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Showing posts with the label Albay

BU Daraga Excellence: Rossie Lei Lita Secures Top 10 Spot in March 2026 Teachers' Board Exam

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Bicol University (BU) Daraga Campus continues to uphold its tradition of academic distinction as Rossie Lei Alemania Lita officially joined the ranks of the nation's top-performing examinees in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) at the Secondary Level. Lita achieved an exceptional rating of 93.80%, placing her at Rank 7 nationwide. Her success brings further honor to the BU College of Education, a recognized Center of Excellence in the Philippines. The achievement of Lita highlights the consistent performance of BU Daraga in the field of teacher education. The campus has long been a focal point for high-performing education graduates, and Lita’s inclusion in the Top 10 reinforces the university’s mission to produce globally competitive professionals.

BU Polangui Pride: Samantha Nicole Urbano Bejer Secures Rank 5 in March 2026 LET

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Education excellence in the Bicol Region reached new heights as several graduates from local institutions secured top spots in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) – Elementary Level. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) released the results this Tuesday, revealing a strong showing by Bicolano educators who made the prestigious list of the top 10 highest placers nationwide. Highlighting this achievement is Samantha Nicole Urbano Bejer from Bicol University-Polangui, who successfully joined the elite top five. Bejer secured Rank 5 with an impressive board rating of 93.80%, representing a significant milestone for her campus and the entire Bicol University system. The success of Bejer and her fellow Bicolano topnotchers underscores the high standard of teacher education in the region, proving once again that Bicol’s academic institutions are formidable breeding grounds for the nation’s future educators.

BU Tabaco Pride: Bicolana Science Educator Clinches Top 7 Spot in March 2026 Teachers’ Board Exam

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Bicol University (BU) continues its streak of excellence in teacher education as Angel May Bernal Bechayda, a graduate of the BU Tabaco Campus, secured the 7th rank in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) at the Secondary Level. Bechayda, who graduated Cum Laude with a Bachelor of Secondary Education major in Science, garnered an impressive rating of 93.80%. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) released the results on May 12, 2026, revealing a robust performance for aspiring educators nationwide.

Lomerio Leads Bicol’s Pride: BU Daraga Alumna Secures Rank 3 in March 2026 LET

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Education excellence in the Bicol Region reached new heights as several graduates from local institutions secured top spots in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) – Elementary Level. Leading the stellar cast of Bicolano topnotchers is Cathrine Monica Buan Lomerio from Bicol University-Daraga, who clinched the Rank 3 spot with an impressive rating of 94.40%. Her achievement highlights the consistent academic rigor of the region's premier state university. Lomerio is joined by fellow BU-Daraga alumna Rian Mary Jane Borromeo Pitero, who also shared the third-place honors, cementing the campus's reputation as a powerhouse for teacher education. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) results underscored a dominant performance by Bicolano educators, with several other graduates from Bicol University’s Polangui and Gubat campuses, as well as Daraga Community College, successfully breaking into the national Top 10. For the residents of Albay, Lom...

Bicolano Pride: Region V Topnotchers shine in March 2026 LET Elementary Level

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Education excellence in the Bicol Region reached new heights as several graduates from local institutions secured top spots in the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT) – Elementary Level. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) released the results this Tuesday, revealing a strong showing by Bicolano educators who made the prestigious list of the top 10 highest placers nationwide. Dominating the Top Tier Bicol University (BU) continues to cement its reputation as a center of excellence in teacher education, with its Daraga and Polangui campuses producing multiple topnotchers. Leading the pack for the region is Cathrine Monica Buan Lomerio and Rian Mary Jane Borromeo Pitero, both from Bicol University-Daraga, who clinched the Rank 3 spot with an impressive rating of 94.40%. Joining them in the top five are Samantha Nicole Urbano Bejer from Bicol University-Polangui, Jeanylyn Barsaga Bilason from Bicol University-Daraga, and Hannah Mae Alolod Paguio from...

