Showing posts with label Albay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Albay. Show all posts
Mutya ng Ibalong 2009 winners
MUTYA NG IBALONG 2009 PAGEANT. After rigorous selection in a Bicol-wide beauty contest, Teresa Pamela Ludovice of Daraga, Albay (center) emerged as the winner. She was adjudged Mutya ng Ibalong 2009 last Oct. 29, 2009 in a dazzling pageant held at the Albay Astrodome in Bicol.
Shown in the picture during the coronation are: TV host-movie star Luis Manzano, Mae Liezel Jaucian Ramos of Naga City, 1st runner up, Mutya ng Ibalong 09 Teresa Ludovice, Yvette Chestal Mildenberger of Legaspi City, 2nd runner up, and host Ginna Ritter-Lee, a former beauty queen and a former local TV personality.
Other candidates who won titles were: Aiko Miranda Yamada of Legaspi City was Miss Friendship; Mae Liezel Ramos of Naga City was recognized as the best in swimsuit, and best in production number. Anna Czarina Buenviaje of Malinao, Albay bagged the Miss Photogeni while Shecil Bhertie Bagaporo of Iriga City, was Miss Talent. Yvette Chestal Mildenberger of Legaspi City was cited for being the Best in Long Gown. Designer was Alvin Orense--- Bicol Mail (11/12/09, Nrito F.P.) =0=
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Mayon Volcano shows signs of possible eruption
There are signs that Mayon Volcano in Albay is on the verge of an eruption. The Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) last week described magma to be rising on its rim and the build-up of the material continues.
“Phivolcs scientists are closely monitoring the volcano's abnormalities displayed by fluctuating incidence of volcanic quakes, sulfur gas emissions, building of a lava dome at the crater rim, crater glow, ash explosion and bulging of the volcano's edifice...
Scientists observed that sulfur dioxide gas emitted by the volcano continues to swing ranging from 252 to 206 tons per day the past three days. Instruments, however, failed to read sulfur gas emission rate on Wednesday because of cloudy skies on top of the volcano.” ---Vox Bikol /PNA (11/08/09, Arguelles, M
The alert level in the areas surrounding Mt. Mayon is kept at level 2. Series of tremors was felt in at the slopes. Police officers watching the 12 checkpoints around the volcano is inaccessible--- a 6-kilometer radius Permanent Danger Zone and the 7-km Extended Danger Zone (EDZ) on the southeast end. This has to be enforced to avoid injuries or death if explosions, lava flows, landslides and rockfalls occur. (Photo Credit: Norkfam) =0=
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Mayon in heightened volcanic activity
After a display of restiveness for the last few days, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Philvocs) is thinking of raising the level of alertness against eruption to level 3. This is after the Mayon observers documented more gas emissions of 934 tons , mainly sulfur dioxide, in the last 24-hour period on Wednesday, September 16, 2009. In the previous day, they recorded 682 tons of emission compared 406 tons on Septermber 14, 2009.
The successive blowing up of gas made Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, the head of the provincial disaster coordinating council to order disaster groups and residents to be watchful of the guidelines of safety to avoid injuries and deaths in case a full eruption occurs. (Photo Credit: Norkfam) =0=
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Albay braces for eruption evacuation of 75,000 residents
As the uneasiness of Mount Mayon in Albay, Bicol continues the Philippine Institute of Volcamology and Siesmology (Philvolcs) has raised the alert level from 1 to 2, indicating that an eruption is more likely. Alert no. 2 is one step before an evacuation order to avoid casualties can be put into effect.
In danger of being overrun by lahar, volcanic debris, and pyroclastic flow are about 75,000 residents, mostly in localities Legazpi, Ligao, Tabaco, Camalig, Daraga, Sto Domingo, Malilipot and Guinobatan.
Ed Laguerta, Phivolcs resident volcanologist said those who live in 6 km PDZ around the volcano and those within the 7-8 km extended danger zone in the southern sector are at greater risk for the pathway of lava is located in these areas.
Based from past eruptions, the barangays at risk in Legazpi City are Bonga, Buyuan, Mabinit and Matanag.---Bicol Mail (07/16/09, Marito, F.)
A meeting by the Provincial Disaster Coordinating Council (PDCC) headed by Albay Gov. Joey Salceda was convened to tackle the contingency plans in case the condition of the restive volcano deteriorates. (Photo Credit: Shot-goon) =0=
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Mayon Volcano watched for possible eruption
There is palpable restiveness of Mayon Volcano these days. The Philippine Institute of Vocanology and Seismology (Philvolcs) reports frequent volcanic quakes intercepted by their instruments and crater glow has been observed in the mountain summit. Almost a hundred quakes have been detected from the volcano since June 29, 2009.
“The increasing crater glow of the volcano could have been triggered by the presence of magma in the conduit of Mt. Mayon due to degassing activity that feeds or infuses hot gas,” Resident Volcanologist Ed Laguerta, explained even as he admitted that it was quite difficult to monitor the abnormal condition of Mt. Mayon because of its distinct geophysical, geodetic and physical attributes compared to other volcanoes. ----Bicol Mail (07/09/09, Arguelles, MS)
As a result, Albay Gov. Joey Salceda has laid out contingency plans to deal with an eruption and people in the vicinity of the volcano are kept on alert. They are asked to be prepared to avert disaster. People are warned to avoid the 6-km Permanent Danger Zone and the 7-km Extended Danger Zone at the southeastern part of the volcano where real danger of sudden small explosions and rockfalls exist. (Photo Credit: Norkfam) =0=
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Transport strike and wounding of transport leader in Albay
The militant group "Pinag-isang Samahan ng mga Drayber at Transport Operator Nationwide" (PISTON) had been fighting the astronomical rise of prices of fuel. In the wake of this, Joel Ascutia, leader of a transport group in Albay, Bicol was seriously wounded by gunshot fired by unknown men last Monday. Nationwide protests were simultaneously held by transport workers and members of various organizations in the country including key locations in MetroManila.
