By Jason B. Neola   NAGA CITY, Philippines — Naga’s Incident Management Team (IMT) and the Emergency Operations Center (EOC) have conducted a post-evaluation and assessment of their preparations and operations before, during, and after the onslaught of Super Typhoon Uwan on November 8–9, 2025. Acting City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Officer (DRRMO) Raynor Rodriguez said the activity aimed to identify areas for improvement in the city government’s disaster preparedness and response strategies for future typhoons. During the evaluation, IMT and EOC members noted a shortage of responders and volunteers at the height of the typhoon. Despite the limited manpower, Rodriguez said all aspects of operations were managed efficiently due to coordination among teams and the cooperation of residents. Some volunteers, however, failed to report for duty until the second day of the calamity. The assessment covered several key operations, including the distribution of food and relief goods, the condition and suitability of the Sta. Cruz Evacuation Center—which needs retrofitting to better serve as a temporary shelter—the responsiveness of residents during pre-emptive evacuations, camp management in evacuation centers, and the deployment of emergency vehicles to assist stranded passengers. In its overall findings, the EOC and IMT concluded that the city government performed commendably in ensuring the safety and security of the public throughout the disaster. Among the recommendations raised was to prioritize the safety and accommodation of evacuees over the allocation of parking spaces for vehicles, citing the situation at the second floor of the Naga City People’s Mall evacuation site. The teams also emphasized that only one Incident Management Team should operate under the Incident Command System (ICS) to maintain unified command and coordination. Because of the city’s timely and well-coordinated operations—along with the cooperation of residents—Naga recorded zero casualties during the typhoon. A total of 7,388 families or 27,297 individuals sought shelter in various evacuation centers across the city.  

By Maida Boragay   NAGA CITY, Philippines — While affirming that city government properties sustained minimal damage from the recent Super Typhoon Uwan, Mayor Leni Robredo revealed critical gaps in disaster preparedness, particularly concerning the structural integrity of designated evacuation centers. Robredo highlighted that widespread preparations were unexpectedly challenged by design flaws in facilities meant to shelter the public. “Grabe preparation ta pero dae ta napagpreparan na si iba tang mga evacuation centers. Pag makusog ang duros, lalaugon ning tubig,” Mayor Robredo said in a press conference, noting a critical realization during the disaster response. The most immediate concern cited was the People’s Hall at the Naga City Hall. Evacuees housed there were “soaked” by the water that seeped in. To remedy the situation, the Mayor’s Office and the Session Hall of the Sangguniang Panlungsod were promptly opened to serve as temporary, dryer shelters for those displaced. A similar issue was observed at the Sta. Cruz Evacuation and Event Center, where a structural opening became an entry point for water, leading to leaks and subsequent relocation of evacuees. Mayor Robredo admitted that the city takes responsibility for the inconvenience caused. Despite the infrastructure setbacks, the Mayor commended the swift and complete assistance from the education sector, “Mapasalamat man kita sa mga eskwelahan si DEpED 100% si tabang,” she noted. Private schools like Mariners Polytechnic Colleges and Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST) also opened their doors. These challenges ultimately pivoted to a crucial priority: the urgent need to address the shortage and structural inadequacies of the city’s evacuation facilities. The Jesse M. Robredo Coliseum, for instance, which was used for shelter, was never intended to be an evacuation center. While it was fortunate that the water did not rise there, the mayor acknowledged the immediate need for action. A key realization, Robredo highlighted, is that the city simply lacks sufficient and appropriate evacuation centers. “We really need to complete the retrofitting within the year 2026,” Mayor Robredo declared, identifying facilities like the People’s Hall—which is not designed for comfort as a long-term shelter—as top priorities for development and structural upgrade. This underscores the city’s commitment to transforming emergency response lessons into long-term infrastructure development and improved disaster resilience.  

NAGA CITY, Philippines — The Naga City Government is pressing forward with its plan to drastically improve healthcare services for children with special needs and Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), despite earlier funding setbacks. As part of its 2028 Finish Lines, the city has committed to strengthening its local health workforce to ensure that vital early and appropriate interventions are accessible to all, including young Nagueños. Central to the city’s strategy is the hiring of highly specialized medical professionals in the 2026 budget, which includes a developmental pediatrician, a speech pathologist, and a rehabilitation doctor. Mayor Leni Robredo said that these specialists are essential to treat children diagnosed with conditions like autism, ADHD, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome, as well as those needing physical and occupational therapy. “Hopefully sa January na pwede na ulit tayong mag-hire ng mga additional na tao at macorrect yang [shortage of doctors at the Naga City General Hospital], pero kailangan ayusin natin,” Mayor Robredo said in a recent press conference, emphasizing the commitment to quality, expert care. To bridge the immediate gap, the Mayor has proposed a volunteer engagement with her sister-in-law, Dr. Penny Robredo-Bondoc, a rehabilitation doctor, to help expand rehabilitation and therapy services in the city hospital. In a concrete move toward building a data-driven system, the city has already provided laptops to its Community-Based Rehabilitation Specialists (CBRS). This equipment will allow the CBRS to create a comprehensive profiling system—a crucial database for evidence-based planning and delivering targeted, specific support to every child and every PWD who needs it. The mayor concluded by stating that with commitment and collaboration, Naga will continue its move toward becoming a more inclusive and child-friendly city. “Hopefully for 2026, yung mga special therapists na kinakailanganーhindi lang ng mga bata pati Persons With Disabilitiesーmagkaroon na,” Robredo added as she vowed to institutionalize community-based rehabilitation. | via Maida Boragay  