Bicolano Pride: Region V Topnotchers shine in March 2026 LET Secondary Level Results

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The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) has released the official results of the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT), and the Bicol region is celebrating a spectacular showing. Several examinees from local institutions secured spots in the coveted Top 10, proving once again the academic excellence rooted in Southern Luzon.. Leading the charge for Bicol is Allana Gumawa Abordo of Camarines Norte State College-Daet, who clinched the Rank 2 spot with an impressive rating of 95.00%. Bicol’s Top Performing Educators The secondary level list is heavily populated by Bicolano talent, with many achieving high-ranking positions across the board. Notable topnotchers from the region include: Rank 2 (95.00%): Allana Gumawa Abordo – Camarines Norte State College-Daet Rank 6 (94.00%): Harley Bonaobra Base – San Jose Community College-Malilipot Rank 7 (93.80%): Leslie Ann Bongao Bamiano – Bicol University-Tabaco Angel May Bernal Bechayda – Bicol University-Tabaco Ara...

Historical Aerial View of Mayon Volcano (1934)

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A rare glimpse into the past: This archival aerial photograph captures the near-perfect cone of Mayon Volcano as it appeared on May 3, 1934. Taken from an altitude of 6,000 feet, the image showcases the majestic symmetry and rugged lava trails of Albay’s famous landmark, soaring above a dense blanket of clouds. Documented during the American colonial period, this photograph serves as a significant record of the Bicol Region's geological and cultural history. 📸: USA. National Archives and Records Administration, War Department, Army Air Forces #MayonVolcano #AlbayHistory #BicolRegion #VintagePhilippines #TodayInHistory #MountMayon #PhilippineHistory #AerialPhotography #HistoricalArchive #Magayon

Bicol University Triumphs in April 2026 REE and RME Boards; Espedido Clinches Top 9 Spot

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Bicol University (BU) continues its streak of excellence in the engineering field as it celebrates a new wave of licensed professionals following the release of the April 2026 Registered Electrical Engineers (REE) and Registered Master Electricians (RME) Licensure Examinations results. Leading the charge for the Blue and Gold is Engr. John Lloyd A. Espedido, who secured the Top 9 spot in the REE board exam with an impressive rating of 92.15%. His achievement highlights the rigorous academic training and resilience characteristic of BU’s College of Engineering. By the Numbers: A Solid Performance The university successfully produced a total of 101 new professionals in this cycle: 94 Newly Registered Electrical Engineers 7 Newly Registered Master Electricians This feat comes amidst a competitive national field. The Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) reported that 3,769 out of 6,556 (57.49%) examinees passed the REE, while 483 out of 882 (55.90%) hurdled the RME exams.   True Is...

New Premium P2P Bus Service Links Metro Naga to Bicol International Airport Starting May 7

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Commuters traveling between Metro Naga and the Bicol International Airport (BIA) in Daraga will soon have a more comfortable and direct transit option. Starting May 7, a premium air-conditioned bus service will officially begin operations, shuttling passengers directly from the Naga City Integrated Bus Terminal to the airport and vice versa. To ensure convenience for travelers in the 5th District of Camarines Sur, the service will include a scheduled short stopover in Nabua. The Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) has officially approved the following fare structure for the new route: Naga City BIA | ₱600 Nabua BIA | ₱550 In an effort to streamline the boarding process and guarantee seats for departing flyers, tickets are available for purchase online via Easybus. This new service addresses a long-standing request from travelers for a more reliable, "point-to-point" style connection. By bypassing the need for multiple transfers and offering a climat...

The Iron General: José Ignacio Paua’s Journey from Binondo to the Battlefield

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History is often painted in broad strokes of national identity, but the story of José Ignacio Paua (born April 29, 1872) reminds us that patriotism is defined by action, not just ancestry. As the only "pure-blooded" Chinese general in the Philippine Revolutionary Army, Paua’s legacy is a fascinating study of technical genius and fierce loyalty. From Blacksmith to Brigadier General Paua arrived in Manila from Fujian, China, in 1890, seeking a new life in the bustling district of Binondo. It was here, as a humble blacksmith’s apprentice, that he mastered the metalworking skills that would later change the course of the revolution. When the Katipunan rose against Spanish colonial rule, Paua’s expertise became their secret weapon. He didn't just carry a blade; he built the machinery of war. The Munitions Master: He established a vital munitions factory in Cavite. The Cannon Expert: He gained fame for his unique ability to repair lantaka (native cannons), ensuring the revoluti...