“Supt. Antonio J. Freyra, Daraga police chief, said Joel Ascutia, Bicol regional president of Condor (Concerned Drivers and Operators for Reform), was in a jeepney parked in front of a gasoline station on Rizal Street when the unidentified assailants fired at him. He underwent an operation at a hospital to remove bullets in his abdomen and was declared in stable condition.”---Inquirer (07/14/09, Nasol, RM et al )
Condor-Piston leaders in Bicol held a protest rally on the spot where Ascutia was shot. According to Tessa Lopez of Bayan-Albay, the strike which also dramatized complaints against high penalties for road violations, was successful in most parts of Bicol, temporarily paralyzing traffic and movement of the people. The drivers group based in Naga City, however, did not participate in the mass action. (Photo Credit: Sfynnx) =0=
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Buhi-Malinao road ushers in more commerce for Bicol
Linking communication is the most obvious benefit of having a road between towns and villages. Alternative routes of trade and commerce are made easy. These are expected in the recent completion of the 35 kilometer road (about half of 66 kilometer highway) which connects the 2nd and 4th districts of Camarines Sur to that of 1st district of Albay.
Leading to the port area of Tabaco, Albay, the highway makes it easier to reach Catanduanes Island in Bicol. Travel from Manila will be shorter than before.
The new road starts from Hanawan Ocampo, Camarines Sur onwards to Barangay Burokbusoc and Sagrada in Buhi, Camarines Sur, reaching up to Malinao, Albay. It is heralded as an accomplishment by LV Castaneda of the Department of Public Highways, (DPH.)
But Buhinon Jesus Valenciano (in a letter to Bicol Mail's editor,) writes to question the integrity of the road. He fears that the "all-weather road" in some sections need cementing or asphalting. He says, without good maintenance, this road can easily fall into disrepair. ----Bicol Mail (02/19/09; 02/26/09) (Photo Credit: www.freewebs.com/infocenterbuhi/) =0=
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Charles Dickens' Artful Dodger comes to life in Barbara Ricafrente’s short story
“Despite his poverty, Awil had a happy disposition. He had neither expectations nor goals. He did not bother to get employment anywhere, join his peasant neighbors reap palay for local landowners during the harvest season, weave weed baskets for local middlemen in the lean months like his neighbors did, or sell rice biscuits or puto in nearby cities for extra income. He simply lived each day as it came.”---Manuel (01/20/09, Ricafrente, B)The colorful sketch of Manuel’s life (Awil) by Ibalon’s Bambi Ricafrente resurrected my memory of Artful Dodger, the smart petty robber in Charles Dicken’s moving story of Oliver Twist (1838). The clever pubescent Dodger introduced gullible Oliver into the world of stealing headed by the old merry patron Fagin in the dark dingy slums of London.
Yet, the similarity of Manuel’s life to the pickpockets in the squalid backstreets of the 19th century England abruptly ends. I learn there is more to Awil’s thievery than what meets the eye. Bambi describes an extended and complex life that is curiously worth learning from.
In an ill-descript Bicol town, Awil has to wrestle with fate and intergenerational circumstantial snags that shape adaptation and dampen acrimony against the changes of the seasons. His life and that of Artful Dodger and Oliver Twist seem intertwined. In all of them, the antagonism between good and evil must really be fought relentlessly until the last.
If one stands on Awil’s shoe, the forbearance to survive pulsates at a rate and vibrancy of a baby’s racy heart. His story tells of the struggles of ordinary people---those who are fallen and redeemed. Awil's imperfect life isn't far from what the Catholic preacher Rev. Fulton Sheen often referred to: a "life that is worth living." (Photo Credits: George Cruikshank; Bohirab) =0=
RELATED BLOG: "Manuel" Posted by Bambi Ricafrente at 1/20/2009
Oliver Twist
by Charles Dickens
Charles Dickens (1812-1870) and page illustrations by George Cruikshank for his work in 1838 which mirrors society's paradoxical influences in the lives of ordinary people. The story of Oliver Twist portrays wholesome dignity and antithetical sordidness in a world where good and evil exist and are in constant debacle. The popular English author of Victorian vintage had A Tale of Two Cities, David Copperfield, Great Expectations, Bleak House, Nicholas Nickleby, The Pickwick Papers, and A Christmas Carol among his great works. (Photo Credit: Charles Dickens PD; George Cruikshank x 2 PD)
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Bicol Vignette: Bambi Ricafrente’s Antero
“Though a non-Chinese, Antero grew up in China. He was only about five when he migrated to that country with his stepfather, a Chinese merchant, who brought him along in place of his mother, who had refused to board the boat when it was time to leave. He had been orphaned by his Filipino father soon after his birth in January 1900 in Albay, a Philippine province famed as much for the majestic Mount Mayon as for its dishes done in generous amounts of coconut milk and the hottest of peppers – the siling labuyo.”---Antero (12/17/08, Ricafrente, B)Many lives go their usual pace until they reach terminus without being written; their unchronicled mundane beauty are regrettably lost forever. Yet, UP Ibalon’s Barbara M. Ricafrente (Bambi) does it differently. For posterity, she shares a crisp and fascinating tale of a guy whose "breath was sweet as the White Rabbit candies."
