Albay News December 2018

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Albay - Archived News
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Seal of the Province of Albay
Interactive Google Satellite Map of the Province of Albay
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Location of Albay within the Philippines
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Provincial Capitol Building of Albay, in Legazpi City

Dietary supplement is a product that contains vitamins, minerals, herbs or other botanicals, amino acids, enzymes, and/or other ingredients intended to supplement the diet. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration has special labeling requirements for dietary supplements and treats them as foods, not drugs.

Manufacturers and distributors of dietary supplements and dietary ingredients are prohibited from marketing products that are adulterated or misbranded. That means that these firms are responsible for evaluating the safety and labeling of their products before marketing to ensure that they meet all the requirements of DSHEA and FDA regulations.

Mayon volcano albay province.jpg

Wars of ancient history were about possessions, territory, power, control, family, betrayal, lover's quarrel, politics and sometimes religion.

But we are in the Modern era and supposedly more educated and enlightened .

Think about this. Don't just brush off these questions.

  • Why is RELIGION still involved in WARS? Isn't religion supposed to be about PEACE?
  • Ask yourself; What religion always campaign to have its religious laws be accepted as government laws, always involved in wars and consistently causing WARS, yet insists that it's a religion of peace?

WHY??

There are only two kinds of people who teach tolerance:
  1. The Bullies. They want you to tolerate them so they can continue to maliciously deprive you. Do not believe these bullies teaching tolerance, saying that it’s the path to prevent hatred and prejudice.
  2. The victims who are waiting for the right moment to retaliate. They can’t win yet, so they tolerate.

DOH-5 to step up in condom use campaign vs HIV

By Casandra Balala (PIA-5)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA)—As it seeks to stop the spread of human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), the Department of Health in Bicol (DOH-5) plans to do more in the promotion of use and distribution of condom.

“We can control HIV. The implementation of condom use program was the strategy of Thailand to prevent and lessen HIV cases,” Dr. Ernie Vera, DOH regional director for Bicol, said.

Vera said Thailand had an HIV epidemic before, but the Philippines’ neighboring country addressed the problem through the implementation of a condom use promotion strategy.

DOH data showed that from last January to September, Bicol reported 229 cases of HIV, a virus that infects cells of the immune system, making the patient vulnerable to infections, a condition called acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS). The virus can be detected 11 days after a person had a contact with a person with HIV.

Vera said condoms are free at rural health units. He appealed to local government units to enact an ordinance that supports the condom use program under RA 8504 or the Philippine HIV/AIDS Prevention and Control Act.

Condom use is intended not only for family planning, but also for disease prevention, he said. “Sadly, there is a low utilization of condom in the Philippines.”

Vera said DOH-5’s ABCDE campaign will give emphasis to condom distribution and use to reverse this underutilization. ABCDE stands for Abstinence; Be Mutually Faithful; Consistent use of Condom; Do not Abuse Alcohol or share needle; and Education—the safe sex practices espoused by DOH.

DOH statitics also reveal that the Philippines has 32 new HIV infections each day. The mounting number of new infections has been acute among men who have sex with men.

“Right now, DOH Bicol is engaging the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender community to become part of the advocacy to prevent HIV,” Vera said.

Through several conventions, DOH welcomed the LGBT as its partners and advocates who could encourage their peers to undergo HIV tests, he added.

Mayon Volcano displays restiveness anew

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Mount Mayon in Albay spewed ash twice on Thursday morning, signifying that the volcano remains unstable, a Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) report said.

The blasts, which were of phreatic kind, were recorded at 8:17 a.m. followed by 8:25 a.m. Thursday.

Renato Solidum, Phivolcs director, said the explosions were triggered by a steam pressure that developed underneath the volcano’s vent.

He explained that when steam mixes with lava, it produces pressure that results in a phreatic eruption.

Solidum also noted Phivolcs instrument observed significant bulging around the mid-section of the volcano’s edifice.

He said, however, that the phreatic episode does not warrant the raising of Mayon’s alert status, thus, Alert Level 2 remains hoisted.

Solidum reiterated Phivolcs’ warning to the public to keep out of the six-kilometer Permanent Danger Zone.

Duterte to visit Batocabe’s wake

By Azer Parrocha (PNA)

MANILA -- President Rodrigo R. Duterte is expected to visit the wake of Ako Bicol Rep. Rodel Batocabe in Daraga, Albay, Malacañang said on Wednesday.

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made this confirmation in a text message to reporters, saying the President will be visiting Batocabe’s wake at 3 p.m.

“In my schedule, yes at 3:30 p.m. but that is always subject to change, but more likely than not, it's a go,” Panelo said.

Batocabe was shot by a still unidentified suspect around 3 p.m. on Dec. 22 while attending a gift-giving event for senior citizens and persons with disabilities in Barangay Burgos in Daraga, Albay.

Batocabe was supposed to run for mayor of Daraga in next year’s mid-term elections.

Earlier, Palace assured that authorities are investigating Batocabe’s murder and vowed to bring the perpetrators to justice.

The Philippine National Police has already created special investigation task group to probe the incident.

Army's 9ID in Bicol has new commander

  • Source: www.pna.gov.ph/articles/1057146
  • Tuesday, December 25, 2018
By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Maj. Gen. Fernando Trinidad on Wednesday took over the reign of the Philippine Army's 9th Infantry Division (9ID), replacing Maj. Gen. Jesus Mananquil, who is retiring this month.

Capt. Joash Pramis, 9ID public affairs chief, said Thursday that Lt. Gen. Macairog Alberto, Army commanding general, officiated the formal turnover rites at the 9ID headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur.

Trinidad, before his new command assignment, was the Army’s Deputy Chief of Staff for Intelligence and considered as among the top military intelligence strategists.

Pramis, in a phone interview, said Trinidad is a member of the Philippine Military Academy Batch 1986, and his tour of duty includes being chief of the Army Civil-Military Office (CMO), commander of the 31st Army Battalion in Sipocot, Camarines Norte, and 903rd Army Brigade commander in Castilla, Sorsogon.

Trinidad said he would further intensify the government's campaign against insurgency and closely coordinate with various stakeholders in Bicol.

The 9ID with headquarters in Pili, Camarines Sur, has under its command three brigades operating in the provines of Albay, Camarines Norte, and Sorsogon.

Albay forum takes stock of benefits of SSS membership: ’Sulit!'

