Showing posts with label Dan Daz. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Dan Daz. Show all posts
The Calm Before The Storm: A UP Ibalon Saga
by Mighty Baylon
I always fancied UP students to be bright. And as bright persons I thought they will be able to sift truth from facts. After all, UP was strong in empirical research.
I was hoping the queer incident I mentioned in my last article ["One Stormy Night In August 1995: A UP Ibalon Saga", 12/01/08] will blow away after the contentious UP Student Council election. I thought that with the founders and senior members still around and being UP students they will not be brazen enough to change UP Ibalon's history while we are still alive (but later it turned out that I was wrong in this).
It is with hope that I reminisced that though UP Paglaom was torn asunder by the CONCOMSA (Consultative Committee on Student Affairs, a predecessor organization before the full-pledged restoration of the UP Student Council) elections in 1974, it survived in the form of UP Ibalon [See my article, "The Formation And Legacy Of UP Ibalon: A Testimony", 11/14/08]. And UP Ibalon lived to be the organization and home of the Bicolanos in UP Diliman and this is Ibalon's legacy.
There were no other recognized UP Bicolano organizations at that time except for UP Lawod, the organization of students coming from Masbate [See my article, "A Multitude Of Bicolano Organizations In UP Diliman: The Present Problem And The Lessons Of The Past", 11/15/08], which I didn't really mind because Masbateno is considered a separate language and only a minority speaks Bicol in Masbate. But my initial impression of UP Ibalon is it is a small and troubled organization (a membership roll of 23 and with debts to pay). With a UP Diliman Bicolano population estimated to be 700 I can surmise that the situation is volatile.
We were asked by the President of UP Ibalon, Gerlin Catangui, to help in their upcoming traditional high school students' contest, the Padunungan, which will be held in Legazpi City during the semestral break. It was Gerlin's wish that the project earn enough so that all UP Ibalon debts will be paid and all unpublished souvenir programs of the previous years will be printed and distributed. She feels it was the shame of UP Ibalon that it cannot live to its commitment and promise to the donors and sponsors.
Flushed with the success of the premier of the movie "Congo", I tapped my UPIAA Treasurer, Dan Daz, to help them out and teach them how to launch projects with enough sponsorship. Through Dan, UP Ibalon was able to tap former sponsors in "Congo". We also tapped and the Ibalon alumni in Albay was enthusiastic in helping them on other logistical concerns. In my recollection of the project, the Ibalon couple Kulas and Lea Sala, Mac Pavia, Dean Jun Perdigon and the late George Evangelio comes to mind as the most active of its supporters.
The project achieved its highest goal and UP Ibalon's debts were paid and all the souvenir program backlogs were erased. I thought it would usher a new era of mutually beneficial cooperation between the resident and alumni organizations of UP Ibalon. In my analysis of the "Congo" premiere, it was obvious that the UPIAA (UP Ibalon alumni Association) needs the warm bodies the UP Ibalon can provide and UPIAA can help the resident organization in a lot of ways.
It is thus with hope and enthusiasm that the resident and alumni organizations jointly prepared for the December 1, 1995 anniversary celebrations.
But illusions were soon shattered and this just turned out to be the proverbial calm before the storm.
I always fancied UP students to be bright. And as bright persons I thought they will be able to sift truth from facts. After all, UP was strong in empirical research.
I was hoping the queer incident I mentioned in my last article ["One Stormy Night In August 1995: A UP Ibalon Saga", 12/01/08] will blow away after the contentious UP Student Council election. I thought that with the founders and senior members still around and being UP students they will not be brazen enough to change UP Ibalon's history while we are still alive (but later it turned out that I was wrong in this).
It is with hope that I reminisced that though UP Paglaom was torn asunder by the CONCOMSA (Consultative Committee on Student Affairs, a predecessor organization before the full-pledged restoration of the UP Student Council) elections in 1974, it survived in the form of UP Ibalon [See my article, "The Formation And Legacy Of UP Ibalon: A Testimony", 11/14/08]. And UP Ibalon lived to be the organization and home of the Bicolanos in UP Diliman and this is Ibalon's legacy.
There were no other recognized UP Bicolano organizations at that time except for UP Lawod, the organization of students coming from Masbate [See my article, "A Multitude Of Bicolano Organizations In UP Diliman: The Present Problem And The Lessons Of The Past", 11/15/08], which I didn't really mind because Masbateno is considered a separate language and only a minority speaks Bicol in Masbate. But my initial impression of UP Ibalon is it is a small and troubled organization (a membership roll of 23 and with debts to pay). With a UP Diliman Bicolano population estimated to be 700 I can surmise that the situation is volatile.