Read her. Posted in the blog, her scintillating story cuts across an extraordinary Bicol experience. The deservedly admired work effectively knocks open the door of our soul---as if we’re back home again for a holiday.---mesiamd(12/17/08)
RELATED BlOG: "Antero," posted by Barbara M. Ricafrente at 12/17/2008
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30,000 families to be relocated in Bicol train rehab
It’s like Rip Van Winkle coming out from sleep. At last, the plan to repair the Philippine National Railways (PNR) from Laguna to Legazpi City is alive again. For the project to push, it will require the relocation of 30,000 families settled on the 15-meter clearance of the train's path.
The government plan is definite good news to Bicol, but it’s mind-bending why only now will repairs be undertaken. The train plying the southern end of Luzon is different from how it looked decades ago as it meandered in the craggy mountainsides of Quezon Province to the foot of Mount Isarog in Camarines Sur and Mayon in Albay. Huge numbers of people have already crowded the tracks, the 483-kilometer stretch from Manila.
Vital to travel in the Bicol region and the rest of the country, the PNR had been largely neglected. It practically operated in meager maintenance budget even if plans to extend the line, about 135 kilometers from Legazpi to Sorsogon had been on the works. Wooden planks and metal supports on the transportation line were continual victims of thieves who used them as firewood or sell them as scraps. For many years, almost nobody took action for their upkeep, to the disappointment of Bicolanos. The yearly torrential rains caused infrastructure damage. The government did little to prevent people from building houses along the railway tracks.
This early the concern for the legal rights of the squatters has been raised. Human rights groups are pushing for standard eviction amenities. The enormity of the problem causes some interested investors to back out of the project.
“Jun de la Torre, Community Organization of the Philippines (COPE) assistant regional coordinator said they have strengthened their social preparation efforts in favor of the railway settlers by collaborating with 10-federation strong Bicol Urban Poor Coordinating Council (BUPCC) headed by Lorna Chavez to ensure that the rights of these affected settlers would not be derailed when the PNR rehabilitation project starts in the near future." Bicol Mail, (12/12/08, Neola, J)The project is rocked with questionable political deals. P17 billion has been allotted to remove the illegal dwellers on the dangerous tracks. It constitutes a third of the total budget of P52.19---the cost of the much delayed project which was earlier scheduled in 2005 to 2011.
It is uncertain when the money will come or if it is adequate. With the postponements that go with government projects, at this time, the railway rehabilitation remains a dream for Bicolanos. (Photo Credits: Orangedroplet; Alcogoodwin; Alcogoodwin; orangedroplet)=0=
RELATED BLOG: "Life on the railway tracks & the fate of Isadora Duncan" Posted on Friday September 12th, 2008
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RP’s Toughest Outdoor Adventure Race held in Sto. Domingo, Albay
Carrera Habagat 2008
Carrera Habagat 2008 Champion Team Mulatto Davao composed of Paulo Dino Ouano, Keith James Argones, Jeffer Jatico, Cherryl Araneta and support crew Marjun Balaite and Charlito Esparar receive their trophy, medals and cash prize of P100,000 during the awarding ceremony at the Black Sands Beach Resort in Sto. Domingo, Albay last November 15, 2008. Also in photo are Event Director Randy Su, Mr. Nico Delos Angeles and Vice-Mayor Edna Banda.
Carrera Habagat Adventure Race organized by Summit Outdoor Equipment and Services, Inc. is widely considered as the Philippine’s toughest outdoor adventure race participated in by the country’s toughest outdoor enthusiasts, most of whom are tri-athletes with international race experiences. The organization is a firm advocate of environmental awareness and protection as well as respect for people and local cultures. Most notable past participants of this race were the Philippine Mt. Everest Team and Team Santorini, the 2001 winners who competed in the 2001 Eco Challenge in New Zealand. For this year’s 8th edition, the race dubbed “Isang Linggo sa Sto. Domingo” was held from November 12-16, 2008 in Sto. Domingo, Albay, a coastal community that faces the Pacific Ocean in the east and Mt. Mayon Volcano in the northwest. It was the first time that this race was held outside the Visayas-Mindanao area and the first time in Luzon and Albay.
A total of eleven teams, 4 from Manila; Cebu (2); Leyte (2); Davao (1); Iligan (1) and Sto Domingo, Albay (1) composed of 4 racers (one of whom must be of the opposite sex) and 2 support crew per team, participated in this extreme adventure 4 day non-stop race that combined trekking, biking, swimming, paddling and rappelling. The 11 teams started out in Sto. Domingo proper and went through 20 Control Points (CP) or destinations in sequence provided only with the coordinates of the CP’s and armed with their multi-disciplinary skills, navigational skills and the right team dynamics. The route took the participants from Sto. Domingo where they got their passports after climbing a palo sebo to Camp 1 Mayon, Centennial Park, Alimsog, Starship Café, Tabaco, San Miguel Island, San Antonio School in Cagraray Island, Maninipot Shoreline, Barangay Misibis, Sula Port, Mt. Cabugcay, Malilipot Port, Bagacay Church, Pili Pier, Namantao Island, Buhatan, Sula Port and finally to the Black Sands Beach Resort in Sto. Domingo. The team’s support crews were only allowed to provide and replenish the team racers’ supplies at 4 designated points.
