#Nagueños

[wendellcapili]

I learned from a post of my colleague, Prof. Gerry T Los Baños, that Prof. Carlos Ojeda Aureus (1947-2024) had passed. Caloy was a retired professor in literature and previous holder of the Diamond Jubilee Professorial Chair at the UP Department of English and Comparative Literature. Armed with experiences as a scholar at El Instituto de Cooperación Iberoamericana (ICI) en Madrid, he taught Latin and Spanish at UP's Department of European Languages. “Nagueños” is his highly acclaimed collection of short fiction on the people and places across Naga. “The Late Comer,” his story, won first prize in the 1996 Carlos Palanca Memorial Awards for Literature. His other stories, “Chinita,” Flake of Fire, Bodies of Light,” “Wings,” “Typhoon,” and especially “The night train does not stop here anymore,” also deserve some more critical attention. Also in dire need of revisiting is Caloy’s The Catholic Imagination, published in the inaugural issue of Humanities Diliman (Vol. 1, no. 1, Jan. 2000 - Jun. 2000: 92-108).

His Ph.D. dissertation in UP entitled “Towards a Dialogical Reading of W. B. Yeats' Vision” (1992) is a pioneering contribution to Anglo-American literary studies from a unique postcolonial subject-position. Together with Retired Professor Lilia Fuentebella Realubit, Professors Paz Verdades Santos, and Tito Valiente, and supported by Naga City Mayor (1988-1998, 2001-2010) Jessie Robredo, Naga City Administrator (now Representative) Gabriel Bordado and Ateneo de Naga President (1988-1999) Fr. Raul Bonoan S.J., Caloy co-organized the first-ever Bikol Writers Workshop in Naga (1993). The workshop proved to be a catalyst for the resurgence of Bikol writing many years later. Caloy was proud of his experiences as a 1970 Silliman National Writers' Workshop fellow with National Artist Ricky Lee, Albert Casuga, Conrad de Quiros, and Wilfredo Pascua Sanchez. He frequently reminisced about Dumaguete and his writing friends in Silliman, including Francis Macansantos, Christine Godinez Ortega, Anthony Tan, and Rowena Tiempo Torrevillas. I will never forget bumping into Caloy over lunch at Casaa, where we purchased takeaway food during the late 1980s and early 1990s, or having coffee and meals with Dr Realubit in UP Diliman's Chateau Verde and his mom, Tita Teresing Ojeda Aureus, around Naga's Plaza Quince Martires and Plaza Rizal during the 1990s. On 19 August 2023, writer and translator Victor Dennis T. Nierva organized a walking tour of Naga based on iconic landmarks identified by Caloy in his Nagueños. Before he passed away, he was working on the biography of Dr. Realubit. Despite his brilliance, Caloy remained kind and very humble. I am sure his students will miss him.

[themakeupbrush]

Binibining Pilipinas Naga City, Bicol Region 2023 Regional Costume

Paulina’s national costume is an ode to Bicol’s patroness, the Our Lady of Peñafrancia, entrusted in the hands of Nagueños. By wearing this creation, she portrays a devotee who carries their beloved “Ina” as a sign of how she had deepened the faith, shaped and enriched the culture and history of people. This presentation is an offered prayer to her Binibini journey and gratitude to her designer, team, Nagueños, and her father, who all helped in creating this.

[kynaswhereabouts]

Gina Experiences: a start-up travel booking app for unique travel experiences in Naga City and Bicol

If you are a frequent traveler and familiar with Klook, a booking app for travel experiences, then you'll might be interested with Gina Experiences as well. Gina is a start-up travel company for unique travel experiences here in Naga City and Bicol. And who would have thought that a 20-year old would be able to come-up with the idea of a start-up business that offers unique travel experiences especially in our hometown, Naga City, Camarines Sur, Bicol, Philippines.

I admit, it was bit difficult to market and promote Naga City to foreign and local tourists/travelers because there seems to be nothing much to see here in our small city. Like if you will be going to visit Bicol, you would rather visit Albay or other municipalities in Camarines Sur for tourism. Naga City doesn't seem to offer much in tourism except Pilgrimage Tour and Penafrancia Festival. If you want to go for nature and adventure trips, you have to go outside Naga City since we also do not have beaches. However, we also do have hotsprings and Malabsay Falls on the upland of Naga City (Panicuason and Carolina).