We were asked by the President of UP Ibalon, Gerlin Catangui, to help in their upcoming traditional high school students' contest, the Padunungan, which will be held in Legazpi City during the semestral break. It was Gerlin's wish that the project earn enough so that all UP Ibalon debts will be paid and all unpublished souvenir programs of the previous years will be printed and distributed. She feels it was the shame of UP Ibalon that it cannot live to its commitment and promise to the donors and sponsors.
Flushed with the success of the premier of the movie "Congo", I tapped my UPIAA Treasurer, Dan Daz, to help them out and teach them how to launch projects with enough sponsorship. Through Dan, UP Ibalon was able to tap former sponsors in "Congo". We also tapped and the Ibalon alumni in Albay was enthusiastic in helping them on other logistical concerns. In my recollection of the project, the Ibalon couple Kulas and Lea Sala, Mac Pavia, Dean Jun Perdigon and the late George Evangelio comes to mind as the most active of its supporters.
The project achieved its highest goal and UP Ibalon's debts were paid and all the souvenir program backlogs were erased. I thought it would usher a new era of mutually beneficial cooperation between the resident and alumni organizations of UP Ibalon. In my analysis of the "Congo" premiere, it was obvious that the UPIAA (UP Ibalon alumni Association) needs the warm bodies the UP Ibalon can provide and UPIAA can help the resident organization in a lot of ways.
It is thus with hope and enthusiasm that the resident and alumni organizations jointly prepared for the December 1, 1995 anniversary celebrations.
But illusions were soon shattered and this just turned out to be the proverbial calm before the storm.
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.
Bombo Radyo Legazpi conducts Blood letting
Bombo Radyo Legazpi conducted its’ 4th yearly bloodletting activity named “ Dugong Bombo, A little pain . . . a life to gain.” at the 3rd floor of the Pacific Mall in Legazpi City last Saturday, November 8, 2008. The daylong activity which netted around 130 qualified donors is part of the 6th Bombo Radyo’s simultaneous bloodletting activity in 24 key cities nationwide in honor of the birthday of Bombo Radyo Philippines’ President/ CEO Dr. Rogelio M. Florete.
The bloodletting which was in partnership with the Philippine National Red Cross (PNRC) was led by Bombo Radyo Legazpi Station Manager Jun Derla who were joined by practically all his staff which includes popular anchors Nelson Bulalacao, Nilda Barcelo and Mr. Siramity- Joshua Martinez, Jr. who was seen donating blood. Aside from the PNRC, other partners include the Department of Health (DOH), Provincial Health Office, City Health Office and a number of volunteers. Among the sponsors were Albay Gov. Joey Salceda and 1st Colonial Grill of Mr. Bong Aspe who donated packed lunches.
The blood donors include men and officers from the Philippine Army, the Philippine National Police, reservists, Philippine Guardians, Kabalikat Civicom, the Albay Medical Society and the general public who were in queue at the Pacific Mall entrance even before the mall opening. All Dugong Bombo blood donors were given “Dugong Bombo” T-shirts, fluid replacements, snacks and multi-vitamins, courtesy of the national and local sponsors.
Nationwide, the bloodletting activity totaled 5,123 successful blood donors generating 2,323 liters or 11.6 drums of blood. Bombo Radyo Philippines has been cited and awarded several times by the Philippine National Red Cross for their one of a kind blood donation program which exceeded their record last year. Bombo Radyo Philippines pays tribute to the countless donors including those who did not qualify to ensure the nation’s blood supply requirements which are critically needed during calamities and dengue outbreaks and during November and December when blood is usually in short supply.
JCI Legazpi creates waves at the 2008 JCI National Convention
The Junior Chamber International (JCI) is a worldwide federation of young leaders and entrepreneurs whose members are more popularly known as the Jaycees. In the recent 2008 Dakak JCI National Convention held in different venues such as Dakak, Zamboanga del Norte and Dipolog City in the south, the JCI Legazpi showed their contemporaries of over 1000 delegates from over 200 chapters around the country that when it comes to achievements, they are in a higher category all their own.