By Sally Atento-Altea (PIA5/Albay)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA) – For a monthly contribution of only P110, a Social Security System (SSS) member can get at least P20,000 lump sum cash benefit. On top of it, SSS pensions do not end with just one generation but often continue to their spouse and children.

“This is the concept of “sulit” that we want to emphasize in our membership campaigns,” Antonio Casimiro, acting branch manager of SSS in Legazpi, told participants in the Sulit Provincial Forum jointly organized by the branch and the Philippine Information Agency in Albay.

“Every peso contributed to SSS by members is made “sulit” by the over ten-fold worth of benefits that they get in return,” Casimiro said.

“We want our members to feel a deeper appreciation for the value of SSS membership. We need to show them the extensive impact of SSS membership and benefit programs on their lives and their beneficiaries,” he said.

He cited the long term benefits of the state-run pension fund such as pensions in which for 120 months or ten years of contributions, members and beneficiaries are guaranteed financial safety net for the rest of their lives.

The pension fund’s short-term benefits can provide subsidy for expenses in times of sickness, childbirth, or funerals.

Furthermore, as compared with standard private insurance, SSS membership has wider contingency coverage, lifetime coverage even in case of lapsation or failure to continue the contribution and with guaranteed fund reserve from the government.

“In SSS, there’s forever,” said Joyce M. Cabais, administrative section head of SSS in Tabaco City, who discussed one of the topics during the event.

She cited the funeral grant that can be availed of by members who have paid at least one-month contribution.

“A (SSS) member who has paid at least one monthly contribution can get up to 291 times in return for his death benefits and funeral grant. Members with at least one-time payment of the minimum P110 contribution can be qualified to avail themselves of up to P32,000 cash assistance,”

SSS members can pay contribution from P110 to P1, 760 depending on the declared range of compensation or monthly salary credit.

SSS contribution rate is pegged at 11 percent of the monthly salary credit ranging from P1,000 to P16,000. For employed members, 7.37 percent is shouldered by the employers and 3.63 percent, by the employee.

Self-employed, voluntary and OFW members shall pay at the total 11 percent depending on the declared salary credit. SSS contribution ranges from P 110 to P1,760.

Casimiro also called for public support to the passage of the SSS reform bill to address the pension inequity between SSS and GSIS and to give power to the SSS to adjust benefits and contributions based on actual studies.

Such steps would provide members with better financial standing upon retirement, he said.

“This is the direction that we would like SSS to go – to provide a comfortable retirement for private sector workers in the future. But we can only attain that if members save more with SSS – now, at the present,” he said.

Bicolano cage player gets drafted into PBA

(Bicol Standard)

LEGAZPI CITY (Bicol Standard) – A Bicolano is among those who got drafted into the Philippine Basketball Association earlier this week.

Jorey Napoles of Daraga, Albay, is also the first player from the Technological Institute of the Philippines to get drafted into the PBA.

He will play for Phoenix Fuel Masters, the PBA confirmed.

Called a “surprise pick”by local sports analysts, Napoles is said to be unlike the players from the UAAP and NCCA who are used to getting national attention.

Napoles is noted for his rebound and defense.

The other picks, meanwhile, include:

CJ Perez (Columbian Dyip)
Bobby Ray Parks (Blackwater Elite)
Robert Bolick Jr. (NorthPort Batang Pier)
Paul Desiderio (NLEX Road Warriors)
Trevis Jackson (Meralco Bolts)
Jayvee Mocon (Rain or Shine Elasto Painters)
Abu Tratter (NLEX Road Warriors)
Jayjay Alejandro (Rain or Shine Elasto Painters)
Jesper Ayaay (Alaska Aces)
Michael Calisaan (Magnolia Hotshots)
JP Calvo (Columbian Dyip)

Senate may hold parallel 'parking pork' probe

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY – Senator Cynthia Villar said on Monday the Senate could also hold a parallel probe on the “parking pork” scam issue, which involved billions of alleged funds insertion in the proposed 2019 budget.

Villar stressed, however, that the Senate would not want to preempt the outcome of the investigation being initiated by the Lower House. “We still don’t know and we are not part in the investigation so the Senate will have to wait for the House probe result,” she said.

The Senate probe could come later, Villar noted. “Let the House investigate on this, on how huge amount of funds were inserted allegedly by the Department of Budget and Management (DBM).”

She said on the cue of Senator Panfilo Lacson, the Senate could conduct a similar investigation as soon as it receives the result of the investigation by the Lower House.

A probe by the upper chamber may be possibly set in January, Villar added.

The senator was guest during the Awarding Ceremony for the Outstanding Communal Vegetable Garden and Cleanest and Greenest Municipality at the Albay Astrodome here.

She said in an ambush interview, “We don’t want to comment about this issue, we leave this to the House of Congress for them to dig out how this practice happened and who is involved.”

Lacson recently exposed the “parking pork” to media, a new kickback scheme by lawmakers, where big amounts of funds are "parked" in a legislative district by well-connected congressmen.

He said the Senate, once it holds a probe, would scrutinize the budget of the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) and ask officials to explain the alleged questionable budget insertions.

Albay town plans to build life-sized statue for Catriona Gray

By Rey Anthony Ostria (Correspondent) With reports from Mar S. Arguelles and Michael Jaucian (Inquirer Southern Luzon /ac)

OAS, Albay – In recognition and appreciation for bagging the country’s fourth crown in the Miss Universe pageant, the local government of Catriona Elisa Magnayon Gray’s hometown Oas is planning to erect a life-sized statue of her in their People’s Park.

Gray, whose mother Normita Ragas Magnayon hails from this town, was announced the 67th Miss Universe, besting 93 other contestants Monday at the IMPACT Arena, Bangkok, Thailand.

On Monday, Albay residents’ eyes were glued to their television sets in all-out support for Gray as she made her way through the catwalk with her iconic “lava walk” and slow-mo twirl.

Local government units, particularly in Oas, has set up viewing centers with big screens in their respective multi-purpose halls and basketball covered courts to allow hundreds of residents to view the international beauty tilt.

At around 11 a.m., when Miss Universe host Steve Harvey announced Miss Philippines as this year’s Miss Universe, shouts of joy and applause suddenly reverberated in every home, restaurant, school and public places in Albay.

Mayor Domingo Escoto Jr. told Inquirer that they want the statue to let the future generations know that “here, we had a Miss Universe,” who represented Oas and the country.

Escoto said that if the plan materializes, the statue will be the same size as Gray.

“This is just a plan. We will still ask for consent and we will consult (people) if this can be done,” Escoto said.

