
San Francisco Village 2
San Alfonso Homes

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 04:32 PM

Pre-schoolers show talents in Headstart skill Olympics
(http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/camsur-press-release/pre-schoolers-show-talents-in-headstart-skill-olympics.html)
PILI, CamSur—The CamSur Headstart Pre-School Montessori of the provincial government successfully staged a colourful Provincial Skills Olympics last February 18 to 21 held at the Provincial Capitol Complex, Pili.

The affair drew out the best among the 3,181 young children from the various headstart schools now situated in 34 towns and 2 cities of CamSur who participated in the literary, singing, dancing, arts, cultural and sports competitions

The CamSur Headstart Pre-School Montessori which provides young children free quality education is continually supported by Governor LRay Villafuerte in his firm belief that education is essential to the prosperity and progress of the province.

Actually, the various headstart centers were grouped into 6 clusters. In the competitions, Cluster V composed of headstart schools from Pili, Ocampo, Baao and Iriga City compiled a commanding score of 1,363 points to capture the overall championship.

The second place honors went to Cluster III which amassed a total of 1,262 points. Cluster III is composed of headstart centers located in Calabanga, Bombon, Magarao, Canaman, Camaligan, Siruma and Tinambac.

In third place, was Cluster IV composed of headstart centers from Lagonoy, San Jose, Goa, Tigaon and Sagñay which collected a total of 1,240 points.

The Cluster VI which is composed of Bula, Bato, Nabua and Balatan scored a total of 1,208 points to grab the fourth place honors while Cluster I which includes Del Gallego, Ragay, Lupi, Sipocot, Libmanan and Cabusao took the fifth place position.

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 05:13 PM

sonofignatius

March 4th, 2010, 05:53 PM

I agree 100%.

The same thing happened lately to Buhi Church- same color, same natural cement look of the newy renovated San Jose Church.:ohno:

That facade looks good for a newly built church- but for ancient churches with historical values? I don't know.

this is tragic: when renovations destroy rather than preserve or restore. it's high time that the Church and local government partner to identify, and safeguard heritage sites in our community- before they are gone.

Kayaking FVR (http://camsur.com/CamSur-News/latest-news/kayaking-fvr.html)

http://camsur.com/images/stories/CamSurNews/KAYAKING%20FVR.jpg

Former Philippine President Fidel V. Ramos enjoys kayaking at the crystal clear waters of Gota Beach in Caramoan town. FVR was in town last week for the launching of the Eco-Mismo conference held at the CamSur Convention Center, February 27, 2010.

gayon! garo nagsasagwan sa salming :-) truly "luzon's best kept secret". i hope the influx of tourists does not destroy the beauty and peace of caramoan.

sonofignatius

March 4th, 2010, 06:20 PM

SOUL INTENTIONS
Sarah Imperial

World class city

Nagueños are a very lucky bunch. There may not be amazing places in this city called Maogmang Lugar where tourists will tumble for, like those found in Palawan, Bohol or just nearby Donsol where the gentle butandings roam, there may be Mt. Isarog which is a beautiful mystical rainforest with waterfalls and hot springs but it has not been adequately advertised like others.

Then the Camarines Watersports Complex (CWC) came along. Tourists both local and international ones started to come in droves that CamSur topped last year’s tourist arrivals in the Philippines beating Boracay, Palawan and Bohol.

They don’t have much nightlife out there and so after a day of riding in the now world famous cable wakepark the wakeboarders come to Naga to dine and shop. That’s why I say that Naga is a very lucky city. It is riding on the success of CWC.

Naga benefits the most when these tourists come to R&R in the wakepark. As the kids say these days, “walang ka effort-effort,” and we Nagueños should be very grateful that we have Gov. LRay who made CWC. And in truth we must exert more effort to keep the good business going out of these tourists. We have to become world class if we want for them to keep coming back. Word spreads around quickly enough.

For us to be really world class of course we have to be at par with world standards. There was a tourism summit some years back where hotel owners and other stakeholders convened to identify the challenges of the tourism industry in Bicol. One of them was that the mindset of Bicolanos is not on a tourism mindset. One suggestion was to start interventions from the school level. What happened to that brilliant idea now?

In my non-expert opinion I believe that if we want to be world class we have to strive for excellence in everything that we do, never mind the world standards, if we do everything in an excellent manner we could become above the standards. With that belief is my wish for business owners to invest on proper, professional training for them and their employees on excellent customer service. It should start from the top, the owners, to the lowest person on the food chain. What can the lowliest janitor give in terms of good customer service if the owner of the biz can’t even treat him right? Or what can the boss teach his people if he himself can’t even smile at his customers.

It’s our basic customer right to demand and expect the best service everywhere we go. If we stop buying or availing of services these businesses will die. In times of stiff competition and the products are all the same, the business who gives excellent service has the edge and will be among the world’s best.

Buzz time

Heard from a reliable source that a world famous coffee franchise and lifestyle definer will be opening in Naga soon specifically along restaurant row Magsaysay Avenue. That would be happy news for the avid fans of the coffeeshop and another addition to the growing number of so called world class establishments sprouting in the city.

We’ll be watching out for the opening of the place, a new meeting place of friends who love talking over cups of latte or mocha. Hope the wifi would be for free unlike the wifi in their Manila stores where you have to pay per hour to surf the Net.

We caught the “eating part” of the blessing of Rachel and Ronnie Linao’s MiguelAngelo’s Whatta Burger, the new kid in town, with their giant burgers and panini…Rachel served her famous extra tender juicy yummy tapa, her own recipe, and even with my tummy still full from a late lunch I had to taste it and found it the best tapa I have ever had in my entire life.

.........

excerpt from the column
in www.bicolmail.com

jhomssss

March 4th, 2010, 06:32 PM

ito yung screencaps nung wifi homepage ng NAGA

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/363/wifinaga.jpg

jardet

March 4th, 2010, 09:00 PM

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 09:44 PM

ito yung screencaps nung wifi homepage ng NAGA

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/363/wifinaga.jpg

Wow...dapat about Naga City an pictures na pigpapahiling tanganing promotion na rin sa city...

Pero okay lang kasi libre.....:banana:

jardet

March 4th, 2010, 09:56 PM

I read on Bikol Mail (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xmore.html)on line that the Naga City Coliseum is again facing financial issue two months to its supposed completion schedule.

For Nagueños' sake and honor, please have this decade old monumental eye-sore in the CBD2 landscape be completed as of the latest plan. :bash::bash::bash:

hakz2007

March 4th, 2010, 10:05 PM

^^hayaan mo jardet..matatapos rin yan :ohno:

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 12:39 AM

ito yung screencaps nung wifi homepage ng NAGA

http://img171.imageshack.us/img171/363/wifinaga.jpg

Hi Jhommsss,

sa may sain na part lang kan Naga pwede maka-avail ka ini? anong part kan centro daw?

nagtry ako sa may Barlin, mayo akong nasagap.hehehe nakua ko ung WIFI connection kan Moscom na may pasword.hehehe

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 12:55 AM

Naga City

Area code: (54)
Currency: Philippine Peso (PHP1 = US$0.02)

TRIVIA The Universidad de Sta Isabel, founded in 1868, is the first school for girls in the Orient. The Ateneo de Naga University, founded in 1940, is the only Jesuit School in the region and known locally as the Fort Santiago of Bikol.

TOUCHDOWN Naga City Airport is about 12km from the city center, and is accessible by many forms of transportation, including bus, van, jeepney and tricycle.

BY DAY Go on a food trip! Try Naga Garden Restaurant for toasted siopao and mami, Bigg’s for the cheesy burger, Nagueño’s fave kinalas at Kinalas Twin and the food stalls at Plaza Rizal.

BY NIGHT The Magsaysay Avenue strip is a haven for day and night gimmicks as it boasts of varied themed restos, cozy cafés and music bars. For the younger set, there’s Wharf Galley.

SLEEP Avenue Plaza Hotel, which is right in the bustling hub of the city, offers excellent service and facilities like comfortable rooms and a 24-hour coffee shop. www.theavenueplazahotel.com

LOCAL LIFE
Amy Torralba-Perez
freelance writer/producer

Best breakfast
Bigg’s serves American and Filipino dishes. Also Atlantic Bakery near the city market

Best night out
Avenue Plaza Hotel where a pianist, violinist and chanteuse serenade guests

Best dinner
Bob Marlin’s has flavorful dishes like laing, pinangat, grilled sea foods and crispy pata

Best buys
Native bags and slippers sold at give-away prizes at the ground floor of the supermarket

Best souvenirs
It is a must to have Peñafrancia images that come in various sizes

Must-do experience
Try the hot springs at Agua Caliente in the upland barangay of the city

Must learn…
“Mabalos po” (“Thank you”) and “Magayon ka” (“You are beautiful”)

Insider tip
Visit Naga City in September as the city celebrates the Peñafrancia Fiesta

source; Smile Magazine (http://www.cebusmile.com/2010/02/01/naga-9/)

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 01:04 AM

Did Gov. LRay mention who his partner was for the invesment/commerical center hub at the CWC during the forum? I think Oragon can answer this since he attended to said occasion.

I heard from aside from a very reliable source that aside from UP Bicol, the governor is partnering with the Ayala Corporation for a business center/IT Hub and a Mall at the CWC proposed business center.

By the Way Ayala Land has already several investments in Naga City thru its Avida Arm.

These are:

Paseo de San Ignacio Retail Hub
San Ignacio Estates
San Francisco Village 1
San Francisco Village 2
San Alfonso Homes

i'll try to ask my staff doc...we sent him to attend the forum...