The JCI Legazpi delegation composed of President Charlie Chua, EVP Uriel Maddela, VP Internal Yves Eli Yu, VP External Martin Reynoso, JCI Sec.Gen. Sam Boviles, JCI Senator Joseph Barra, JCI Treasurer Roel Rutuerma and PP JCI Senator Noni Calleja first won the “Early Bird Award”. They have earlier won the “Most Outstanding JCI Chapter” under category 2 or those composed of 46-75 members. They placed 7th in the National JCI PEA ( Philippine Efficiency Awards) wherein points are accumulated by a chapter based on the number and quality of their projects raising their ranking from 9th the previous year. The JCI Lagazpi also garnered the “Best Environmental Award” which netted them the “Best of the Best Award”, a very notable achievement considering the significance of the project with today’s global warming phenomenon.
The prestigious “Best of the Best Award” won by JCI Legazpi was the first Coral Farm in the Bicol region using a modular design that stimulates the growth of corals from 5-10 times its normal growth. Corals are the backbone of the marine ecosystems where fishes breed. Corals are destroyed by a variety of causes among them- pollution, siltation, erosion, chemicals and ship spills, dynamite fishing and their natural predator- the crown of thorns. Without corals, there will be no fishes and all the living things in the food chain will be severely affected.
JCI Martin Reynoso, Project Chairman and inventor of the Self –contained system explained that his invention generates 3-4 volts of electricity that stimulates the growth of corals. Unlike other models that costs around $25,000, his modular design costs around P5,000 and can easily be transported to where it is needed such as oil spill areas. This corals could also be sold to aquarium owners without the need to disturb existing corals.
JCI Martin Reynoso drew his inspiration from the Jaycees creed that says, “Earth’s great treasure lies in human personality”. Fully aware of the effects of global warming and the need to protect the environment, his invention- a Modular design that is efficient, compact, portable and cheap adopted by JCI Legazpi is one great contribution to environmental protection and worthy of the “Best of the Best Award”. Indeed to Martin and JCI Legazpi, “Service to Humanity is the Best Work of Life”.
A time to build, a time to heal---a poignant account of the fire damage in Naga
by Acela Badiola-Bretan
"From Leni Robredo, here are the pictures from the Naga City Fire. According to Leni, the city's priority is to assist the stallholders so they could start selling their goods again ASAP. But most of the stallholders were small-time entrepreneurs and none of them had their goods insured."---Melyn Lucido, CSI'81
"When I asked the vendors how long they will be back, nobody can give a definite answer. Looking at their faces, I experienced a surge of emotions. I was happy to know that they are still able to sell and earn a living for their children and family. At the same time I felt sad because they have to endure harsh conditions and nobody’s sure for how long this will last."---Dusktildawn (UP Ibalon Blog, 11/17/08)
"It’s no wonder why Naga sorely misses the market that has been razed by fire. Many ask how long it will take the government to restore the place to its original ambience. As one can imagine, the supermarket is truly the heart of a vibrant city where businesses flourish and the soul of the people dwells."---Pitoy Moreno (UP Ibalon Blog, 11/15/08)
"Iyo baga...Alms. Si Sherry Guerrero may Botica Lexar. Ang tugang ni Melyn igwa man 24 K pawnshop sa first floor. Napa-ngiturugan ko ngani ang supermarket several weeks ago ta dati akong alalay ni mama pag nagsasaod. Ang price ko kan pagbitbit kang sinaudan kadto iyo an mag snack duman sa kanto kan saodan na igwa nin mga turu-turo na loglog."---Bingbing Badiola, CSI'81.
"The first floor of the supermarket was spared, dai man nasulo. Si 2nd and 3rd floors ang nasulo... Nakasalvar si botica ni Sherry and pawn shop ni Tita Belits. Ang aram ko si Felo may meat store sa 3rd floor... Mapungaw, ta crisis na ngani, nangyari pa ining sulo na ini.." --Nenette Abrigo, CSI'81
"Aram na baga what started the fire? Was the entire 2nd and 3rd floor razed down? Sinabihan ako kan sobrino ko kan Friday mismo na state of calamity ngani daa kamo dyan. Hope everything would turn out okay ta harani na baga ang holidays, herak man ang mga na-displace..."---Aleta Gehrke. CSI'81. (Photo Credits: Leni Robredo)
NOTE: The fire that gutted the Naga Supermarket happened on Thursday, November 7, 2008 after a province-wide black-out. It was theorized that an unattended candle ignited the blaze. =0=
RELATED BLOGS: "Naga Public Market (Supermarket) Burns Down" Posted by myty555 at 11/07/2008; "Huge Loss in Naga Supermarket Fire" Posted by mesiamd at 11/09/2008;"Fire brings woes to Naga City market vendors" Posted by mesiamd at 11/07/2008; "Feeling the loss of Maogmang Lugar’s market fire"
Posted by mesiamd at 11/15/2008.
