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A Piece of WIT
Marisse tria san felipe
JUAN
I chose to live my life unafraid even during times I was afraid. I discovered that opportunities dont find you, you find your opportunities. Words from a great man who sold peanuts at his young age, who lost his father at 13 years old. Being the eldest in 5 siblings, he supported his mother by selling candles and soap other than peanuts using his bicycle. Taking his goods to neighboring places of Cebu, his daily income was twenty pesos. It was in 1940 to mean that twenty pesos is roughly equivalent today to two thousand pesos. This person with an independent spirit would not wallow in misery after the death of his father. He would wake up as early as 5 oclock in the morning, pedaled his bike towards Mandaue and Liloan to sell his products. In his early teens his goal was to survive, while other kids his age just wanted to play. But he said it was a story he loves to share. That peddling soap and candles was one of the best ages of his life. The bicycle era was the year when they had nothing; lost a father, a movie house and a house. After almost 74 years this man nowis one of the top tycoons in the Philippines. John L. Gokongwei, owner of Cebu Pacific, Robinson Galleria, Universal Robina Corporation, Jack & Jill, C2 product and other leading companies today. C2 beverage alone have marked up in the Phil market to 3 or 4 billion sales per year. He is the 1st Chinese-Filipino taipan who have the same rags-to-riches story with Henry Sy and Lucio Tan. Gokongweis life is a beautiful story to explore and to learn from his healthy attitude; an inspiration to us Filipinos especially to our youth. An eye view on Johns life, I realized, some of the top secrets that shaped his entrepreneur leadership: 1st is the Confusian values on filial piety. This is the respect and gratitude to parents and elders. That I also learned when I happened to work in a chinese country 10 years ago. Confusian values also includes perseverance, humility and hardwork. 2nd is, the personality traits has more to do with his business success. Like other chinese tycoons in the country, they inherit genes of interpreneurial spirit from their parents and ancestors. Kaya pag sinabi mong chinese, inborn yan na masipag sa business. I dont wonder kung bakit madaming Chinese na mayayaman sa Pinas. By blood really they are hardworking people. They wake up early in the morning. Pero pag pinoy..tanghali na tulog pa, pag gising lasing pa yan. Hehe! 3rd, John doesnt stop reading. He starts it before going to his office to continue until night when he gets home. It doesnt matter he is old, he reads history, science and all newspaper publications local and foreign. Who do we think from our Filipino youth today, would become one of the tycoons in our country to compete with Henry Sy, Lucio Tan and Gokongwei? Ang problema sa atin, napakadaming JUAN sa Pilipinas, na nag hihintay sa pagbagsak ng bayabas. Cant this juans one day become john to instill in themselves the healthy attitude and values of John Gokongwei? Its a wonderful experience knowing Johns life. Now a billionaire, Gokongwei at 87, he still use to look back to that boy who turned adversity to opportunity. A peddler who who traveled towns in Cebu selling soap and candles. Today he owns billions of businesses through many years of hard work. John, the peanut vendor who rode his bicycle towards SUCCESS.

Tours and Travel In Focus

Naga City being one of the most progressive city of the country is now emerging as a top tourists distinction. The City of Smiles for which it is popularly known for the present offers a very unique combination of natural attractions which can only be found in this southern most part of Luzon. This is aside from the fact that the city is more often than not known as a Pilgrim City in view of the thousand devotees flocking to the place during the Peafrancia Fiesta celebration every 3rd week of September each year. This fervent faith based experiences and enriching heritage and culture thrives in the hearts and minds of Nagueos who are proud of their Christian faith handed out to them by their forefathers. From the time it was a native settlement up to what it is now today a bustling city which is the center of education, trade and commerce in Bicol and with tourism playing an important role to make the place the envy of other cities nationwide, no one can question the fact that Naga City is recognized as a model in local governance. Even Asia Week cited Naga City as one of the Most Improved City in Asia. More than any other tourists site and distination in Bicol the strategic location of Naga City puts it at par if not better than any other place that cater to the taste of intrepid tourists. As a fast developing metropolis , Naga City provides an alluring history of heritage and culture it being one of the four cities considered as the oldest in the country. It is the center of more than 300 years old devotion to the Patroness of Bicolandia known far and wide as the Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia. This devotion to Ina was the very reason why Naga City was declared as a Pilgrim City by way of a Presidential Proclamation, the only city in the country accorded with such a name. it can be said that during the feast of Our Lady of Peafrancia every September of each year millions of devotees would come to Naga City paying tribute to our Ina. It is said that it is only by way of a soleman journey to Metro-Naga Marian churches can one experience, understand monument depicts on one of its sides the coming of the Spaniard while on the other side the Spaniards surrender to Bicol revolutionaries. 3. Plaza Quezon This is adjacent to Rizal Park. It was named in honor of the late President Manuel L. Quezon Parades, concerts and other public events are held in this plaza. 4. Peoples Mall-when this was constructed way back in 1970s this mall is a 3,500 sq. meter edifice with 3 floors housing 2000 stalls more or less. It is the largest single roof structure in Asia. Souvenir items and local products coming from other Bicol provinces could be bought in this mall at reasonable prices. It should be noted that this Peoples Mall was the original site of the first Naga. Cathedral but due to an earthquake in the 18th century the cathedral was transferred to its present site today. 5. Plaza Rizal-this was constructed in honor of our National Hero and Martyr Dr. Jose P. Rizal. The monument was designed by Carlos Nicoli, an Italian artist who also created the design for the Rizal monument at Luneta Park. 6. Archaeological Museum-this is found inside the Holy Rosary Minor Seminary where visitors could see for themselves pre-colonial artifacts like Chinese porcelain with burial jars as well as pre-historical metals as prehistoric metals and stone tools, jewelry and tooth fillings made of gold used by Pre-Hispanic Bicolanos. 7. Holy Rosary Minor Seminary-this was declared as a national landmark formerly known as the Casa de Clerigos. Erected in 1785 for the purpose of serving as a vocation house. 370 priests and four bishops have passed through the portals of this seminary. This was the alma mater of the first Filipino bishop Jorge Barlin and our famous national hero and propagandist, Jose Maria Panganiban. During the Japanese occupation this seminary
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dr. marilissa j. ampuan

President, Bicol Association of Tourism and Hospitality Educators (BATHE)

and celebrate the bond that connect our Lady of Peafrancia to each and every well-meaning pilgrim. Aside from the devotees that pay homage to our Ina every September of the year tourists had been visiting Naga City. They are treated with the warmth and hospitality for which Bicolanos are known throughout every nook and corner of the City of Smiles. Historical landmarks for tourists and visitors are must see places to understand the rich heritage and culture of Bicolanos. The following are regarded as highlights of the place religious and historical significance, to wit: 1. Plaza Quince Martires-this was built to honor Bicols 15 Martyrs, four of whom where tortured to death while the remaining eleven were imprisoned, exiled and executed at Bagumbayan now the Luneta Park barely five days after our National Hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal was executed in the same place. This monument to the fifteen Bicolano Martyrs was erected during the American period serving as a testament to Bicolanos love and bravery for their country. 2. Plaza de Nueva Caceres this was built in commemoration of the 62nd foundation anniversary of the City of Naga known before as Ciudad de Nueva Caceres. The unique tapestry of the

inner chess
by j. henry danican

a question of privilege . . .