When I first encountered Gina, I was just able to see a post about them having a free walking heritage tour in Naga City. Off course, I immediately signed up for it because I am interested in history and even though I grew up knowing about the history of Naga and other historical places here in our beloved pilgrim city, I knew that I will be able to learn something new from these people too.

WALKING HERITAGE TOUR EXPERIENCE

It was last July 2022, when Gina held a first walking heritage tour in Naga City. As far as I know it was the pilot of Gina offering this king experience.

Growing up in Naga City, I have always been to these places and knew its history at heart. But every time I get to join group tours in Naga, I get to know more about it and always learn something new from different tour guides. I always get to see Naga City in a new perspective from different storytellers.

Walking tours are a fun way to also learn about history. We will always go back to these places with new learnings and reconnect with our origins as Nagueños. We can say that this was once this and that or this place is where that historic event happened.

As Naga slowly adapts to modernization, I realized that traces of history and cultural heritage are slowly diminishing. But having this kind of tour is one way of preserving them especially its stories. History can be found not just in architecture or monuments but also in people. We became part of history as we protect, preserve and learn from it.

SUNFLOWER FARM EXPERIENCE

Upon having to experience a walking heritage tour with Gina, I love the fact that they created new experience to explore with them. I have always wanted to visited the Sunflower farm in Pacol, Naga City. However, I knew I would need a service to go there. In fact, going there through public transportation doesn’t seem feasible. It is hard to go there via public transporation cause there are hardly jeeps going there.

It was some time in February 2023 when I decided to book with Gina for Sunflower Expeprience. I considered it a solo gaming tour for Valentine’s Day. I was also probably just bored that I went there on my own but with help of Gina off course to arrange transpo and a tour at the Sunflower farm.

The sunflowers last February were in full bloom there at Sunflower Farm in Pacol, Naga City! The Sunflower Farm Experience through Gina had a fun learning experience about the planting, cultivating and harvesting of these flowers. Also, I got learn how to arrange a bouquet from Ma'am Jeanelyn Ador, a sunflower farmer because they have a sunflower bouquet workshop too.

One thing that I really like from this package is that it was not just about the flowers and the aesthetics. I like that we also get to interact with local farmers and know more about the flowers that they plant. The demand for flowers is seasonal. It is in demand mostly during Valentine's Day, Holy Week and Undas. At least through this, we get to support their livelihood too either way. This short visit made me interested in flowers and farming. Moreso, here we also get to learn how to arrange a bouquet. I did mine with the help of Ma'am Jeanelyn. (I gave the sunflower bouquet I made to mama after. Hehe)

BICOL CULINARY EXPERIENCE

Some time this July, I was invited along with a fellow influencers and media friends for the pilot of Bicol Culinary Experience that Gina was offering. In partnership with Pechelitos, Gina was able to create a new experience and activities to offer that highly promotes culinary and gastronomic tourism of Naga.

At the Bicol Culinary Experience, we get to learn how to cook Bicol delicacies and experience how to prepare it hands-on from Pechelitos’ in-house chef, Chef Hugo San Juan. The Bicolano dishes we prepared were Kinalas, Bopis, Kinunot and Ginataang Santol.

The Bicol Culinary Experience with Gina at Pechelitos is such an immersive experience because it gives you a fun and exciting hands-on experience in the preparation of authentic local Bicolano dishes. You can get involve in the step-by-step process with the guidance of the chef and unlock the secrets to achieving their authentic flavor.

Gina’s Bicol Culinary Experience is the first to offer this experience here that highly promotes culinary tourism and helps preserve our culinary heritage.

One thing I really like about this experience is that we get to learn something new today. (Ps. Dae po ako tatao magluto haha) Moreso, we get to appreciate the art of cooking Bicolano dishes which is a representation of the region's unique flavors and culinary heritage through this kind of activity.

OTHER ACTIVITIES

Gina also offers other different kinds of activities like Walwal Tours where in you can go bar hopping, the Blood Moon Experience in Camaligan last year where in you can watch and observe the Blood Moon and Eclipse at Camaligan River Park with the help of a telescope and an expert explaining about the natural phenomenon, Naga Pilgrimage Tour which you get to visit all the historical churches in Naga, Isarog Hiking Experience where you can hike to experience the cloud of seas at the summit of My. Isarog, and the Mulberry Island Experience in Caramoan where you can immerse in the islander life with the locals doing what they do and learn from them.

I love the initiatives of Gina because they create linkages with local tourism stakeholders/service providers while at the same time give tourists/travelers new perspectives and authentic experienced that they’ll surely enjoy.