Escoto said that they would also consult the people of Oas regarding the project and that they would prefer a local Bicol artist to design the statue.

“This is one of the ways we are thinking of honoring Ms. Gray for the honor that she brought to us,” he said.

Escoto said that they see nothing preventing them from building a statue for her.

Lava gown

Multi-awarded author Abdon Balde, Jr., also an Oas native, also supported the plan to erect a statue for Gray, suggesting that the sculptor should incorporate the lava-inspired gown that Gray wore during the pageant’s evening gown competition.

“They could commission a good sculptor to do an image of [Gray] with the now famous lava flow gown [while] holding the Miss Universe trophy and make it a cultural icon. They could choose a good public place to set it up, maybe inside the newly renovated garden park,” he said.

“Truly an Albayana, she was the most prepared candidate ever – if you prepare to fight calamities, the more you are prepared for victory,” Albay Representative Joey Salceda who hails from the neighboring town of Polangui, said in a statement after Gray was crowned.

Salceda said Gray is as regal as Mayon Volcano is majestic.

“She is beautiful, truly Daragang Magayon (beautiful lady),” he said.

He said the entire province is happy and proud of her achievement as proud she is of her roots.

“I worked with Catriona in her previous quests and she was excited about her role as tourism champion for Albay,” he added.

Hero’s welcome

Escoto also said that they understand that Gray’s schedule would be busy from now on.

But he said that if “people can help us invite her for a homecoming,” they will give her a hero’s welcome and a motorcade around Albay, and if possible, up to Camarines Sur province.

Escoto, who said he also watches beauty pageants, praised Gray’s Miss Universe stint.

“Her lava walk, no one else can do that except her. In my personal assessment, I think only she can do that, especially the slow-motion walk. Even her answer. It was as if the Miss Universe crown was really destined for her,” Escoto said.

Ragas family

Some of the Ragases, Gray’s family from her mother’s side, were present at the live viewing in this town’s tennis court, just in front of the municipal hall, for those who could not watch from their own houses or those who wanted to watch with their fellow Oas residents.

Salve Ragay-Dineros, Gray’s grand aunt, said that they were ecstatic about her win. Dineros also said that they are happy about the plan of erecting a statue of Gray in Oas.

“We have been in contact with her mother before they went to Thailand.

They were ecstatic about it. You know how hard it is win if you are one of the 94, but she answered [the question] coming from the heart.

She was just natural. She was very good in answering. Throw any question at her, her answers are really well thought of,” Elmer Ragas, Gray’s grand uncle who is based in Legazpi City.

First tourism e-Kiosk launched in Legazpi City

By Emmanuel Solis (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- The city government here has put up an electronic information machine for use of foreign and local visitors who may want to know about the different tourism attractions and activities in the city, Mayor Noel E. Rosal said in an interview on Thursday.

Rosal and Benjamin Santiago, director of the Department of Tourism (DOT) Bicol regional office, led the launching of the tourism information electronic kiosk or e-Kiosk last December 17 at the lobby of the city hall building.

Rosal said Legazpi City is the first locality in the entire Bicol to put up an electronic information machine that would be helpful to tourists vacationing here.

He said the city government will also put an e-Kiosk at the airport and at the city’s grand transport terminal for use by those who need to know about hotels, transportation rates, boarding houses, as well as ordinances and resolutions and other tourism-related activities.

The mayor said his administration will also put additional e-Kiosk machines in different malls and other establishments operating in this city.

Based on record from the city tourism office, the tourist arrivals recorded in 2016 was at 1,199,291, which increased to 1,275,710 in 2017.

Rosal said the steady increase in tourists’ arrivals in this city the past few years was the result of the promotion and holding of different tourism activities that include the yearly Ibalong Festival and sporting events such as the Mayon Triathlon and Le Tour de Filipinas.

Aside from these, he said conventions, seminars and other similar gatherings were conducted in the city, the main factor for the declaration by the Department of Tourism (DOT) of Legazpi City as among the top five Meetings, Incentives, Conferences and Exhibitions (MICE) venues in the country.

In 2017, the city tourism office recorded 140 MICE conducted here. As of November 20 this year, Legazpi had already recorded 213 MICE.

Santiago, on the other hand, said the e-Kiosk is the cheapest and fastest way of promoting the tourism industry of Legazpi.

He commended Rosal for the innovations done by the city administration that would surely help tourists and visitors have a more enjoyable vacation in Legazpi.

Solon describes Gray as ‘regal’ as ‘majestic’ Mayon

By Filane Mikee Cervantes (PNA)

MANILA -- Lawmakers at the House of Representatives on Monday hailed Catriona Gray for winning the country's fourth Miss Universe crown during the coronation night in Bangkok, Thailand.

Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said Gray's beauty is the embodiment of "Daragang Magayon", the beautiful maiden in the legend of Mt. Mayon.

Salceda described Gray, who wore a fiery red dress, as "regal" as the "majestic" Mayon.

"Truly an Albayana, she was the most prepared candidate ever -- if you prepare to fight calamities, the more you are prepared for victory," Salceda said.

"The entire Albay is happy and proud of her achievement as proud she is of her roots. I worked with Catriona in her previous quests and she was excited about her role as tourism champion for Albay," he added.

Surigao del Norte Rep. Ace Barbers said Gray's victory is an inspiration to all Filipinos amid the challenging times.

"Her sacrifices and triumph inspire Filipinos to continue fighting on amidst the challenges and difficulties. Her victory is our victory. This is such an amazing Christmas gift to the country,” Barbers said.

“Gray embodies the Filipino spirit of resiliency and determination and is indeed an inspiration to the youth and the millions of Filipinos,” he added.

Bataan Rep. Geraldine Roman said the new Miss Universe would make a great ambassador for “peace, love, and compassion” in the international community.

“Congratulations to Ms. Philippines, now new Miss Universe Catriona Gray who has brought immense pride and honor to the Filipinos all over the world not only with her beauty but also with her intelligence, integrity, and her heart for the poor,” Roman said.

Bagong Henerasyon party-list Rep. Bernadette Herrera-Dy, chair of the House committee on women and gender equality, lauded Gray for advocating the rights and welfare of children.

“Nadagdagan tayo ng matibay, maganda, at maimpluwensiyang kapanalig sa mga karapatan at kapakanan ng mga kabataan ng bagong henerasyon (We have another strong, beautiful and influential ally [to advocate] for children’s rights and welfare in the new generation),” Herrera-Dy said.