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LEGAZPI CITY -- The National Food Authority (NFA) has assured the public that Bicol region has more than enough buffer stock of rice that can even last for four months in the wake of reported sudden increase of prices on rice varieties and scarcity of supply in the market. We have a total rice inventory of 650,952 bags to last for 120 days, NFA Bicol regional information officer Nelsie Alcantara said in an interview during Aramon Ta Daw (Let us Know) radio program of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) Bicol early this week. Alcantara also assured the public that there is no rice hoarding in the region as a result of NFAs regular meeting with the local rice traders to ensure that the retail price of rice in the normal level which is P27 per kilo and P33.50 to P36.50 for regular milled rice. According to the latest NFA inventory of stocks, the buffer stock is derived from 214, 440 actual bags of rice including the 670,026 bags of palay based on 65% milling recovery. Camarines Sur, considered as Bicols rice granary, has a total stock of 198, 811bags, Alcantara said. Albay follows with its 189,432 bags, Sorsogon with 103,309 bags, Masbate with 70,104, Camarines Norte with 49,453 and Catanduanes with 39,843 bags, NFA told the PIA. A buffer stock of 120,000 bags is also allocated in case of calamities, Alcantara said. These stocks are allocated to Camarines Norte and Sorsogon with 15,000 bags each, Catanduanes and Masbate with 12,000 bags each. Albay has the most stocks pegged at 66,000 bags which are composed of imported rice from Vietnam. There is no allocation for Camarines Sur since it is the highest rice producing province in the region, Alcantara added. In the latest NFA report, Bicols daily rice consumption requirement is 39,037 bags and the daily average sales regionwide is 5,412 bags. There are 2,350 NFAaccredited rice outlets scattered in the region, of which 314 are located in Albay, 157 in Camarines Norte, 429 in Camarines Sur, 742 in Catanduanes, 459 in Masbate and 249 in Sorsogon, the report says. Outlets are allowed to implement a maximum P2 per kilo increase based on regular price, Alcantara said. The report also stated that NFA has 23 warehouses in the region most of these are located in Camarines Sur with 9, Sorsogon with 5, Albay with 4, Camarines Norte and Catanduanes with

2 each and Masbate has 1 NFA warehouse.Our lone milling facility is located in

Camarines Sur but we are augmented by our contracted millers, Alcantara told the

PIA. NFA have 25 mechanical dryers in Bicol, again most of

which are located in Camarines Sur with 9, Albay and Sorsogon have 5 each, Cama-

rines Norte has 4 and Masbate has 2 mechanical dryers, the NFA report stated.

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Brief History of Our Lady of Peafrancia

The popular and intense devotion to this image is said to have started with a seminarian from the University of Sto. Tomas, named Miguel Robles de Covarrubias who, when he was invited by the 17th century Bishop of Nueva Caceres City, experienced and received many blessings and miracles from the Lady of Peafrancia. Covarrubias was ordained priest, he was assigned to Nueva Caceres and was appointed Vicar General of the Bishopric of Nueva Caceres. In gratitude maybe for his fortune with the Lady of Peafrancia and at the same time, since he was then an official of Diocesan Chancery of Nueva Caceres, Covarrubias promoted and propagated the devotion to our Lady of Peafrancia, himself becoming involved personally in the celebrations. His efforts and those priests after him paid off for the yearly traditional feastday of the Lady of Peafrancia which usually falls on the third Saturday and Sunday of September, galvanized the collective piety of the Bicolanos into one united annual celebration which was highlighted by a water or fluvial procession by various groups of able-bodied men and devotees around the circuitous streets of Naga City, and

History of the Divino Rostro (Holy Face)

OSA DELA VEGAS In the town of Osa de la Vega, Spain there lived once Gregorio de la Torre and Isabel Corral, a very religious couple who inherited from Father Juan Montilla, a picture of Jesus Face (Divino Rostro). To the amazement of many who bear witness of its veracity, the miraculous image of Our Lord began to sweat blood. Fast as a prairie fire, the news reached every corner of the town and in no time throng after throng of people fought hard to have a glance of the holy picture. The house became too small for a huge crowd, so the couple decided to request for its transfer to the church. There it easily stole the show, so to say becoming in a becoming in a short lapse of time the object of a very special devotion of the inhabitants. In the year 1834, 1855 and 1865 the cholera morbo broke in Spain. Many of its towns suffered from the rueful effects of the dreadful malady. Thru a special flux of Divine Providence, however, attributed only to a special devotion of the people to the Divino Rostro, Osa de la Vega did not witness of demise of even one of its inhabitants. From them, the already popular devotion to the Divino Rostro soared to its heights and Osa de la Vegas confidence in its power

then along the major route of Naga River, back to her shrine. The Bicolanos, lofty forebears of the Ivatans, were observed and recorded through the centuries of Spanish period to have become one of the most devoted and pious Filipinos among its numerous regions. The evangelization of the provinces seemed perfectly matched with the number of conversions to the Catholic fold, for statistics at the turn of the twentieth century showed the Bicolanos total profession of the Catholic Faith. In Catanduanes, the gem pure-province at the tip of the Bicol peninsula registered an almost 99% Catholic population as recent as the l980s. The seat of the Archdiocese of Caceres is located in Naga City, she is the initiator of significant religious festivities that evolved from the

simple devotional activity set by Fr. Covarrubias to a regional major religious fiesta. On 2010, the archdiocese celebrates the 300th year of devotion to Our Lady of Peafrancia as she continues to be the Queen and Mother of the Bicolanos. This is attested through the countless testimonies of people, devotees and ordinary churchgoers, of having been recipients of the miracles of Our Lady of Peafrancia which has greatly impressed the devotion upon the people year after year. The yearly Feast of feasts begins with a Traslacion, i.e. the transferring of the miraculous Images of the Virgin, Our Lady of Peafrancia and the Divine Rostro to the Metropolitan Cathedral of Naga City for a Novena of