Nweiz, Bicol Health Access Centrum was featured today at Marhay na Aga Kapamilya...WORLD CLASS!!!!:banana::banana:

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 01:08 AM

Hi Jhommsss,

sa may sain na part lang kan Naga pwede maka-avail ka ini? anong part kan centro daw?

nagtry ako sa may Barlin, mayo akong nasagap.hehehe nakua ko ung WIFI connection kan Moscom na may pasword.hehehe

My students were amazed that they are now experiencing Wifi signals at key points here in Naga. Along Peñafrancia, part of Magsaysay....most probably it is just a "test run" of a fully functional "Wifi City":banana::banana:

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 01:12 AM

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs436.snc3/25093_1393226635339_1372357852_1121171_2828429_n.jpg
Sabitan Laya, Caramoan, Camarines Sur

source: Facebook/Gayon Bicol

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 01:17 AM

My students were amazed that they are now experiencing Wifi signals at key points here in Naga. Along Peñafrancia, part of Magsaysay....most probably it is just a "test run" of a fully functional "Wifi City":banana::banana:

wow! sa may UNC area, along Barlin and Centro area pwede naman kita makagamit kayan Pau? Naga City will be a WIFI City! :banana::banana:

nahiling ko palan si NagaCityDeck subanggi blooming! hehehe.. naisip ko tuloy si Hakz saka si Aidz..heheheh

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 01:19 AM

http://photos-f.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20550_1382212719998_1372357852_1096298_3943028_n.jpg

http://photos-g.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20550_1382191479467_1372357852_1096256_3819521_n.jpg

http://photos-a.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs178.snc3/20550_1382191519468_1372357852_1096257_581861_n.jpg

source: facebook/Roje Semblante

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 01:23 AM

jamirtot talga..hehehe...pirmi man blooming manay jo...nweiz, i'm doing an earth hour project for next week...

bakante u atyan jamir????or tomorrow????discuss me sau ung tour program

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 01:25 AM

wow! sa may UNC area, along Barlin and Centro area pwede naman kita makagamit kayan Pau? Naga City will be a WIFI City! :banana::banana:

nahiling ko palan si NagaCityDeck subanggi blooming! hehehe.. naisip ko tuloy si Hakz saka si Aidz..heheheh

haven't tried yet along UNC nor in Barlin jamir. This is a great project of the city. Those who will be directly affected by this projects are the computer shops, net cafes...etc.etc...and an outright income for notebooks and laptops suppliers.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 02:12 AM

i'll try to ask my staff doc...we sent him to attend the forum...

Nweiz, Bicol Health Access Centrum was featured today at Marhay na Aga Kapamilya...WORLD CLASS!!!!:banana::banana:

yep saw it this morning too, they emphasized on the Women and Men's Center.
among the shared information which really delighted me was the coming of MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) SOON here in Bicol, i can still remember the hassle when we brought mom to St. Lukes just for that test.

:applause::applause: for Bicol Access Health Centrum

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 02:17 AM

wow! sa may UNC area, along Barlin and Centro area pwede naman kita makagamit kayan Pau? Naga City will be a WIFI City! :banana::banana:

nahiling ko palan si NagaCityDeck subanggi blooming! hehehe.. naisip ko tuloy si Hakz saka si Aidz..heheheh

jamirtot talga..hehehe...pirmi man blooming manay jo...nweiz, i'm doing an earth hour project for next week...

bakante u atyan jamir????or tomorrow????discuss me sau ung tour program

Good morning ppl!
kakaabot ko palang sa unc, nsa 3rd floor si Kuya Pao, sabay kurahaw ta nsa ground floor pako, eu pa man din yan ang tig barita sako. akala ko man kung ano na. :lol: garo baliktad lugod ang blooming effect sako, kung nuarin not feeling well. haha

Jamirtot tlga ano man ta pig bali mo pa man ang duwa dyan sa statement mo. hmmp. mag iba ka sa Sunday. Labahan mo na daa ung mga damit mong amoy durian para maka iba ka. hehe

Pursue mo bhujhabhao ung earth hour project! im excited with it na!

brb muna, i will be panel secretary sa sarong review defense. :cheers::eat: hehe

laterS! :)

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 02:24 AM

Maray na Aga!!
garu dai masyado mabilis ang Bicolmeets ngunyan hay..!!!!:ohno:
tanu daw?

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 02:43 AM

Maray na Aga!!
garu dai masyado mabilis ang Bicolmeets ngunyan hay..!!!!:ohno:
tanu daw?

busy busy busy :lol:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 03:11 AM

http://photos-d.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs436.snc3/25093_1393226635339_1372357852_1121171_2828429_n.jpg
Sabitan Laya, Caramoan, Camarines Sur

source: Facebook/Gayon Bicol

breathtaking! March 11, Caramoan, here I come!

nahiling ko palan si NagaCityDeck subanggi blooming! hehehe..

Arani na kaya baga an May, puro burak na an bulan na yan :D

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 03:21 AM

busy busy busy :lol:

I See!! ako kaya dai.. haha:lol:

Irigueño23

March 5th, 2010, 03:26 AM

The beauty that is Iriga
DIRECTLINE By Boy Abunda (The Philippine Star) Updated March 05, 2010 12:00 AM
http://img251.imageshack.us/img251/211/ent2hires.jpg Anyone who knows Iriga Mayor Madelaine Alfelor-Gazmen understands why many celebrities take time off from their busy schedules to accept her invitation to visit the city during the Tinagba Festival.

Mark Herras, Jon Avila, Jericho Rosales, Ryza Cenon and Iya Villania were some of those who graced the festival this year and who experienced that “you are more than welcome” is not enough to describe the kind of hospitality that Mayor Madel and the Irigueños shower on their guests.

From the streamers hung prominently in the plaza that bear the names of the visiting stars and other guests, to the accommodations that were given to them at the posh Iriga City Hotel Plaza, Mayor Madel personally saw to it that the celebrities were given topnotch reception and treatment. The stars were welcomed at the airport, were escorted by security wherever they went and were given everything they needed to ensure that they had a good time in Iriga.

No wonder everyone was in high spirits from the start of the fiesta. People lined the streets as early as 7 a.m. to catch a glimpse of the stars who were paraded around town aboard character floats that were designed with fresh farm products.

Tinagba means first harvest offering. The festivity is said to usher in a good agricultural year which Iriga counts on since they are one of the biggest sources of rice and coconut in the country.
Celebrities performed song and dance numbers on the streets in front of the grand stadium near the old municipal hall. Singer Noel Cabangon was also flown in to sing the theme song of the city titled Beautiful City of Iriga which people sang along with proudly, almost reverently.

This year’s Tinagba Festival was dubbed Gayon Bicol Festival of Festival Showdowns. Nine contingents from nearby cities joined the competition. Masbate City’s Lapay Bantigue Festival was grand prize winner.

For the character float contest, the grand winner was Cluster 5 Kalikasan float from Brgy. Santiago, Sta. Elena, La Anunciacion, Sto. Domingo and San Juan.

Irigueños are very loyal to their kind. Ask anyone about Iriga City’s most famous daughter, superstar Nora Aunor, and he can blabber Nora Aunor trivia as if these were part of the school curriculum. Many who live beside the railway where Nora used to sell water are more than willing to escort people to the exact spot where the superstar used to do business.

The people can be nostalgic but they are also forward-thinkers. Although they choose not to have bars and big malls in order to maintain a laidback lifestyle, developments in the city simply can not be missed especially by people who visit from time to time.

If some think that Iriga is some sort of a sleepy town with nothing to offer to tourists, then they better think again. Under the leadership of Mayor Madelaine, the Emerald Grotto, the GK Character Village and the Inorogan Shrine, to name a few, have become tourist spots. There are also many restaurants and bed-and-breakfast places people can choose from.

By daytime, the population increases as people from nearby cities and tourists go to Iriga for business, school and even sightseeing. Transportation is not a problem in Iriga, nor is water and electricity. Indeed, the basic amenities are in place and the only thing that visitors have to think about is to craft a well-planned itinerary so they can enjoy everything the city has to offer.

Iriga has two more major events coming up within the year: The Pintakasi Festival in June and the foundation day in September.

The Tinagba Festival concluded with the symbolic turnover ceremonies for next year’s Gayon Bicol event. Other celebrities who were present this year were Kristine Hermosa, Chynna Ortaleza, Angelica Jones, Rainier Castillo, Edu Manzano, Lito Lapid, Mark Lapid, Shirley Halili-Cruz and world famous dancer/choreographer Douglas Nierras

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:05 AM

haven't tried yet along UNC nor in Barlin jamir. This is a great project of the city. Those who will be directly affected by this projects are the computer shops, net cafes...etc.etc...and an outright income for notebooks and laptops suppliers.

baka magreklamo an mga internet cafes sa project na ini kan Naga City...dae man daw kaya?

I'm supporting this though :okay:

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 04:07 AM

http://planet.naga.ph/wp-content/uploads/HLIC/186e7e34e8a4daef864f704f64cf821a.jpg

Naga City Public Safety Office Executive Officer Lito del Rosario receiving a plaque of recognition from Congressman Al Francis Bichara at Camp Simeon Ola, Legaspi City. The Naga City PSO was awarded for its invaluable effort in pursuing peace, security and public safety in the city and partnering with Nagueños.

Source:PlanetNaga (http://planet.naga.ph/)

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 04:13 AM

nyayyy hehe maging busy ka din

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 04:14 AM

Twin Frost @ SM City Naga

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3884copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3882copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3881copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3880copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3879copy.jpg

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:20 AM

^^ano yan, My Jo. para ba siyang scramble or ice cream?

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 04:23 AM

baka magreklamo an mga internet cafes sa project na ini kan Naga City...dae man daw kaya?

I'm supporting this though :okay:

Dai man po Gabus Can Afford kang Laptop kaya dai man masyado apektado kaya ang mga Net Shop..
and syempre may printing paman baga ang mga net shop.. kaya buhay na buhay palan negosyo ninda kayan.:)

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:25 AM

^^iyo man nanggad...at least wi-fi free city na ang Naga..kudos to Naga City government for this very interesting project...another legacy of the Robredo hegemony :okay:

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 04:31 AM

IT’S unanimous.

Three separate surveys conducted by three independent research bodies came up with the same findings after lengthy face-to-face interviews with representative number of Nagueños.

A reliable source from the Villafuerte camp revealed that a survey was sponsored by the financiers and supporters of mayoral candidate Atty. Adan Botor. The said survey’s results reportedly showed incumbent city councilor Atty. John Bongat leading by a wide margin over former mayor Sulpicio Roco and Botor.

The same survey also showed all ten candidates for the city council under the Liberal Party winning.

Another informal and unofficial survey purportedly conducted by the Ateneo de Naga University yielded the same results with Bongat and Bordado favored by most Nagueños as city mayor and vice mayor, respectively.