By Jason B. Neola   NAGA CITY, Philippines — All offices of the city government will soon be displaying “No Gift Policy” posters in their entrances and public areas, following Mayor Leni Robredo’s issuance of Executive Order No. 58, which institutionalizes a comprehensive prohibition on the giving and receiving of gifts in any form. The directive mandates that the “No Gift Policy” be prominently displayed in all city offices and integrated into contracts, bid documents, and official correspondence. This move reinforces the city government’s ongoing commitment to ethical public service and good governance. Mayor Robredo said the measure aims to instill among Nagueños—especially city employees—the value of serving the public with “utmost responsibility, integrity, loyalty, and efficiency,” emphasizing that gifts are unnecessary in obtaining government services. One of the key provisions cited in the order is Presidential Decree No. 46, which criminalizes both the giving and receiving of gifts by reason of official position, regardless of the occasion, including Christmas. The directive also reiterates provisions under Republic Act No. 3019 (Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act), Republic Act No. 6713 (Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees), and the Administrative Code of 1987, all of which prohibit the solicitation or acceptance of gifts, favors, or anything of monetary value in connection with official duties. Robredo underscored that the policy does not only prohibit acts of corruption but also those that may create even the appearance of impropriety, recognizing that public servants must always remain above suspicion and reproach. The new order builds upon the city government’s earlier Executive Order No. 1, which reaffirmed Naga’s commitment to good governance through a framework anchored on accountability, transparency, and ethical leadership. “The institutionalization of a comprehensive ‘No Gift Policy’ is a safeguard against conflicts of interest, corruption, and even the appearance of partiality or undue influence. Public office is a public trust, and we must always uphold that trust,” Robredo said.      

By Maida Boragay   NAGA CITY, Philippines — Mayor Leni Robredo is moving for the development of robust primary healthcare facilities as a critical strategy to ease the crushing burden on Naga City’s main hospitals. The initiative comes as the Naga City General Hospital (NCGH) struggles with severe overcrowding, a situation exacerbated by residents habitually flocking to the hospital for common ailments that should be managed at the community level. “Importantehong maray na igwa kitang primary healthcare facilities ta nagrereklamo ang Naga City General Hospital na grabeng marhay an saiyang pasyente tapos siyempre si health habits kan mga tao nadiretso tulos sa hospital,” Mayor Robredo said on a press conference on recently. She pointed out that many patients with minor issues—like the common cold or trangkaso—go straight to the hospital. Robredo highlighted the protocol that simple cases should be handled first by barangay health centers or the City Health Office (CHO), as these facilities are equipped with medicines. However, she noted that the public has grown accustomed to seeking immediate hospital care. “Kun simpleng abo saka sipon, mas marhay na sa city health nalang magduman… or sa mga saindong barangay health centers. Bako na sa NCGH, bako na sa BMC. Ta nganing dae na mag-urulakitan,” the mayor added. The NCGH worries that with the massive patient influx, they can no longer cater to everyone, which could compromise the quality of care and could lead to patients feeling neglected or worse, being exposed to more serious infections. Aside from NCGH, the public can also avail healthcare services from the Our Lady of Lourdes Infirmary (OLLI) in Carolina, CHO I in Concepcion Pequena, and CHO II in Sta. Cruz. And several months from now, the Naga City Super Health Center (NCSHC) will also be operational as the city accelerates its strategy to bring essential medical services closer to every Nagueños. Mayor Robredo reiterated the need to immediately strengthen the Primary Care Facility system so that only those truly needing hospitalization go to the hospital, as she mentioned that the OPD nurses themselves confirm they can no longer cope with the sheer number of patients, especially during peak periods like the current flu season. This push signals Naga City’s commitment to establishing local access to healthcare and improving public health habits.