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knew no bounds. OUR OWN, THE DIVINO ROSTRO IN THE BICOL REGION When Father Pedro de la Torre, recently named Provisor and Vicar General of the Diocese of Nueva Ceceres came to Naga, he brought with him to this place a picture of the Divino Rostro, a carbon copy of the one found in Osa de la Vega. The picture was exposed to the piety of the inhabitants of the town and after a lapse of years, it became very popular. In the year 1882 a cholera morbo broke out in Manila. A cure for the disease was not yet discovered so many died of the disease rapidly the dreadful disease reached Naga and according to Fr. Jose Ma. Lesa, who was then the Chaplain of the Shrine of the Virgin of Peafrancia many people died during the epidemic. The bishop, Msgr. Casimiro Her-

erra had the image of Our Lady of Peafrancia brought to the Cathedral imploring her natural and maternal protection and help for the townspeople from the dreadful disease. As if inspired by the impending danger, Fr. Pedro de la Torre remembered a similar catastrophe in Osa de la Vega and the miraculous intervention of the Divino Rostro. Fr. De la Torre made this miracle known to the people in Naga. A carbon copy of the Divino Rostro was brought to the Cathedral for special prayers and devotion, imploring for the same prayers and mercy that was long ago shown. For the first time the two images were together. However the epidemic continued taking more lives. Undaunted Bishop Casimiro Herrera with his priests then made a promise . . . should

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September 13 / Friday FEAST OF THE DIVINO ROSTRO 4:00 am: Penitential Procession of the Image of INA from Basilica to Penafrancia Parish Church Penitential Procession (Pilgrims from Parish of Our Lady of the Assumption, Canaman) 5:30 am: Pontifical Mass & Installation of new DIVOSTRA members: Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona 6:30 am: Community Mass 8:00 am: Pontifical Mass: Bishop Jose R. Rojas Novena Masses in Honor of Our Lady of Peafrancia Theme: Marys lowliness draws to herself the power ofGod 12:00 nn: Start of Traslacion Procession of Delegates from schools, institutions, and organizations 1 5 pm: Masses (Cathedral) and Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 2:00 pm: Community Mass at Plaza de Covarrubias: Fr. Gerard Timoner, O.P. 3:30 pm: TRASLACION PROCESSION 5:30 pm: Pontifical Mass (Quadricentennial Arch) Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona 7:00 pm: Community Mass (Cathedral) September 14 / Saturday DAY FOR THE YOUTH Theme: Mary is blessed by all generations as the humble servant of the Lord 3 7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English), Quadricentennial Arch, Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona Marian Youth Congress September 15 / Sunday DAY FOR THE RELIGIOUS & SEMINARIANS Theme: Mary praises a God who is concerned with the poor and raises up the lowly 3 7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 9:00 pm: Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) September 16 / Monday DAY FOR THE CHILDREN Theme: Mary proclaims a God who does not have a preference for the proud or rich 3 7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 8:00 pm Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) 10:00 pm: Perdon Procession along the major streets of Naga City September 17 / Tuesday DAY FOR EDUCATORS, TEACHERS AND MEDIA PRACTITIONERS Theme: Mary rejoices in a God who does not focus on the power of the mighty 6:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Diocese of Virac, Bishop Manolo de los Santos 8:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Diocese of Libmanan, Bishop Jose R. Rojas 9:00 am: Visit to Charitable Institutions (c/o I-Share) 3-7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 3:00 pm: Union of Bicol Clergy (Holy Rosary Minor Seminary) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 8:00 pm Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) 10:00 pm: Perdon Procession along the major streets of Naga City September 18 / Wednesday DAY FOR THE SICK, THE ELDERLY AND HEALTH WORKERS Theme: Mary centers herself in a God who focuses on mercy and compassion

6:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Cathedral, Diocese of Daet, Bishop Gilbert Garcera 9:00 am: Visit to Charitable Institutions (c/o I-Share) 3-7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 8:00 pm Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) 10:00 pm: Perdon Procession along the major streets of Naga City September 19 / Thursday DAY FOR THE POOR & PRISONERS Theme: Mary looks forward to Gods poor and lowly who hope for liberation and salvation 3:00 am: Penitential Procession of INA & Divino Rostro 6:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Diocese of Sorsogon, Bishop Arturo Bastes 9:00 am: Visit to Charitable Institutions (c/o I-Share) 3-6 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 6:00 pm: Union of Bikol Clergy Mass (Cathedral) Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona 7:30 pm: Confessions (Cathedral) 8:00 pm: Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) September 20 / Friday DAY FOR PRIESTS Theme: Mary is a Model of Unconditional Discipleship and Faithful Service 3:00 am: Penitential Procession of INA & Divino Rostro 6:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Diocese of Masbate, Bishop Jose Bantolo, 10:00 am: Pontifical Mass, Military Ordinariate 3-7 pm: Confessions (Minor Seminary Arches) 5:00 pm: Novena Mass (English) 8:00 pm: Marian Procession (Cathedral Grounds) 9:00 pm: Vigilia de Espigas, Adoracion Nocturna Filipina September 21 / Saturday DAY FOR GOVERNMENT LEADERS & WORKERS Theme: Mary looks forward to Gods justice and righteousness 3:00 am: Penitential Procession of INA & Divino Rostro 6:00 am: Pontifical Mass (Cathedral), Archdiocese of Caceres, Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona 10:00 am: Pontifical Mass (Cathedral), Diocese of Legazpi, Bishop Joel Baylon 12:000 nn: Ringing of Bells 4:00 pm: FLUVIAL PROCESSION 4-6 pm: Confessions (Basilica Grounds) 6:30 pm: Pontifical Mass (Basilica Grounds), Archbishop Rolando J. Tria Tirona September 22 / Sunday SOLEMNITY OF OUR LADY OF PEAFRANCIA Theme: Growing in Catholic Faith in Jesus Christ with Mary at the Service of Social Transformation 6:30 am: Pontifical Mass (Basilica) Bishop Lucilo Quiambao 8:00 am: Pontifical Mass (Basilica) Archdiocese of Caceres, Archbishop Rolando Tria Tirona 9:30 am: Pontifical Mass (Basilica) Bishop Jose Sorra 11:00 am: Pontifical Mass (Basilica) Archbishop Leonardo Legaspi 6:00 pm: Pontifical Mass (Basilica) Bishop Manolo de los SantosTheme: Growing in Catholic Faith in Jesus Christ with Mary at the Service of Social Transformation Taken from Peafrancia Basilica Minore facebook page