While the official results of the Ateneo survey have yet to be released, sources from the academic institution revealed that the interviews conducted last month also showed the Bongat-Bordado Liberal Party ticket sweeping the pre-campaign race.

A third unofficial survey conducted by an independent body echoed the results of the first two surveys, with all members of the Liberal Party’s slate winning the elective posts.

Sources say that in the surveys, some 2,000 to 3,000 respondents were interviewed, coming from the 27 barangays of Naga. Bongat was favored by 74 to 80 percent of all voters while Bordado was chosen by 75 to 80 percent of the respondents.

Roco came a distant second, garnering only 10 to 12 percent while Botor lagged behind with only 7 to 10 percent of the respondents favoring his candidacy.

Translated to votes, the figures would show Bongat winning 57,560 votes, leaving Roco with some 7,778 votes and Botor 5,445 votes.

Respondents were chosen randomly by field interviewers to avoid discrepancies in the survey findings.

Source:BicolMail Online (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xshow.html)

Garu Ubos kung Ubos,Gabus kong Gabus.! nanaman talaga ang magiging Resulta sa Cuidad ning Naga?.:)

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 04:32 AM

^^iyo man nanggad...at least wi-fi free city na ang Naga..kudos to Naga City government for this very interesting project...another legacy of the Robredo hegemony :okay:

Maray nalang kong Pati CPU makaka Connect sa WIFI diba?Jan baga mag reklamo na sinda..haha!:)

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 04:53 AM

breathtaking! March 11, Caramoan, here I come!

wow... ako kaya nuarin makakabalik sa Caramoan!

Arani na kaya baga an May, puro burak na an bulan na yan :D

Twin Frost @ SM City Naga

http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3884copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3882copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3881copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3880copy.jpg
http://i58.photobucket.com/albums/g246/babytanya16/IMG_3879copy.jpg

^^ano yan, My Jo. para ba siyang scramble or ice cream?

Jo ni Hakz! (My Jo kasi ni Hakz),

pwede man yan pang adult or pang kids lang sya.. an pirmi ko kayang nahihiling sa laog mga aki...:)

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 05:20 AM

Jo ni Hakz! (My Jo kasi ni Hakz),

ano csy pwede man yan sa pang adult or pang kids lang sya.. an pirmi ko kayang nahihiling sa laog mga aki...:)

A very creative business. In addition hope SM City Naga will also host to "towel patisserie" business. Souvenirs for all occasion using the style of towel folding and molding.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 05:21 AM

Jo ni Hakz! (My Jo kasi ni Hakz),

ano naman yan ta yaon su pngaran ko na naman...:lol:

A very creative business. In addition hope SM City Naga will also host to "towel patisserie" business. Souvenirs for all occasion using the style of towel folding and molding.

yaon ako ngonian digdi sa Naga....:cheers:

STI National Youth Convention Legazpi and Naga Campuses.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 05:45 AM

^^ano yan, My Jo. para ba siyang scramble or ice cream?

Jo ni Hakz! (My Jo kasi ni Hakz),

ano csy pwede man yan sa pang adult or pang kids lang sya.. an pirmi ko kayang nahihiling sa laog mga aki...:)

A very creative business. In addition hope SM City Naga will also host to "towel patisserie" business. Souvenirs for all occasion using the style of towel folding and molding.

:lol::lol: bako po syang scramble hehe, the colored thing itself is edible, also called "frost", it's like a frosted icing, (it's commonly used nowadays esp with personalized cakes) i forgot the correct term for it. hnd na uso ngaun yung Icing na soft, quite expensive though, but cakes turns out to be simple yet elegant esp. wedding cakes or other personalized ones kahit image ng laptop ilagay sa cake pwede sya hehe

sa Twin Frost, there are chocolate and vanilla cookies in different shapes tapos all you have to do is make your own design. Per set, you'll have a set of frost, a molder of different shapes, decorative candies (nips, colorful stuffs and the like) and the icing that you can see in different colors na nsa squeezable bottle.

Around 150 and up ang prices per package, dpende sa sizes ng cookies na pipiliin mo and usually kids are given an hour to finish their designed cookies pero minsan lampas din naman. the staff are assisting the kids by the way, kaya may interaction sa loob.

i dunno if Twin Frost is just for kids, pero I enjoyed it while helping our pamangkins. it doesn't only discover the creativity of the kid but it's very therapeutic :)

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 06:01 AM

STI Naga Formally Breaks Ground
January 25, 2010

Starting the year right, STI executives along with CHED and TESDA local officials finally broke ground on a 5,000 square meter STI property located at the Central Business District (CBD) II of Naga City, which marked the official commencement of STI Naga’s campus construction.

Rusty O. Lagatic, the school’s Deputy School Administrator, led the opening ceremony and highlighted the importance of the event in STI Naga’s history.

With a brief yet hearty message, STI President and CEO Monico V. Jacob said that the new STI Naga campus is a symbol of STI’s growth and commitment to provide better education to the Bicolano youth. He also added that everybody’s concerted effort is necessary to continuously bring unparalleled service and education to the students.

Eyeing completion by June 2010, the new STI Naga building will stand on a strategic site, easily accessible from all points of the region. With a total floor area of 3,869 square meters, not to mention a spacious basketball court on the side, the Wi-Fi enabled campus will boast of state-of-the-art facilities including three computer laboratories with 17” flat screen monitors plus Physics, Chemistry, Drawing and Technical laboratories among others.

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/4774/nagabldg.jpg (http://img97.imageshack.us/i/nagabldg.jpg/)

The new building will also feature an 81 square meter library packed with the latest book titles, a canteen, courtyard, and a mezzanine that will house the library and other offices. Hot and cold kitchen areas, a mock front office, dining area, and suite room will also be available specifically for HRM students.

Apart from STI executives and representatives from local agencies, also present in the groundbreaking were the employees and students of STI Naga who eagerly anticipate the completion of their new home. As the ceremony came to a close, school officials thanked everyone involved in the project for bringing yet another STI dream to life.

www.sti.edu.ph

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 06:43 AM

nyayyy hehe maging busy ka din

Maray na Hapon... bisibisihan talaga ang mga tao ngunyan hay..
ako lang ang dai.. haha:lol:

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 07:00 AM

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 07:28 AM

^^ Marhay na hapon guys! I'm sooooo busy watching Sailor Moon dai na ako nakakalogin sa SSC.:lol:

As said, I finished one season in 24 hours. Now, medyo lay low muna ako. In a day, I halved the second season. I'll try to finish it on my rest day and start the third season. Heehee.:D

Missed you guys!

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 07:29 AM

STI Naga Formally Breaks Ground
January 25, 2010

http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/4774/nagabldg.jpg (http://img97.imageshack.us/i/nagabldg.jpg/)

www.sti.edu.ph

Nice! This will be cool!:banana:

I heard from aside from a very reliable source that aside from UP Bicol, the governor is partnering with the Ayala Corporation for a business center/IT Hub and a Mall at the CWC proposed business center.

Ayala Land (ALI) hasn't mentioned this in any of their press releases. I guess it's still on the talks. I hope it comes into fruition.:cheers:

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 08:06 AM

NCEAN bags Luzonwide writing plum

Naga College Foundation did it again; this time besting 36 qualifiers from eight regions – 7 Luzon Regions and 1 Guest Region from the Visayas. There were 100 schools which participated with 619 delegates from the regions mentioned. We congratulate NCean Rommel O. Castañeda who placed 2nd in the Opinion Writing Contest of the Luzonwide Higher Education Press Conference. Rommel is a third year Commerce student who is majoring in Marketing. He is the current Editor-in-Chief of the Naga Collegian, the official newsletter of the NCF College Students.

The event which was held at the Consuelo Hotel in Lingayen, Pangasinan last February 7 to 10, presented the theme “Campus Journalism: Invigorating the Essence of Genuine Democracy”. Here participants discussed matters arising from the role of the campus paper in the socio-political transformation of the Filipino nation. The event was made possible through the Association of Luzonwide Tertiary Press Advisers (ALTPA) in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education.

bicolmailonline.com

oragon.com

March 5th, 2010, 08:09 AM

master kev:master:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 08:18 AM

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 08:18 AM

^^ Yes my minion?

http://www.yukishirocosplay.com/blacklady4.jpg

Echos.:D

sonofignatius

March 5th, 2010, 08:27 AM

summer afternoon to all! garo masiramon magbabad ngonyan sa busay kang malabsay sa bukid isarog, mantang nagkakakan-kakan ning halohalo!
:banana:

Wow...dapat about Naga City an pictures na pigpapahiling tanganing promotion na rin sa city...

Pero okay lang kasi libre.....:banana:

i agree. better to have images, places, faces and symbols that speak of the heart of bikol: penafrancia, toasted siopao, magsaysay strip, seminario, USI, san francisco, isarog, bicol river, kinalas, etc.

reminds me of yellowcab: pinoy company whose packaging is very american.

A very creative business. In addition hope SM City Naga will also host to "towel patisserie" business. Souvenirs for all occasion using the style of towel folding and molding.

even the young at heart (the kids in you) can have fun personally designing cakes at twinfrost :-)

NCEAN bags Luzonwide writing plum

Naga College Foundation did it again; this time besting 36 qualifiers from eight regions – 7 Luzon Regions and 1 Guest Region from the Visayas. There were 100 schools which participated with 619 delegates from the regions mentioned. We congratulate NCean Rommel O. Castañeda who placed 2nd in the Opinion Writing Contest of the Luzonwide Higher Education Press Conference. Rommel is a third year Commerce student who is majoring in Marketing. He is the current Editor-in-Chief of the Naga Collegian, the official newsletter of the NCF College Students.

The event which was held at the Consuelo Hotel in Lingayen, Pangasinan last February 7 to 10, presented the theme “Campus Journalism: Invigorating the Essence of Genuine Democracy”. Here participants discussed matters arising from the role of the campus paper in the socio-political transformation of the Filipino nation. The event was made possible through the Association of Luzonwide Tertiary Press Advisers (ALTPA) in coordination with the Commission on Higher Education.

bicolmailonline.com

cheers, NCF! :banana:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 08:30 AM

1,600 ektarya daga sa Bicol, apektado kan El Niño; P108-M, danyos sa mga pananom - NIA (http://bomboradyo.com/newsdetails1.asp?ID=136120)

LEGAZPI CITY - Uminabot na sa 1,600 ektarya kan daga sa Bicol an apektado kan tag-alang o El Niño phenomenon.