1-Ang Edukasyon party-list Rep. Salvador Belaro said Gray represented each Filipino with “great honor, grace, brains, and beauty”, noting that the new Miss Universe showed how the Filipino is the “best asset” of the Philippines.

Albayanos rejoice over provincemate's Miss Universe victory

By Mar Serrano

LEGAZPI CITY -- Ms. Philippines Catriona Gray's victory in the Ms. Universe beauty and brains pageant sent city and townsfolk of Albay into a frenzy, with loud squeals of joy reverberating in households all throughout the province.

Before Gray was proclaimed winner and crowned after the pageant's final round held in Bangkok, Thailand, traffic was noticeably smooth here on an otherwise usually busy Monday morning as Albayanos from all walks of life were glued to their television sets.

Nearly everyone closely watched as their provincemate trotted on stage, displaying her unique "lava walk" at the Miss Universe competition. The "lava walk" is a reference to the famous and majestic Mayon Volcano in Albay, where Gray traces her roots. Normita Ragas Magnayon, her mother, is from the province's Oas town.

As the competition was being held, “there was no traffic problem and only a few people were on the streets,” said Rolly Esguerra, Legazpi City Public Safety Office chief.

At around 11 a.m. when Miss Universe pageant host Steve Harvey announced Miss Philippines as this year's winner, euphoric shouts filled every home, restaurant, school, and public place.

In preparation for the competition, local government units in Albay set up viewing centers with big screens in their respective multi-purpose halls and basketball covered courts to allow hundreds of residents to watch the international beauty tilt.

Albay Representative Joey Salceda, who hails from the town of Polangui, in a statement said, “Truly an Albayana, she (Gray) was the most prepared candidate ever – if you prepare to fight calamities, the more you are prepared for victory.”

Salceda said this year's Ms. Universe crown holder is regal as Mayon is majestic. “She is beautiful, truly Daragang Magayon,” he said.

Salceda said the entire Albay is happy and proud of Gray's achievement. “I worked with Catriona in her previous quests and she was excited about her role as tourism champion for Albay,” the congressman added. (PNA)

Albay prepares grand homecoming for Miss Universe 2018 Catriona Gray

By Rhaydz B. Barcia (Rappler.com)

The province of Albay plans to roll out the red carpet to welcome Miss Universe Catriona Gray, whose mother is a native of Oas town

LEGAZPI CITY – The province of Albay is preparing a grand welcome for newly-crowned Miss Universe Catriona Gray, whose mother is a native of Oas town, Danny Garcia spokesman of the provincial government told Rappler.

"Governor Al Francis Bichara congratulates Catriona Gray from Oas for giving Albay and the Philippines the honor once again," Bichara said.

Garcia said the provincial government will invite Gray to return home during her reign.

Albay 2nd District Representative Joey Sarte Salceda, a staunch supporter of Gray since her previous Miss World competition, said that the Filipina was the most prepared candidate during the Miss Universe competition Monday, December 17.

"Truly an Albayana. She was the most prepared candidate ever. If you prepare to fight calamities, the more you are prepared for victory. She is regal as Mayon is majestic. She is beautiful, truly Daragang Magayon," Salceda told Rappler.

"The entire Albay is happy and proud of her achievement, as proud she is of her roots. I worked with Catriona in her previous quests and she was excited about her role as tourism champion for Albay," Salceda said.

Salceda is also preparing for grand homecoming welcome festivity for Bicolana beauty queen.

During Salceda's term as governor of Albay, he hosted a grand homecoming for Catriona when she landed top 5 during the Miss World 2016 competition.

Catriona is the third Bicolana who represented the country in the Miss Universe in recent history. Miriam Quiambao of Cagraray Island, Bacacay, Albay was first runnerup in 1999. Maria Venus Raj of Camarines Sur was 4th runner up in Miss Universe 2010.

Mayor Domingo Escoto, mayor of Oas town in Albay, said that the crowning of Catriona puts her tiny town in the world map.

In Albay, protecting the sea leads to bountiful tanigue

By Rhaydz Barcia (Rappler.com)

Catburawan villagers benefit from the public and private sectors' joint efforts to stop big-time illegal fishers in Burias Pass

ALBAY, Philippines – Due to efforts to protect the sea, local fishermen in Albay's west coast have been able to catch huge volumes of tanigue, an expensive and high-grade fish, in the waters of Catburawan village for over a year now.

"We are happy as our fishermen generating good income from fishing because of healthy corals and after concerted efforts have been done by the city government of Ligao, (Albay 3rd District) Representative Fernando Gonzalez, law enforcers, local officials, and the people for joining hands together to eradicate illegal fishing," said Catburawan village chieftain Jude Bellen.

Local fisherfolk and their families now benefit from the cooperation between the private and public sectors to weed out illegal fishers in Lagunoy Gulf in the Burias-Ticao Pass, which is rich with plankton, shrimp, krill, and jellyfish.

Gonzalez, an anti-illegal fishing advocate, said the tanigue catch is a big help to the people of Catburawan.

"With our strict anti-illegal fishing campaign initiated several years, this is now the spillover of our concerted efforts to bring back the healthy seas by eradicating big-time illegal fishers in Burias Pass," Gonzalez said.

The congressman and the city government of Ligao have established several fish sanctuaries in the west coast area to propagate marine resources.

Gonzalez also developed a 62-hectare mangrove plantation in Sitio Tambak in Cabarian, where some 400,000 mangrove propagules have been planted since 2008.

Legazpi City awards smoke-free compliant establishments

By Emmanuel Solis (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- The City Health Office (CHO) here has awarded 72 establishments, including barangays and schools, with trophies for winning the search for 100-percent smoke-free establishments in a ceremony held at the AVP function hall restaurant on Tuesday.

The Legazpi City’s smoke-free program started with the implementation of Ordinance No. 0007-2009 or the revised smoke-free law, authored by former councilor and now Board Member Roly Rosal.

The ordinance was enacted by the Sangguniang Panlungsod and approved by former Mayor Geraldine Rosal in 2009.

Mayor Noel E. Rosal, in his statement during the ceremony, said the implementation of the city’s smoke-free ordinance is a shared responsibility of the city health office, as the leading implementing office, and the religious organizations, non-government organizations, schools and universities, business sector, the academe, and the law enforcers.

"We are not banning the smoking in Legazpi, but we are only regulating it in this city," he said.

Rosal has encouraged all the awardees, particularly the business establishments with air-conditioning, to put up smoking areas as the place for the smokers.

