By Rosalita Manlangit   DAET, Camarines Norte (PIA), Philippines — The provincial government of Camarines Norte has officially canceled all activities for the Camarines Norte Bantayog Festival 2026 due to the ongoing fuel crisis. Acting Governor Joseph Ascutia announced that the move aims to safeguard essential services and redirect resources to address this urgent situation. He said that suspending the festival celebrations is necessary to prioritize public welfare. The Bantayog Festival 2026 was scheduled to be held in Camarines Norte from April 5 to May 17, 2026. This period typically sees an increase in resident and tourist arrivals due to the Holy Week celebrations and summer vacations. Acting Provincial Tourism Officer Jennelyn David reported that in April 2025, there were 96,881 local and 120 foreign visitors, while in May 2025, there were 95,907 local and 131 foreigners. Despite the festival’s cancellation, several activities will still be organized by the private sector, with the provincial government offering support in promotions and marketing, but not funding any events. Among the private-sponsored activities are the Bantayog Talisay Triathlon, CamNorte Models, CineCamNorte, CamNorte Pickleball, Kaogmahan sa Bagasbas, Queens of Bantayog, Oryol Group Oil Hike, Carshow, Beach Volleyball, Beyblade, Grand Tambike by Royce, Agri Marathon, and Farmers and Fisherfolk Week. Amelia Benitez, a 52-year-old resident of Barangay Lag-on, Daet, Camarines Norte, expressed her thoughts on the festival’s cancellation. “It’s for the best that the Bantayog Festival was canceled because the cost of goods has risen due to fuel prices, making it difficult for us to earn a living. I hope the allocated funds will instead be distributed to those of us who are struggling,” she said. Benitez, who has been a stall owner for 30 years selling fishballs, snacks, and drinks near the provincial capitol, typically earns between P1,000 and P5,000 per day during Bantayog Festival events, a significant increase compared with the P100 to P200 she makes on regular days. She remains hopeful that the situation will improve, allowing her to earn well again in future Bantayog Festivals. Danica Lean Esplana, a 22-year-old with a physical disability in her hand, also shared her views. “It’s okay that the Bantayog Festival activities won’t take place if the allocated funds are used to provide aid to people like us who have disabilities and those with illnesses,” she said. She added that what matters most is preserving the culture. Esplana suggested that the government could organize low-cost activities, such as a fun run or other events, that would serve as reminders of the province’s heritage and origins. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)

NAGA CITY, Philippines — Authorities have ramped up preparations to ensure public safety, security, and efficient traffic management as the city braces for an influx of pilgrims, tourists, and returning residents during Holy Week. The Public Safety Office (PSO), headed by Executive Director Renne Gumba, in coordination with the Naga City Police Office led by City Director PCol. Gilbert Farinas, is undertaking inspections and deployment planning in key areas, including the Central Bus Station, churches, and other religious and tourist destinations. Resorts, particularly those located in the city’s upper barangays, have also been included in the coverage, as these are expected to draw vacationers during the long holiday. Mayor Leni Robredo said the preparations are primarily aimed at preventing traffic congestion due to Holy Week processions, and ensuring a swift response to possible emergencies, noting that no extraordinary incidents are anticipated despite the expected surge in passengers, especially Nagueños returning home for the observance. Raynor Rodriguez, head of the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, said the city will operationalize its Summer Vacation (SumVac) initiative to ensure readiness for any eventuality. The peak period is expected from April 2 to 5, 2026, covering Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Black Saturday, and Easter Sunday, with activities beginning on Palm Sunday on March 29. As a pilgrimage city and a top religious and tourist destination, Naga is expected to draw a high turnout of visitors. Meanwhile, the Metro Naga Development Council through its Tourism, Arts and Culture Cluster has launched the Metro Naga Faith Tourism Circuit, a unified spiritual journey that brings together the 18 member Local Government Units (LGUs) of the Metro Naga Development Council (MNDC), each offering a unique expression of faith, culture, and devotion during the Holy Week. Anchored in the long-standing religious traditions of the Archdiocese of Caceres, with Naga City as the “Pilgrim City” and spiritual hub, this circuit invites pilgrims to embark on a meaningful pilgrimage within towns and communities—each stop reflecting centuries-old Bicolano faith practices. In the coming months, MNDC Tourism, Arts and Culture cluster will also launch Metro Naga River Cruise, Food Tourism and Sand, Surf and Sun Projects. MNDC Executive Director Hubert Brocales said that the River Cruise and Food Tourism component will highlight river-based activities, riverbank attractions, and local cuisines and signature dishes from member LGUs. These tour packages are currently being consolidated into a single portfolio which aims to boost local tourism and economic activity within the Metro Naga. I via Jason Neola