Sa anom na provincia kan rehiyon, an labi-labing tinamaan kan epekto kan tag-alang iyu an Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur asin Sorsogon.

Ipinahayag sa Bombo Radyo Legazpi ni Mr. Ed Yu, tagapagtaram kan National Irrigation Administration (NIA) Bicol na uminabot na sa kabilugang P108 million an danyos sa mga pananom dara kan El Niño.

Piglalaoman na mahiwas pa soboot an sakop kan lugar na magigin apektado kani partikularmente sa paglaog kan bulan kan Abril asin Mayo na ikinukunsiderar na panahon kan summer.

sonofignatius

March 5th, 2010, 08:38 AM

Naga

The province (sic) boasts long stretches of coral-lined beaches like Gota Beach in Caramoan, Sabang Beach, and Pasacao Beachfont. Atulayan Island in Sangay was the site of the French Italian movie hit "The Mutiny in the South Seas". For nature lovers, there is the Consocep Mountain Resort. Rich in flora and fauna and natural water basins, it is nestled on the shoulder of Mount Isarog at an elevation of 550 meters (1,800 feet) above sea level. Magindara Resort in Lake Buhi is worth a visit too.

A 15-minute ride from Naga is the Provincial Capitol Complex with recreational facilities: gardens, an amphitheater; deer farm, orchidarium, aviary, fishponds, swimming pools, a mini-golf course, tennis courts, air-conditioned cottages and convention halls.

PAL flies between Manila and Naga twice a day on Air Philippines-operated flights under our Code Share Agreement.

http://www.philippineairlines.com/destinations/the_philippines/naga.jsp
needs updating, of course. no mention of CWC; now flies 3x a day.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 08:50 AM

loll Grabe man pagka adik mo master kevs sa sailormoon tiglilingawan mo na kami. tsk tsk

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 08:59 AM

^^ Dai man daw. All of you guys have a special place in my heart. :D

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 09:32 AM

hahahaha keso!!!!

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 09:35 AM

^^ Ika man daw. Lalo na kay Don.:D

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 09:39 AM

Robredo resigns from Ateneo board of trustees (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xaten.html)
By Juan Escandor Jr.

NAGA CITY---The bitterness is all there for the chairman of the Ateneo de Naga University (AdeNU) Board of Trustees (BOT) to see and contemplate why Mayor Jesse Robredo resigned from the policy-making body of the Jesuit-run Catholic institution.

Without mincing a word, Robredo accused the “University” of failing “to uphold the values of truth, integrity and fairness” that he believed “has allowed itself to be used by certain parties who have an axe to grind against me and my administration.”

The letter of resignation that wholly criticized the Ateneo institution was addressed to Atty. Monico Jacob, chair of the BOT of AdeNU dated Feb. 1, 2010.

“And for two years running, their purported search for the truth has unfairly focused on the city government, with the intention of casting it in a bad light,” Robredo went on to say.

He cited the latest alleged tirades against him during the “Regional Convention on Decoding Politics” held in the last week of January.

Robredo claimed that “(c)oncerned Ateneo faculty and students have conveyed the same sentiment (the mayor’s sentiment against the institution) and have asked me why some personalities in the University continue to demonize me and my administration even in classrooms.”

“Malicious lies have been spread by the same personalities such as my alleged plan to perpetuate myself in power---by fielding my wife for the mayoralty race in Naga---which obviously are untruthful,” he continued.

Robredo taunted his adversaries in Ateneo why they “have failed to raise their voices against the many families that have perpetuated themselves in this part of the country.”

He complained of “the one-sidedness of the situation and the bias” that he said “never affords the city government an equal opportunity to explain its side and satisfactorily argue its case.”

But Fr. Wilmer Tria, the organizer of the “Regional Convention on Decoding Politics” and other forums that discussed governance in Naga City denied the city government was not given “equal opportunity to explain its side and satisfactorily argue its case.”

“We invited the city officials to the regional convention. They were given a copy of the program with the list of the topics to be discussed. During the lecture on Government Programs and Patronage Politics, two employees of the city government attended: Mr. Willy Prilles from the City Planning and Development Office and Engr. Rolly Campillos from the Urban Poor Housing Office. There was an open forum where they had ample time to comment, react and even answer questions from other participants,” Tria said.

He added they have photos and other documents to prove that the city was able to participate and argue its case through these gentlemen while in another lecture, Church and State Relations, he said Prilles was present and participated in the open forum.

Tria said the AdeNU would answer all the charges Robredo hurled at the “University” next week when Ateneo president Fr. Joel Tabora comes back from business in Manila.

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 09:40 AM

P48M more needed to complete Naga Coliseum (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xmore.html)
By Juan Escandor Jr.

NAGA CITY---The city government here has to spend P47,819,328.87 in order to finish the Naga City coliseum that had already cost the government some P205M but which still remains unfinished.

On Tuesday, the city council deliberated on where to get the money and what scheme to follow to generate funds for the completion of the coliseum.

Reporting on the progress of the construction of the coliseum, City Engineer Leon ‘Chito’ Palmiano showed a power point presentation of the state of the coliseum after years of stalled construction.

Palmiano reported some deterioration in several structures and other changes in the design to improve the integrity of the building.

When he ended the presentation, he showed the detailed bill of expenses that almost reach P48M to finish the coliseum.

Scrutinizing the detailed expenses presented, City Councilor Badette Roco stood up to be recognized and then pointed out there were additional expenses which were not included in the original budget the city council had approved at about P39M.

“Some P10M has been added. If we will be spending so much why not let the next mayor decide on that,” Roco quipped.

Palmiano explained the additional expenses could not be avoided citing opinion of the structural engineer of the coliseum who estimated the pressure of the dome almost five times than the original estimated weight.

He said the new estimate has bloated the budget of the roof frame at P12,044,719.30 that he said translated the increase of the original weight 120,000 kg to 550,000 kg.

Palmiano said the Naga City coliseum will be completed at the end of May.

But councilor Salvador Del Castillo raised the question where to get the amount of P48M to finish the construction of the coliseum.

Vice Mayor Gabriel Bordado, the presiding officer, threw the question to City Councilor John Bongat, chair of the committee on appropriation, who offered internal source from the city coffers or external source from the bank.

“At the committee level we agreed in principle of sourcing maybe from the existing appropriation of the city or probably a loan from the bank,” Bongat answered.

Called on to shed light on the possible ways of sourcing to finish the Naga City coliseum, budget officer Francisco Mendoza offered a mixed scheme, that is, one source is the capital outlay and the other source is loan from the bank.

He said the city government could make use of the omnibus agreement with the Land Bank of the Philippines to access for lower interest rate of loan or a “back-to-back” short-term scheme.

Mendoza said that through the omnibus agreement the city government could get 9.5 percent-10 percent per year but through the so-called “back-to-back” the interest rate would be much lower at 7.6 percent.

He revealed the monthly balance of the city government serves as security deposit which on March 2 has reached P199M at the Land Bank alone.

Mendoza said the city government has other time deposits in other banks for budget appropriations that are not used yet.

Raising a point, Roco declared: “Why avail for loan when the pronouncement of Mayor Robredo is that he will be leaving behind millions and millions of pesos. Don’t you think it would be embarrassing?” she added in mixed Bicol and English.

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 09:41 AM

Bongat: Media as partner in development (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xmedia.html)

NAGA CITY -- City Councilor Atty. John Bongat affirmed the invaluable contribution of the media, saying that journalists are crucial in the progress and development of Naga.

Bongat, a three-term city councilor running for mayor under the Liberal Party ticket, reiterated the important role of journalists in Naga, saying they ensure that the people are made aware of what is really happening in the government and society.

“Without the media as vanguards of the freedom of speech and expression, democratic institutions like our local governments can never function as a government for and by the people,” the councilor who is running for mayor of Naga under the Liberal Party ticket explained.

Bongat further added, “The people have the right to know the truth and the media has the obligation to deliver facts directly to the people. By promoting a culture of transparency, journalists help city officials gather feedback, thus further improving government services.”

The mayoral candidate also explained that the media allows ordinary citizens to air their grievances or criticism of the city government. When asked about media being used as a platform by the city’s detractors, Bongat replied, “A democratic society such as Naga’s thrives on the freedom of citizens to express their opinions. This should always be taken as an opportunity to listen to criticism and improve the city’s weak points.”

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 09:50 AM

^^ Yes my minion?

http://www.yukishirocosplay.com/blacklady4.jpg

Echos.:D

^^ Dai man daw. All of you guys have a special place in my heart. :D

^^ Ika man daw. Lalo na kay Don.:D

Maray na Hapon Master Kevb.grabi xa adik na kay Sailor moon..haha

balak mo man mag sulot arog kayan na bado manoy kev?:)

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 09:52 AM

hahahaha keso!!!!

Manay Jo, yaon baga daa si bebe mo sa Cwc..! dai lamang kamu mabonding?
o kaya ma Diridate?:lol::lol::lol::lol::cheer::kiss::dance2::laugh:

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 10:22 AM

Maray na Hapon Master Kevb.grabi xa adik na kay Sailor moon..haha

balak mo man mag sulot arog kayan na bado manoy kev?:)

Eewww. Naisip ko sya pero dai ko sya kayang gibuhon in public. Kaya ako sigeng dalan Sailor Moon ta naaastigan ako sa mga babaeng powerful, arog ni Queen Elizabeth I, si Sailor Jupiter, si PGMA, si Catherine the Great, etc. Habo ko sa mga babaeng maluya-luya. Dawa lalakeng sigeng luya-luya, habo ko. Nawawaran ako ning gana.

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 11:35 AM

Eewww. Naisip ko sya pero dai ko sya kayang gibuhon in public. Kaya ako sigeng dalan Sailor Moon ta naaastigan ako sa mga babaeng powerful, arog ni Queen Elizabeth I, si Sailor Jupiter, si PGMA, si Catherine the Great, etc. Habo ko sa mga babaeng maluya-luya. Dawa lalakeng sigeng luya-luya, habo ko. Nawawaran ako ning gana.