He commended all the awardees and the members of the smoke-free enforcement team for their full support to the implementation of the city’s smoke-free program.

"We have already more billboards signages and videos in different public places, conveyances, and other crowded areas as part of promoting Legazpi as the smoke-free territory," Rosal said.

The awarding ceremony was divided into four categories: The Hall of Famer, Red, Pink, and White.

The Hall of Famers are those with a rating of 100 percent for three consecutive years, while the red category were those establishments with a rating of 100 percent for first and second years. The Pink were those establishments with a rating of 91-99 percent, and the White category is for those with ratings of 85-90-percent smoke-free.

The Hall of Famers were the Legazpi Adventist Elementary School, Alibar Food Land, and Kim’s Bowl Food Garden.

In the Red category are government offices Social Security System (SSS), Government Services Insurance System (GSIS), and Home Development Mutual Fund (Pag-Ibig)

In the barangay level were the villages of Rizal Street Ilawod and Dap-dap.

The awarded schools were the Legazpi Port Elementary School, Southern Luzon Technology, Mariners Polytechnic Colleges Foundation, Forbes Colleges Main Campus, Legazpi City Science High School, Albay Central School, Cat College, Gogon Elementary School, Legazpi Adventist School, and University of Santo Tomas Legazpi.

The Ago General Hospital was recognized as well.

Under the Restaurants category were the Layag Resto Grill, Family Kitchenette, Legazpi Restaurant, Fiesta Ballroom, Koron Native Cuisine, Chef Lee Café, and Legazpi Airport Buffet.

The feted hotels were the Vista Al Mayon, Emerald Hotel, Rex Hotel, and Legazpi Tourist Inn.

In the Pink category were government offices Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) regional office, Civil Service Commission (CSC) regional office, National Telecommunication Company (NTC), and Legazpi City Police Station main office.

In the Barangay level were the villages of Sagpon, Pigcale, Binanuahan East, and Capantawan.

In the School level was the Computer Communication Development Institute (CCDI).

In the Hotels were the Embarcadero de Legazpi and Tyche Boutique Hotel.

In the White category, government offices Population Commission (POPCOM), City Police Assistance Center # (CPAC) 3, and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) were awarded.

In the barangay level were the villages of Cabangan 20, Puro, Ilawod, Banadero, and Pinaric.

The schools were Bicol University (BU), Cabangan High School, St. Peter and Paul Early childhood Center, Saint Agnes Academy, AMA computer College, Ibalon Central School, Washington International School, Divine Word College of Legazpi High School Tanchuling College, Divine Word College Department, Bagumbayan Elementary School, and Forbes Colleges main campus.

The hospitals were the Tanchuling hospital, Legazpi City Hospital, and Albay Doctors Hospital.

In Restaurants were the Legazpi Four Seasons, Isihiaya de Legazpi, Bob Marlin Restaurant, Small Tallk and Sambalas Grill and Banquet Hall.

The hotels were the Legazpi Airport Hotel, Hotel Liatres, and Kimchi Hotel.

For three consecutive years from 2010 to 2013, the city government of Legazpi has been a recipient of the Red Orchid award and cited in the hall of fame by the Department of Health (DOH) for its effective implementation of its anti-cigarette smoking campaign.

SSS to trumpet new services, programs in Albay forum

By Sally Atento-Altea (PIA5/Albay)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA) – The Social Security System (SSS) has teamed up with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) to stage the “Sulit Multi-Sectoral Provincial Forum” in Albay on Friday, December 14.

In this forum, the SSS branch in Legazpi will provide fresh presentation on SSS benefits, programs and services.

“This activity aims to provide fresh presentation on how SSS benefits provide a great deal of help to members and their beneficiaries,” SSS Acting Branch Head Antonio A. Casimiro said.

Standing strong for 61 years, the SSS seeks to further strengthen its position in providing reliable social security protection for the Filipinos.

Pointers and tips on how to make “SSS Kontribusyon Sulit na Sulit” or maximize SSS contributions, benefits and programs will also be presented.

The forum will start at 7:30 a.m. at The Theater, Hotel St. Ellis, Legazpi City.

At least 150 persons, including members, prospective members, self-employed individuals, employers and program partners in Albay are expected to take part in the forum.

The SSS partners are composed of employers, government workers, media practitioners and representatives of barangays and other local government units. Members of cooperatives and associations such as transport and market will also be coming.

SSS President and Chief Executive Emmanuel Dooc will speak to welcome the participants and partners.

This forum is part of the “Kontribusyon Sulit na Sulit” partnership campaign of the SSS and PIA aimed at disseminating SSS programs and services and strengthening its partnership with stakeholders in the regional and provincial levels.

Legazpi villages, schools get Sandugo awards

By Emmanuel Solis (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Six villages and schools in this city have received awards and cash incentives for their active participation in the city’s blood-letting activities regularly conducted by the City Health Office.

Mayor Noel E. Rosal and City Health Officer Dr. Fulbert Gillego handed over a plaque of appreciation to each of the awardees during ceremonies held at the AVP Restaurant here on Tuesday.

Rosal urged all the barangay leaders and organizations to support the city’s blood services program and encourage the people in their respective areas to always participate in the continuous blood-letting activities of the CHO as part of promoting voluntary blood donation in order to maintain an adequate supply of safe blood for transfusion.

The synergy of all the stakeholders in working for the blood services program is a clear manifestation that the people of Legazpi are always united and dedicated to help patients in need, he noted.

Rosal said the bags of blood collected by the CHO have already been endorsed to the Department of Health (DOH)-Bicol for proper storage and preservation.

He commended the CHO as well as the village leaders, the Tau Gamma fraternity, Alpha Kappa Rho, Guardians, the Philippine National Police, the Philippine Army, schools and other stakeholders who have supported the blood-letting program of the city.

The three villages that received awards under the Big Barangay category were Cabangan West, Bitano and Gogon, while under the Small Barangays category, awarded were Padang, Maoyod and Dap-dap.

Under the Schools category, awarded were the Mariners Polytechnic College Foundation, University of Santo Tomas-Legazpi and the Ago Medical Education College, which all received a plaque of commendation from the city government.

First Bamboo Christmas village inaugurated in Albay

By Rhaydz B. Barcia

A 60-foot illuminated tree is the centerpiece of the bamboo Christmas Village in Ligao City

ALBAY, Philippines – A towering and shining 60-foot Christmas tree made of bamboo is the centerpiece of the Yuletide theme of the Bambusetum plantation which was opened at the Kawakawa Natural Park in Barangay Tubaran, Ligao City.