ABOUT GINA

Gina was founded by Gwen Joson, a 20-year old marketing student of University of Sto. Tomas Manila (UST). According to her it was in the early 2021 when she thought of creating ways to help those who lost their jobs because of the pandemic especially in the tourism sector. She stressed that, she knew a lot of people and establishments that provides tourism services who were gravely affected by the pandemic. She wanted to help them and at the same time enhance local tourism and the community they belong it.

Gwen also shared that there has been a gap between tourism services providers and tourists/travelers. "Pag tourist ka sa isang lugar, hindi mo alam kung saan ka talaga pupunta. Medyo kulang ang available sa internet na info or how to get to places or kung saan ba magandang pumunta and ano ang magandang gawin dito. Also hindi rin siya madaling mahanap as a tourist or kung wala kang kakilala sa lugar." She said.

"With Gina, we wanted to give you yung freedom to design your travel. To explore the world, explore the Philippines, yung communities and yung ma-ooffer nila na mga labas sa ordinary. Lalo yung mga experiences na tulad nito na hindi mo naman talaga mahahanap sa iba ." She also added.

For the meantime, Gina is focused in offering travel experiences in Naga City and Bicol. Gwen emphasized that she wanted to start and focus first in the place where she grew up and where she is from. She is hopeful that she can eventually expand her business to the entire Philippines.

What makes Gina different from a travel agency is that they offer unique experiences and activities that you can book. You can only book the activities you want. Unlike when you are booking tour packages in travel agencies, you follow a strict itinerary. You might have something in your itinerary that might be not in preference. Gina is like booking at Klook but more localized and advocates local tourism by immersing as well in the local culture of communities.

According to Gwen, they are currently reaching out to potential market through Facebook and other social media platforms like Instagram. The goal is to have an app but since they only started their operations last January 2022, they'll be on social media platform for the meantime until the app is created.

I've asked Gwen what does it feel like to be a young CEO of a start-up business, she answered, "I’m very grateful that I have people who support talaga. Kasi kailagan talaga yung maraming sumusuporta kasi it is not easy to keep moving forward without support. I have to balance school and itong sa business. Right now, I’m looking forward on growing the business kasi yung team naming is very capable. As a CEO, I want to be able to give justice sa hard work and talents nila and it comes with helping our local community to grow the tourism of Naga."

As of per writing, Gina is composed of 5 members: Gwen Joson (CEO), Oliver Rubi (Tech), Caleb Andaya (Operations), Danica Austero (Brand and Design), and Harry Avenido (Business Development). Who would have thought that this team of young minds would be the hope in revamping local tourism industry and communities affected by the pandemic. As we embrace the new normal and move forward to post-pandemic era, I have hope we can put into the map that there is more to Naga and Bicol than what we already know. I can see that Gina has a lot of potential and I know that there are new and exciting things to look forward to for this start-up group.

Let us continue to support Gina and their initiatives and endeavors as they offer their tourism services.

Explore and book any experience with Gina and get 10% off on your bookings using my personal discount code: GINAxKYNA.

Tara na? Gina! 😊

[jhowanasagun]

Bico-lanang kusinera

being part or this country bicol is tha one inever forget to come again and again. especially their cultural foods their really proud to taste by the tourist. Basically their food have a lot of version for example bicol express. this is the one of thei food you can easily access even though you in manila. Beside of that original bicol express is the best to try in to the bicol place. (BICOl EXPRESS) exemplifies the best qualities of Bicol food. It’s mouthwateringly spicy, rich, and creamy, thanks to the foolproof combo of siling labuyo and gata. But as iconic as it is, this beloved ulam is only one of many must-try dishes from the region. If you want to familiarize yourself with Bicol food culture, it’s time to embrace not-so-familiar fare. Start with these five.

(LAING)Laing is another famous food from Bicol. It primarily involves simmered gabi (taro) leaves, coconut milk, aromatics, and flavor enhancers like bagoong alamang shrimp paste. You can make your version more substantial with sliced pork and flaked fish, but it works as a purely vegetarian dish, too. Speed up the cooking process without sacrificing taste with Knorr Ginataang Gulay Mix. The packet will add just the right amount of umami to your laing. Bicolanos have another style of laing called pinangat where gabi leaves double as a wrap for the other ingredients. Pinangat is another way of exploring a similar flavor. For an even more creative method, try laing pizza it merges the comfort of the Bicol delicacy with the convenience of the merienda staple.