May nalingawan kapa po.. si aling Dionisia Pacyaw..:lol::lol::lol:
gusto mo palan sa lalaki itong marikas rikas maghiro hiro ?:):):)

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 11:53 AM

^^ Aling Dionisia maybe famous but isn't powerful. It won't be in her entire lifetime for her to be such.:lol:

I don't mean marikas maghiro, I mean astig. You know?:D

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 12:47 PM

http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/pictures/xskit3.gif

READY TO GO. This lowly “skates” serve as the main transportation facility of commuters in the railroad barangays in Camarines Sur.

Source (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/peps&events.html)

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 12:58 PM

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 12:59 PM

LGU Naga mabakal nin cantidad P4M na NFA rice (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xnaga.html)

Mabakal nin NFA rice na cantidad P4 milliones an local na gobierno kan Ciudad nin Naga na ididistribuir sa mga barangay mientras na nagrarani na an campaign period sa mga candidato local sa Marzo 26.

Ini matapos aprovaran sa ginibong regular session kan Sanggunian Panlungsod kan Martes, Marzo 2, 2010 an sarong resolucion na nag-aawtorisar ki Alcalde Jesse M. Robredo sa pagbakal nin 7,053 na sakong NFA rice na may total na P4,050,000 nganing idistribuir sa maabot sa 1,500 na miembros kan Sanggawadan sa mga barangay kan ciudad.

Si Consejal Nelson Legacion, nagpadreno kan resolucion nagpahayag sa Bicol Mail na bakong pampolitica an saindang motivo sa pagbakal kan dakulang cantidad kan bagas nin NFA envez ini dati nang programa kan City Hall.

Nanungod lang na panahon nin eleccion kaya pueding dudahan na gagamiton sa politica alagad bako ni an intencion kan ciudad envez si dating programa siring kan paskohan sa barangay, Sanggawadan asin kabali na sa programa kan Quality Universal Elementary Education in Naga (QUEEN) sa mga escuela sa public school, sabi pa ni Legacion.

Si Consejal Badeth Roco nagsabi na igwang kulatilya sa resolucion na dapat iyo an masunod sa pagdistribuir nin bagas sa mga beneficiaries. Ngonian na bulan nin Marzo asin Abril an 726 na sakong NFA rice para sa mga magurang kan escuela sa public schools na kabali sa QUEEN program kan ciudad asin igwang tagamang 1,271ng sakong bagas na ididistribuir sa bulan nin Abril sa Sanggawadan.

An 7,053 na sakong bagas dapat dai uboson sa ngonian na Marzo asin Abril huli ta ini nakatagama asta sa Deciembre, sabi pa ni Roco.

An annual budget kan ciudad kabali na an sinambit na fondo nangyari sana na nag-aprovaran nin resolucion huli ta ini an rekisitos kan oficina kan NFA nganing tugotan an LGU na makabakal kan NFA rice.

Si City Social Welfare Development Officer Jimmy Reblando kan City Hall nagsabi na sa record kan saindang oficina regular an pagbakal kan ciudad nin bagas sa NFA na pigdidistribuir sa Sanggawadan cada quarter.

An Sanggawadan, sarong programa kan ciudad na na dating pig-ayudahan nin fondo kan Australian government alagad pakatapos na maubos na si fondo tinuwadan na asin ngonian sinalo na kan local na gobierno.

Mientras tanto an NFA Camarines Sur nagsabi na huli kan efecto kan El Niño Phenomenon naghuros si numero kan sinakong paroy na pigpapabakal sa saindang oficina provincial kan mga paraoma.

Alagad nagcierto na suficiente an 507,900 na stock nin bagas sa bodega afuera kan piglalaoman kan pag-abot kan 200.000 na sakong Vietnam rice.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:01 PM

whoa.. grabe na ini.... haaaaayyyyyy.....:ohno::ohno::ohno:
it's not healthy for our city to have issues like this...

after chocho train.. ito naman ung sunod...hehehehe:banana:

magayunon na experience ang magsakay sa skates na yan, jamir. nasubukan ko na daw yan...from Sipocot to Libmanan and vice-versa. :cheers:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:01 PM

Batching plant kan PNR hagad sarahan (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xplant.html)

KUN magpapadagos an ilegal na batching plant sa lote kan Philippine National Railways (PNR) sa barangay Triangulo, Ciudad nin Naga delicado an salud kan mga residentes kan barangay.

Nagrereclamo na an Barangay Council huli ta igwa nang na-afectaran an salud kan residentes huli kan alpog kan cemento gikan sa planta na nasasangab orog na si kaakian.

Kun nag-aandar an planta dawa sarado an mga bintana huli ta ordinario sana an mga kaharungan nalaog man giraray an alpog.

Si Brgy. Kgd. Aurora Zaida Roco nagsabi na afuera kan afectado an salud kan pobreng mga residentes nakaka-disturbo pa kun inaabotan nin matanga an operacion kan planta.

An mobile batching plant iyo an nag-gigibo nin mga travesa na ginagamit sa rehabilitacion kan relis kan PNR na nagpapadagos sa ngonian digdi sa Camarines Sur pasiring sa Lucena asin sa Albay.

Si ENRO Oscar Orosco kan local na gobierno kan Ciudad nin Naga nagconfirmar na mayong permit sa saindang oficina an operacion kan planta asin maging sa oficina kan Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Sinabi kan ENRO Officer na magkaka-igwa sinda nin miting kan DENR asin an namamahala kan planta sa Martes, Marzo 9 nganing resolveran an reclamo kan residentes sagcod na pueding ipapondo an operacion huli kan kawaran nin permit.

Sa PNR, sinabi ni Division Manager Constancio Toledano na an planta extension sana kan gibohon nin travesa sa Lucena, alagad bako an manijamento kan perokaril an namamahala envez an contractor na pigngaranan na DSG Construction.

Dati-dati 24 oras an operacion kan planta alagad huli kan reclamo nin mga residentes abot na sanang alas 9:00 nin bangui.

Napapalibotan nin kaharongan an planta kaya dakul an afectado sagcod na pueding magherilang an residentes, sabi pa kan Brgy. Kgd.

Nag-aapelar na an afectadong residentes na mag-accion na an local na gobierno asin DENR nganing dai magherilang an residentes.

Si General Manager Ower Andal kan PNR dai pa nin comento sa reclamo contra sa planta mientras na atendido siya sa nagpapadagos na rehabilitacion.

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 01:03 PM

http://photos-b.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-snc3/hs436.snc3/25093_1393227515361_1372357852_1121172_3877620_n.jpg
Sabitan Laya, Caramoan, Camarines Sur

source: facebook/Gayon BIcol

akosijamir

March 5th, 2010, 01:06 PM

magayunon na experience ang magsakay sa skates na yan, jamir. nasubukan ko na daw yan...from Sipocot to Libmanan and vice-versa. :cheers:

magayon cxang i-try... :banana: an mga foreigner ugmahan baga magpara sakay digdi...

ako nagbike sa may riles pasiring sa may greenland haling concepcion grande..
yan an trip mo kadto kan mga barkada ko kan uso pa an BMX..hehehehe

kevinb

March 5th, 2010, 01:08 PM

So there. I'm done with Season II. I'll start Season III tomorrow. Gotta sleep. Nytie!:hi:

rhyzrockerz

March 5th, 2010, 01:30 PM

So there. I'm done with Season II. I'll start Season III tomorrow. Gotta sleep. Nytie!:hi:

Amayon man ang beauty rest mo manoy kevbs?hehehe

rairai na bangui sa gabus!

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:39 PM

Albay, CamSur, Masbate worst hit by ‘El Niño’ (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/b-story.html)
By RHAYDZ B. BARCIA

LEGAZPI CITY --- The Department of Agriculture in Bicol said three provinces in the region are now feeling the full brunt of the El Niño phenomenon, putting to waste some P99.2 million worth of agriculture products alone.

Marilyn Sta. Catalina, DA regional director, said hardest hit is the island province of Masbate wherein 14 towns are seriously suffering from drought affecting some 1,721 farmers.

“Farmers are now experiencing heavy crop losses because water supply for irrigation in the different provinces has continually gone low based on the National Irrigation Report,” Sta. Catalina said.

Masbate, Albay and Camarines Sur are experiencing drought and we’re still monitoring its impact on the other provinces,” she said.

“There are 6,907 hectares of agricultural lands affected by drought where10,213.24 metric tonnes of agricultural products like rice, corn and variety of high valued crops with an equivalent amount of P99, 233, 615.35 are lost,” Sta. Catalina added.

The El Nino “Souther Oscillatiion” (ENSO) is a recurrent ocean-warming and atmospheric disturbance resulting in deficient rainfall or prolonged drought in some areas and heavy rains, storms and typhoons in other parts of the world.

In the past 40 years, according to Philippine Atmospheric Geophysical Astronomical Services Administration officials here, the El Niño usually appears every two to seven years but the most intense episode of El Niño took place in 1982 to 1983 when there was unusual world-wide effect of prolonged drought.

In Albay, the provincial government led by Gov. Joey Salceda formed the Task Force El Niño under the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council with the Albay Public Safety Management Office (APSEMO) serving as secretariat of the task force here.

Salceda poured in P1.5 million for the task force’s operation. The seriously affected towns in Albay are Jovellar, Libon, Oas, Polangui and Ligao City all in the third district of the province.

While in Camarines Sur, the affected towns are Balatan, Del Gallego, Nabua, San Jose, Tigaon and Pili.

In Masbate province the most affected municipalities are Aroroy, Balud, Cataingan, Claveria, Dimasalang, Masbate City, Milagros, Mobo, Palanas, Pio V. Corpus, San Fernando, San Pasual, Uson and Mandaon.

Rainfed areas and upland crops in three provinces are the first affected areas while small streams and creeks are drying up, including small run-of-the river systems here.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:41 PM

magayon cxang i-try... :banana: an mga foreigner ugmahan baga magpara sakay digdi...

ako nagbike sa may riles pasiring sa may greenland haling concepcion grande..
yan an trip mo kadto kan mga barkada ko kan uso pa an BMX..hehehehe

iyo pading jamir...enjoyon man nanggad..preskohon an duros asin nahihiling mo pa ning maray an countryside...:banana:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:43 PM

http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/pictures/xjci.gif

55th JCI Naga, 17th JCI Naga Cariñosa & JCI Naga City Senate Induction and Turnover Ceremonies By Mary Sharon M. Lobrigo (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xjci.html)

Continuing the noble intentions and the advocacies that the Junior Chamber International upholds, JCI Naga and JCI Naga Cariñosa held its annual induction and turnover ceremonies last February 6, 2010 at the Villa Caceres Hotel, Magsaysay Ave., Naga City.