"From Leni Robredo, here are the pictures from the Naga City Fire. According to Leni, the city's priority is to assist the stallholders so they could start selling their goods again ASAP. But most of the stallholders were small-time entrepreneurs and none of them had their goods insured."---Melyn Lucido, CSI'81
"When I asked the vendors how long they will be back, nobody can give a definite answer. Looking at their faces, I experienced a surge of emotions. I was happy to know that they are still able to sell and earn a living for their children and family. At the same time I felt sad because they have to endure harsh conditions and nobody’s sure for how long this will last."---Dusktildawn (UP Ibalon Blog, 11/17/08)
"It’s no wonder why Naga sorely misses the market that has been razed by fire. Many ask how long it will take the government to restore the place to its original ambience. As one can imagine, the supermarket is truly the heart of a vibrant city where businesses flourish and the soul of the people dwells."---Pitoy Moreno (UP Ibalon Blog, 11/15/08)
"Iyo baga...Alms. Si Sherry Guerrero may Botica Lexar. Ang tugang ni Melyn igwa man 24 K pawnshop sa first floor. Napa-ngiturugan ko ngani ang supermarket several weeks ago ta dati akong alalay ni mama pag nagsasaod. Ang price ko kan pagbitbit kang sinaudan kadto iyo an mag snack duman sa kanto kan saodan na igwa nin mga turu-turo na loglog."---Bingbing Badiola, CSI'81.
"The first floor of the supermarket was spared, dai man nasulo. Si 2nd and 3rd floors ang nasulo... Nakasalvar si botica ni Sherry and pawn shop ni Tita Belits. Ang aram ko si Felo may meat store sa 3rd floor... Mapungaw, ta crisis na ngani, nangyari pa ining sulo na ini.." --Nenette Abrigo, CSI'81
"Aram na baga what started the fire? Was the entire 2nd and 3rd floor razed down? Sinabihan ako kan sobrino ko kan Friday mismo na state of calamity ngani daa kamo dyan. Hope everything would turn out okay ta harani na baga ang holidays, herak man ang mga na-displace..."---Aleta Gehrke. CSI'81. (Photo Credits: Leni Robredo)
NOTE: The fire that gutted the Naga Supermarket happened on Thursday, November 7, 2008 after a province-wide black-out. It was theorized that an unattended candle ignited the blaze. =0=
RELATED BLOGS: "Naga Public Market (Supermarket) Burns Down" Posted by myty555 at 11/07/2008; "Huge Loss in Naga Supermarket Fire" Posted by mesiamd at 11/09/2008;"Fire brings woes to Naga City market vendors" Posted by mesiamd at 11/07/2008; "Feeling the loss of Maogmang Lugar’s market fire"
Posted by mesiamd at 11/15/2008.
In the Aftermath of the Naga Public Market Fire
I was in Naga City last Saturday and instinctively I headed for the burned supermarket that prominently figured in the local and national news recently. I knew the location as well as the market’s general lay-out having visited it or passed around it several times in the past. I was curious on the extent of the damage and how things are different now. Knapsack and camera in tow, I just walked my way towards the market oblivious to the slight drizzle and the sky that is turning dark. I could have easily taken a jeepney or tricycle but there is something about walking the streets of familiar and not-so-familiar places that fascinates me. The few pesos that I would save wouldn’t hurt as recession lurks just behind the corner.
The first thing that caught my attention was the blackened 2nd floor and the crowd of vendors that occupies the street beneath it. The traffic was beginning to build up as tricycles and jeepneys slow down trying to avoid the various obstacles that used to be minimal in the past. Looking at the market from end to end, I realized it’s really huge occupying two big blocks.
The fire that destroyed the Naga Public Market has displaced hundreds of vendors that used to occupy the 2nd and 3rd floors. They are mostly those occupying stalls in the wet market selling meat, fish, fruits and vegetables. They now occupy both sides of J. Hernandez street housed in makeshift tents selling their wares. Both the vendors and the buyers are exposed to the sun and the rain with only their flimsy trapal and umbrellas to protect them. They are also exposed to the carbon monoxide and pollution that are ever present in the street as jeepneys, tricycles and other motorized vehicles inch their way through the narrowed and crowded streets made worse by the rain.
When I asked the vendors how long they will be back to their previous stalls, nobody can give a definite answer. Looking at their faces, I experienced a surge of emotions. I was happy to know that they are still able to sell and earn a living for their children and family. At the same time I felt sad because they have to endure harsh conditions and nobody’s sure for how long this will last. These are simple people with simple dreams, honest and hardworking who deserve every hard-earned peso they earn. I felt great admiration for them but words weren’t coming out.