During the first day of the race, Team Merrel took the early lead at Control Point 7 at 21:07 followed by Blood Red Cebu, Team Mulatto and Team Iligan Pride at CP 6. AFP Power Trekkers and Sto. Domingo were slapped 4 hours penalty for bypassing a control point. Slowly but surely, Team Mulatto took over the lead which they retained until the end finishing the race in barely two days with the team members getting only 17 minutes of sleep. Team Merrel finished second while Team Iligan Pride was third. Two teams out of the 11 were not able to finish while Team Sto. Domingo, a neophyte finished a respectable 8th place.
For their efforts, Team Mulatto Davao proved that they’ve got what it takes and retained their title. They are the first team to emerge as back to back Champions aside from winning P100,000; trophy, medals, certificates, gift packs and the bragging rights of being the best in a grueling race that tests the limits of human endurance. Team Merrel wound up second and won P60,000 among other things while Team Iligan Pride who placed third won P40,000.
Mr. Nico Delos Angeles made the initial overtures to bring the race in Sto. Domingo, Albay which was adopted by the Municipal Government of Sto. Domingo led by Mayor Celso Delos Angeles, Jr. who doubled the prize money and provided the Black Sands Beach resort as the race headquarters. In his message, Mayor Celso Delos Angeles said, “The holding of the yearly ultimate Philippine adventure race and the gathering of outdoor enthusiasts, from the fresh breeds of backpackers to the hardcore mountaineers, in this part of the country is very timely and significant as the Municipal Government under the present dispensation, in coordination with concerned government agencies and other stake holders, is doing its best to put Sto. Domingo, Albay in its rightful place in the global tourism map”.
Mr. Randy Su- Event Director on the other hand admitted during the closing ceremony, “I was apprehensive that the Carrera Habagat will be held outside our comfort zone which is the Visayas Mindanao area. I became more hesitant when I learned that it will be held in a little known town in the Bicol region. But when I saw the place, I knew it was the perfect venue.”
The race participants on the other hand were euphoric and have only kind words for the hosts. “Sa lahat ng editions ng Carrera Habagat, ito ang pinakabongga! May hot shower pa.” Aside from the excellent food, the spacious rooms and luxurious amenities provided, the participants experienced first-hand the breathtaking sceneries of Sto. Domingo and the neighboring towns as well as the first-class hospitality and good nature of the people of Albay.
Carrera Habagat 2008 Champion Team Mulatto Davao composed of Paulo Dino Ouano, Keith James Argones, Jeffer Jatico, Cherryl Araneta and support crew Marjun Balaite and Charlito Esparar receive their trophy, medals and cash prize of P100,000 during the awarding ceremony at the Black Sands Beach Resort in Sto. Domingo, Albay last November 15, 2008. Also in photo are Event Director Randy Su, Mr. Nico Delos Angeles and Vice-Mayor Edna Banda.
Carrera Habagat Adventure Race organized by Summit Outdoor Equipment and Services, Inc. is widely considered as the Philippine’s toughest outdoor adventure race participated in by the country’s toughest outdoor enthusiasts, most of whom are tri-athletes with international race experiences. The organization is a firm advocate of environmental awareness and protection as well as respect for people and local cultures. Most notable past participants of this race were the Philippine Mt. Everest Team and Team Santorini, the 2001 winners who competed in the 2001 Eco Challenge in New Zealand. For this year’s 8th edition, the race dubbed “Isang Linggo sa Sto. Domingo” was held from November 12-16, 2008 in Sto. Domingo, Albay, a coastal community that faces the Pacific Ocean in the east and Mt. Mayon Volcano in the northwest. It was the first time that this race was held outside the Visayas-Mindanao area and the first time in Luzon and Albay.
A total of eleven teams, 4 from Manila; Cebu (2); Leyte (2); Davao (1); Iligan (1) and Sto Domingo, Albay (1) composed of 4 racers (one of whom must be of the opposite sex) and 2 support crew per team, participated in this extreme adventure 4 day non-stop race that combined trekking, biking, swimming, paddling and rappelling. The 11 teams started out in Sto. Domingo proper and went through 20 Control Points (CP) or destinations in sequence provided only with the coordinates of the CP’s and armed with their multi-disciplinary skills, navigational skills and the right team dynamics. The route took the participants from Sto. Domingo where they got their passports after climbing a palo sebo to Camp 1 Mayon, Centennial Park, Alimsog, Starship Café, Tabaco, San Miguel Island, San Antonio School in Cagraray Island, Maninipot Shoreline, Barangay Misibis, Sula Port, Mt. Cabugcay, Malilipot Port, Bagacay Church, Pili Pier, Namantao Island, Buhatan, Sula Port and finally to the Black Sands Beach Resort in Sto. Domingo. The team’s support crews were only allowed to provide and replenish the team racers’ supplies at 4 designated points.
During the first day of the race, Team Merrel took the early lead at Control Point 7 at 21:07 followed by Blood Red Cebu, Team Mulatto and Team Iligan Pride at CP 6. AFP Power Trekkers and Sto. Domingo were slapped 4 hours penalty for bypassing a control point. Slowly but surely, Team Mulatto took over the lead which they retained until the end finishing the race in barely two days with the team members getting only 17 minutes of sleep. Team Merrel finished second while Team Iligan Pride was third. Two teams out of the 11 were not able to finish while Team Sto. Domingo, a neophyte finished a respectable 8th place.