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By MARLON A. LOTERTE LEGAZPI CITY Bicol is more than just the worldrenowned Mayon Volcano in Albay, whale sharks in Sorsogon, and marine treasures of Masbate as the region has a lot more to offer tourists and visitors with several attractions and destination options in these sister provinces. One get to know more about them in the recent Philippine Travel Mart last September 6-8, this year at the SMX Convention Center in Mall of Asia with the staging of Almasor (Albay, Masbate and Sorsogon) showcase booth and the launch of a coffee table book featuring the bests of the three provinces in the fields of tourism and investment prospects Almasors tourism booth even notched the Peoples Choice Award for provincial category as it had drawn the most number of visitors, most voted and most photographed display booth during the threeday trade and tourism fair. Albay Gov. Joey Salceda, chair of the Bicol Regional Development Council, has initiated and pursued the branding Almasor for the Soul of the South as a new marketing strategy and packaging of the tourism industry and prospects for the three southernmost provinces of the region. With the Regional Development Council (RDC) of Bicol pursuing the Albay Masbate Sorsogon Tourism Alliance (AlMaSorTA), the tourism roadmap for the entire region is seen to achieve development not only in mainland provinces of Albay and Sorsogon but also in the island province of Masbate a more integrated and comprehensive promotion strategy to market the potentials of tourism industry eyeing some 650,000 foreign tourist arrivals in the area annually within five years. The RDC chair believed that the realignment of tourism activities in all provinces in the region will enable the Bicol peninsula to have a more coherent market positioning and promotion. On Sunday, Salceda along with Sorsogon and Masbate provincial officials launched the Almasor Soul of the South coffee table book, a glossy 102-page 11 x 8 publication showing colorful photographs of the sister provinces scenic, pristine and enchanting tourism destinations. Salceda said the alliance is more timely and appropriate, for indeed Albay, Masbate and Sorsogon are sister provinces as they once constituted together the original province of Albay during the Spanish colonial period. In his message, Salceda stated that tourists travelling

within these provinces would not notice their boundaries as the lands are seamlessly woven by contiguous roads and rivers. Common mountains and forests straddle towns and communities of these provinces. The same sea and ocean waves rush and caress their shores and beaches. The people are of the same ethnic origin and are bound by similar culture, traditions and similar beliefs,

he added. This book, according to the governor, is a compendium of the aesthetics found in the wilds and environs of Almasor as it gives an ecological foretaste far exceeding what any grouping of provinces in the Philippines and at par with the best the rest of the world has to offer. It gathers a unique experience that promotes culture attached to the environs and its beauty.

The book is a virtual tour of Almasor, depicting the foremost tourism wealth including Albays iconic Mayon Volcano and the Cagsawa Ruins; and Donsol, Sorsogons Butanding Interaction experience and the virgin beaches of Masbate. It also includes other attractions like ATV adventure along the lava walls of Mayon and the Lingyon Hill Natures Park; the countrys first mon-

ument to Andres Bonifacio in Santo Domingo; the boiling lakes in Manito town; the ten kilometers pinkish-white and crystal-clear waters of the San Isidro Beach in Masbate; the blue lagoon of Paguriran Island, and the Balading Beach in Magdalena, both in the province of Sorsogon. The coffee table book, Salceda said, showcases vast tourism wealth of the three provinces, presenting their

historical and cultural backgrounds and past alliances from way back to their precolonial times. The book also put into spotlight the luxury island hideaway Misibis Bay Resort in Bacacay, Albay. Almasor Soul of the South coffee table book has been commissioned by Albay as convenor of the Almasor tourism alliance of Luzons southernmost provinces.

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12 bikol reporter Roof of Peafrancia Shrine needs urgent repair

Parish priest appeals for donations
By Sonny Sales NAGA CITY A priest yesterday appealed for donors to help in the repair of the old Peafrancia Shrine, the oldest church in Camarines Sur. Peafrancia Shrine parish priest Rev. Andrew Recepcion said the church is now in urgent need of repairs with the original wooden beams of the church roof in a state of decay. Fr. Recepcion said some P20-million in funds will be needed to replace the beams and roofings of the Shrine to permanent steel structures. Built in 1750, the stone structure of the Shrine was spared from Japanese soldiers invasion and was not hit by bombs during World War II. The wooden structures of the church were partly repaired in the last century while wooden supports were installed to avoid a total collapse of the roofings. In recent years, fun-runs were held to raise funds for the repair of the Shrine, while pilgrims and devotees, particulary the Bicolanos abroad, have sent donations to the Peafrancia Parish.

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Fr. Recepcion The Peafrancia Shrine is considered a historical landmark in Bicolandia after Naga was declared a Pilgrim City by President Benigno S. Aquino. III. Thousands of pilgrims are expected to visit the Shrine this month of September for the annual Peafrancia religious festivity.

Naga lass places 4th in geodetic exams

A Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE)-Naga City Chapter member, Engr. Maricel Chua Macaraig, landed on the Top 10 of the Geodetic Engineer Licensure Examination given by the Professional Regulations Commission (PRC) wherein only 144 out of 384 examinees passed the said board exams this month. Garnering a rating of 85.00, Maricel a graduate of Ateneo de Naga University for her civil engineering course and of Naga College Foundation for her geodetic

P3.4 MILLION WORTH OF LEARNING

gbc/abearcilla/mmec

Close to a thousand young student-scholars from all over CamSur whose education is presently being subsidized by the Provincial Government under an expanded education assistance program of Governor Migz Villafuerte trooped to the Convention Center of the Provincial Capitol in Cadlan, Pili Tuesday, September 10 to witness the distribution by Governor Villafuerte of checks in the total amount of P3,407,415.05 to underwrite tuition and other school fees of scholars in various courses enrolled in 52 high schools, colleges, and universities.

engineering course earned the Top 4 spot on the Top 10 along with other top notch examinees from other schools like UP-Diliman, Feati University, Visayas State University-Baybay, Caraga State University-Butuan City, University of Saint

Louis-Tuguegarao, and John Paul II College. A diligent student, Maricel spent her elementary education at Colegio (now Universidad) de Sta. Isabel and her high school at University of Nueva Caceres, both in Naga City. She currently works for her fathers company, MCRG Engineering Services and Technical Consultancy as office administrator, thus, prob-

macaraig

ably gaining her a decided edge at the geodetic licensure examinations. Her proud parents are Engr. Asisclo Macaraig and the late Rosita Samosa Chua. She also has siblings who are likewise accomplished professionals: Atty. Allan Reiz C. Macaraig, Ms. Anna Liza C. Macaraig, and Mr. Michael Ace C. Macaraig, RN. -jorechIII/PICE

Sa ngaran kan samong pamilya, kami nakikisumaro sa ika-303 na anibersaryo kan kafiestahan ni Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia....

