How could you miss a beach resort like this?

OZI Camp in Sitio Tiris, Osiao, Bacon District, Sorsogon City provides an amazing family getaway. This is a private resort which was open to public just recently, a great venue for picnic and even camping under the roof of the coconut trees. The place is just a 20-minute drive from the Sorsogon City proper. They charge 50 pesos per visitor as entrance fee. But the rental for cottage or a tent is cheaper. They have a huge area for recreation and there's a choice of dipping into a river flow, a pool or at the beach. But take caution in going into the beach because of strong current that could topple you down to rocky seashore. 

So, the next time you plan out on an outdoor gimmick like outing, don't hesitate to put Ozi camp on your list. You can even stay overnight for a prior arrangement. Bring out supplies as much as you want because the sari-sari store do not have that much. Mobile services has poor signal but it is also good to disconnect from the digital world from time to time.#

A hot spring and light house, Bulusan's upcoming attraction

Loydtraveltrail photo @ San Bernardino lighthouse

BULUSAN, Sorsogon - There is no stopping Bulusan from continually expanding and exploring more tourism products that will add to the existing destinations already proven to have attracted thousands of foreign and local tourist arrivals year round.

This time, the Local Government of Bulusan, with Mayor Mike Guysayko at its helm, is eyeing for the development of two more destinations to be included in the town's tourism package.

These include the Mapaso hot spring in Buhang village and the Lighthouse in San Bernardino island of Biri, Northern Samar.

Guysayko said the potentials of these tourism products was made obvious by the fact that some partners have already expressed willingness to assist in its development.

The Bantay Kalikasan of ABS-CBN Lingkod Kapamilya foundation have shown interest in transforming an eco-tourism site out of these sites.

Although the passing away of Ms Gina Lopez last month of August  have somehow draw a bleak of uncertainty for the immediate realization of the projects.

"It is so much our loss, not only for Bulusenios but for all Filipinos." Guysayko said. He added that Mam Gina had helped in making Bulusan one of the premier eco-tourist destination in the country.

"Not only that she brought us tools, ideas and inspiration. She also promoted Bulusan in her TV shows that could cost millions but was provided us for free." the mayor said.

Having lost an ally nonetheless the young mayor's predisposition to push forward never wane. They are now looking for other means to push through with the development of newly identified eco-tourism sites.

Mapaso hot spring in Buhang photo by Marcky Ragasa

The hot spring in Buhang has long been frequented by the local residents in the nearby municipalities and its just a matter of time that it will soon be discovered by many because of a much talked about healing properties of its water.

While the lighthouse in San Bernardino is a good option for tourist wanting a rather adventurous island hopping. It would took you 45 minute boat ride from Bulusan town proper to reach the island.

Sooner, as it's still in development phase, island hopping in Bulusan would be good destination for those who want a short break or respite from a busy world especially if you are coming from a bustling metropolis.

In San bernardino island you will enjoy the magnificent view of Sorsogon peninsula, Bulusan volcano and the nearby Capul and Biri islands. You will be greeted by thousands of terns or seabird that made the island their nesting and breeding place.

Bulusan in general has became an established eco-tourist destination in the Philippines which begin in Bulusan lake. From thereon, spring resorts, falls and other destinations have sprouted and also became equally known.

As time progresses, and with the fresh and distinct leadership introduced by the young Guysayko, this small town which is located at the southern tip of Luzon has eventually gain a big spot in the country's eco-tourism map.#

That breeze blowing from the rice field soothes your soul

Greening rice field in Barcelona, Sorsogon 

Life in the village is not difficult. You only worry for the next meal. As long as you have that sustenance which is far from difficult, life in the village is easy. Much much easy than living in urban areas. The food is abundant. The upland, lowland, river and sea do not run out of supply. So how could you worry when there's a lot to enjoy around.