(KINILAS) This homegrown noodle recipe from Naga is something you shouldn’t miss when you’re in Bicol.  Visually, it’s comparable to beef mami, a dish most Filipinos are familiar with. But what makes Kinalas different is the addition of a thick and dark brown sauce on top of the noodles, which is often likened to a pancit palabok sauce. The mixture of firm noodles, hearty broth, and a garnish of scraped meat from a cow’s or pig’s heart makes Kinalas one of the Nagueño’s best comfort foods. 

(PINANGAT) Almost similar to Laing, Pinangat is another coconut-milk based dish that non-Bicolanos should try. Gabi and banana or coconut leaves are wrapped around pork or fish to make a meat-veggie pouch that is slowly steamed in coconut milk, peppers, and spices.  This tender, tasty, and creamy dish tastes good when it’s freshly served and still piping hot. But trust us when we say that frozen Pinangat is a game-changer, too. 

(KINUNOT) If you still can’t get enough of creamy dishes like Laing and Pinangat, then Bicol’s Kinunot will surely tickle your fancy. This coconut cream-based dish is made with flaked padi (stingray), malunggay (moringa) leaves, siling labuyo, and coconut cream sauce. You may also find versions made with shark meat, crab, and other fish. While it’s often treated as an appetizer, trust us that a perfectly made Kinunot can very well pass as a main dish.

@therealrodthings

[hotdogandbaconsandwich-blog]

Naga City has a lot of delicacies. Specializing in desserts made from Pili nut and spicy food madebwith lots of siling labuyo. And here are some of the foods that Nagueños are proud to share with all of you.

[lalayfuster]

My recent trip in Naga marks my 2019 last hurrah! 🙌 A year-end escapade to Bicol Region is totally unexpected; but among its provinces, Naga deserves to be visited. 👍

In this quaint “Pilgrim City” sits Our Lady of Peñafrancia whom they lovingly call “Ina”. 💙 Despite sleepiness 😴 caused by the 11-hour bus ride, my senses are wide awake and I went straight to the basilica where “Ina” resides. 🙏 Bigay pugay muna sa Nanay. 🌷 Ehehe! Also located within the metro are parishes in honor of St. Francis of Assisi, Our Lady of Immaculate Conception, and St. John the Evangelist Cathedral. ⛪ True to being a “Pilgrim City”, these beautiful churches are situated blocks away from one another to the point that you can complete many sets of Visita Iglesia in just a few hours. 😁

Moreover, I learned that it’s part of Nagueño tradition to tour people around their different pilgrim sites. Special shoutout to my ever-supportive mentee Tina and her super game Tatay, I also had the chance to marvel at churches located outside the metro. 👌 Fighting my tendencies to be Google-dependent, I’m listing the names of the places we went to the best of my memory: 💡 Magarao, Bombon, Quipayo, Calabanga, Hinulid. 📍 Hope I got them all completely correct! 💯

Ofc, I cannot put aside my adventurous side! 😁 As if it’s always a requirement, I made sure that a trek is part of my itinerary. 🏃 Ehehe! In as much as I want to climb Mt. Isarog, my closest encounter with this active volcano is limited to its foot (or maybe toes). Ahaha! 😂 I initially wanted to go to Malabsay Falls, but it's closed on that day. ❌ Thanks to the natives living in that area, they were quick to give an alternative: Baby Falls. 💦 Tina and I braved into the unknown and passed by typhoon-caused obstacles, until we finally made it to our destination. 💪 The falls is small and it’s friendly for the not-so-tall; so we didn’t hesitate to take a dip because it’s not so deep. 🏊 Yup, it’s a really cool experience! 😎

P.S. From water drips to side trips, I’m absolutely grateful to the Moneda’s who welcomed me into their home 🏡 and for an amazing roam! 🚗 Happy to meet the #fambam! 😊 Sa uulitin po! 👋

9A/9 #top9towrapmy29th #bestof2019 #pilgrimage #naturetrip #naga #bicol #philippines

[bicolandiangayon-blog]

The ‘Ukay-ukay’ Identity

If you are going to shop in Naga City’s Centro one thing you can notice about it—the old business district of the city has been turned into ‘Ukay-ukay' district. While stores of cellphone imitations and pirated CDs and DVDs are also notable aside from the night market that sells second-hand shoes, pants, shirts and other ready to wear clothes which the city has conceptualized to infuse economic activities to the dying old business district. This old business district during the night is like the Divisoria in Manila where the economic activities target the ordinary lives of Nagueños and common people who cannot afford to go with the luxurious lives of riches and fame in the city.