The Induction & Turnover Ceremonies is considered as one of the highlights in the national movement’s year, as the event signifies the introduction of not only the elected board members, but more importantly, this is the ceremony where new Jaycees are introduced to the whole idea of what the movement is truly about.

Almost 300 young leaders and achievers from all over the country particularly from Southern Luzon Region witnessed the induction of new members and the newly elected Board Members JCI Naga and JCI Naga Cariñosa who are given both the privilege and responsibility in leading the organization for this year.

JCI Naga Senate Officers headed by JCI Sen. Jose Virgilio O. Alvarez were inducted by JCI Sen. Lito Ong. Leading the Naga City Jaycees for this year is JCI Mem. Vincent Lobrigo, who served as Board of Director for 4 years. Professionally, he is currently the Head of Information & Communications Technology Center of Ateneo de Naga University. For JCI Naga Cariñosa’s 17th year, JCI Member Miel S. Bongon will serve as the Chapter President. She also served 4 years as Board of Director of JCI Naga Cariñosa.

The event also made way for the Valedictory Address of Past Presidents JCI Mem. Mark Enrile of the JCI Naga & JCI Mem. Mary Sharon M. Lobrigo for JCI Naga Cariñosa. They were both commended for ‘a job well done’ for their leadership in the past year.

Making the event more meaningful were the presence of famous personalities and achievers in their own fields. Hon. Luis R. Villafuerte, who was the Guest Speaker made an outstanding inspirational speech in relation to his proposed big projects for both chapters. JCI Sen. Manuel Van Torrevillas, JCIP National President graced the event by giving his keynote speech for all JCI members.

The Nagueño Jaycees believe that the success of the Induction and Turnover Ceremonies is just the fresh start of more projects and community development programs in the coming months. As this year’s 2010 theme, the Chapter Members and Leaders vow to, BELIEVING AND LIVING UP TO THE JCI ACTIVITIES SYSTEM AND TRAININGS. This will be a continuation of “Being Better” in pursuit of positive societal change.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:44 PM

UNEP celebrates 62nd founding anniversary (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xunep.html)

The week-long celebration of the University of Northeastern Philippines ’ Foundation Day which reeled off on February 16, successfully wrapped up over the weekend, with various significant events marking the celebration.

Dra. Filipinas Rigoroso-Alfelor, eldest daughter of UNEP’s matriarch, Dr. Remedios R. Alfelor and former Governor Felix Ordas-Alfelor Sr., came all the way from the United States, just to grace the said celebration. “This momentous event is not just a celebration of UNEP’s founding anniversary. It is also a celebration of a great legacy handed down to us by our loving parents.”

A concelebrated mass was led by Rev. Msgr. Luis Jonie V. Aguirre, Saint Anthony de Padua Parish priest, to signify the start of the week-long celebration. It was followed by colorful activities which included the opening of book fair and market-market, mass field demonstration, cook fest, recognition of board and bar passers, symposium for first time voters, acrobatic show and brain quest among others.

One of the highlights of the event was the conferment of Service and Loyalty Awards to employees who have spent years of good turns in the university. Headed by Mrs. Celeste P. Belgado, UNEP HRD Officer, the event became a night of noble reminiscence and recognition of the employees’ priceless contributions.

One of the awardees was Mrs. Regina Gonzalez, Alumni Director and Publication Moderator who has spent her 35 years of dedicated service to the university. “I have virtuously committed myself in serving this university and had in fact, molded our students into becoming champions in national literary competitions. I have religiously nurtured their ground to excel in academic battles – of which I am most proud of.”

Tearfully recounting her experiences with the university, especially with UNEP’s matriarch, Dr. Remedios Rigoroso-Alfelor, Gonzales also thanked the Alfelor Family for the trust that they have given her. “My fruitful years inside the university could have not materialized, without the loving support and encouragement from the Alfelors, most specially from our dear Wawa.”

Other awardees who had been in the university for the past 30 years were Dean Alfredo Cabral, College of Law Professor; Erlinda Borromeo, elementary teacher; Edna Ibarrientos, LIASON Officer; and Nelia Labrador, Payroll Master.

Also leading the list of employees who had been with UNEP for the past 25 years were Dean Mariano Baranda of the College of Law , Mr. Luisito Taduran, PE Department Head, Ms. Nena Salaber, Elementary Library-in-charge and Ms. Jocelyn Bernales.

Thirty-one others were also conferred with the same distinction, most of them serving the university for the past 20, 15, 10 and 5 years.

UNEP Executive Vice President and concurrent VP For Finance, Ms. Deli Alfelor-Tibi congratulated the awardees and thanked them for their loyalty and continued service to the university. “I raise my hat to all our awardees. UNEP will not be where it is now if not because of your selfless service, perseverance and dedication. Your worth is priceless, and the university will forever look up to all of you with pride.”

With this year’s anniversary theme, “The Rebirth: Pushing the limits while invading the Globe”, UNEP has every right and reason to truly rejoice for reaching its 62nd year of existence as a university. In the span of those years, UNEP has produced numerous leaders and achievers who have given honor not just to the UNEPians but also to the Bicolanos.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:45 PM

15TH STI NATIONAL YOUTH CONVENTION
SM City Naga Cinema 4
March 5, 2010

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hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:48 PM

City dads tangle over P4M rice procurement (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xover.html)
By Juan Escandor Jr.

NAGA CITY---With the local campaign period approaching, the city councilors of Naga City have been divided over the immediate allocation of rice from the National Food Authority (NFA) as they deliberated on the merits of procuring a huge supply.

In the session held Tuesday, Councilor Badette Roco, whose husband is running for mayor against the local administration candidates of Jesse Robredo, openly opposed the motion to immediately approve a P4 million allocation for the purchase of NFA rice.

The resolution for immediate allocation of P4M for NFA rice procurement was sponsored by Councilor Nelson Legacion who explained the NFA rice will be used in the programs of Social Welfare and Development Office (SWDO) like the Sanggawadan, Queen and Paskuhan.

These SWDO programs have a component for provision of rice from the city government handed out free on periodic basis.

Pushing for the immediate approval of the P4-M allocation, Legacion explained that the procurement of NFA rice had already been part of the city government’s appropriation so that there is no need for “authority to purchase.”

“It is not a new preposition,” he told the city council in session.

Legacion said the resolution to authorize the purchase of P4-M worth of NFA rice was a requirement of the NFA and the supply to be bought would last until December this year.

But Roco argued she would want to know the details and the actual need of the SWDO before the council could decide whether or not there is a need to buy that much supply of NFA rice.

Read the rest here. (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xover.html)

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 01:50 PM

‘Skates’ keep Bicol train on tracks (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xkepp.html)

http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/pictures/xskit1.gif
UTILITY OVER SAFETY. Even though the “skates” are banned in the railroad for safety reasons, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) observes maximum tolerance to satisfy the demand of commuters. Inadvertently, the “skates” also help maintain the railroad tracks going to Manila from Bicol.

NAGA CITY---The “skates,” an improvised motorized vehicle of mass transportation using the railways, unexpectedly got recognition from a top executive of the Philippine National Railways (PNR) for helping preserve the railway tracks from Quezon province to Camarine Sur.

PNR general manager Manuel “Ower” Andal explained that if not for the operation of a hundred or more ‘skates’ plying the railway tracks, the state of the railways could have deteriorated further which would pump up cost of repair and rehabilitation.

A “skates” is a wooden rectangular platform fitted into the railways with wheels of bearing festooned underneath to make it roll down the railways using small motor to move passengers and cargo. It is designed with wooden stool built on the platform for about seven passengers but it must be light enough to be dismounted any time off the railway, especially when there is an approaching train.

With only one track of railway line, “skates” drivers had developed their own traffic rules to maintain order on the use of the railways; most important is the use of estimated weight each “skates” carries, where the lighter one dismounts out of the railway and gives way to the heavier one in case two “skates” meet in opposing direction.

“We were surprised to find a co-relation with the number of skates plying in certain areas and the state of the railway tracks…the more there are users the more they are maintained. You can observe that in Pamplona, Camarines Sur…the tracks are in perfect condition because there are many ‘skates’ plying from one railroad barangay to the next,” Andal narrated.

Pamplona is a farming town nestled in the flood plains of the Bicol river basin where the railroad tracks slice through wide swath of rice lands, from this city going to Tagkawayan, Quezon, in the northern portion of Bicol.

Constancio Toledano, division manager of transportation department-Bicol, confirmed that “skates” as a means of transportation using the railway line from Naga City to Tagkawayan, Quezon proliferates because there is no other means to reach some villages lying along the railroad.

Toledano said the portion of the railways going down south to Albay, some 100 km away from Naga City, are more deteriorated because of the absence of “skates” in the area than the line going up north to the Quezon province where skates are the dominant means of transportation.

He said the “skates” operators and drivers do their share in the maintenance of the railway tracks like tightening some loose ties to allow them to glide smoothly along the railway lines.

Read the rest of the entry here. (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xkepp.html)

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 02:11 PM

3 Naga surveys show LP victory (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xshow.html)
By Alec Francis A. Santos

IT’S unanimous.

Three separate surveys conducted by three independent research bodies came up with the same findings after lengthy face-to-face interviews with representative number of Nagueños.

A reliable source from the Villafuerte camp revealed that a survey was sponsored by the financiers and supporters of mayoral candidate Atty. Adan Botor. The said survey’s results reportedly showed incumbent city councilor Atty. John Bongat leading by a wide margin over former mayor Sulpicio Roco and Botor.

The same survey also showed all ten candidates for the city council under the Liberal Party winning.

Another informal and unofficial survey purportedly conducted by the Ateneo de Naga University yielded the same results with Bongat and Bordado favored by most Nagueños as city mayor and vice mayor, respectively.