Those occupying the ground floor of the supermarket were not as affected. It’s business as usual for them except for the fact that they now have to share their frontage with the hordes of displaced vendors that are also trying to make a living in the aftermath of the tragedy. A significant portion of the second floor housing ukay-ukay stalls was spared from the fire. In the inner portions of the ground floor, the beauty and barber shops are still intact. I did not find those barbers whom I used to play chess with many years ago. I wasn’t even sure if they are still there or if I can remember their faces. The row of carinderias still serve snacks and meals, each one trying to entice customers to try out their menus. After a light snack I exited through the rows of stalls selling clothes, dropped by the newsstand and bought a copy of my favorite local newspaper. I used to browse the headlines in this particular newsstand and somehow it felt reassuring that they are still there.
With the commitment of several high ranking Bicolano government officials to reconstruct the damaged Supermarket, I’m optimistic that in no time the Maogmang Lugar public market with its myriad of native attractions and local charm will be back to its feet and will continue to serve the people of Naga City and the surrounding towns as well as continue to fascinate simple travelers like me.
Filipina is Miss Earth 2008
The Philippines’ Miss Karla Paula Henry was crowned Miss Earth 2008 at the Clark Expo Ampitheater in Pampanga Sunday besting a field of beautiful, talented and environmentally- conscious girls from 85 countries. It was the first time that a Filipina won the Miss Earth pageant which is considered as among the top 3 pageants worldwide.
Other winners are Tanzania’s Miss Miriam Odemba 25,1st runner-up, who was crowned Miss Earth Air; Mexico’s Miss Abegail Elizalde Romo 23, 2nd runner-up who was crowned Miss Earth Water and Brazil’s Miss Tatiana Kelen Alves 24, 3rd runner-up who was Miss Earth Fire. Aside from the four, those who made it to the top eight were: Spain’s Miss Adriana Reveron Moreno, 23; Colombia’s Miss Ariane Rodriguez Merchan, 22; Venezuela’s Miss Daniela Torrealba Pacheco, 19 and Switzerland’s Miss Nasanin Nuri, 19. Rounding up the top 16 were Thailand, Poland, Nigeria, Czech Republic, Romania, USA, Russia and Korea.
The question and answer portion was the clincher for the Filipina where the final four were all asked the same question, “ If you are given the chance to speak with newly-elected US President Barack Obama about the state of our global environment, what will you tell him?” Karla Henry said that she would encourage Obama to implement an environmental subject in the curriculum of schools. She added that it is important to teach the youth knowledge about the environment so that in the coming years, they will take care of Mother Earth. “I believe our future lies in the youth”, she concluded.
Karla won US$20,000 while the three others won US$2,000 each on top of other prizes and perks. Karla also won as Miss Photogenic aside from winning the very first Fashion Design competition held at the Amazing Theatre in Pasay City on November 4, 2008. She wore an Ivan Raborar creation.
Miss Venezuela’s Daniela Torrealba wearing a luscious and elegantly-designed dress which complemented her classy personality won the Best in Long Gown Award during the long gown competition held at PAGCOR, Grand Theatre in Paranaque last November 3, 2008. Miss Talent was won by Australia’s Rachael Smith during the Talent Competition held last November 2, 2008 at Tamayo’s Villa Immaculada in Manila.
The preliminary swimsuit competition was held last October 25, 2008 in three locations: Sabang Beach Resort, Puerto Princessa, Palawan; Golden Sunset, Calatagan, Batangas and Manila, Philippines. The candidates were divided into three groups and the top 15 in each group then competed in the final swimsuit competition held at the Fontana Leisure Park in the Clark Freeport Zone, Angeles City, Pampanga last November 1, 2008. The Best in Swimsuit and Miss Fontana awards were garnered by Miss Mexico Abigail Elizalde and Miss Philippines Karla Paula Henry respectively. The National Costume competition was held at the PAGCOR Grand Theatre in Paranaque City last October 28, 2008. The Best in National Costume was won by Miss Panama Shassia Ubillus who was unanimously chosen by the members of the press.