Past Sorsogon City admin blame for coco processing plant's (PPPC) environment disorder

SORSOGON CITY - Sorsogon City Mayor Sally A. Lee points her finger to the administration of former Mayor Leovic R. Dioneda as the one who should be explaining why a Coconut Processing Plant of Peter Paul Philippine Corporation was allowed to operate without environmental permit.

Its operation which started January of this year has resulted to violation of environmental laws and destroy the creeks, fishponds and mangroves posing destruction to Sorsogon Bay

In a media briefing held at St. Matthew's Hall here in Sorsogon City, Mayor Lee accepts the challenge from Brgy. Cabid-an fisherfolk, media and some local council members to order suspension of operation by implementing the cease and desist order against PPPC's Coconut Processing Plant.

The Mayor said that 'if you want it close today, i'll do it right away'.

The affected residents have urged the newly assumed Sorsogon City officials  to act swiftly on their behalf fearing that their complaint might fall on deaf ears just like in the past.

But after taking up the challenge, the mayor later clarified to just wait for the result of the Sangguniang Panglungsod inquiry to ensure if closure order is warranted.

Lee added that the PPPC management is requesting for an ample time to correct what is needed to be corrected.

Nevertheless, bombarded by numerous complaints such as air, water and noise pollution the Mayor Lee acceded to order a temporary closure.

Having heard of the stand the local official is taking regarding the coco processing plant's operation, laborers express their deep concern.

The laborers who whose family needs are dependent on their salaries ask the mayor to reconsider for fear of losing an earnings,

The workers said they cannot afford to loss job even for temporary as they do not have an alternative source of income as of yet.#

2nd Bicol Travel and Food Expo, to add more color in Naga City's Penafrancia Fiesta

BITFEX 2012 contributed photo

NAGA City -  Inspired by the huge success of the 1st Bicol Travel and Food Expo (BITFEX) in Naga City, the organizer (PBN Broadcasting Network Inc.) is painstakingly laying the ground for a big comeback this year.

To add color and prestige to the biggest Marian celebration in the Bicolandia, the Penafrancia Fiesta, the 2nd BITFEX is happening at the height of the week long celebration which is slated on September 18-22, 2013.

BITFEX is a five-day expo that evolves in its thematic activities aimed at stirring Bicol's local tourism and economy which include Asenso Bicolano go Negosyo, Bicol Food Festival, Acoustic Competition, Cosplayers' Convention, Search for Miss Bitfex and others.

PBN Executive Vice President Glenn J. Barcelon, the BITFEX Project Director, said that this year's expo would be a big boost to Bicol's economy especially on tourism and food. Exhibitors will also enjoy wide exposure during expo and the simultaneous live coverage by the seven (7) broadcast stations operated by PBN region wide.

Barcelon said that as early as first quarter of the year, they were already flooded with inquiries. A manifestation of the success of the maiden expo.

These positive feedback have made them work with high spirit in order to met the expectation from stakeholders.

He confirmed that there were already collaboration with some government agencies such as Department of Tourism, Department of Trade and Industry, TESDA and DILG.

For now, finalization of activities as well as booth reservation is ongoing.

To those interested they can visit directly the PBN main office at DZGB, Imperial Compound, Legazpi City or call 480-5508, text cellphone No. 09209217587 and send email to glenngmpbnbicol@yahoo.com. #
   

Geothermal Project around Bulusan Volcano will push through..

             

Pinoy Mountaineer photo

Had a long conversation with people from SKI Geothermal, Inc. Seemingly, Geothermal exploration in Bulusan Volcano continues. The project is more or less two (2) years delayed as schedule, but they have up to five years to complete the study.

The proponent is no less than the Government thru the Department of Energy, where SKI contracted the project. They are very positive to push through the project; and also hopeful they could finally come to terms with the community around especially those opposing it. As usual, they came up with a lengthy explanation that the project poses no harm in the environment.

They mentioned about a new technology wherein surface or ground water will no longer be re-injected. Geothermal does not affect water supply or spring sources of water after all they said. Neither will it trigger volcanic nor seismic activities on an active Volcano. They said having been considered as renewable energy, it would be a waste if Geothermal source in Bulusan would be left untapped.