The Siege of Quituinan Hills: A Turning Point in the Liberation of Bicol

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On April 28, 1945, the echoes of heavy gunfire and aerial bombardment finally faded over the rugged terrain of Quituinan Hills (historically known as Kitwinan) in Camalig, Albay. For nearly a month, this strategic vantage point served as the final, desperate stronghold for Japanese Imperial forces in the region, marking one of the most grueling chapters of World War II in the Bicol peninsula. A Strategic Fortress The battle began shortly after the 158th Regimental Combat Team of the US Army landed in Legazpi on April 1, 1945. Recognizing the tactical importance of the high ground, approximately 5,000 Japanese soldiers retreated to the hills. From this elevation, the Japanese forces held a clear line of sight over the port of Legazpi and the surrounding plains. To hold the position, they utilized explosives to carve out a sophisticated labyrinth of: Underground tunnels Hidden bunkers Reinforced foxholes The Price of Liberation The Allied response was relentless. From April 2 to April 8,...

April 26, 1901: The Dawn of Civil Governance in Albay

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The turn of the 20th century was a period of profound upheaval for the Philippines. Following the Spanish-American War and the subsequent Treaty of Paris in 1898, control of the archipelago shifted from Spain to the United States. In the province of Albay, this transition reached a pivotal milestone on April 26, 1901. From Conflict to Administration The road to this date was paved with military action. American forces, led by Brigadier General William Kobbe, initially landed at Legazpi—specifically at the site now known as Victory Village. This military presence was designed to enforce U.S. sovereignty during the height of the Philippine-American War. However, the goal of the Taft Commission (the body appointed by the U.S. to oversee the transition) was to move away from martial law as quickly as possible. The Establishment of Civil Rule On April 26, 1901, the military oversight in Albay officially gave way to a civil government. This was not just a bureaucratic change; it represented ...

Sustainable Luxury Meets Majestic Views: BYD to Open First Dealership in Daraga, Albay

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DARAGA, ALBAY — The landscape of the Bicol Region is about to get a high-tech, eco-friendly upgrade. BYD Philippines has officially announced that a brand-new dealership is rising in Salvacion, Daraga, promising to pair the province’s iconic vistas with the future of sustainable transportation. The expansion marks a significant milestone for mobility in Albay, bringing world-class electric vehicles (EVs) to a locale famous for its natural beauty. By establishing a presence in the shadow of the majestic Mayon Volcano, BYD aims to offer residents and travelers a way to explore the region with zero emissions and cutting-edge technology. What to Expect from BYD Albay Eco-Friendly Innovation: A lineup of premium electric sedans and SUVs designed to reduce carbon footprints without compromising on luxury or performance. Strategic Location: Situated in Salvacion, Daraga, the dealership will serve as a central hub for EV sales, charging infrastructure, and specialized maintenance in the area....

Bicol Economy Lags in 2025 as Investment Contraction Dampens Growth

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LEGAZPI CITY – Despite a nationwide trend of economic expansion, the Bicol Region recorded the slowest growth among the country’s 18 regions in 2025, according to the latest Regional Accounts released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). While all regional economies posted positive gains, Bicol’s Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) grew by a marginal 0.5 percent. This figure is significantly lower than the national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 4.4 percent and marks a sharp contrast to the 6.4 percent growth seen in Western Visayas, the country's fastest-growing region. The region's sluggish performance is largely attributed to a significant slump in investments. Bicol experienced a 17.2-percent decline in gross capital formation, the second-largest contraction in the Philippines, trailing only SOCCSKSARGEN’s 19.1-percent drop. Economists point to this "investment drought" as a primary hurdle for the region, which also trailed behind other sl...

Legazpi City Secures Spot in Top 10 Best Philippine Cities for 2026

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Legazpi City has officially maintained its status as one of the premier travel destinations in the country, clinching the 9th spot in the highly anticipated "Best Cities in the Philippines" rankings for April 2026. According to the latest report released by the World Travel Index (WTI), the "City of Fun and Adventure" achieved an overall index score of 68.29. While this represents a marginal decrease from its 2025 score of 68.31, the city remains a powerhouse in the Bicol Region, successfully fending off competition to remain within the nation's top ten. The WTI’s Overall Index is a comprehensive metric designed to identify urban centers that provide the most favorable conditions for international and domestic travelers. The ranking system is built on four critical pillars: Cost: Affordability of transport, food, and lodging. Activities: The quality and diversity of local attractions (such as the iconic Mayon Volcano). Safety: General security and traveler well-...