From:

Mr. & Mrs. JUAN sultan P. BADURIA MR. EDUARDO cong BADURIA
VIVA LA VIRGEN!!!

472-85-75

Viva La virgen!
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Sample castings :

MANUFACTURER OF METAL CASTINGS IN STAINLESS STEEL, BRASS, BRONZE AND ALUMINUM SUPPLIER OF METAL CASTING MATERIALS

Greetings from:

ALMA B. JOSEF
Manager

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by rOsaliTa b. ManlanGiT DAET, Camarines Norte The municipal government here and the Calata Corporation signed and entered into a memorandum of agreement (MOA) that provides for programs on livelihood assistance and scholarship of the children of farmers in this town. Mayor Tito Sarion and Calata Corporation chairman and chief executive officer Joseph Calata inked the MOA during the 2013 Daet Business Forum held here Saturday, Aug. 31. Sarion said that the forum was conducted to strengthen businesses in the town based on the theme Sustaining Inclusive Growth in Business Environment. Calata Corporation is one of the biggest distributor of feeds for animals in the country who started as a small business and now has stocks of P2B in the country. Sarion added the corporation, aside from the livelihood assistance and scholarships for the children of farmers, will also provide free seminars for budding entrepreneurs and businessmen of this town. He said that this programs and prospects for the town added on to the gov-

ernments efforts that made Daet the fourth among most competitive municipalities in the country named by the National Competitive Council (NCC). We all wished and continued to excel in the same endeavor. Bro. Michael Lobrin of the Go Negosyo and Philippine Center for Entrepreneurship Programs and Projects meanwhile said that we should not create more employees but rather create more businesses and should teach people to have an entrepreneurial

mind. He said that we need to be have a sipag, tiyaga at diskarte and trainings for our employees for the success of the business. He said that the triumph of a business also should be based on a lifestyle and good corporate social responsibility. Another business forum is set on September 13 for those would be investors for Daet which will be held at the Asian Institute of Management at Bienavidez, Makati City.

Unep hails Mr. and Ms. intrams 2013

Gorgeous UNEPians showcased their combined beauty and talents up stage during the recently concluded 2013 Search for Mr. and Ms. Intrams held at the University of Northeastern Philippines (UNEP) over the weekend. The event was one of the highlights of UNEP College Intramurals 2013 with the theme Empowering UNEPians Through Excellence in Sports Towards Holistic Development. The 4-day university event successfully wrapped up on Saturday. Receiving warm cheers from her colleagues at the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS) Department, Gillian M. Gumba, this years crowned 2013 Ms. Intrams, thanked all the people who supported her during the competition. She was joined on stage by the newly hailed Mr. Intrams, Kristoffer A. Cabaes, also from the College of Arts and Sciences (CAS). Occupying the remaining slots as runners up were Jay
(Turn to page 18)

ribboncutting: From left: Mall Manager Wesley Villanueva,sM Vp for Marketing communications Millie dizon, dTi director edna Tejada, congresswoman leni robredo and naga city councilor nene de asis during the launching of My city, My sM, My crafts campaign held recently at sM city naga. My city, My sM, My crafts is a celebration of traditional arts and modern philippine designs showcasing the best of the best crafts of every region where sM has malls. it is in partnership with dTi, ciTeM, philippine star and various lGUs. local manufacturers from albay, camarines norte, camarines sur and naga city had the opportunity to sell their crafts for free last august 31 to september 7. bicol products made of ingenuous materials were displayed inside a crafts house installed at the sM event center.

MY CITY, MY SM, MY CRAFT CAMPAIGN

We join the whole Bicolandia in the celebration of the Feast of

ina.

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

Greetings from:

ANTONIO GENIO CORTEZ and Family

sM naGa 472-1339
Tabouk, Al Jawf, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

september 15-21, 2013

bikol reporter

15

2nd batch of training on veggie production for soldiers held in Albay

CAMP SIMEON OLA, LEGAZPI CITY -- Sixty (60) policemen and women from the Regional Public Safety Battalion; city/municipal police stations; women and childrens protection desk; Regl Police Community Relations Division; and Police Provincial Offices of Albay, Cam. Norte, Catanduanes, Sorsogon and Masbate underwent a three-day training on Vegetable Production at Camp Simeon Ola here on September 10-12, 2013. Atty. Clarence Villanueva Guinto, Police Chief Superintendent and Acting Regional Director of Bicol Philippine National Police said the topics maybe new to the policemen but they will surely love it because growing and eating vegetables does not only make people fit and healthy, it also gives an added income. He added that in gardening there is greener life and glittering gold. He added that the Gulayan sa Kampo is one way of supporting the Agrikulturang Pilipino or Agri-Pinoy, which is the over-all strategic framework of the Department of Agriculture that guides the various services and programs of the DA from 2011-2016 and beyond. Topics discussed during the training proper include: Opportunities in Vegetable Production by Dr. Gloria Salazar, Vegetable Program Focal Person; Cultural Management of Vegetables by Susan Joven, Agriculturist II; Weed Management by Vincent Paz, Baao Municipal HVCDP Coordinator; Vegetable Seed Production by Joven; and Organic Fertilizer Production and Application by Paz. Aside from the seedlings, the DA also provided garden tools and production guides to the participants. During the training, the policemen and women were able establish their gardens planted with eggplant, tomatoes and pepper. Salazar said these crops are good as starter crops since they require very little inputs, they are very easy to grow and will bear fruits in less than three months. This is the second batch of training in the region under the DA-DND Agricultural Livelihood Program which was launched at Fort Magsaysay in Nueva Ecija on May 2, 2013 by Agriculture Secretary Proceso J. Alcala of DA and Defense Secretary Voltaire T. Gazmin. The first was held at Cam. Sur Police Provincial Office in Naga City on August 28-30, 2013 This five-year nationwide project of the DA and DND aims to turn idle lands in military camps into productive vegetable farms and a viable source of food. -Lovella P. Guarin

Naga . . .

Maritime Group. Department of Education, Department of Health, Department of Public Works and Highways,City Health Office, Bicol Medical Center, Naga City Hospital. Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Red Cross, Casureco II, Metro Naga Water District, and Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster sa Pilipinas-Camarines Sur Chapter The JOC is a testament to our advocacy to involve all the sectors in securing peace and order in the city. We thank all the groups, especially the Archdiocese of Caceres, headed by Archbishop Rolando Tria-Tirona, for actively cooperating in our efforts to celebrate the Peafrancia Festival in the most meaningful and orderly manner possible, said Mayor John G. Bongat.

16 bikol reporter
VIVA LA VIRGEN!

september 15-21, 2013

We join the pilgrims, guests and devotees in honoring the celebration of Our Lady of Peafrancia on its 303rd year of devotion.