As the country experienced power shortage nowadays, the Government is bent on tapping every available source of energy especially those considered renewable. As to the series of protest staged by some sector, they said they won't go anywhere confrontational. Instead they plan to embark on massive information drive to educate the people about Geothermal project, its impact to the environment and communities.

They said, they will always seek the support of all the people with proper representation from LGUs, or even Barangays. SKI also dismissed reports that they allegedly started drilling already sometime last year. The PHIVOLCs though clarifies that its them that were seen months ago along the vicinity of Barangay Salvacion, Irosin, Sorsogon. Ed Laguerta of PHIVOLCS said they have conducted study on Irosin calderra together with some Japanese experts. They drilled in some specific area as part of a thorough study involving, carbon-dating, geochemistry and geophysics.

Mr Benjamin Monzon, project director of Geothermal Division of SKI clarifies also that they are bound to inform the people through LGUs before drilling.

At present, they are far from the drilling phase as the study/exploration is not yet done. So far, four (4) specific areas have yield positive result, having potential geothermal source, and is now undergoing process of validation. They assured that the project will not encroached on the declared Protected Area within Mount Bulusan or the so-called Bulusan Volcano Natural Park.#

Penafrancia Festival 2012 kicks-off in the City of Naga, Bicol

NAGA City - Amidst praying, shouting and chanting  of “Viva La Virgen and “Viva El Divino Rostro”, hundredths of thousands of Marian devotees enact the “Traslacion”, or transfer of the image of "Ina" from the Penafrancia Shrine to Naga City Cathedral. 

This is probably one of the biggest Celebration of the Patroness of Bicol "Ina" that starts with a novena mass to formally open the 130^th year of the Penafrancia Festival.

The “Traslacion”, is a prelude to the Fluvial Procession which is to happen on September 15, 2012.  In today’s event the image of the Our Lady of Penafrancia is transferred from the old Penafrancia Shrine on Penafrarancia Avenue the Naga City Metropolitan Cathedral.

Msgr. Ramon Tronqued, Vicar General of the Diocese of Legazpi delivered the homily during the concelebrated mass at the old Penafrancia Shrine. In his homily, Msgr. Tronqued reminded the devotees that the devotion should not end with the nine-day novena instead it should be the first step to one’s faith.

After the procession, another Mass was held at 6:00 p.m. at the Metropolitan Cathedral with Msgr. Leonardo Legazpi, Bishop of Caceres as the main celebrant. In his homily, Msgr. Legazpi extolled the virtues of Mary as Our Mother and Advocate before Christ Jesus.

PBN TV5 and DZOK provided a complete coverage of the event from various live points along the procession route. #

Sorsogon City Chamber of Commerce and Industry nagpahayag dapit sa sistema kan trapiko sa sentro na isinasairarum sa dry run

Sorsogon City - FULL force na nag-atendir an opisyales asin miembros kan Sorsogon City Chamber of Commerce and Industry sa public dialogue na pinagpaapod kan lokal na gobyerno para isihon an epekto kan dry run sa sistema kan trapiko digdi sa syudad nin Sorsogon. 

Nagpaluwas nin komento an mga ini manongod sa naging epekto sa saindang negosyo kan traffic dry run. Enot an loading sa hampang kan mga establisimiento na pirming nasisita kan mga traffic enforcer asin pulis. Pighagad ninda na togotan nin horohalawig na panahon an saindang mga parokyano ta imbis maglaog asin magbakal sa saindang puesto, dae na  sana para dae na masita. Panduwa, an parking zone na kun puede iguang idesignar na mas horoharane sa mga negosyo. Pantolo an truck ban na ideretso poon alas nuebe (9) an aga sagkod alas tres (3) an hapon para dae na maghalat pa an mga supplier kan saindang produkto. Gabos naman ipigpabugtak sa rekord ni City Administrator Ireneo Manaois an nasambit na mga obserbasyon asin suhestyon para sa finalization kan traffic scheme. Ipinaotob an dry run poon Agosto 15, 2012 makalihis magbukas an Integrated Terminal sa Barangay kan Balogo. Sinabi ni Manaois, importante an arug kaining pagbinalyuhan nin obserbasyon para makapagtogdas nin mas maninigo na mga sistema. Nakiolay pa man an Sorsogon Chamber na kun puede tawan sinda nin separadong oras na maipaabot nin bisay an iba pa nindang mga agrangay. #