While the official results of the Ateneo survey have yet to be released, sources from the academic institution revealed that the interviews conducted last month also showed the Bongat-Bordado Liberal Party ticket sweeping the pre-campaign race.

A third unofficial survey conducted by an independent body echoed the results of the first two surveys, with all members of the Liberal Party’s slate winning the elective posts.

Sources say that in the surveys, some 2,000 to 3,000 respondents were interviewed, coming from the 27 barangays of Naga. Bongat was favored by 74 to 80 percent of all voters while Bordado was chosen by 75 to 80 percent of the respondents.

Roco came a distant second, garnering only 10 to 12 percent while Botor lagged behind with only 7 to 10 percent of the respondents favoring his candidacy.

Translated to votes, the figures would show Bongat winning 57,560 votes, leaving Roco with some 7,778 votes and Botor 5,445 votes.

Respondents were chosen randomly by field interviewers to avoid discrepancies in the survey findings.

sonofignatius

March 5th, 2010, 02:30 PM

nabasa ko sa facebook na 3D na daa ang Cinema 3 sa SM Naga.
can anyone pls confirm? :-)

thanks.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 02:37 PM

nabasa ko sa facebook na 3D na daa ang Cinema 3 sa SM Naga.
can anyone pls confirm? :-)

thanks.

yes father its true po :banana::banana:
Alice in Wonderland ang nsa Cinema 3 and 4
Cinema 3 in 3D is Php 250.00

early this week close kc tlga ung cinema 3 and it says on the billboard na cinema installation. and that's the 3D na. weeeeee :banana::banana:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 02:39 PM

yes father its true po :banana::banana:
Alice in Wonderland ang nsa Cinema 3 and 4
Cinema 3 in 3D is Php 250.00

early this week close kc tlga ung cinema 3 and it says on the billboard na cinema installation. and that's the 3D na. weeeeee :banana::banana:

su Cinema 4 - whole day kasubago na ginamit kan STI para sa convention ninda.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 03:12 PM

Farmers, fishers rehabilitate Bicol forest, mangrove areas (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xfarm.html)
By Mar S. Arguelles

LEGAZPI CITY --- Some 1,921 hectares were planted with trees in the Bicol region last year under the Upland Development Program (UDP), the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) reported.

The Department of Environment and Natural Resources reported the trees were planted in UDP priority sites for development and management such as Community-Based Forest Management (CBFM) projects, Protected Areas, Mangrove and Coastal Areas, and Watershed areas.

DENR Regional Executive Director Joselin Marcus Fragada said the UDP was a DENR initiative to create immediate additional income for upland households in support to President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s Hunger Mitigation Program.

The UDP was implemented in the province of Camarines Norte, Camarines Sur, Catanduanes, Masbate and Sorsogon. It has three components, namely, 1) Reforestation; 2) Agroforestry and 3) Assisted Natural Regeneration/Enrichment Planting and Mangrove Reforestation.

The UDP over-all accomplishments in 2009 under the three major components were as follows: For upland reforestation, 724 hectares were planted – 208 hectares in Catanduanes, 355 hectares in Masbate and 161 hectares in Sorsogon.

For Assisted Natural Regeneration/Enrichment Planting and Mangrove reforestation, 473 hectares were planted – 104 hectares in Catanduanes, 177 hectares in Masbate, 82 hectares in Sorsogon, 15 hectares in Camarines Norte and 95 hectares in Camarines Sur.

Under the UDP scheme, 1,811 forest land dwellers, farmers, and fisherfolks undertook, by contract, upland development activities like planting of fruit-brearing forest tree species and agricultural/forest tree species and agricultural/cash crops in degraded portions of mangroves, coastal, watershed and protected areas in the region.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 03:20 PM

su Cinema 4 - whole day kasubago na ginamit kan STI para sa convention ninda.

ah ic. may event pala. sa manila IMAX Price is around 350-400 if im not mistaken. i just dnt know why 250 here sato. it will be a must-try, now that may 3D naman sa Naga. :banana:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 03:28 PM

^^baka ngonian lang na "Alice IN Wonderland" ang palabas...baka next movie hindi na :D

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 03:47 PM

There's beauty all around our paths,
if but our watchful eyes can
trace it midst familiar things, and
through their lowly guise."
---Felicia D Hemans.

Sometimes we get so busy
that we take for granted the
things we see everyday.

But when we slow down
and try to make time last
we start to appreciate the beauty
even on the most mundane
things around us.

Life is after all- beautiful.

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The Turtle Pond

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Little flower girl and a Well

Maray na Bangui sa mga taga SSC CamSur

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 03:50 PM

^^baka ngonian lang na "Alice IN Wonderland" ang palabas...baka next movie hindi na :D

:ohno::ohno: sana tuloy tuloy na. hahaha

@Doc, ganda naman very refreshing! :):)

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 03:52 PM

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 03:55 PM

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 03:58 PM

Anyone from SSC Camsur available for a group meet on the 18th at Edsa Shangrila?

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 03:59 PM

:ohno::ohno: sana tuloy tuloy na. hahaha

@Doc, ganda naman very refreshing! :):)It was taken in our garden this noon- napakainit and our English- themed little garden served at least as a mini oasis on the El Nino phenomenon were experiencing.:ohno::ohno:

Ngayon ko lang naapreciate.:)

sana nga magtuloy-tuloy na in 3D ang mga films being shown at SM.

@Doc Naga Boy, magayunon baga yang garden na yan...:cheers:

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 04:06 PM

sana nga magtuloy-tuloy na in 3D ang mga films being shown at SM.

@Doc Naga Boy, magayunon baga yang garden na yan...:cheers:

Our garden was designed by our favorite interior designer, Mr. Biboy Belleza. He also designed the Starmarks Royale and the front garden of Westpark.

Biboy, I believe is a classmate of Fr. Son.

Brilliant Guy.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:07 PM

^^I'm not po.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:10 PM

^^napakagaling naman niyang interior designer :applause::applause::applause:

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 04:11 PM

Friends to mark Colacho’s first death anniversary (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xmark.html)

NAGA CITY --- Friends and close associates will join the family of the late Crisanto ‘Colacho’ Guysayko to commemorate his first death anniversary on Saturday, March 6, 2010.

Lilibeth, the surviving wife, and their children will lead in the celebration of the Holy Mass at 3:00 p.m. at the Immaculate Conception Church in Concepcion Pequena, this city.

An early dinner will follow at the Eternal Gardens along Balatas Road where the remains of Colacho had been interred in peaceful repose.

A respected agriculturist and businessman, Colacho was vice-president of the Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry and one of the founding organizers of the now prestigious annual Bicol Business Week.

Naga City Deck

March 5th, 2010, 04:31 PM

Anyone from SSC Camsur available for a group meet on the 18th at Edsa Shangrila?

hmmm sayang, til 16 or 17 lng din ako doc sa manila.

olineil

March 5th, 2010, 05:16 PM

sana nga magtuloy-tuloy na in 3D ang mga films being shown at SM.

@Doc Naga Boy, magayunon baga yang garden na yan...:cheers:

Tuloy tuloy na yan... but it doesn't mean that every movie shown on that cinema will be 3D. Only when the media itself is in 3D then that cinemas 3D capability will be able to show it. I think they should re-launch the Avatar 3D after they show Alice in Wonderland. The Avatar is epic in its 3D form and I think people will watch it again considering that it will be in 3D. :cheers:

sonofignatius

March 5th, 2010, 06:23 PM

Our garden was designed by our favorite interior designer, Mr. Biboy Belleza. He also designed the Starmarks Royale and the front garden of Westpark.

Biboy, I believe is a classmate of Fr. Son.
Brilliant Guy.

^^napakagaling naman niyang interior designer :applause::applause::applause:

yes, biboy is a HS classmate (ateneo '91). studied interior design in UP Dil. hayskul pa kami matibay na yan magdrawing saka magdesign.

pockets of green and splashing water are truly refreshing. your ninja turtles, doc, are a helpful presence to remind us of the need to laze around once in a while, to slow down and to take things easy.

just curious, do you have a Tree of knowledge of good and evil in your garden? hehehe :-)

Naga Boy

March 5th, 2010, 11:02 PM

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 11:35 PM

Former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos @ CWC (http://www.cwcwaketv.com/index.php?option=com_datsogallery&func=viewcategory&catid=225&Itemid=109)
February 26, 2010

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hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 11:38 PM

Tuloy tuloy na yan... but it doesn't mean that every movie shown on that cinema will be 3D. Only when the media itself is in 3D then that cinemas 3D capability will be able to show it. I think they should re-launch the Avatar 3D after they show Alice in Wonderland. The Avatar is epic in its 3D form and I think people will watch it again considering that it will be in 3D. :cheers:

Tuloy tuloy na yan guys.

SM City Naga Ciinema 3 is one of the few SM Cinemas in the countrry selected to be upgraded as a digital cinema.

This only shows the compititivemess of this new provincial mall.:banana::banana::banana:l

‘Alice in Wonderland’ lives up to its hype (http://showbizandstyle.inquirer.net/entertainment/entertainment/view/20100305-256842/Alice-in-Wonderland-lives-up-to-its-hype)

MANILA, Philippines--As expected, Tim Burton’s version of “Alice in Wonderland” is a visual feast. All those lush, colorful trailers we’ve been enticed with in the past months barely prepare viewers for the sumptuous screen spectacle that unfolds before your eyes—and, it’s in 3D, too!
Yes, the newest take on Lewis Carroll’s classic tale does indeed live up to the hype. When you go down the rabbit hole, you emerge into a world that is at once familiar yet strange. Most everyone you’d expect to be here is present—including the Mad Hatter, Cheshire Cat, White Rabbit, Tweedledum and Tweedledee, and the Red Queen (here, a combination of two distinct characters, the Red Queen and the Queen of Hearts). But, apart from those characters, certain lines and the general looniness of it all, this is no longer the Wonderland that most of us have known since childhood.

Alice, for one, is no longer a child. She is a young lady in her late teens, rebelling against the various strictures of the Victorian age—a role that’s inhabited with grace by Mia Wasikowska. What’s more, in the film, her journey down the rabbit hole isn’t the first one she’s taken—she had apparently visited once before when she was a little girl—and a quick flashback in the movie shows that it was during that first journey that everything that happened in “Alice’s Adventures in Wonderland” and “Through the Looking Glass” tookplace.