The famous ‘Kalye Putikon’ was missed by Nagueños who used to stay in New England Restaurant to unwind after office hours. The delicious ‘pansit’ of Naga Garden was replaced by the “spaghetti and chicken joy” of Jollibee after its stall was given to the multi-national company for a money consideration. The former Padian—now Caceres Street is occupied by the Taiwanese business firms that sell substandard products which the city allowed for more than a decade now. This is the life in the Centro of Naga City—the liveliness of the place was replaced by the engrossments of selling the ‘Ukay-ukay, ‘and fake products.

The old central business district was forgotten to be developed despite its significance in the rich history of the city. How about the city’s public market? The change of its name into Naga City Peoples Mall has removed its identity of serving the common ‘tao' in the city. It reflects the sudden change of Naga City into a billionaire city that protects the tax system to sustain the collection of gross receipts of the city. Compare to the old business district where old buildings  and aged  government infrastructures, the new business district of Naga is full of the modern facilities and infrastructures that signified the decisiveness of the LGU  developing the new site for business.

As the small business in this old district is dying naturally, their owners have to resort into a business that will be patronized by the common tao—the ‘Ukay-ukay’ business is suited since they cannot compete with the multi-national companies that started to monopolize the business industry  of the city. Despite existing business organizations in the city that are claiming they brought about economic development in the city, and—the city progress is owed to them, they did nothing to protect the local business instead support the investments of multi-national  companies.

The Ukay sellers are resilient. They could easily adopt the atmosphere of business. They have just done what would be the appropriate strategy to sustain their business instead of withdrawing from the tight free-market competition set by the city. The silent heroes stood at the Plaza Oragon are the witnesses to every selling of Ukay. If they could only talk—they would ask why these local entrepreneurs have just resorted in selling the Ukays. Anyway, if this is the price of the progress of the city—where local businesses have not been protected from the might of the giant companies, so be it.

The important is, they have their own identity—the Ukay identity.

[nempthis]

"Street Suite"

In almost 4 years residing in Naga City, a woman living in the street with her cats caught my attention as I have the same interest as well. Last week, I finally met her and it was a memorable encounter.

Her name is "Keng", I'm afraid I didn't spell that right but it sounded like that. It was difficult to communicate with all the street noises and mask on. I believe some Nagueños are already familiar with her. Keng lives with her 5 cats and 2 dogs in the street of Peñafrancia. She sidelines as a "Parking Duty Person" to earn a little income. As I interview her, she said that these cats and dogs are her family and she would have gone crazy if she's left alone in the street. Keng really adores her cats and she has a special place for them in her heart which I wholeheartedly relate to. I was amazed that she works hard to buy them cat food and I can really see that she cares for them a lot despite her current situation.

As I was taking her photographs, she told me that some people also donated her essentials like the cages, maybe humanity isn't dead after all. I forgot to mention that it was such a timing that a local vlogger saw Keng and decided to feature her in their vlog. I think Keng and her animals are really catching people's attention.

Life may put us in different situations. Some of us are on top of the wheel of fortune but some are beneath. Some people have expensive cat and dog breeds living in an air-conditioned home and some are living in a busy street with feral animals. One thing is the same though, all are given an equal chance in friendship. In a world where everything is for sale, friendship is free even the homeless can afford it and sometimes it has a fur and a long tail!

In compliance with my Special Journalism Project course, I use my own platform to promote a safe environment for our feral animals and homeless people as they also have the rights to live in peace.

Thank you for reading my essay until the end!

[creashits-of-xyrah]

Written Work on Literary Tone, Personal Style, Leads and Titles

The End

In a local aspect, as Nagueños it’s sad to notice small changes in our environment like how the air temperature back then was more refreshing compared to ours today and how fast it is to have floods due to heavy rains. We emit a lot of cabon to the atmosphere. Laika Camposano mentioned that our city holds a lot of people that does not dispose their waste properly and burn them instead. Many households and building also use air conditioners that emit chlorofluorocarbon, a gas which traps the heat in this planet. There are several cars that only cause climate change but also traffic in the city. In a day to day basis, Laika goes to school with only her mother driving and escorting her. She feels sorry about it because she thinks it’s impractical for her mother to drive only her to Ateneo and this is the reason why she plans to use public transportation instead. If all of us cooperate, there is still hope for our planet. There are lots of little ways that we can do in order to help save Mother Earth so that we could stay in it longer and not meet its end.