BM Eric Dioneda posibleng dumalagan Gobernador kan Sorsogon

Photo grab from Eric Dioneda's FB 

SORSOGON City - PINAKA-AABANGAN na sa ngunyan an pormal dangan opisyal na pagdeklarar kan saiyang kandidatura bilang gobernador kan probinsya ni Provincial Board Member Mark Eric Dioneda, aki ni Sorsogon City Mayor Leovic R. Dioneda. 

Ini makalihis magluwas sa programang tingog kan banwaan na madalagan gobernador an joven na dioneda en entisipasyon sa posibling pagdalagan man kan joven na lee na si city vice mayor Bobet Lee Rodrigueza. 

Segun sa masasarigan na impormante, tawong harane kay bokal Dioneda na togot man an joven na dioneda na dumalagan gobernador. 

"Dae man ki mawawara kay Mark Eric kun dumalagan man siya Gobernador, bako? Malay ta baya.." pahayag kan impormante. 

Idinagdag pa niya na may mga preparasyon nang pinaggigibo an kampo kan mga dioneda para sa laban na ini kabilang na kun siriisay an mga magiging mga katiwala o mga magiging katabang kaini pag-abot sa kapitolyo kan probinsya enkaso man nanggad na ini swertehon. 

An siring na impormasyon katakod pa sa bana-bana asin pagluwas kan estorya na magkandidatong city mayor si Gobernador Raul R. Lee asin ibubusol sa probinsya an aki niyang si Vice Mayor Robert Rodrigueza. 

Siring kay bokal Dioneda, pinakaaabangan na man an opisyal na deklarasyon gikan sa kampo kan lee. 

An nasambit nang mga estorya sa palibot kan duwang kampo naghahalat pa nin komfirmasyon hale sa mga imbueltong personalidad. #

Intensity 6 kan linog namatean digdi sa Sorsogon gikan sa magnitude 7.7 na linog na tuminama sa ESE kan Borongan Eastern Samar.

Sorsogon City - YINOGYOG nin magnitude 7.7 na linog an Pilipinas kasubanggi. 

Segun sa Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology o PHIVOLCS yaon sa 161km ESE kan Borongan Eastern Samar an epicenter kan linog kun saen namatean man digdi sa probinsya nin Sorsogon an maabot sa intensity 6 na pagyogyog pasado alas 8:30 an pagkabanggi. 

Nangarat an gabos na mga apektado kan linog dahilan sa kosog kan pagyogyog na nagdurar nin sobra halos tres minutos. 

Mantang dae man nagkaigua nin danyos digdi sa Sorsogon alagad tolos nag-alerto an mga awtoridad sa posibling paghagad nin asistensya kan sa namamanwaan. 

Segun sa PDRRMC kumpiado sindang mas naging preparado an tawo dahilan sa mga pinaggibong earthquake drill poon pa kan nakalihis na mga panahon na syertong naggamit mientras na naglilinog.  

Mantang an mga Barangay natawan na nin supisyenteng kaaraman kun pan-o aaktuwaran an kaparehong kalamidad. 