For their efforts, Team Mulatto Davao proved that they’ve got what it takes and retained their title. They are the first team to emerge as back to back Champions aside from winning P100,000; trophy, medals, certificates, gift packs and the bragging rights of being the best in a grueling race that tests the limits of human endurance. Team Merrel wound up second and won P60,000 among other things while Team Iligan Pride who placed third won P40,000.
Mr. Nico Delos Angeles made the initial overtures to bring the race in Sto. Domingo, Albay which was adopted by the Municipal Government of Sto. Domingo led by Mayor Celso Delos Angeles, Jr. who doubled the prize money and provided the Black Sands Beach resort as the race headquarters. In his message, Mayor Celso Delos Angeles said, “The holding of the yearly ultimate Philippine adventure race and the gathering of outdoor enthusiasts, from the fresh breeds of backpackers to the hardcore mountaineers, in this part of the country is very timely and significant as the Municipal Government under the present dispensation, in coordination with concerned government agencies and other stake holders, is doing its best to put Sto. Domingo, Albay in its rightful place in the global tourism map”.
Mr. Randy Su- Event Director on the other hand admitted during the closing ceremony, “I was apprehensive that the Carrera Habagat will be held outside our comfort zone which is the Visayas Mindanao area. I became more hesitant when I learned that it will be held in a little known town in the Bicol region. But when I saw the place, I knew it was the perfect venue.”
The race participants on the other hand were euphoric and have only kind words for the hosts. “Sa lahat ng editions ng Carrera Habagat, ito ang pinakabongga! May hot shower pa.” Aside from the excellent food, the spacious rooms and luxurious amenities provided, the participants experienced first-hand the breathtaking sceneries of Sto. Domingo and the neighboring towns as well as the first-class hospitality and good nature of the people of Albay.
The young Bicolanas of Mutya ng Ibalong 2008
As I read Dusktildawn’s interesting post showing this year’s young Mutya ng Ibalong candidates, I can’t help but be happy seeing the energy and enthusiasm of the stylish ladies on stage. As soft as the sunrays sending warmth and sheen to the trees, the ladies are refulgent to stir gladness in the heart.
Never losing to find ways to have a bit of fun, they join a community endeavor with showmanship, grace, and remarkable optimism. In spite of the looming presence of difficulties around us, I see in their smiling radiant faces the positive outlook that all of us need. Hope, amity, along with reliance in one’s potential, is what the next generation needs. My kudos to all the beautiful women of the pageant! (Photo Credit: MlJ555) =0=
More of Andy's Whaleshark (Butanding)
About this time of the year till December to May, the Butandings (Rhicodon typus,) the huge whale sharks come around to their usual haunts in Bicol in the farthest tip of Luzon Island in the Philippines. Many sightings of these gentle creatures which can grow to about 15 to 40 feet are in Sorsogon Province particularly in towns of Donsol, Pilar, Castilla, Magallanes, but may occasionally be encountered in the neighboring seas like in Camarines Sur, Albay and as far as Bohol in the Visayas and parts of Mindanao.
Harmlessly docile and friendly, the butandings allow people to go near and swim with them. With characteristic white spots (reminiscent of leopards,) on their gray-blue bodies, they quietly feed on minute planktons and krill abundant in the area at certain times of the year.
Supervised tours to see this giant wonders of the sea are available in the area. For more information, check the PDOT web site at www.wowbicol.com, call (63) 52 435-0085 or e-mail dotr5@globalink.net.ph. The Donsol Tourism Office in Dancalan headed by Salvador Adrao Jr. can also be contacted (0927) 233-0364. Snorkeling gears can be rented from the resorts.=0=
Jokes louder than walnuts breaking, an “H” in a name, and an Ibalon child of tomorrow
Each time I look at the pictures of Dr. Ramon Ray G. Rayel and his wife Bessie , I can’t help recall our days in UP Ibalon and Molave Residence Hall in Diliman campus. Things are far better now for my cardiologist-buddy who travelled the world to go to Philadelphia, PA, Nova Scotia, CAN, Iron Mountain, Michigan and a bit later settle to a beautiful place called Clearwater, Wisconsin. From the Philippines to Australia, to Canada, and the United States, Dr. Rayel has been hot in the business of taking care of the heart. A self-deprecating humorous guy from Polangui, Albay who knows by rigid training the workings of the fist-sized pulsatile organ in the chest, Ray throws jokes louder than the pop of champagne and the sound of cracking walnuts in a charcoal grill. When he plays sports, he shoots the basketball right at the goal to win.
With that stubborn curly hair on his head, Ray watches, listens, and patiently dispenses remedies at the heart’s murmurings. Like a one-man charitable institution, he helps all those who come to him with problems, including those who need treatments and those requiring some baring of the soul.
His best contribution to the world however is nothing less than the cute and cuddly little Bea, Ray's youngest kid in the brood of three who delights us with her big smile, fashionista sunglasses, and that kiddie backpack (see photo.) It is something we like to see the pixie angel do for her doting parents. By a stretch of imagination, I thought she may look like her loving grandma, the late Lourdes G. Rayel.Coming to New York a year ago, little Bea proves to be a child of today and tomorrow. Nimble, smart, and delightfully inquisitive the girl with big round eyes and a budding sense of humor is a joy to watch. As I relish looking at her sit comfortably with her parents in their warm and cozy living room, I have to thank God for taking good care of the family who makes me and all Ibalonians happy and proud.