[phgq]

SM opens first Paw Park in Bicol, enjoins pet lovers to enjoy park's amenities

#PHinfo: SM opens first Paw Park in Bicol, enjoins pet lovers to enjoy park's amenities

NAGA CITY, March 18 (PIA) --  Barely four (4) days after the first Paw Park in the region opened at SM City Naga, here,  pet lovers are now enjoying quality time with their pups, using the amenities which are specially designed for both the owner and their pet’s comfort.

SM City Naga’s paw park had its leash cutting ceremony over the weekend, March 13, Saturday at the mall’s open parking area and formally opened for “paw parents” and the public on Sunday, March 14. 

The leash cutting ceremony was led by Mayor Nelson Legacion, Vice Mayor Cecilia "Nene" de Asis, and SM City Naga Mall Manager Jeanette de Vera.

Paw park as stress reliever

Mayor Nelson Legacion (2nd from left) leads the Leash-Cutting Ceremony during the opening of the Paw Park at SM City Naga, March 13, 2021. With Legacion are SM  City Naga Mall Manager Jeanette de Vera (2nd from right), Vice Mayor Cecilia “Nene” de Asis (right), and a veterinary representative of SM City (left).   (JRM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

Mayor Legacion extended his appreciation for the newest attraction from SM City Naga.

“We appreciate this newest attraction as a stress reliever. We now have a place where we can bring our “fur babies” where both the owner and their pets will surely enjoy,” Legacion stated.

City Vice Mayor De Asis said that the Paw Park is indeed an additional attraction in the city. She said that aside from the plants serving as stress relievers which converted many to “plantitos” and “plantitas” during the COVID-19 pandemic, Nagueños now have the park as a place where they can relieve their tensions, emanating from work, home and brought about by the current pandemic.  

De Vera extends her invitation to all the “paw parents” to enjoy the amenities provided for them and their pets. She said that the pups and their pet owners can both relax and have fun by utilizing various amenities such as water fountain, baste bins, and benches.

They can also have an exercise along with their pets by leading them to the play area which has dog obstacle course compliant with the Philippine Canine Club standards.

Located at the open front car park area of SM City Naga, the paw park has an obstacles course that features a Double Hoop Jump, an Adjustable Tire Jump, A Tube Tunnel, an Agility See-Saw, a Dog Walk Ramp, an Adjustable Dog Hurdle, among others.

Paw Park Rules - the fine print

SM Spokesperson, Tina Sumayao said that there are just few park rules which the pet owners have to observe like being fully responsible for their dogs and that the dogs should be leashed when not inside the paw park.

“The pet owners must immediately clean up after their dog, both in and out of the paw park. It is also important for them to note that we allow dogs that are at least 4 months of age and have updated vaccinations. For the safety of everyone, we do not allow dogs that are aggressive, disruptive, in heat or ill,” Sumayao added.

 SM City Naga Paw Park, the new destination where pups and their “pawparents” can relax and have fun which opened on Saturday, March 13, 2021, located at the front car park area of SM City Mall.   (JRM-PIA5/Camarines Sur)

Children under 12 years old are now allowed inside the paw park without an adult companion. A maximum of 2 dogs per pet owner is allowed. The amenities provided, including the obstacles are intended for dogs, so children are not allowed to climb or use them as play materials.

Sumayao also added that food, drinks and glass containers are not permitted inside the paw park.

Private dog training and other commercial activities are not allowed without the management’s approval. Any person bringing dogs into the park, assumes the legal responsibility, jointly and individually, with the owner of the pet(s) for any damage, disease or injury to persons, other dogs or property caused by the dogs.

SM City Naga management also reserves the right to refuse entry to any dog that exhibits any risk or danger to other humans or dogs. The park may close without prior notice due to weather, maintenance, special events or when deemed necessary.

The park is open from 10:00am to 6:00pm. (with reports from JRMadrid, PIA5/Camarines Sur)

***

References:

* Philippine Information Agency. "SM opens first Paw Park in Bicol, enjoins pet lovers to enjoy park's amenities." Philippine Information Agency. https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069938 (accessed March 18, 2021 at 06:42PM UTC+08).

* Philippine Infornation Agency. "SM opens first Paw Park in Bicol, enjoins pet lovers to enjoy park's amenities." Archive Today. https://archive.ph/?run=1&url=https://pia.gov.ph/news/articles/1069938 (archived).