Some 108,400 bulbs of different colors illuminated the tree made of bamboo as it it stood beside a life-sized Belen.

Albay 3rd District Representative Fernando Gonzalez and Ligao City Mayor Patty Gonzalez Alsua inaugurated the Bamboo Christmas Village inside the 2.5-hectare Bambusetum.

Bamboo lamps and lanterns were also all over the Christmas village.

Alex Batoon, the designer of Bamboo Christmas village, said that construction of the bamboo village took two months. Aside from the Christmas tree, lanterns, and lamps, there is also a hanging bridge and other decorations.

Gonzalez said, the nightly fireworks atop the Kawakawa hills could be seen from nearby towns Oas, Polangui, Libon and parts of Guinobatan.

Aside from the Bambosetum, Ligao City also boasts of another grand Christmas display, with the Disney-themed Ligao City Park.

The Bambusetum plantation at Kawakawa Hill houses at least 15 species of bamboo. Gonzalez, however, said they were adding more in a bid to complete the collection of all 30 species of bamboo in the area.

He said that his office and the city government partnered with the Land Management Agroforestry and Upland Farming Technology Research Center (LAUFTeRC) to complete the collection species of bamboo here.

Under the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR), the LAUFTeRC office established the City Bambusetum and “Kawayang Tinik” plantation on October 9, 2014 here in partnership with the local government.

Mayor Alsua said the bamboo, considered by scientist as a “miracle plant,” is a natural deterrent against the ill effects of climate change.

Citing scientific studies, Alsua also said that bamboo - which releases more oxygen than trees - will also help stabilize riverbanks, regulate watersheds, and protect soil erosion. –

Legazpi bags regional Sandugo award

By Emmanuel Solis (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- The City Health Office (CHO) has been named by the Department of Health (DOH)-Bicol as the best implementer of the agency's blood services program in the entire region.

City Health Officer Dr. Fulbert Gillego, in an interview on Monday, relayed receiving the Regional Sandugo Award from DOH Officer-in-Charge (OIC) Director Ernie Vega last December 7 at the Legazpi City Convention Center.

The recognition was based on the blood-letting activities conducted by the CHO with the participation of barangays as well as fraternities and other stakeholders who donated blood as one way of promoting voluntary blood donation and to help ensure adequate supply of safe blood for transfusion.

The Sandugo award is part of the commitment of the city administration including all the barangay officials toward the successful implementation of DOH's National Voluntary Blood Services Program (NVBSP) that aims to ensure an adequate, sustainable supply of safe blood for blood transfusion purposes.

Gillego noted that his office collected 2,366 bags of blood from January to November 2017 which is higher than DOH's requirement of at least one percent of the total population. Legazpi's population is about 202,902, one percent of which is 2,029, he added.

Gillego thanked the donors as well as the academe, fraternities, barangay leaders, the youth and other stakeholders who supported the implementation of the blood-letting program of Legazpi.

Those patients who want to avail of safe blood should simply present to the CHO a letter from a doctor in order to know what type of blood they need, he said.

Meanwhile, on that same awarding ceremony, the DOH also chose Legazpi City as third placer for the regional Purple Ribbon award.

The Purple Ribbon is one of the most coveted recognitions being given to the national, regional, provincial as well as local government units including civil society organizations and individuals for their exemplary practices, accomplishments and innovations in response to the implementation of Reproductive Health Law and Family Planning Program and compasses all the services that should be given for women to be safe in their entire lifetime.

Gillego said the award is a clear manifestation of efficient and effective implementation of the city’s Family Planning Program as one way of educating all the mothers regarding proper birth spacing in order for them to give their children good health and quality education as part of reducing the rate of poverty incidence in the community.

He said he will continue to conduct a series of educational campaign, nutrition counseling, maternal health care and other related medical services to make sure both the health of mothers and babies are always in good condition.

Senior citizens in Albay gather for year-end general assembly

(Politiko Bicol)

Senior Citizens in Albay gathered at the Albay Astrodome for their year-end general assembly organized by the Capitol.

The Provincial Government through the Provincial Social Welfare Development Office spearheaded the assembly last December 8.

Present during the event were all the senior citizens and senior citizens elected barangay officials of Albay.

“A numerous performances was presented by the senior citizens including dance and singing numbers and role plays coming from the different municipalities,” said the provincial government.

Albay Governor Al Francis Bichara said the Capitol prioritizes the the senior citizens as he encouraged them to “never stop learning.”

The Governor said that they can spend their time at the farm school, Albay Farmer’s Bounty Village located in Cabangan, Camalig.

Bichara also bared his plans to buy an air-conditioned bus for the senior citizens to give them free trips.

Governor Bichara wished them a longer life as he assured that the Provincial Government will address their needs.

“The Provincial Government of Albay gave 18 units of desktop with printers to the LGU offices of senior citizens. An awarding of certificate of recognition to senior citizens elected barangay officials was also held,” said the province.

Albay Gov. Bichara leads 25th Provincial Christmas Jamborette

(Politiko Bicol)

Albay Governor Al Francis Bichara spearheaded the 25th Provincial Christmas Jamborette of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines Bicol Region Mayon (Albay) Council.

Thousands of scouts from different municipalities gathered at the Jamboree Campsite, Basag, Ligao City.

This year’s Provincial Christmas Jamborette carried the theme: “Commitment to Excellence”, Governor Bichara said he plans to develop the place to an even more functional permanent campsite and put up facilities such as swimming pools, multi-purpose buildings, concrete road, shower rooms and toilets for scouts and scouters to be convenient.

“We can even host a regional jamboree here. This place can be utilize by youths, teachers, barangay officials… this can also be a permanent evacuation center instead of evacuating in schools,” the Governor said.

Meanwhile, Ligao City Mayor, Patricia Gonzalez-Alsua said that the opening ceremony was a “momentous event” as “it teaches us the real essence of Christmas which is giving.”

According to the provincial government, the event ended with the ceremonial tree planting.

PNR South railway project to kick off next year: Salceda

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Albay Rep. Joey Salceda said he is optimistic that the Philippine National Railways (PNR) South Rail Project covering Manila to Matnog town in Sorsogon will be partially operational by 2022.

Salceda said the project update was issued by the Department of Transportation (DOTr) during a committee hearing on Tuesday. The DOTr also said the project would start by next year.

He said that once the project is completed, travel time from Manila to Sorsogon would only take six hours.