A true friend who taught many to rein over their personal devils, conquer health difficulties, look ahead, and appreciate life’s unexpected complexities, Ray gifted me with a name which to this day I respond to like a poodle. His generous counsel before I took trainings in UP-PGH, SUNY Downstate & NYU Medical Center became part of my decision to be a pathologist---for which I am very thankful.
The only wise advise Ray gave me which I rejected (I’m sorry Ray!) was to put an “H” on the spelling of my nickname. Shown to me in a crumpled paper, I thought it was "elegant" with the concurrence of Drs. Arnel V. Malaya, Mario B. Genio, and Julius A. Lecciones who excitedly insisted it would make the eyes of other Bicolanos spin. They expected the "H" would make me popular and the Ibalon girls would swoon. But there was a hitch. The spelling couldn't bear the persona of their buddy: the slow itinerant “promdi” (from the province) of Naga, Camarines Sur! =0=
International Literacy Day: education opens the golden door
“Bilang mga bata, tayo’s pag-asa ng mundo, bilang kabataan tayo’y realidad.”“Como mga aki, kita esperanza nin kinaban, como mga jovenes kita an realidad.”
“De ninos somos la esperanza del mundo; de jovenes una realidad.”
As children we are the hope of the world; as youth we are a reality.
--Revisita Maryknoll(09/08 Vol.29, #7)
On a wonderful day, UP Ibalon’s Dan Daz, an artistic photographer of Legazpi City, Philippines takes this picture in a feeding center in Rapu-Rapu, Albay of an innocent child who’s among the hopes of our country. Poverty can be an obstacle to literacy, but nurturing brings hope. What does she want to be in the future? Education transforms and opens the golden door.(International Literacy Day, September 8, 2008) Photo Credits: Dan Daz; JunCruznaLigas; www.UN.org)
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Mayon Volcano grumbles as Penafrancia Fiesta draws near
While the Penafrancia fiesta boils and gains steam in Naga City for its September 2008 celebration, majestic Mayon Volcano in Albay on whose feet Legazpi City rests, shows signs of restiveness and possible eruption. White steam clouds billow on its summit. For the last few weeks, an advisory to keep distance---at least 6 kilometers away from the crater is in place by Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (PhiVolcs) as series of minor tremors of tectonic origin are felt in the area. Even Taal volcano in Batangas also shows similar activity; light earthquakes are felt in the last 24 hours. Inquirer (09/02/08, Aguilar E.).
P263K of bills detain a patient in a Bicol hospital?
After weeks of treatment following wounds and fractures sustained in a vehicular accident, injured-patient and cancer-sufferer Elizabeth Evangelio, widow of Ibalonian George Evangelio who died in the road accident last month is allegedly being held by the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTHH) of Albay for nonpayment of bills (P263,000.00)in spite of guarantees made by the bus company involved in the accident. (PhotoCredit: BRTTH after Reming by Bibal, J) Through a text message however, Joshua Evangelio, the son, said his mom's release from the hospital may be granted next week.
A test case for the law's implementation, Evangelio's situation demonstrates the pros and cons of having a legislation which puts innocent citizens and hospitals in hot water over the financial aspects of catastrophic illnesses and injuries. The Philippines passed the Hospital Dentention Law last year. On a medical standpoint which BRTTH probably subscribes to, there's no benefit keeping a patient longer than necessary especially in so far as finances are concerned. Hospital detention exposes a patient from hospital-borne disease and uses up beds that can be used by other patients. It's unclear whether this legislation is ever followed or is subject to negotiations in healthcare centers all over the country.
In a separate post, I'll share with you an article entitled "Hospital Detention Act: Pro-Poor or Anti-Hospital" I wrote which was published last year in New York Filipino Reporter and Bicol Mail in Naga City. I hope it can provide some information about the healthcare problem on which you can frame your opinion and course of action. =0=
Earthquake in Legazpi City & Mayon Volcano’s possible eruption
A moderately strong earthquake which registered 6 in the Richter scale occurred in Legazpi City and Virac, Catanduanes on August 15, 2008. The quake whose epicenter is 42 kilometers northeast of Sorsogon, Bicol, was Intensity 5 in Sorsogon City and Irosin, Sorsogon; Intensity 3 in Naga City, Camarines Sur; Bulan, Sorsogon; Roxas City; Masbate City; Catarman, Samar; and Intensity 2 in Palo, Leyte; Borongan, Eastern Samar; and Silay, Negros Occidental. No casualties or damages were reported. Philstar (08/15/08, Flores,H.)
Meanwhile restive Mayon Volcano in Albay, Philippines is showing signs of possible eruption; a pyroclastic flow can occur anytime. Ed Laguerta, Philvocs resident volcanologist said there is a build up of magma in the volcano. Part of the Pacific region's "ring of fire," Mayon has erupted more than 50 times since 1616, the last was in June to August 2006. Four months after the last eruption, about 1,000 people died when Tyhpoons Milenyo and Reming dislodged tons of volcanic debris that swept villages near the volcano.
In preparation for an emergency, Albay Gov. Joey Salceda instructed disaster officials not to allow people within 6 kilometer radius from the crater which spewed a 200-meter ash and showed intensified summit glow in the past weeks. Bicol Mail (08/15/08, Arguelles M; Barcia R.) =0=
Grandma's Yummy Favorites in the Bicol Kitchen
1. Ginota’an na Natong (Laing) is probably the most popular Bicolano food. It’s made of fresh or dried natong (dasheen bush leaves) bathed in gota (coconut milk.) It’s flavored with pork bits and spiced with superhot siling labuyo(chili,) garlic, ginger and shrimp.