[kynaswhereabouts]

Savage Mind Bookshop, an independent bookstore, cultural hub and place for intellectual discussions and lecture

Written by: Kyna de Castro

If I were to create a list for Fantastic Books and Where To Find Them, I would put Savage Mind Bookshop on the top of my list. Along the Peninsula St. near Naga City Montessori School, is a preserved ancestral home which serves as co-working space and restaurant and an independent bookshop. This isn’t the first time in the city that an ancestral home is restored or preserved for business purposes but Pnnsvla Co-Working Space/Café and Savage Mind Bookshop both made the ancestral home more alive as it occupies it while also silently advocating appreciation and conservation efforts for the ancestral homes.

The Savage Mind: Books, Art and Cinema is an independent bookstore owned by renowned and award-winning Bikolano writer and director of Hinulid and Angustia, Kristian Sendon Cordero. I have seen this place grow as it fulfill its mission and being recognized in the city. Some people outside the city or residing in nearby municipalities have been visiting because of the strong value for literature and culture that is very much alive in this small space.  This is not your typical independent bookstore because it is the home of various collection of books and works of emerging and renowned local writers.

As an independent bookstore

Since Savage Mind is the first independent bookstore in Naga, it probably added intrigue into it and that is what draws us more to it. What do we mean of independent bookstore aside from being a retail bookstore that is being individually owned? To properly distinguish it from big commercialized bookstores, we can define and quote from Writer’s Digest that, “Independent bookstores directly serve the community and the individual. Their contributions are invaluable… Independent bookstores support core values of community, creativity, convening, civility, and contact.”  This was also quoted in the article of Audrey Arnold, “The Importance of Independent Bookstores”.

Unlike in other countries, independent bookshops are considered as rare and probably new for us since we also got used to patronizing the works of international authors and best-selling books that has been read by many or those that made it into motion picture. The good thing for Savage Mind is that it highly supports the works of local writers especially those written in our native language and dialect.  

As a cultural hub

It is given that the organization of books on the shelves, the artworks, posters, photographs and other displays are considered aesthetics already or “instagrammable”, in our millennial term. Since its ambiance and visuals are considered as eye pleasing already, Savage Mind continuously grow its visitors also probably because of its broad approach for art appreciation. They also held events like free film showing, book launching, lectures etc. which proves that this small space gathers not just the academe, writers and bookworms but also local history, art and film enthusiasts. Thus, making it a cultural hub as well.  

As a place of intellectual discussions and lectures

Recently, Savage Mind launched the Rumdom Series which is a series of lectures and discussion on various topics involving local history. I was able to attend two out of three of the lectures so far. One is a lecture on the Old Streets for Naga which was discussed by Atty. Luis Ruben General and the other one is a lecture on Camineros in Camarines that was discussed by Sir Leo Paulo Imperial. I would leave work early to catch the lecture discussion. I would usually be at the back and blending in a crowd of students and teachers.

I will never look at the streets of Naga the same way again after attending this discussion of Atty. Luis Ruben General today. It was like if I will be walking around Naga, I will try to identify its old name. From recalling the old names of the streets to introducing some of our local heroes that needs recognition, there were a lot of interesting points on the old streets of Naga.

We keep on naming our streets after our heroes yet, how many of them are originally from Naga or Bicol? Why do we keep on changing the names of our streets through the years? Isn't changing the name of the street is like dishonoring or discrediting the hero it was named after? Why is Naga the only city in the Philippines that doesn't have a street named after an American? What are the present laws/local ordinance that we have that could protect heritage? Those were some.

Also, why is it that there are no monument of the Arejola brothers (Thomas and Ludivico) in Naga who were actually both Nagueños? Though, I know that Ludivico Arejola has one in Minalabac. Since Thomas did not die in the battle but of old age, is that why he didn't get much recognition? Does one have to die for the country to be recognize as a hero or for one to have a monument or a street named after? 

I really cannot forget the conclusion for that discussion because I love the conclusion, "Street names are part of history. They also reveal the character of local people as they show the kind of persons we honor and the events they remember."

Moreover, I never realized the significance of the road constructions until I heard the discussion of Sir Leo Imperial on the Camineros in Camarines. I guess, we also owe that to Cameron Forbes who’s greatest contribution in our country, the Caminero Project, has led not just for the economic progress but also built connection for better trade. And off course, the first road constructions will not be completed without the Foreman, Capataz and Camineros. Mobility is seldom tackled in historical accounts. It was nice that we get to learn about Transportation History in Bicol Region too.