The Miss Earth candidates have been touring the country’s different tourist destinations like the Philippines’ bets in the New 7 Wonders of the World- The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Mayon Volcano, Chocolate Hills and other sites planting trees, picking-up garbage and promoting the message to protect our Mother Earth. Several of them including Miss Earth Japan, Hungary, Netherlands, Guam, Israel, Liberia, Brazil and Mexico were here in Legazpi City last October 22-24 planting trees, promoting Mayon Volcano and joining the Parada de Legazpi last October 23. Among Legazpi’s visitors were Mexico’s Miss Earth Water Abegail Elizalde who was also the Best in Swimsuit and Brazil’s Miss Earth Fire Tatiana Alves.
Photo credits: XINHUA/ Reuters
Ibalong Festival 2008 Street Presentation
The Ibalong festival Street Presentation was held last October 30, 2008 along the main streets of Legazpi City.
Legazpi celebrates Fiesta, Ibalong Festival
LEGAZPI CITY- Legazpenos celebrated their fiesta and welcomed the return of the Ibalong Festival with much funfare characterized by month-long festivities. Among the highlights of the celebrations were the CEBIKA Art exhibit; Agri-Fair; 1st Ibalong Airsoft Challenge; Mayon Trail Run; Drum, Lyre and Bugle Competition; Brass Band Competition; Fiesta Parada de Legazpi; the Mutya ng Ibalong Pageant and the Street Presentation of the Ibalong Epic.
The 1st Ibalong Airsoft Challenge featuring 25 teams from Sorsogon; Naga City, Camarines Sur; Daet, Camarines Norte; Legazpi City; Polangui and Daraga, Albay was hosted by Cagsawa Airsoft Tactical Company and was held last October 26, 2008 at the Bicol University grounds. It was co-sponsored by the Saint Agnes Academy Batch Grade School ’80 and High School ’84. The challenge gave cash prizes ranging from P3,000 to P10,000 aside from recognizing the most honest, most disciplined and best in uniform teams.
The Mayon Trail Run was sponsored by the JCI Legazpi and was conceptualized to promote awareness of Global Warming.
The Fiesta Parada de Legazpi Band competition was won by Legazpi City High School- 1st in the High School category; 2nd place went to Felix Alfelor High School while 3rd place went to Dominican School of Pilar, Sorsogon. In the Elementary Division, the winners were 1st- Iriga Central school; 2nd- San Isidro Elementary School and 3rd- Bagtang Elementary School.
However it was the Brass Bands of Camarines Sur State Agricultural College (CSSAC), Mariners Baras and Legazpi and University of Saint Anthony (USANT) which was the main attraction of the Legazpi Parade aside from the Miss Earth beauties who anchored the parade. Mariners Baras showed why they were the best marching band in the recent Penafrancia Military Parade while USANT showed Legazpi why they were the best majorettes in Bicol for this year aside from being the overall champion in the Penafrancia Military Parade last September in Naga City.
In the Mutya ng Ibalong Pageant, Patrixia Sherly Santos of Daraga, Albay was this year’s fairest. Dianne Necio was 1st runner-up while Catherine Lagrimas was the 2nd runner-up. The coronation night was held at the Albay Astrodome in Legazpi last October 29, 2008.
The highlight of this year’s Ibalong festival was the Street Presentation of the Ibalong Epic and 14 contingents from all over Bicol participated and vied for the hefty cash prizes. After the smoke of the battle cleared, Camarines Norte State College was the Overall Champion. For the minor category, Legazpi City High School was adjudged the Best in Sound. Camarines Norte State College was Best in Costume. In the major category, Best in Moving Choreography winners were: 5th- Bulan National High School; 4th- Pagasa National High Shool; 3rd- Legazpi City High School and the Champion was Camarines Norte State College who won P100,000.
In the Exhibition category, 5th- Tabaco National High School; 4th- Pagasa National High school; 3rd- Banquerohan National High School ; 2nd- Legazpi City High School and Champion was Camarines Norte State College who pocketed P200,000.
Truly, the month-long festivities of the Ibalong Festival was one happy occassion for the City and its residents, the business community and the events winners who trained and worked hard to to claim the glory they rightfully deserve. It is also a tribute to the various sectors, too many to mention- who worked hard to make the month-long festivities meaningful and successful, worthy of another encore.
Mutya ng Ibalong: Are Daraguenas the fairest of them all?
LEGAZPI CITY- It’s all happening with noticeable regularity and all too familiar results. Another lass from Daraga out of the 101 towns and 7 cities in the Bicol region, emerged as this year’s Mutya ng Ibalong as candidate no. 18- Patrixia Sherly De Lumban Santos stamped her beauty, talent and class over a field of 20 candidates to win the coveted crown. It must be remembered that in April and September this year, Miss Melody Adelheid Gerbasch, another Daraguena, won the prestigious Mutya ng Magayon and Miss Bicolandia pageants. Daraga, which is composed of 54 barangays, has retained its reputation of being the most progressive town not only in the province of Albay but in the whole of the Bicol Region. For decades it has enjoyed the air of progress, being a long time first class municipality in the province.