Salceda, in a statement, said a loan-signing agreement between the DOTr and China Export-Import Bank would take place this month.

He said the project cost was initially placed at PHP175 billion.

On Nov. 17 this year, the DOTr Project Management Consulting Service awarded the south railway project to the China Railway Design Corp. and Guangzhou Wanan Construction Supervision Corp. of the Republic of China.

The project would be under the Overseas Development Assistance (ODA), where the People Republic of China (PRC) would be tasked to pursue the PNR commuter and “long haul” rail project covering 639 kilometers of rail tracks from Manila to Sorsogon.

Salceda said the south railway system will start from Manila and pass through Batangas, Lucena, Naga, Legazpi, Sorsogon, and end at Matnog.

Under the agreement, the PRC would construct and develop the following: civil works, electro-mechanical system, rolling stock and consulting services while the government would take charge of land acquisition and resettlement of thousands of informal settlers affected by the project.

The DOTr reported that 85,000 families would be affected and have to be relocated once the project starts, Salceda said.

The DOTr is closely coordinating with the National Housing Authority (NHA) to look for relocation sites for the affected families.

Legazpi City eyes new service provider to address water woes

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- City Mayor Noel Rosal said on Thursday he will tap another water service provider to address the water demand of thousands of households and business establishments here.

The move is in response to many complaints from residents about the lack of sufficient water from current provider Phil Hydro, a company contracted by the Legazpi City Water District (LCWD).

Rosal, in a phone interview, said he is now firming up negotiations with at least three water service providers: Manila Waters, Prime Waters and Mactan Waters.

Complaints mounted against the LCWD and Phil Hydro for lack of water in upland villages especially during peak hours, prompting the city mayor to negotiate with other companies that could assure abundant supply of water.

A consumer group and business establishment also said that aside from low supply, water flowing from the faucets was at times murky and foul-smelling.

“We are ready to spend a billion just to get clean and sufficient water from other sources,” Rosal said. 

He noted that the Phil Hydro, which is owned by Maynilad, under the contract is supposed to supply 600,000 cubic meters of potable water monthly to the LCWD which in turn will deliver the same to 25,000 households in this city.

Phil Hydro was bought by Maynilad and is under contract with LCWD to operate a Bulk Water Supply Facility here.

Go bats for reforms in health, agriculture sectors

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Former Special Assistant to the President Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go has vowed to push for legislative reforms in health, agriculture, education, and housing sectors if he gets elected in next year's polls.

Go was the guest of honor at the launching of the Kusog Bicolandia where he was named as an honorary member last Sunday.

In his message, Go underscored the need for further improvement in the government's delivery of health services to the public.

He cited that his pet program, the "Malasakit Center", is one-stop-shop health hub now established in 17 regions across the country.

Go, in an ambush interview, also told the Philippine News Agency (PNA) that he would fully support the clamor for a bridge that would make Bicol a gateway to the Visayas and Mindanao regions.

The Kusog Bicolandia is a newly accredited regional political party that aims to promote the welfare of Bicolanos through development, empowerment, and good governance.

It was founded and chaired by Noel de Luna, who is into the construction business and public relations.

De Luna, in an interview, said the party has over 100,000 members spread over the six provinces of Bicol.

The Kusog Bicolandia chairman, at the party’s launching ceremony, endorsed Go for senator in the May 2019 elections.

DOT drafts crisis management strategy in Bicol

By Casandra Balala (PIA/Albay)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA)—The Department of Tourism in Bicol (DOT-5) is bracing the tourism industry for potential disruptions in the region.

The DOT-5 has crafted a crisis management strategy to cope with the disasters that might befall the region.

“Its purpose is to have contingency and resiliency in tourism industry. And having this idea can only happen if there is a management system,” Henry Teodoro Hernia, security and business continuity manager of FLOUR Philippines, told the Philippine Information Agency.

With the help of different local government units (LGUs), tour operators, and resort owners and managers, DOT-5 identified social disturbances, transport risks, and environmental hazards as probable disruptions in the region’s tourism industry.

“So, we are focusing on the region’s specific or on our tourism hub specifics so that solutions to these concerns should be address specifically,” Hernia said.

A group of tour guides and tour operators suggested that there should be strict regulations on the transportation services to be provided for the tourists such as accreditation of transport providers.

In terms of communication, it was proposed in the plan to allow every tour guide to have VHF radio aside from cellphones to ensure constant communication from their field. Tour guides should also have all the emergency contact information.

“We’ll never know when these crises or risks will strike, so we should have come up with the plan as soon as possible,” Hernia said.

In order to provide the medical needs of the tourists, tour guides will also be given first-aid kits and will undergo first-aid and basic life support training.

Hernia admitted that having a plan was not enough unless there was a good implementation and evaluation.

There should also be a matrix on the implementation subject for improvement, he added.

“We have to be proactive. Know what you have learned from previous accidents and what you should do to prevent upcoming incidents that might happen. Get rid of the negative and enhance the positive thing,” Hernia said.

The tourism crisis management plan is designed to be a cycle approach where everyone should participate for the development of the region specifically its tourism industry.

NGCP set for Albay transmission line upgrade

By Casandra Balala (PIA/Albay)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA)—In order to prevent power interruptions, the National Grid Corp. of the Philippines (NGCP) will construct the 18-kilometer single circuit 69 kilovolt (kV) lines in Albay province in 2019.

The Eastern Albay 69kV Project is one of the measures of NGCP to ensure enough distribution of energy especially when there is an increasing number of population and establishments in the province.

“We make sure that the energy we provided for the public is with quality,” said lawyer Cynthia P. Alabanza, NGCP assistant vice president and head of corporate communications and public affairs department. “This project is a way to prevent the congestion or traffic on energy supply.”

NGCP widens the transmission lines to provide the distribution utilities such as the Albay Power and Energy Corporation (APEC) enough energy they needed to supply the households and other establishments.

“Though we will enhance the energy supply to distribution utilities and cooperatives, APEC should also improve their system to prevent power interruptions,” Albanza said.

The construction is expected to start early next year once NGCP achieved its project promotions to different local government units (LGUs) of Albay and private sector to gain support for the project.

NGCP also advised the Albayanos that they will set a 15-meter prohibited zone for residents near the construction of transmission line towers to prevent any accidents.

Any property that will be affected by the construction of the line towers will be given payments based on the assessed materials used in the property and labor cost.