NAGA CITY, Philippines — The inaugural Isarog International Hot Air Balloon and Music Festival 2026 will take place on May 1–3, 2026 at the Metro Naga Sports Complex in Pacol, bringing a three-day showcase of colorful balloon flights, music, and tourism-driven activities to the city. Organizers said the first-ever hot air balloon festival, officially launched on March 20, will be conducted in partnership with the city government of Naga at no cost to the city government, with private proponents taking the lead in funding and execution. Bong Rodriguez of QWK Group of Companies, a business entity involved in organizing large-scale tourism and entertainment events, and one of the prime movers of the event, said the festival is expected to stimulate economic activity in the city, drawing tourists and generating opportunities for local businesses. City Tourism and Promotion Officer Reuel Oliver stressed the need to push through with the plan despite ongoing tensions in the Middle East, noting that external uncertainties should not stall local development efforts. “We must boost our economy,” he said. Mayor Leni Robredo, for her part, said the city government will extend logistical support for the event, including the setting up of tents, securing the venue, and managing solid waste collection and disposal. The festival will feature giant hot air balloons operated by international pilots, alongside live performances from top musical artists, food stalls, and family-oriented activities. It aims to showcase Bicolano culture, promote sports and adventure tourism, and create new economic opportunities for the region. Organizers said the event, mounted in coordination with Blue Skies and the Aeronautical Academy of the Philippines, is envisioned to become a landmark tourism attraction for Naga City and the Bicol region. I via Jason Neola

PILI,Camarines Sur, Philippines – Governor Luis Raymund “Lray” Villafuerte, Jr. is opening the CamSur Uptown, a priority innovative project of the Provincial Government of Camarines Sur. This master planned global city, set to be the province’s center of governance, commerce, technology, and culture, is also poised to become the official home of the highly anticipated Kaogma Festival. Opening its gates to the public on March 27, 2026, the CamSur Uptown will debut through Uptown Kaogma Nights, a pre-Kaogma Festival series of festive weekend celebrations happening every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday at 5:00 PM until May 10, 2026. The Uptown Kaogma Nights will offer an exciting blend of experiences for all ages, including sumptuous food, live music and band performances, night markets, free rides, fun games, and immersive activities. With its lively atmosphere and welcoming night vibes, the venue will truly live up to its name as “The Weekend Playground of CamSur.” Best of all, admission is free, making it accessible to families, friends, and visitors from all walks of life. Governor Villafuerte, the brains behind CamSur Uptown, shared how this dynamic and inclusive community space was thoughtfully developed for the CamSureños. “More than just a venue, the CamSur Uptown is a place where families can bond, friends can gather, and our youth can express themselves and create meaningful memories. We envisioned this as a safe, vibrant, and shared space for connection and recreation where everyone can unwind, enjoy, and celebrate life together. I warmly invite all our constituents and visitors to experience Uptown Kaogma Nights and make CamSur Uptown your summer hangout place.” Beyond its weekend festivities, CamSur Uptown will also serve as the new official home of the Kaogma Festival 2026, set to take place from May 26 to 31, 2026. This year’s festival promises an electrifying lineup featuring some of the country’s most celebrated artists, including Ben&Ben, Lola Amour, IV of Spades, Dilaw, Gloc-9, and Paul N Ballin, alongside many other surprise international artists of today’s generation. At its core, the CamSur Uptown will house the Iconic Capitol Building, together with offices and mixed-use buildings, hotels and resorts, residential spaces, a hospital, a digital campus, a lifestyle hub and mall, and logistics and manufacturing facilities.

Camp Colonel Juan Q. Miranda, Camarines Sur — Nagsagawa ang Camarines Sur Police Provincial Office (CSPPO), sa pamumuno ni PCOL Virgilio O Olalia, Jr, Provincial Director, ng Family,Juvenile and Gender Affairs Development (FJGAD), mula sa isang Community Outreach Program sa Barangay Sto. Domingo, Iriga City noong Marso 20. Pinangunahan ni PCPT Joan S. Jacob, Chief ng FJGAD, kasama sina PLTCOL Jeric Don P. Sadia, COP ng Iriga CPS, at mga personnel mula sa PCAD/FJGAD, Iriga CPS, at 4th District ang naturang aktibidad. Isinagawa ang outreach program para sa Inorogan Tribe bilang bahagi ng pagdiriwang ng 2026 National Women’s Month Celebration. Tampok sa programa ang pagbibigay ng mga lektura hinggil sa gender equality at women empowerment, mga mensahe mula sa mga lokal na opisyal at kapulisan, gayundin ang pamamahagi ng mga damit, grocery items, at feeding program para sa mga benepisyaryo. Layunin ng aktibidad na patibayin ang ugnayan ng kapulisan at komunidad, palaganapin ang kamalayan ukol sa karapatan ng kababaihan at gender equality, at maghatid ng suporta sa mga katutubong pamayanan. Binigyang-diin din nito ang kahalagahan ng pagkakaisa, kooperasyon, at pagtitiwala sa pagitan ng pulisya at ng Inorogan Tribe. Ayon kay Olalia, “Ang ganitong mga programa ay sumasalamin sa malasakit ng kapulisan sa komunidad. Patuloy nating isusulong ang karapatan at kapakanan ng kababaihan habang pinatitibay ang tiwala at pakikipag-ugnayan sa ating mga kababayan, lalo na sa mga katutubong grupo.”            