In other words, if you’re going into the cinema expecting to hear the Mock Turtle song or the Lobster Quadrille, you’re going to wait in vain. There’s not much of that silliness here, which is surprising, considering that Carroll’s works are some of the most celebrated in the genre of literary nonsense. This “Alice” isn’t Carroll’s creation, however, nor is it Burton’s, even though we see it through the lens of his distinctive vision. This story is a Disney construct—which means that there’s more emphasis on getting a story down, which was never the point in the original.

Illogical conversations

Scripted by Linda Woolverton, the latest version of “Alice in Wonderland” has its titular character on a quest. No longer just wandering around Wonderland, encountering odd creatures and getting entangled in logically illogical conversations, Alice now has to save it from the clutches of the Red Queen (Helena Bonham-Carter in wonderfully petulant form) and her weapon of mass destruction, the Jabberwock (voiced by Christopher Lee), and return it to its rightful ruler, the White Queen (Anne Hathaway, having a lot of fun gliding).

She is urged on by the Mad Hatter, who is played by Johnny Depp with a dash of tragic woe and slightly psychopathic intensity, as well as other Wonderland denizens. Everything climaxes in a great battle, after which Alice returns to the real world (not just by waking up, but by drinking blood), now ready to forge a bright, new future for herself.

You have to admit, it sounds like every other fantasy adventure out there, which “Alice’s Adventure in Wonderland” never was. It’s enjoyable, yes, but for all its visual intricacies and plot additions, there’s nothing really “curioser and curioser” about it all—and that’s a shame.

hakz2007

March 5th, 2010, 11:40 PM

More of Former Pres. Fidel V. Ramos @ CWC (http://www.cwcwaketv.com/index.php?option=com_datsogallery&func=viewcategory&catid=225&Itemid=109)
February 26, 2010

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hakz2007

March 6th, 2010, 12:37 AM

1,294 kilometros na paglakaw vs cancer (http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/xlakaw.html)

http://www.bicolmail.com/issue/2010/mar4/pictures/xlala.gif

Sa paglaban sa cancer, nagsikad an proyecto na inaapod na “Step Juan” kan Enero 11, 2010 hali sa Pagudpod, Ilocos Norte asin matapos sa Matnog, Sorsogon sa Marzo 10, 2010.

An “Step Juan’ sarong walking expedition kan saro sanang lalaki. An idiya iyo an paglakaw na mayo nin ano man na lulonadan asin ginigibo sa laog nin nagkaperang semana, napundo sana kun makakan asin mapahingalo. An katuyohan nganing makatimos nin fondo para mabulong an kaakian na nag-eedad nin duwang bulan asta sa 18 anyos na may cancer sa lindong kan Cancer Warriors Foundation.

Ini an mga pahayag ni Tomas Leonor, na sarong mountaineer asin passionate artist kan maka-olay kan Bicol Mail kan Sabado, Pebrero 28, 2010 antes naglakaw kan Domingong aga pasiring sa Sorsogon hali sa Pili, Camarines Sur.

Naglakaw siya nin maabot sa 1,294 na kilometros sa halabang highways asin nag-agi sa 33 na mayor na ciudades asin 150ng mga banwaan. An expedition suportado kan mga kabisto asin amigo ni Leonor na naghiras kan saindang campania sa mga kaakian na may cancer.

An matitipon na fondo gikan sa mga donacion madalagan sa Cancer Warriors Foundation nganing matabangan tulos an mga pobreng kaakian. An gabos na mga nagpapadreno, donors, asin suportadores ilalaag sa saindang website asin sa saindang facebook account..

An kaakian na may cancer dai makahiro o makakawat nin normal dawa na ngani an saindang familia igwang “playground,” dai maka-escuela huli ta pigbubulong, haros sinda ferming nagsusolo sa bilog na maghapon, kaya an katuyohan kan Step Juan dakul na an nagsusuporta.

An proyecto enot nagpoon kan Junio 2009 asin piglalaoman na an paglakaw masikad bulan nin Agosto alagad huli sa kakulangan nin volunteers asin oras, kulang an padreno na matabang sa proyecto. Apesar kaini piglalaoman na sinda makakarecibe nin suporta asin ayuda matapos ponan kan Enero 11.

hakz2007

March 6th, 2010, 12:44 AM

FVR @ Caramoan (http://www.cwcwaketv.com/index.php?option=com_datsogallery&func=viewcategory&catid=226&Itemid=109)
February 26, 2010

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hakz2007

March 6th, 2010, 12:56 AM

DOT expects 15% growth in tourist arrivals in 2010 (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=555425&publicationSubCategoryId=108)
By Ehda M. Dagooc (The Freeman)
Updated March 06, 2010 12:00 AM

CEBU, Philippines - The Department of Tourism (DOT) expects at least a 15 percent growth of tourist arrivals in the top destinations in the country in the year 2010, as domestic and travel movement continues to increase, boosted with the recovering interests of foreign travelers.

In an industry report released recently by DOT, it revealed that anchored on the smooth implementation of Tourism Act or RA 9593, the department foresees the coordinated and integrated efforts of the government and the private sector to expand current capacity, increase tourist demand, enhance tourism revenues, and create more employment opportunities in tourist destinations.

Because of the implementation of the RA 9593, DOT is confident to hit at least 15 percent growth of domestic and tourists’ arrivals to the top destinations in the country.

Cebu has emerged as the number one tourism destination in the Philippines for 2009 with total tourist traffic arrival for the year hit 1.61 million, a 1.2 percent increase compared to figure recorded in the previous year.

The Tourism Act of 2009 seeks to regulate and uplift the standard of tourism services; to strengthen promotional capability of our tourism industry; to create infrastructure such as hotel development and beaches; to encourage private sector participation; to ensure and focus a cooperative approach among various agencies and institutions; and to ensure competitiveness and increase market share.

The new law “declares a national policy for tourism as an engine of investment, employment, growth and national development, and strengthens the DOT and its attached agencies to effectively and efficiently implement that policy.”

The report also underscored that by year-end 2009, the DOT has endorsed 28 new tourism projects worth P 36.3 billion with estimated employment capacity of 15,567 once operational.

The bulk of new investments are in the Tourism Economic Zones amounting to P29 billion. These include the Eagle Entertainment City, Bagong Nayong Pilipino Entertainment City, Embarcadero de Legaspi, Akean Resorts and Ilawod Estate Tourism Economic Zone.

Additional investment in the accommodation sector with total cost of P5.4 billion is projected to employ 2,722 people. This include the Remington Hotel (1,000 rooms) and Microtel Inns and Suites (150 rooms) in Manila, Sheridan Beach Resort (96 rooms) in Puerto Princesa City, Highlander Hotel (76 rooms) in Nueva Vizcaya and Green Canyon EcoPark (75 rooms) in Tarlac.

In connection to this, the airline sector responded to the growth in the tourism sector as Cebu Pacific, Zest Airways and SeaAir have poured investments to acquire new aircrafts to cope with the demand for increased air travel. Total investments of these airlines were valued at P15.9 billion.

Total tourist traffic in the top fourteen (14) destinations in 2009 reached 8.9 million for 14 percent growth. This feat is attributed to the combined efforts of the Department of Tourism, the private sector, local government units and other stakeholders to continually diversify the tourism products, increase accommodation and transport capacities, and upgrade existing tourism services.

Top 10 destinations in the Philippines include; Cebu, Camarines Sur, Metro Manila, Baguio City, Davao City, Boracay Island, Cagayan de Oro City, Zambales, Bohol, Puerto Princesa City, Camiguin, Cagayan Valley, Negros Oriental and Ilocos Norte.

hakz2007

March 6th, 2010, 01:03 AM

Camarines town council bet who refused to pay rebels slain (http://www.philstar.com/Article.aspx?articleId=555230&publicationSubCategoryId=67)

LEGAZPI CITY , Philippines – A candidate for town councilor was gunned down by suspected communist rebels for reportedly refusing to pay permit-to-campaign fee in Pasacao, Camarines Sur Thursday, a report reaching Camp General Simeon Ola here said.

Senior Superintendent Eliciar Bron, Bicol police spokesman, said the victim, Ponciano Numeron, 50, director of the Camarines Sur Electric Cooperative who was running for councilor of Pasacao town, was restoring a busted light outside his residence in Barangay San Antonio when a lone attacker shot him several times with a caliber .45 pistol, killing him on the spot.

Bron said they were still verifying reports that Numeron, a retired police officer, had received several death threats from the insurgents when he refused to pay the permit-to-campaign fee.

Last Feb. 22, over a hundred color-coded permit-to-campaign cards, with fees ranging from P20,000 to P1 million, were recovered from a slain rebel following an encounter with government troops in Barangay Maysoram, Caramoran, Catanduanes.

Also recovered was a list of candidates in the May polls who had allegedly secured permit-to-campaign cards from the rebels.

Meanwhile, National Security Adviser Norberto Gonzales has expressed alarm over what appeared to be daily election-related killings, which could be the biggest threat to the orderly conduct of the country’s first-ever nationwide automated polls.

Gonzales said he has been conducting dialogues with politicians in poll hot spots and telling them that the Armed Forces would strongly intervene if they would be using armed goons to have their way in the polls.

“What is unfortunate and sad is we are continually monitoring the escalation of killings; that’s what we are closely looking at now,” he said.

“Since we have automated polls now, maybe some politicians running in the elections think that it would be hard to cheat now so it’s easier to kill their opponents,” he added.

Gonzales sought to dispel the notion that automated elections would reduce violence in the polls. He pointed out that the Commission on Elections (Comelec) earlier had forged a cooperative agreement with the Armed Forces and the Philippine National Police (PNP).

He said the authorities are closely looking at “the traffic of hired goons.”

“We have reports that goons are being hired by politicians but we cannot arrest them yet because they (hired guns) are not yet in position but we know there are now negotiations. We’re just waiting for them to be in position in provinces where the politicians who hired them are located, this is toward the elections, then we will move,” he said.

Albay Gov. Joey Salceda earlier had cited PNP statistics showing that from January 2009 to January 2010, there had been 368 politics-related killings in Masbate. – With Celso Amo and Paolo Romero