Nietzsche identified three kinds of history: antiquarian, monumental and critical history. I was once again reminded of my Rizal class in college where we discussed it. Where does these fall under? One thing is for sure though, Savage Mind has already made its mark in history for being the first independent bookstore, cultural hub and a place for intellectual discussions and lectures in Naga City. What more can we ask for?

Savage Mind Bookshop is open on Monday-Thursday (3pm-9pm), Friday (2pm-10pm), Saturday (2pm-10pm) and Sunday (1pm-8pm).

[color-thy-ppl-blog]

ENTRY # 10

"PANANAMPALATAYA"

Last September, Naga City celebrated the annual Peñafrancia Festival. More than thousands of people attended and celebrated the said occassion. There were so many people attended that Naga City became very crowded at that time. It just came to show how religious and faithful Bikolanos are in the Patron Saint, Our Lady of Peñafrancia. -kym

"ONE FOR ALL, ALL FOR INA"

The annual celebration of Inang Peñafrancia every September in Naga City. People always get ready for this event, for the reason that this is in every Nagueño's heart. When Peñafrancia Festival happen, you can say that when it pours it really pours. Shower of both rain and blessings. Peñafrancia is like the root of every Nagueño's kindness. -dom

[worldnewsph]

Nagueño EDUCARE kids showcase talents

Nagueño EDUCARE kids showcase talents

NAGA CITY, Dec. 4 (PIA) – In observance of the 26th Nationwide Celebration of Children’s Month, the City Government of Naga thru the Naga City Council for the Welfare and Protection of Children (NCCWPC) spearheaded the conduct of a talent competition for EDUCARE pupils dubbed EDUCARE GOT TALENT 6, Nov. 26 at the Robinsons Place Atrium, here.

EDUCARE pupils from 19 EDUCARE Centers from different…

[hotdogandbaconsandwich-blog]

These desserts makes Nagueños proud and also all of the Bicol region. These are made from the innovative intellect of the people in Naga for the main ingredient for these desserts are the abundant nut in the region called Pili. There are a lot of varieties that will surely hit yourbsweet spot. In the picture we have pili nut candy, yema, pudding, mazepan, tart, cake, and chocolate. Try this and you will surely crave these desserts afterwards.

[gigabitsss-blog]

Tag-init na naman! May plano ka na ba ngayong bakasyon? Naghahanap ka ba ng lovelife este.. summer outfits? Mga panibago sa iyong panlasa? Baka ito na ang hinahanap mo! RAC SUMMER FAIR "Magbakal, Mag-Ugma Para Maka-Tabang" Siguradong mag e-enjoy ka ngayong Summer! 🌞 ✔MAGBAKAL We offer Urban Bazaar: Pre-loved items with cheaper prices, award-winning Nagueño product-PilChi Chocolate, Green Brich Boutique, Petal kiss, Sexy Doll Closet, Oppo, local products and many more. ✔MAG-UGMA Spoken Poetry: Bakit List, Urban Karaoke and Live Acoustic Band ✔MAKATABANG In connection to the 50th Anniversary of Rotaract & 22nd Anniversary Year of RAC NAGA the collected endowment fund will be donated to the End Polio Campaign. We are 99.9% close to ending Polio! Nag-Ogma kana, Naka Tabang ka pa!  Located at Lemon Residence, Parking lot, Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City. (Infront of AMA Computer College, near Jack’s Blue Plate and Back Draft Resto Bar) See you on the following dates: April 20 - 7pm to 12mn (Highlight: Soft Opening) April 21 - 8am to 12mn (Highlight: Urban Karaoke, Spoken Poetry) April 22 - 8am to 12mn (Highlight: Live Band) Ano pang inaantay niyo? Let's Start this Summer by Ending Polio! For more details please contact: +639128438388 Sponsored by: Facial Plus, Globe, ABS-CBN, Bob Marlin, Biggs, Graceland, Flavours Gastronomica, PilChi Chocolate, Atlantic Bakery, Knopper Trading, Lemon Residences, Naga City Hall and Rotary Club of Naga.

[linyalinya]

Nagueños! Linya-Linya is at HOBO 'S in Naga City, Camarines Sur! 😊 It's located along Barlin St. near the Naga Cathedral. HOBO 'S is a burger joint, so make sure to order a double bbq cheese burger & pair it with a refreshing Lemonaga Coolers. 😊