Engr. FLORIDA P. NUEZ and Family

Ramaida Village, Concepcion Grande, Naga City An samuyang pakikisumaro sa kafiestahan ni Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia.

Bt

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

BESCOM TRADING
Timson aboy chua Manager

Dealer: All kinds of construction materials

Panganiban cor Misericordia Sts., Naga City

Welcome devotees, pilgrims and guests to the annual feast of Our Lady of Peafrancia.

VIVA LA VIRGEN!
From: Engr.

NESTOR L. ORASA and Family

Divina Pastora, Bato, Camarines Sur Mabuhay an Patrona kan Bicolandia! Fiesta Greetings from:

VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO! VIVA LA VIRGEN!

PARTIDO CONSTRUCTION & SUPPLY

Certificate-ISO-9001-2008-No. AJA-130709 engr. & Mrs. abner Ferrer & Family Matacla,Goa, CamSur
Padanayon asin ipadagos an pagtalubo kan debosyon ki INA NUESTRA SEORA DE PEAFRANCIA.

VIVA LA VIRGEN!
Hale ki:

Engr. JOY AGNES N. SABIO NACHOR asin PAMILYA

Sta. Justina West, Buhi, Camarines Sur

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & HIGHWAYS

QUaliTy assUrance UniT engr. edUardO s. Uy, chief & staff
Caraycayon, Tigaon, Camarines Sur

Fiesta greetings from:

Malugod po namin kayong inaanyayahan sa kapistahan ng Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia.

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

Mula sa:

DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS & HIGHWAYS

2nd Engineering District Ofce engr. simplicio Totoy Gonzales & staff

sabaton niato an mga bisita nin masiram na handa, magbakal nin malinig, tama sa kilo, may tatak abatwa, karne asin manok.

AMY & OKB MEAT SHOP

2nd level, naga city peoples Mall

VIVA LA VIRGEN!

september 15-21, 2013

bikol reporter

17

Mabuhay si INA Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia

VIVA LA VIRGEN!

FRANCIS C. CHAVEZ
Manager Naga City
Maogmang kapistahan kan Patrona kan Bicolandia

Chidren: Dann Anthony, Tony Jr., Maiden Joy, Anthony Louis Grandchild: Lourde Zane An samuyang pagpapaabot nin maogmang kapistahan ni Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia.

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO! Engr. & Mrs. ANTONIO C. MENDEZ Nee: Corazon N. Nieva

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

JONNA MARIE V. ARAA

Naga City Science High School, Batch 2003 VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO!

J-MARBELA CONSTRUCTION
Engr. Jerry Luz
Proprietor
Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City INA-Nuestra Seora de Peafrancia, an mamomoton na INA kan Kagurangnan tang

HESUKRISTO! VIVA LA VIRGEN!

Fiesta greetings:

Ms. GRACE B. DE LEON

Proprietor/Manager

Enrile Subdivision, Concepcion Grande, Naga City

Welcome guests, devotees and pilgrims to the annual fiesta of Our Lady of Peafrancia!

VIVA LA VIRGEN! VIVA EL DIVINO ROSTRO! From:

VICTOR BICHARA & SONS, INC. Bichara Cinema, Emily Arcade, Bichara Mall
VICTOR JUN BICHARA - General Manager
Naga City

18 bikol reporter

september 15-21, 2013

BFP execs, personnel train on news writing, media relations

NAGA CITY --- As part of its continuing advocacy to promote the effective use of communication, particularly in strengthening the capacity of other information and advocacy workers in the government, the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) provincial office here spearheaded the Communication Seminar Worskhop for officers and personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection (BP) in Camarines Sur. The seminar workshop pursued the role of the bureau in achieving the goal in the fields of disaster risk reduction and mitigation, emergency response and community preparedness in the context of the Philippine Development Plan 20112016 pursued by the present administration. Forty-five officers and personnel of the BFP Camarines Sur from two cities and 35 towns and of Camarines Sur took part on the one-day activity focused on learning the basic in news writing, public and media relations to communicate to the programs, projects and activities of the bureau to the public and get in return the laters support and cooperation in achieving the formers goals. PIA Camarines Sur manager Lizel Macatangay said that the deliberation and interfacing on public and media relationsproved to be e very helpful with the office section and the participants themselve are into dealing with the media sector and community. She added that the principles and technicques in basic news writing provided them added knowledge and skills in preparing documents, press statements or news articles, which are essentials in their information and advocasy campaigns. She also said that the activity helped the bureau pursued initiatives that will help achieve the Philippine Development Plan 2011-2016 in terms of sustainable development through disaster risk reduction and mitigation as well as community preparedness wherein men and women of tBFP are in the forefront. Macatangay said that proper and timely dissemination of news and pertinent informations are also in line with the promotion of good governance, particularly in being transparent with their programs and services. Economic Development Specialist II Gieya R. Esparraguerra of the National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) Bicol meanwhile presented the Philippine Development Plan (PDP) 2011-2016, reiterating among others, the government agencies role in achieving inclusive growth. Esparraguerra said that one of the best strategies is by making the government closer to the people and one way of attaining it is by communicating the government programs to the constituents. Esparraguerra also emphasized the BFPs role in preparing the community, particularly the most vunerable sectors, inclding the marginalized communities, elderly, pregnant women, persons with disabilities and the children in the face of adversities. These vulnerable sectors, who are least resilient to natural catastrophes, should be given utmost prioriteis in the wake of threats of disas(Turn to page 19)

MAAGANG PAMASKO

jorechiii-picenaga

A joint gift-giving activity initiated by the Philippine Institute of Civil Engineers (PICE)-Naga City Chapter led by its president, Engr. Andrew Opena and the Rotary Club of Naga headed by Dr. Diosdado Uy, president, was held September 9 at San Rafael Elementary School, Cararayan, Naga City where 150 Grade 1 pupils - including these 2 special children - were treated to school bags full of school supplies and personal hygiene kits. Also present and assisted in the distribution of gifts were PICE members Engr. Emeterio Boy Aman of Haciendas de Naga and Engr. Dennis Caramoan. The Rotarians gave away assorted school and reference books to the grateful recipients.

tours and travel. . .