NAGA CITY, Philippines — Aside from assuring the Naga City government of his support for the completion of major infrastructure projects, DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon also vowed to continuously implement the national government’s Oplan Kontra Baha in the city. On March 17, Dizon, along with Naga Mayor Leni Robredo, inspected the 500-meter MT Villanueva Avenue (formerly Liboton Street), where the city government plans to make the area pedestrian-friendly. This will be done by improving mobility and safety, especially for students whose schools are located along the avenue, through the expansion of sidewalks, installation of bike lanes, and planting of trees on both sides of the road to provide shade for passers-by. No vehicle will be allowed to park along any portion of the stretch once the project is completed. Robredo, however, said that a public consultation will first be conducted before finalizing the design. Ken Abante of Safe and Sound Cities Naga said that Neil Bartolome, a colleague, was tasked to undertake social preparations and tactical urbanism efforts. This means that the project’s trial phase will be led by young individuals, who will also take the lead in conducting public consultations and other social preparations. Bartolome’s group is involved in the Naga City Tactical Urbanism Project. Safe and Sound Cities–Naga, in collaboration with the LGU-Naga (PSO, CEPPIO, CEO, CENRO, CPDO, and the Urban Mobility Council), the Naga City People’s Council (NCPC), the Naga City Art and Culture Coalition (NCACC), and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), joined the field survey along MT Villanueva Avenue in Liboton (Magsaysay Extension). The inspection aimed to identify key areas that can be improved to enhance the commuting experience of both commuters and drivers along MT Villanueva. The project is expected to begin next week. The mayor and the DPWH secretary were accompanied by a team of engineers and personnel from the DPWH Regional Office and the 3rd District Engineering Office in Camarines Sur. Mayor Robredo also said they visited the Bicol River Esplanade project in Barangay Mabolo to check on the ongoing desilting operations in flood-prone areas. The desilting is being supervised by DPWH personnel as part of the implementation of the national government’s Oplan Kontra Baha. These efforts focus on areas where floodwaters are unable to pass during heavy rains. The third stop of Secretary Dizon’s team was Julian Meliton Elementary School in Barangay Concepcion Pequeña, which experiences severe flooding during heavy rains due to a defective drainage system clogged with garbage and hardened mud. Stagnant floodwaters were also observed in nearby waterways due to improper waste disposal. Dizon and the inspection team were also briefed on ongoing clearing and declogging operations behind two large commercial establishments in one of the city’s business districts. Flooding in the area has been attributed to the improper dumping of waste into natural waterways during the construction of the malls. The team also inspected portions of the Naga River and Sagop Creek, which are currently being cleared of garbage and other obstructions. It may be recalled that Oplan Kontra Baha was launched in Naga City in February 2026, with President Marcos Jr. leading the initiative. I via Jason Neola

By Jason Neola   NAGA CITY, Philippines — Mayor Leni Robredo has issued Executive Order No. 015, Series of 2026, adopting a full compressed workweek and implementing stricter energy and fuel conservation measures in the city government. Under the order, all city government offices will adopt a four-day workweek from Monday to Thursday, 7:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., allowing a full shutdown of most administrative offices on Fridays to reduce electricity and fuel consumption. The policy was issued amid projected fuel price hikes, with the Department of Energy warning of possible increases of up to P24.25 per liter for diesel and P13 per liter for gasoline due to global market volatility and tensions in the Middle East. Robredo said the measure also aligns with Memorandum Circular No. 114 from the Office of the President of the Philippines directing government agencies to adopt compressed workweeks and reduce energy use. Despite the new schedule, essential frontline services will continue to operate on adjusted or 24-hour duty rotations, including the Naga City General Hospital, City Health Offices, the Naga City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, Public Safety Office, Solid Waste Management Office, and operations at the Bicol Central Station. The order also mandates stricter vehicle use policies such as mandatory carpooling, centralized dispatch of city vehicles, travel restrictions for non-essential trips, and a “no-idle” rule for government drivers. Offices are likewise directed to implement energy-saving measures, including limiting air-conditioning use, reducing lighting, and activating power-saving modes in office equipment, as part of the city’s target to cut electricity consumption by at least 25 percent.      

NAGA CITY, Philippines — Mayor Leni Robredo has issued Executive Order No. 12, Series of 2026, instituting emergency fuel conservation measures for the Naga City Government in response to the global energy crisis. The directive mandates all city departments to prioritize essential vehicle use, transition to digital tools, and adopt active transport to ensure the continuous delivery of vital services despite Middle East supply disruptions. This move aligns with the latest IAEECC national advisory to safeguard local resources and maintain fiscal prudence during this global emergency.    

Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo shared a powerful reminder to young athletes as the Palarong Bicol 2026 officially kicked off at Bicol University in Legazpi City, Albay, on Sunday, March 1. In an interview with local newsmen, Robredo emphasized that the worth of an athlete should not be measured solely by medals or championships. “I do not want any young athlete to feel that winning is the only measure of their worth,” the mayor said. “They should never feel compelled to win at all costs.” Robredo highlighted that the true essence of the games lies in the “growth, the memories they create, and the life lessons they carry with them long after the cheers have faded.”