Patrixia pocketed the top prize of P100,000 aside from winning the Miss Photogenic and Miss Talent awards during the Coronation Night held last October 29, 2008 at the air-conditioned Albay Astrodome in Legazpi City. Candidate no. 15- Dianne Samar Necio from Polangui, Albay was the first runner-up and won P75,000 aside from being named as “Model of the Year”. Meanwhile candidate no. 8- Catherine Dominique Lagrimas of Nabua, Camarines Sur was the 2nd runner-up and came home P50,000 richer. Patrixia garnered an average score of 94.24%, Dianne got 93.34% and Catherine averaged 89.90%. Patrixia who admitted she’s an Anime fanatic is also the reigning Miss BU and won as Miss Cagsawa in the Mutya ng Daraga Pageant held last September. On the other hand, Dianne was a runner-up in the Miss Bicolandia 2007 aside from being a majorette of USANT which won the overall championship in this year’s Penafrancia Military Parade.
Candidate no. 19- Jane Riel Banares was the Best in Long Gown while candidate no. 5- April Armamento Santillan was voted as Miss Friendship and won as Best in Swimwear. Aside from the 5 aforementioned candidates, those who made it to the finals were candidate no. 7- Lizi Louise Resoles, candidate no. 13- Sarah Syed, candidate no. 16- Kelly Obligacion, candidate no.17- Ma. Rochelle Perez and candidate no. 20- Ma. Rochell Ruth Rebeta.
The pageant was different and unique in more ways than one. In a departure from the usual format, the 10 candidates who did not make it to the finals were the ones who asked the finalists the questions in the dreaded Q&A portion. Also, the mothers and guardians of the candidates became more than just background supporters as they were thrust in the limelight and were asked questions themselves by the three emcees that are stars in their own rights. Paolo Bediones is a well-known talent of Network giant GMA and hosts the popular Survivor Philippines series. Tintin Caballero was the Mutya ng Pilipinas 2002 while Jean Harn was the Miss Earth Philippines 2007.
The Pageant was truly a night to remember filled with great music. Jonathan Badon, known as the Philippine Prince of Operatic Pop sung Josh Groban’s “You raise me up” accompanied by virtuoso violin playing that seems to emanate from heaven and followed this up with Pavarotti songs sung in Italian that only artists of his caliber can deliver. Even the candidates were dancing and swaying to the beat of the music and the sizable crowd was ecstatic. The lighting was sufficient and appreciated by the photographers who were able to take magnificent images in available light. The gigantic LCD background was new and creative and beautifully complements the action onstage. We credit this to the genius and great partnership of Renee M. Salud, the Project Director and Mutya ng Ibalong Chairperson Geraldine B. Rosal who were not afraid to innovate and do what is necessary to make the Mutya ng Ibalong Pageant memorable and worthy of being considered as one of the leading pageants in the whole of Bicolandia.
Support Bicol Trade!
The OK Bikol Trade Fair brings home a powerful message that assets come in many forms. To build something useful and tangible for the growth of the community, we need ideas and money. Yet we also require cooperation, initiative, and resolve to utilize the talents, time, and energy that reside in the people. 
UP Ibalon Imelda T. Cabanes has shown us that there is much to be appreciated in the men and women who push hard to drum-up self-help and business sense. The entrepreneurial drive of Bicolanos is alive. There are economic gains which can be realized from the sale of “home furnishings, giftware, holiday décor, wearables, fresh and processed food, organic and natural products, cutlery and furniture.” Raw materials such as tikiw, salago, pagokpok and sorghum have a lot of promise in augmenting work and income.One way to help Bicol business is to promote and patronize our locally-made goods so that others may follow. We need to buy more so we can produce more---It’s a form of habit modification which demands that we value our local products greater than the foreign ones. By involving the youth, we come to understand the often undervalued asset in our young generation. It is important for us to join hands to make our community better. (Photo Credits: Dan Daz/Imelda T. Cabanes)0=
Mutya ng Ibalong 2008 Candidates Unveiled
LEGAZPI CITY- Twenty lovely and talented beauties from all over the Bicol region were presented as the official candidates of the Mutya ng Ibalong 2008 during the Press Conference held at the Venezia Hotel Clubhouse, Tuesday night. The Mutya ng Ibalong was revived after a two-year hiatus and is chaired by Mrs. Geraldine Barrameda Rosal with famed couturier Rene M. Salud as Project Director.