Albay to Western Visayas: Governor Rosal Unveils Vision to Link Pantao Port with Boracay and Iloilo

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Albay Governor Noel Ebriega Rosal has announced a strategic vision to transform Pantao Port in Libon into a major maritime link connecting the province to the premier tourism and economic hubs of Boracay and Iloilo. Speaking during a flag-raising ceremony at the Provincial Capitol, Rosal outlined plans to establish commercial sea routes that would bridge Albay with Western Visayas, effectively positioning the port as a vital gateway for regional travel. The initiative aims to capture a share of the massive tourism traffic from Boracay and strengthen economic ties with Iloilo City's growing industrial landscape. By developing these routes, the provincial government aims to turn Pantao Port into a central hub for both passenger logistics and trade. Rosal emphasized that this connectivity will not only boost local tourism but also create expanded commercial opportunities for Albay and its neighboring provinces. Provincial officials noted that this proposal is a cornerstone of larger e...

Modernity Meets Bicolano Heritage: The Rise of Ayala Malls Legazpi

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Since its grand unveiling on April 19, 2016, Ayala Malls Legazpi has stood as a beacon of modern retail in the heart of Albay. As the very first Ayala Mall in the Bicol Region, it represents a landmark partnership between the national real estate giant Ayala Land (ALI) and the homegrown retail powerhouse LCC Group of Companies. Strategically located along Quezon Avenue in Barangay Capantawan, this 32,000 $m^2$ complex has transformed the city's skyline and shopping habits, blending metropolitan flair with local Bicolano warmth. A Legacy Reimagined: From Market to Mall The story of Ayala Malls Legazpi began with a vision for urban renewal. The site, formerly the old Legazpi Public Market, saw its first shovel hit the ground in September 2013 under the project name "Liberty City Center." By 2015, the project scaled up significantly when Mayor Noel Rosal announced the entry of Ayala Land. With a Php1.6 billion investment, the development was rebranded as Ayala Malls Legazpi....

The Chameleon of Albay: Navigating the Controversial Life of Pio Duran

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TODAY IN HISTORY: The Complex Legacy of Pio Duran Born on April 14, 1900, in Guinobatan, Albay, Pio Duran remains one of the most intriguing figures in Philippine history. A brilliant lawyer and graduate of the University of the Philippines, Duran was a man of diverse roles—businessman, politician, and a staunch Japanophile. His life was marked by both achievement and controversy: Pre-War/Wartime: He was a prominent advocate for Japanese culture and a key figure in the MAKAPILI organization. Post-War: He showed remarkable political resilience, serving as a dedicated Congressman and a champion for the Filipino language and national interests. Duran’s journey from controversial wartime figure to post-war legislator reflects the deep complexities of Philippine political history and the nuances of patriotism. #TodayInHistory #BicolHistory #Albay #PioDuran #Guinobatan #PhilippineHistory #AlbayTV #OnThisDay

Gov. Rosal Eyes Massive Township at Old Legazpi Airport to Drive Bicol Economic Surge

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Governor Noel Ebriega Rosal has unveiled a transformative vision for the now-decommissioned Legazpi Domestic Airport, proposing its conversion into a multi-hectare township designed to become a premier economic hub for the Bicol region. Following a series of initial coordination meetings with the Department of National Defense (DND) and the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP), Governor Rosal confirmed that the provincial government is moving forward with plans to revitalize the site. The proposed development covers an estimated 37 to 38 hectares of prime land, which became available for repurposing after commercial flight operations were transferred to the Bicol International Airport (BIA) in Daraga. According to the Governor, the primary objective of the township project is to maximize land use for the long-term benefit of Albayanos. The master plan for the township is expected to be a "complete package," featuring a mix of commercial and industrial facilities...

Legazpi City Emerges as One of the Philippines' Safest Urban Hubs for 2026

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Legazpi City has officially cemented its reputation as a premier destination for secure travel, clinching the 11th spot in the latest ranking of the safest cities in the Philippines. According to the World Travel Index (WTI) report released in April 2026, the "City of Fun and Adventure" earned a safety score of 69.65, outperforming dozens of other major urban centers across the archipelago. This ranking places Legazpi just outside the national top ten and assigns it a global position of 1764. Safety as a Catalyst for Tourism The WTI report emphasizes that high rankings are a direct indicator of a city’s suitability for tourism. By evaluating critical factors such as crime rates, public security, infrastructure quality, and the overall visitor experience, the index provides a roadmap for travelers seeking peace of mind. A Win for Bicol Region For Legazpi City, this recognition is expected to bolster its appeal to both local and international tourists. Known for the iconic Mayo...