By Jason Neola   NAGA CITY, Philippines — In a bid to strengthen the local flower industry and uplift the livelihood of families engaged in flower growing and vending, the City Government of Naga is set to host the 1st Pacol Flower Festival from October 26 to November 3, 2025, in Barangay Pacol. Mayor Leni Robredo expressed optimism that the event will help improve the socio-economic conditions of local flower growers and vendors. “I encourage the sector to engage in the production of high-valued varieties,” the mayor said. “The city government is willing to extend assistance if only to make their livelihood generate more income by making it more vibrant and productive.” City Councilor Jude Diokno, who chairs the Committees on Environment and Energy, Tourism, and Investment, Trade and Economic Enterprise, emphasized that the festival aims to empower barangays to sustain the flower industry. “We hope this becomes a platform to institutionalize support for the sector and create an ordinance that will make the Pacol Flower Festival an annual event,” he said.   Robredo acknowledged that while Naga City does not share the same climate as Baguio City—home to the renowned Panagbenga Festival—it can still cultivate select high-value flower varieties suited to its environment. “It’s just a matter of finding out which varieties thrive here. We can choose from those grown in Baguio but focus only on what we are capable of cultivating,” she added. The flower festival, which is the brainchild of Councilor Diokno, will feature flower booth competition, the oath-taking of officers of the newly formed Cut-Flower Planters Association, and evening performances by acoustic bands and local artists, including caricature exhibits by local artists. To help local growers prolong the life of cut flowers and reduce dependency on costly Manila-sourced flowers, Robredo said the city government, with support from the Department of Agriculture, is open to providing greenhouses and cold storage facilities. These infrastructures aim to reduce post-harvest losses and improve the profitability of flower farming in the city. Highlighting her personal commitment, Mayor Robredo also shared that her family has allowed the use of their one-hectare property in Barangay Pacol for flower farming since the 1990s—an initiative that continues to benefit the local flower-growing community. Currently, around 20 families are directly engaged in flower cultivation and vending in Naga. Among the flowers to be showcased during the festival are sunflowers, roses, regatta, aster, palong-palong, and puto-puto flowers. Spearheaded by officials of Barangay Pacol, the Flower Vendors Association headed by Mario Camba, and the Flower Growers Association led by Diosdado Ador Jr., the event is shaping up to be a community-driven celebration. In preparation for the event, Councilor Vladimir Cayabas of Baguio City visited Naga on September 12, 2025, upon the invitation of Councilor Diokno, to share Baguio’s best practices in organizing its celebrated Panagbenga Festival. Diokno said the success of the Pacol Flower Festival will be evaluated based on three criteria: Sales reports and tourist attendance A feasibility study on the project’s sustainability, and The potential to institutionalize the event annually. As Naga City prepares for this pioneering celebration, stakeholders are hopeful that the Pacol Flower Festival will bloom into a long-term initiative for inclusive growth and local pride.  

Legazpi City,Albay, Philippines — The Provincial Government of Albay, through the Provincial Education Department, has distributed educational assistance to students and parents in the municipalities of Jovellar and Guinobatan, on October 20. One student expressed gratitude, saying the support helped cover school expenses, including thesis fees, reflecting the relief felt by many beneficiaries. The program helps ease the financial challenges faced by families and ensures that education remains within reach for students. About 60 percent of the beneficiaries are women, underscoring the program’s role in promoting inclusive access to education and future employment opportunities. Through this initiative, the Provincial Government of Albay continues to build a literate, productive, and progressive society. Under the leadership of Governor Noel E. Rosal, the provincial government remains committed to bringing essential programs and services closer to every barangay. (JBuitre, Albay PIO)

SORSOGON CITY – The province of Sorsogon has officially cemented its title as the Pili Capital of the World, setting a new Guinness World Record for the Largest Nut Brittle/Praline, on October 16. The colossal confection, known locally as Pili Kunserba, measured a staggering 144.16 square meters, a feat that was confirmed by Guinness World Record officials today during the ongoing Kasanggayahan Festival 2025. The successful attempt wasn’t just about the size of the kunserba; it was a powerful display of community effort and local pride.Farmers, local artisans, and volunteers came together for weeks to harvest, process, and prepare the thousands of pili nuts required for the monumental treat. The record-breaking event is expected to significantly boost the local economy and tourism, shining a global spotlight on Sorsogon’s rich agricultural heritage and its most famous product. The achievement marks a highlight of the annual Kasanggayahan Festival, which celebrates the province’s culture and bounty. (Albay TV News)    

NAGA CITY Philippines–In her first 100 days in office, Mayor Leni Robredo has delivered significant progress in her administration’s housing initiatives, highlighted by the distribution of Transfer Certificates of Title (TCTs) to 431 beneficiaries under the city’s Kaantabay sa Kauswagan program. The TCTs, handed over to the first batch of beneficiaries, mark a significant step in the city government’s commitment to secure land tenure for informal settlers through its socialized housing efforts. The Kaantabay sa Kauswagan (Partners in Development), aims to empower low-income families by granting them legal ownership of the lots they occupy. “This is not just about land ownership—it’s about dignity, stability, and opportunity,” Mayor Robredo said. “Once the lot is fully paid, the beneficiary must receive his or her TCT without delay.” According to the Housing Settlements and Development Office (HSDO), preparations are already underway for the second batch of title releases, expected to take place in December 2025, with an even larger number of recipients anticipated. The HSDO is working under Mayor Robredo’s directive to fast-track the release of TCTs to qualified beneficiaries immediately upon the completion of their payment obligations to the city government. In addition to the TCT distribution, the city is also taking strides toward long-term housing security by initiating the enrolment of urban poor communities into the Community Mortgage Program (CMP)—a national financing scheme that helps legally-organized homeowners’ associations acquire land through affordable loans. Several homeowners’ associations have already undergone orientation sessions as part of the city’s phased implementation of the CMP. The HSDO is currently processing necessary documentation to move forward with the program. | via Jason B. Neola