Overall, 6 candidates who made it were from Legazpi City, 3 from Daraga, 2 from Sorsogon City and 1 each from Naga City, Tabaco City, Masbate City, Tigaon, Nabua, Sto. Domingo, Buhi, Polangui and Guinobatan. The official candidates for the Mutya ng Ibalong 2008 are as follows:
Bessie Lucido, 21 2) Shindy Ortal, 20 3) Angela Amador, 17 4) Micah Altea Cabaero, 18 5) April Santillan, 22 6) Paula Angelica Jasareno, 18 7) Lizi Louise Resoles, 18 8) Catherine Lagrimas, 19 9) Casey Anne Austria, 16 10) May Ann Balingbing, 19 11) Crisandra Berces, 21 12) Jessica Biasca, 20 13) Sarah Syed, 19 14) Harijane Chua, 22 15)Dianne Necio, 16 16) Kelly Obligacion, 18 17) Ma. Rochelle Perez, 20 18) Patrixia Sherly Santos, 16 19) Jane Banares, 19 20) Ma. Rochell Ruth Rebeta, 18.
The winners will receive P100,000, P75,000 and P50,000 for Mutya ng Ibalong 2008, 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up respectively. The Miss Photogenic, Miss Friendship, Miss Talent and the Best in Swimsuit will likewise receive P5,000 each plus trophy. The Best Bicolano Gown Designer shall receive P8,000.
The Talent Show will be on October 22, 2008 at the LCC Activity Center. The Swimsuit Competition will be on October 26 and the Gown Competition will be on October 27 at the Pacific Mall. The Pageant night will be on October 29, 7pm at the Albay Astrodome. It will be hosted by Paolo Bediones, Tintin Caballero (Mutya ng Pilipinas 2002) and Miss Jean Harn (Miss Earth Philippines 2007).
Mutya ng Ibalong Chairperson Mrs. Geraldine Rosal said that she wants to give the girls national exposure with the help of Project Director Renee Salud, a famous couturier who is also behind the Mutya ng Pilipinas pageants. She supports and shares the candidates’ aspirations to uplift their lives. She added that with the help of everybody including the media, the pageant will be successful.
Overall, 6 candidates who made it were from Legazpi City, 3 from Daraga, 2 from Sorsogon City and 1 each from Naga City, Tabaco City, Masbate City, Tigaon, Nabua, Sto. Domingo, Buhi, Polangui and Guinobatan. The official candidates for the Mutya ng Ibalong 2008 are as follows:
Bessie Lucido, 21 2) Shindy Ortal, 20 3) Angela Amador, 17 4) Micah Altea Cabaero, 18 5) April Santillan, 22 6) Paula Angelica Jasareno, 18 7) Lizi Louise Resoles, 18 8) Catherine Lagrimas, 19 9) Casey Anne Austria, 16 10) May Ann Balingbing, 19 11) Crisandra Berces, 21 12) Jessica Biasca, 20 13) Sarah Syed, 19 14) Harijane Chua, 22 15)Dianne Necio, 16 16) Kelly Obligacion, 18 17) Ma. Rochelle Perez, 20 18) Patrixia Sherly Santos, 16 19) Jane Banares, 19 20) Ma. Rochell Ruth Rebeta, 18.
The winners will receive P100,000, P75,000 and P50,000 for Mutya ng Ibalong 2008, 1st runner-up and 2nd runner-up respectively. The Miss Photogenic, Miss Friendship, Miss Talent and the Best in Swimsuit will likewise receive P5,000 each plus trophy. The Best Bicolano Gown Designer shall receive P8,000.
The Talent Show will be on October 22, 2008 at the LCC Activity Center. The Swimsuit Competition will be on October 26 and the Gown Competition will be on October 27 at the Pacific Mall. The Pageant night will be on October 29, 7pm at the Albay Astrodome. It will be hosted by Paolo Bediones, Tintin Caballero (Mutya ng Pilipinas 2002) and Miss Jean Harn (Miss Earth Philippines 2007).
Mutya ng Ibalong Chairperson Mrs. Geraldine Rosal said that she wants to give the girls national exposure with the help of Project Director Renee Salud, a famous couturier who is also behind the Mutya ng Pilipinas pageants. She supports and shares the candidates’ aspirations to uplift their lives. She added that with the help of everybody including the media, the pageant will be successful.
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