In places like Iriga City, Ginota’an na Natong includes fresh libas leaves which give a tasty sourness to the dish. Ginota’an na Natong, also called Bicol Express, comes in many versions in different Bicol provinces. Green hot peppers, squash, young squash leaves and flowers, curacding (mushrooms,) balatong (string beans,) eggplants, lambo (bamboo shoots,) and langcawas tubers are ready natong susbstitutes.
2. Gulay na Lubi-lubi is a special treat from the tropical forest. The uncommon wild young lubi-lubi leaves are cooked in coconut milk with minched tinapa (smoked fish) and a cube of flavorful roasted dina’ilan (shrimp) from Camarines Norte. Similar gulay can be made from green papaya, jackfruit, marigoso, calunggay or young cassava leaves.
3. Because of environmental conservation, Kinunot, a dish made from sea turtle may recede in the background. That’s because pawikan, the endangered sea turtle is now a protected species like the tiny tabios (sinarapan) fish found in Buhi Lake. When cooked in coconut milk, chili, black pepper, salt and vinegar, sea turtle meat is as yummy as pating (shark) and pagi (stingray.)
4. Tabios, the diminutive endangered fish from Lake Buhi is wrapped in banana leaves, cooked over hot rice, and flavored with lemonsito (calamansi) juice. A yummy alternative is to cook it fried with cornstarch just like ukoy.5 Sinanglay---tilapia, karpa or puyo (martiniko) fish garnished with chopped onions, ginger, tomatoes, and sour iba (kamias.) The fish is wrapped in fresh dasheen bush leaves and cooked low fire with thick gota (coconut milk) and a dash of hot peppers.
6. Baduya (Sinapot) is very popular with the children. Ripe native bananas dipped in cornstarch are fried. Versions like caling-quing (Bicol camote fries,) tinanok (boiled camote,) and banana/camote cue and linabonan na camote (boiled sweet potato) are excellent meriendas.
7. Sina’sa , common in Rinconada towns like Baao, Nabua, Iriga, Bato, and Buhi is made from charcoal-roasted freshwater fish like puyo (martiniko,) talusog (snakehead) or tilapia. It is garnished with finely chopped tomatoes, ginger, fresh onions, red peppers and a dash of vinegar.
8. Bokayo---young coconut meat, cooked brown with sankaka, sweet caramel prepared from sugar cane.9. Paksiw na Casili---fresh-water eel (burirawan) cooked in vinegar, ginger, onions, pepper leaves, and black pepper. Paksiw can also be prepared from fish like mirapina, tuna, carpa or tilapia. Frying the eel and fish are good cooking options.
10. Tinuktok na Hito---a soup dish of chopped hito fish and young coconut made into fish balls with garlic, ginger, onions and red peppers; fresh camote tops or breadfruit slices (ogob or og-og.) are added.
11. Piga nin Carpa---carp ovaries and eggs sautéed with ginger, onions, garlic and marigoso (bitter melon.)
12. Adobong Orig---cubed pork meat cooked slowly on its lard with rock salt to taste and black pepper.
13. Tinolang Manok---hot soup of native chicken with lemon grass, fresh green papaya, sayote, calunggay (moringa) and pepper leaves.
14. Ogama---small boiled crabs dipped on salted vinegar, sili ng labuyo (tiny red peppers,) garlic, and onions. 15. Pinuyos---sticky rice with coconut milk and a dash of salt wrapped in banana leaves also called Binugtong. Ibos, a similar version is glutinous rice wrapped in young coconut leaves.
16. Sinabawan na Carabao---hot soup made from young tender carabao or beef meat with taro roots, pechay leaves, cabbage, and red pepper.
17. Lechon---roasted pig of Bicol is usually flavored with rock salt and tamarind leaves. It is served with a brown sarsa (sauce) made of roasted pork liver.
18. Balaw---baby shrimp fries, wrapped in banana leaves, flavored with generous lemonsito (calamansi) juice and cooked over rice.
19. Pancit Bato—noodle dish flavored with chorizo, slices of fish cake, pork or chicken meat, and wrapped in banana leaves. 20. Miswa---hair-thin white noodle soup with hibi (dried baby shrimps) and sliced green patola.
21. Sinugbang Talong---charcoal-cooked barbecued eggplant with a dash of lemonsito (calamansi) juice and salt. Talong can go with fresh garden tomatoes, dina’ilan with lemon.
22. Balaw---shrimp fries sautéed in oil, pork meat, green peppers, and lemon juice. Balaw goes well with blanched camote tops, kangkong, or upo (white squash.)
23. Linubak---boiled green bananas, taro or camoteng cahoy (cassava roots) pounded with grated young coconut, milk, and sugar.
24. Su’so---fresh water spiral black snails or river clams boiled with coconut milk, bamboo or pako (fern shoots,) onions, garlic and ginger. 25. Dila-Dila is sold by itinerant vendors on the street together with suman. It's made of grounded glutinous rice, deep fried and topped with glazed sugar cane caramel (sankaka.)