served as a garrison and detention facility for Fil-Am soldiers and guerillas. 8. Naga Metropolitan Cathedral One of the grandest and biggest cathedral in South Luzon and is considered as the mother of all churches in Bicol. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of caceres. Its structure is of Roman Baroque architecture. This cathedral was erected with the use of Spanish Royal money, the reason why the Royal Seal is emblazoned above its door. 9. Basilica Minore-As the house of the original image of our Lady of Peafrancia this boasts of large stained glass windows depicting the highlights of the Bicolanos more than 300 years devotion to the patroness of Bicolandia. Its stained, glass window faade is considered as the largest nationwide. It is even larger than the North Rose window of he Cathedral of Notre Dame in Paris, France. 10. Peafrancia Shrine-during the Spanish Era this was made of nipa and local materials under the auspices and supervision of Fr. Miguel Robles de Covarrubias who first brought to Bicol the devotion to Our Lady of Peafrancia. This was the original home of Ina whose original image was stolen in 1981 but after more than a year was returned to the delight and joy of Bicolanos. Its present structure was completed in the year 1745 and is considered as the oldest existing structure left untouched by the ravages of the last World War. 11. Naga Metropolitan Cathedral This old structure is the largest in South Luzon and is referred to as the mother of all churches in Bicol. It is the seat of the Archdiocese of Caceres the structure of which is of Ramon-Baroque architecture. This was built and financed using Spanish Royal money and is the main reason why the Spanish Royal Seal is emblazoned above its door. Other places of interest awaits tourists and visitors who would come to the City of Naga popularly known for the present as the City of Smiles living up to the tourism campaign slogan that really Its more fun in the Philippines.

Supports Peafrancia Festival 2013

UNEP hails Mr. and Ms. Intrams 2013 . . .
Oliver (CBED) and Nikki Charmaine B. Alfelor (BSN)First runner up; John Rodolf Mortega (CAS) and Daphne Marie Catolico (CBED)- 2nd Runner up; Roberto Bagaporo Jr. (Maritime) and Ma. Angelica Lagatao (CBED) -3rd Runner up and Kevin Kier Colarina and Christianna Erica M. Capalos (CEA)4th Runner up. Comprising this years Board of jurors from the roster of beauty queens, ramp models and television personalities were Bb. Pilipinas 2013 Official Candidate Angel Villafuerte who served as the Chairman of the Board of Jurors, ABS CBN Issa Borromeo, Mutya ng Taal 2007 Crystal Alday , ABS CBNs Pinoy Big Brother Teen Edition 4 third Big Placer Roy Requejo, and 2013 Bench Jeans Revolution Model Dominic Paolo Llaga. Villafuerte is currently enjoying her stint as a freelance ramp, TV and print ad Model. She was also crowned Ms. Camarines Norte Tourism in 2007 and Ms. Rinconada in 2012. Aside from being a lady DJ of MOR 93.5 Naga, Borromeo also hosts ABS-CBNs Marhay na Aga Kapamilya. Alday, the 3rd female judge was also adjudged as 2007 Outstanding Model of Asia. Invited male judges Requejo was also a former member of STARMAGIC pool of talents. Requejo also appeared in several episodes of ABS CBNs Maalaala Mo Kaya while Llaga, aside from his modeling stint was also a former member of De La Salle University Basketball varsity, played for Filipino American Basketball League in California USA and a talent of 2013 ABS CBNs Kapamilya Summer Station ID. Meanwhile, the Criminology Department was adjudged as Over-all Champion for this years College

Intramurals; College of Business Education (CBED)- 2nd Runner up ; College of Education- 3rd Runner up; College of Engineering and Architecture, Travel/ Tourism/ Hotel and Restaurant Management- 4th Runner up and College of Arts and Sciences for the 1st, 2nd, 3rd,4th and 5th place respectively.

Republic of the Philippines LOCAL CIVIL REGISTRY OFFICE Province: Camarines Sur City/Municipality: Goa

NOTICE TO THE PUBLIC

CCE-0043-2013 R.A. 10172 In Compliance with the publication requirement and pursuant to OCRG Memorandum Circular No. 2013-1 Guidelines in the Implementation of the Administrative , Order No. 1 Series of 2012 (IRR on R.A. 10172), Notice is hereby served to the public that ADELA C. MADIS has filed with this office a Petition for correction of entry in sex from FEMALE to MALE in the certificate of live birth of ALOYSIUS CANO MADIS born at Goa, Camarines Sur and whose parents are MENARDO G. MADIS and ADELIA A. CANO. Any person adversely affected by said petition may file his written opposition with this office not later than September 21, 2013. (Sgd.) LINA B. GREJALVO Municipal Civil Registrar BIKOL REPORTER Published: September 8 and 15, 2013

Name of Deceased Date of Interment 1. PABLO V. BELENO SR. August 2, 2013 2. FIDEL A. YU August 4, 2013 3. ELFERIO O. ORENDAIN SR. August 5, 2013 4. ROMEO E. TUAZON August 4, 2013 5. PRIMO B. BELBES August 3, 2013 6. FLORA R. APARIL August 11, 2013 7. ANITA L. MANUBAY August 10, 2013 8. LAILA ELIZABETH ANGELINE August 9, 2013 B. HOLMAN 9. LUIS R. PORTILLO August 18, 2013 10. LISERIO M. DE JESUS August 19, 2013 11. CARLOS C. ABELARDO August 20, 2013 12. HENRY SL. RESURRECCION August 20, 2013 13. FERNANDO S. INOPIA August 20, 2013 14. WILHELM A. SAN ANDRES August 21, 2013

september 15-21, 2013

BFP execs, . . .
ters. The bureau should see to it that the highest standard of capability and preparedness against natural calamities and disasters are carried out. This can be mirrored in the increase of buildings and establishments that are compliant with the Fire Code, among others. PIA 5 officer in charge Aida Naz tackled basic news writing, focusing on preparing narrative reports, press statements and news releases, among others. Following assessment, some displayed skills as potential writers based on the result of the writeshop exercises. Public relations ffficer Eduardo Yu of the National Irrigation Administration (NIA) imparted tips on the effective media relations tools, including the dos and donts when dealing with them to get the message get through tem for the community YU also emphasized the importance of good media relations and the maintenance of media contact. It is very important that you keep a directory of your friends in the media, and ensuring that you keep the good ones by updating them with the latest information about your agency. In that way, you can be assured that your agency will get the mileage that it needs, Yu added. Fire Insp. Josephine Jeanette C. Barandon of the BFP Camarines Sur said that the knowledge and skills they acquired after the seminar workshop will serve as one of their tools in harnessing their communication skills. This, she said will also foster participation, ensure
This text is an excerpt of the Introduction that can be found in the booklet NOVENA to the VIRGIN OF PEAFRANCIA. The booklet is freely distributed during the processions.

bikol reporter

19

History of the Divino . . .