“We are expecting support from the public for this project since we really aim for the improvement of our services. NGCP seeks to support the progress in our economy by providing the public good quality energy supply,” Albanza said.

Advocates sport orange as message of hope vs violence against women

By Casandra Balala (PIA/Albay)

LEGAZPI CITY (PIA)—Women’s rights advocates wore orange shirts and gathered at the seaside boulevard here on November 26 in support of the global campaign to end violence against women.

“This year, we hold the campaign at Legazpi Boulevard because it offers stunning views of Mount Mayon, which is the main icon of Bicol Region,” Angela Jesalva, gender and development focal person of the Department of Tourism in Bicol (DOT-5), said during the kickoff ceremonies of the “Orange Your Icon” (OYI) campaign, which her office led .

“The campaign starts within us, but the advocacy should go beyond us,” said DOT-5 Regional Director Benjamin F. Santiago.

The launching was DOT’s contribution to the ongoing observance of 18-day Campaign to End Violence against Women (VAW) which runs from November 25 to December 12, 2018.

OYI aims to strengthen the anti-VAW advocacy by spreading awareness and promoting national and local tourism sites alongside the campaign of fostering VAW-free communities.

Through this, major landmarks or icons nationwide are colored orange—a bright and optimistic color representing hope that attracts public’s curiosity, thereby providing opportunities for VAW-free advocates.

Different sectors have also expressed their commitment to brace the advocacy of achieving VAW-free communities in the region.

On the side of women, it is a must that they know their rights and be knowledgeable of the existing laws protecting them against abuses and violence.

Meanwhile, it is also necessary from the perspective of a man to respect, protect, cherish, and love women.

Government agencies, local government units and the academe also gave their commitment to take part in addressing and preventing VAW cases by establishing a Committee on Decorum and Investigation (CODI).

CODI will be responsible in conducting meetings and activities to increase the understanding on VAW and will look into the alleged VAW cases.

On the other hand, the 2017 National Demographic and Health Survey of Philippine Statistics Authority states that one of four married women aged 15 to 49 have experienced spousal violence.

Bicol contributes 24 percent of the total number of spousal violence in the country in 2017.

Lani Mercado backs newly-organized LGBTQ in Bicol

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

LEGAZPI CITY -- Bacoor City Mayor Lani Mercado-Revilla on Saturday challenged members of the Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, and Queer (LGBTQ) to organize and make it as a forceful group in shaping society.

Mercado, in addressing members of the LGBTQ in Bicol, said she fully supported the group because of their “God-given” talents, creativity, and resourcefulness in the field of business, fashion, arts, movies, music, and culture.

Mercado cited famous personalities in the fashion, movie, and music industry such as Ricky Reyes, Fanny Serrano, and Vice Ganda .

She describes the specific sector of the society as “masarap at masaya (sweet and happy people), creative and hardworking”, saying “it’s about time that we give them support and developed their full potentials rather than discriminate, neglect them.”

She said that in addressing LGBTQ issues and concerns, she and his son Jolo Revilla have passed two significant local ordinances in protecting the rights of LGBTQ in Cavite.

The ordinances give members of the LGBTQ protection against discrimination, abuse, neglect as well as providing them with free and fast access to health and consultations services.

The first Bicol LGBTQ congress was organized by Kusog Bicolandia a regional political party in cooperation of the Philippine Press Institute(PPI) who ask to serve as facilitator.

The event was attended by over 300 LGBTQ members in the six provinces of Bicol.

Vice Ganda, a popular TV host in his live stream message told the participant “my heart is with you,” assuring all-out support for the newly organized group in Bicol.

As this developed Noel de Luna, chairman and founder of Kusog Bicolandia (KB). said he has organized the event to eliminate the social stigma being felt by members of the LGBTQ.

De Luna quoting social research studies said: “the LGBTQ has been tagged as the most discriminated and neglected sector of society.”

“LGBTQ’s are not bacteria, or a virus, that destroys a society or a community,” de Luna said.

He even cited a City Councilor in Bicol, who was strongly criticized for submitting a proposed ordinance recognizing and giving protection to members of the LGBTQ.

That local legislator was even called by his bashers as “Ding Ba siya,” he said.

Addressing the issues on discrimination and rights of LBGTQ, de Luna said he decided to organize a congress that would serve as a venue for addressing the challenges confronted by the LGBTQ.

De Luna claimed that an organized LGBTQ would be considered as a strong political block that would build a strong and dynamic group in creating a viable economic agenda for the region.

Legazpi Mayor Noel Rosal said there are clamors to create a law that would grant protection to LGBTQs, he cited that in other countries, LGBTQs are recognized.

“This is the right time to come out in the open to ask for equal rights and opportunities given to all,” Rosal said.

Other resource topics taken up were: “Know Your Rights Under the Law,” by Kate Aventajado of the Department of Justice.

Maricel Banzuela of the Department of Health (DOH) spoke on Know Your Health Benefits, while Maria Elena Catajan, Senior Reported and Desk Editor of Sun Star Baguio talked on “Portrayal of LGBTQ in Media.”

Outreach program benefits thousands of Albay townsfolk

By Mar Serrano (PNA)

CAMALIG, Albay -- Thousands of residents of this town benefited from a two-day outreach program by a humanitarian group led by popular singer Gary Valenciano, who traces his roots in this town.

Valenciano, together with the Shining Light Foundation (SLF), partnered with Operation Blessing Foundation Philippines (OBFP) and conducted on Wednesday and Thursday an outreach mission where medical, dental and optical services were given to some 500 villagers for free.

Also held were wheelchair donation, a school feeding program, school supplies distribution, and Superbook film showing at the Camalig North Central School here.

OBFP provided the free medical, dental and optical consultations to villagers. Meanwhile, at least 34 wheelchairs were donated to as many persons with disabilities (PWDs).

"This town has a special place in His heart – the Lord loves Bicol,” Valenciano said.

While the outreach program was taking place, the dancer-singer mingled with villagers and school children at the Camalig North Central School, according to John Tan, chief operations officer of Christian Broadcasting Network (CBN Asia), producer of The 700 Club TV program.

Valenciano also gave a mini-concert at the school's covered court where he entertained hundreds of pupils by singing at least five songs from his new album, “Awit at Laro”.

Valenciano will also hold a concert at 6 p.m. Friday at a mall in the Legazpi City business district.

Tan added while conducting the medical mission, another group distributed school supplies to 700 elementary pupils’ courtesy of the Shining Light Foundation.

The school feeding program, on the other hand, benefited some 900 pupils.

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