Tolos man nagpaluwas nin Tsunami alert an PHIVOLS sa mga lugar na yaon sa eastern seaboard kan nasyon kabilang an Northern asin Eastern Samar, Leyte, southern Leyte, Surigao del Sur asin Surigao del Norte.#

Kaenot-enoteng Bicol Travel and Food Expo pinakaaabangan na

Naga City - PINAKAAABANGAN na an kaenot-enoteng Bicol Travel and Food Expo na maarangkada sa umaboton na Penafrancia Fiesta/Festival sa syudad kan Naga. Ini pigmaliogotan na maorganisar kan pinakadakulang Bikolano Network na PBN, katabang an mga darakulang ahensia de gobyerno sa Bikol siring kan DOT, DTI, TESDA, DA asin lokal na gobyerno kan Naga. An proyekto may katuyuhan na matawan nin magayon buda desenteng lugar o venue an nagmamawot nin mahiwas na promosyon sa pagbisita kan minilyon na debotos asin turista sa dakulang Penafrancia Festival 2012. Prubado nang minahatak nin tambak na debotos an Mahal na Ina taon-taon sa Naga. Kun kaya syerto nang madagsa man an mahiling asin maikot sa laog kan "The Tent" kan Avenue Plaza Hotel, an venue kan BITFEX 2012. Iso-showcase digdi an mga magagayon na tourist destination sa bilog na Bikol asin na man an mga Festival sa rehiyon. Mahihilingan man digdi an mga de premerang hotel accomodation kan Bikol, mga produkto asin pagkaon na pwedesir kilala asin mga mamimidbidan pa sana. Ini mangyayari sa Setyembre 12-16, 2012 kun saen pano-pano an limang aldaw na BITFEX nin kadakol pang aktibidad.#

Bag-o na Integrated Terminal nagbukas na

Sorsogon City - BINUKASAN na an bag-ong gibo/togdok na Integrated Terminal digdi sa syudad nin Sorsogon. 

Ini yaon sa Encarnacion Village, Balogo, East district, Sorsogon City. Agosto 15, 2012 kan ponan an operasyon kan terminal kun saen inacomodar na digdi an mga pampasaherong dyip pasiring digdi sa Sorsogon City. 

Yaon na man nag-terminal an nagkapirang compania nin Bus, siring kan byaheng Legaspi asin Manila. 

Napag-araman na soft opening pa man sana an ginibo sa aldaw na ini dahilan planong gibohon an grand opening kan terminal sa Setyembre 8, 2012. 

Katunayan kasabay kan paglipat kan dyip asin bus, ipinagpapadagos pa an pag-ayos sa ibang facilidades sa laog kan terminal para mas lalong maging conveniente an serbisyo ninda sa mga transport organizations asin pasaheros kan Sorsogon.#

DOH Sorsogon alertado kontra Dengue

Sorsogon City - VIRAL Encephalitis an causa kan kagadanon kan sarong 11 anyos na aki sa Seabreeze Homes, Cabid-an East district Sorsogon City. Ini an paglilinaw kan Department of Health, Provincial Health team kan Sorsogon na pinamamayuhan ni Dr. Napoleon Arevalo. Sinabi ni Dr. Arevalo na sa miting ninda asin kan City Health Office, plinano na kan grupo kun pan-o an epektibong pagrespondir sa padagos na naererehistrong mga kaso nin Dengue sa Seabreeze Homes. Sinabi ni Dr. Arevalo na padagos pigbabantayan kan City Health asin maging kan saindang oficina an nasambit na lugar como digdi halangkaw an bilang kan mga clinical dengue cases. Mientrastanto, segun pa sa Doktor nagpadara na sinda nin sample para sa laboratory test kan panibagong mortality na nagbotwa sa Seabreeze Homes para macomfirmar kun anong virus man nanggad an causa kan pagkagadan kan aki. Sinabi ni Arevalo, an DOH Manila an may kakayahan magcomfirmar kun anong specificong virus an nakaulakit sa sarong indibidwal. Nagpatanid na man siya sa namamanwaan na manteniron an pag-observar sa inaapod nindang intervention laban sa Dengue, na iyo an 4S. Ini kinabibilangan kan search and destroy; self protection measure; seek early consultation; and say No to indiscriminate fogging. #