the dreadful disease spare Naga, the Divino Rostro will be pompously venerated with special festivities together with the Virgin of Peafrancia. There were many people who died on that day, while on the second day only two died. On the third day the dreadful disease disappeared. The people saw the hand of God in this miraculous saving of the town and made good their promise. When the image of Our Lady of Peafrancia was to be taken to the Cathedral from the shrine on September of that year (1883), the Divino Rostro was also carried along in the procession with the priests themselves carrying it on their shoulders. The people from all parts of the Bicol Region who came to attend the fiesta heard of the miracles of the Divino Rostro when they went back, they talked about it to their own folks. Thus unknowingly the devotion to the Divino Rostro became regional. To make it easier for the devotees to give vent it their special devotion to the Divino Rostro, Fr. Pedro de la Torre decided to donate it to the Sanctuario of Peafrancia. The Chaplain of the shrine Fr. Jose Ma. Lesa with the approval of Bishop Herrera accepted the replica of the Divino Rostro and placed it on the altar constructed at the gospel side, the very place where it was until recently. When the wings of the Peafrancia Church was finished it was transferred to the left wing. When the wooden frame of the miraculous image became so old and deteriorated Doa Fabiana Arejola Vda. De Reyes, the president of the Association of Peafrancia donated a silver frame ordered from the famous Zamora Bros. She also donated the andas on which it is placed during the procession. The Philippines Bicol Divino Rostro measures 61 cm. long and 47 cm wide. On the top of the silver frame is an art work depecting the instruments of the passion and sufferings of Our Lord, the crown of thorns, the nails, the lances and the cross. The Divine Face of Jesus is imprinted on the white veil of St. Veronica, the wounded bleeding, sorrowful face of Jesus looks at anyone who looks over Him with soul searching eyes. What could He be telling you and me? Under the initiative of Rev. Fr. Concordio Sarte, Auxillary Bishop of Caceres, then Rector of the Parish of Peafrancia Shrine started a perpetual novena in honor of the Divino Rostro, this novena takes place before or after the first mass of Friday at the shrine.

Brief History of Our Lady . . .

Prayers and Holy Masses. The Traslacion which begun in 1885, is considered to be a very important part of the celebration, not to say festive and colourful. The andas of the Lady is borne on the on the shoulders of her male devotees, called the voyadores, all along the route of the procession. In the afternoon of the 9th day of the Novena, a fluvial procession in the Naga River caps the feast. The image of Our Lady is returned to her sanctuary via the Naga River, on board a pagoda decorated with fresh flowers and colourful papers, accompanied by musicians, the religious, priests and seminarians, as the pagoda maneuvers, other bancas manned by boatmen and male devotees sail along with it until the landing site, where by tradition, the Archbishop of Nueva Caceres meets the Images and leads them to the Basilica Minore of Our Lady of Peafrancia for a solemn concelebrated Pontificial Mass. To the unexposed and than religious, the sight of the Pagoda, being escorted by hundreds of men and thousand more following its ascent while both sides of the Nagel River are filled with devotees waving their handkerchiefs and shouting Viva la Virgen!, may seem strange, and the veneration fever, seemingly too emotional, almost pagan. Nobody can explain the intensity of feelings for Our Lady of Peafrancia during the week of her feast day, except to accept, and accept obediently that it is pure love of the Blessed Virgin Mother, in the Image of Our Lady of Peafrancia which has made her devotees keep up their yearly panata, people like to believe with little explanation that certainly, a devotee returns because almost always, Our Lady returns the favour of the petitioner. Today, the Peafrancia Basilica and National Shrine at Balatas, Naga City, is the Home and permanent residence of the venerable original Image of the Lady of Peafrancia, and the Divino Rostro, which were previously kept in the Shrine of Peafrancia, located at Peafrancia Avenue, Naga City. This original Shrine of Our is now a parish dedicated to Our Lady of Peafrancia and has the replica of the original Image of Ina.

Supports Peafrancia Festival 2013

transparency, demand accountability, and will promote efficiency among the men and women in uniform. We are planning to reecho the inputs from the seminar to our field personnel so that they too will be equipped with the basic know how on writing for effective reporting of fire incidents and other pertinent programs of BFP. We wish to invite PIA again, enhance our writing prowess and perhaps come up with our own news bureau, Barandon added. -MAL/LSM

from my window . . .

Naga ensures orderly, peaceful Peafrancia Fiesta

tirona
By Paul John F. Barrosa

20 bikol reporter

september 15-21, 2013

BONGAT
The signing of the MOA, led by Naga City Mayor John G. Bongat and Archdiocese of Caceres Archbishop Rolando Tria-Tirona, was conducted last September 4 at the Archbishops Palace. Serving as a one-stop shop that will provide an

Naga City ---Various law enforcement agencies and other members of the Joint Operation Center (JOC) conducted a three-day seminar last September 9 to 11 at the Metro Peso Conference Room to discuss a focused and coordinated system in securing the peaceful and orderly celebration of the Peafrancia Festival, the largest celebration of Marian devotion in Asia.
The first day of the seminar was devoted to the discussion of peace and security mechanisms to ensure immediate actions on incidents that may hamper the peaceful and orderly celebration of the festival. Naga City Police Director Jose Capinpin reported that a total of 1,058 members of the JOC will be deployed all over Naga City. On the second day, the JOC ironed out the details regarding its emergency response system. Weng De Castro, head nurse of Bicol Medical Center, said that 600 volunteer nurses and doctors will man the advanced medical posts of the JOC. De Castro also revealed that 18 ambulances will be deployed in strategic locations across the city. During the third day, the JOC conducted a final briefing to ensure that all members of the JOC are fully-aware of their specific functions and tasks. As host to the biggest celebration of Marian devotion in Asia, we expect to receive hundreds of thousands of devotees locally and worldwide. Ensuring peace and order during the celebration is, therefore, an imperative concern that the city government and the whole locality should prudently and judiciously address, said Vice Mayor Nelson Legacion. The JOC was constituted through a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the city government, other government agencies, sectoral groups and the church.

effective and efficient command, control, coordination, collaboration, and communication system in ensuring peaceful and orderly celebration of the Peafrancia Fiesta, the JOC is composed of the following: City Government of Naga, Naga City Police Office, Public Safety Office, Office of the Civil Defense, Philippine Army, Philippine Air Force, Philippine Navy, PNP Regional Command, Philippine Coast Guard, PNP Highway Office, PNP
(Turn to page 15)

MS. BICOLANDIA 2013

Winners (from left to right) 4th runner-up Kathleen Mae J. Lausingco (Polangui, Albay), 2nd runnerup Shecill Bherte S. Bagapro ( Naga City ), Ms. Bicolandia Angelica Mae Corbe ( Legazpi City), 1st runner-up Janne C. Reis (Naga City), and 3rd runner-up Febelin G. Pea ( Daet, Cam. Norte)