Bicol cuisine is mainly dominated by the use of coconut and its derivative products. Scrumptiously hot with fresh siling labuyo and black peppercorns, the native Bicolano food is a fusion of Asian-Polynesian influences as demonstrated by the use of exotic lemon grass and tropical edible plants like dasheen bush, libas, lubi-lubi, kangkong, and calunggay which grow abundantly in the region. =0=
Bicol Bus Crash Update: Ibalonians mourn the demise of George Evangelio
“Flash news lang ini pero mamundong bareta. Kaibanan sa nagadan sa banggaan kan Executive Carrier bus and Silver Star bus sa Pamplona si George Evangelio ta. Saro siyang late '70s na Ibalon na gikan sa Daraga and Aquinas. Sabi ni Arnel Astillero, na nakaolay na an eldest na aki ni George, an agom daa ni George ay irido, naka-confine sa sarong ospital sa Naga. An bangkay naman ni George ay nasa Funeraria de Nuestra Senora de Salvacion sa Legazpi (pakatapos ibalyo haling Funeraria Imperial sa Naga). Calling tabi sa mga nasa Naga and sa nakakabisto ki George. Me bareta akong paduman na da’a si Totoy Badiola. Salamat.“---Mighty Baylon, Davao City“An narurumduman ko ki George, he was a happy, hopeful and kind
person. I'm sure he led a fruitful and meaningful life.”
---Benny Rayco, Legazpi City
“Sincere condolence to the family of George and prayers for the speedy recovery of Beth. Her children need her in this most difficult time of their lives.”
---Ona Vigil-Baylon, Davao City
“I remember George as a very gracious host samo ni Arnel, even inviting us for drinks sa videoke bar nya sa taas kan old daraga market.”
---James Sabio, Albay, Philippines
“I first knew of George's fatal accident when his name was shown on TV. I had my initial doubts if it was our George of UP Ibalon. But when i saw Daraga, Albay across his name, I knew it was him alright. Mighty's text only confirmed it.
I dropped by today at her sis in laws canteen in Sagpon, Daraga, Albay where i last saw George maybe a year ago. She told me that George and his wife Beth was on the way home in the Executive carrier bus after the check up of her wife in Manila. He was dead on the spot while his Beth suffered fractures and had stainless implants but is otherwise in stable condition. Their check up was reportedly already delayed by one week because they were still waiting for collectibles, having been saddled by the medical bills of Beth among others. Condolence to the family of George.”
---Dan Daz, Legazpi City
“The only agendum at Kopi Meeting in Naga is to know how to help the family of the late George Evangelio. Let us all come. I am one of those who did not have the chance to meet George in his lifetime, but this tragedy in his family really touches everyone of us deeply.”
---Andy Gimpaya, M.D., Naga City
“Hello everyone! Ini po an latest na bareta ko. Divided ang attention kan pamilya ta si Beth, yaon pa sa BMC. Dai pa daa puede ibyahe. Si Joshua, eldest son, ang yaon duman. You may contact him through his cell phone 09175580099. He is with his uncle David Supeña. Sa Daraga, you may contact members of the family through the following numbers: Home: 435-3457; Gigi Canteen: 483-0136 (Bing Supeña, Aunt)”
---Arnel Astillero, Albay, Philippines
“This is indeed a tragedy, a family of six to cap it all. I don't know George, his wife, or any of his kids. Since Simon is studying in Goa, Camarines Sur, tell him to come to my parent's house and introduce himself---- to my mother specially, and my wife Rebekah who’s still there. I'll give him some contribution as well. Be safe.”
---Jose (Boy) Remo, M.D., St. Louis, Missouri, USA
"Kun maaraman ta su insurance company kan carrier; kun may kabisto, hil’ngon ta
kun pwede kita mag lobby for an early claim payment. On the family's end, kaipuhan mag-prepare ning mga documento to support the claim: birth certificates of George & family, burial and funeral expenses, police report, medico-legal report, medical certificates, medical expenses including projected expenses for Beth if there are future treatments necessary na resulta dahil sa saiyang injuries.
—Honesto Oliva, Naga City
"Let's all pray for George's soul, for the speedy recovery of his wife and for his whole family."
---Edna Fatima Balaquiao, Naga City
“Hi, Benny & Grace! Hinahapot ko pa si Naning Mariano kun puwede gamiton su account duman as conduit kan gusto magpadara nin tabang.”
---Apolonio (Mighty) Baylon, Davao City
“Itinao ko na sa padara ni Mighty through BDO. Cherry Uy padara man through RCBC… Atty Alan Badiola and Boy Inigo were also there. We stayed up to 7:30PM.”
---Mac Pavia, Pio Duran, Albay
“Naka-receive man ako ning text from Mayor Bem Dycoco kahapon about the accidental death of George. Si info na pigtao sakuya is kaipuhan daa ning legal advice kan family niya on how to get financial assistance/claims from the bus company. Nakaulay ko for few minutes by cellphone si David, brother ni Beth. Si David yata ang nag-aasikaso kan pagdara kay Georgefrom a funeral parlor in Pamplona to Legazpi ngunyan na aldaw. Ang contact number niya: 0928-4238888.
----Atty. Alan V. Badiola, Rawis, Legazpi City
“Condolence sa pamilya ni George Evangelio. May he rest in peace. Hoping for the complete recovery of his wife… I asked my sister Ritzy Bermillo of Balatas, Naga City to call Ann Mariano to send in my donation to the George Evangelio fund.”
---Totie Mesia, M.D., Astoria, New York, USA
N.B: George Evangelio's bier is presently at the Nuestra Sra. de Salvacion Funeral Parlor in Legazpi City, Philippines. Those who desire to help his family, please contact Joshua Evangelio (09175580099; 435-3457); Bing Supena (483-0136) or Andy Gimpaya, M.D. (Naga) )==0==
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