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A look back into the archival records of the early American period offers a fascinating glimpse into the demographic foundations of the country. Data from the landmark 1903 Census of the Philippine Islands (officially published in Washington, D.C. in 1905) highlights the early population distribution of the municipality of San Fernando. According to the historical document, San Fernando recorded a total "civilized population" of 3,542 residents at the turn of the 20th century. The Barrio Breakdown The census archival image provides a precise breakdown of how the population was distributed across the municipality's various barrios during the early 1900s: Población: 924 (The largest local center) Grijalvo: 540 Balogo: 377 San Joaquín: 371 Alianza: 310 Maranghi: 305 Biberhon: 220 Lupi: 180 Pamuquid: 169 Cotmo: 94 San Luis: 26 Santa Cruz: 26 Historical Context The 1903 Census was the first comprehensive enumeration of the Philippine population conducted under the United State...

SIPOCOT, CAMARINES SUR — With hearts united in faith and gratitude, the people of Sipocot gathered once again to celebrate Barasaan 2026, one of the municipality's most cherished and vibrant religious traditions honoring its patron saint, Saint John the Baptist. The grand celebration, which serves as a major highlight of the town's 225th Founding Anniversary and Sipocot Town Fiesta 2026, beautifully reflected the enduring devotion of the faithful and the unbreakable spirit of the community. A Symbol of Renewal and Unity Through the traditional and symbolic sharing of water, participants enthusiastically commemorated the life, baptismal mission, and teachings of Saint John the Baptist. For Sipocoteños, the water symbolizes more than just festivity; it is a profound expression of: Humility and spiritual cleansing. Renewal of faith and purpose. Unity and thanksgiving as one community. As the community looks forward to a year of grace, the shared prayer remains that the blessings a...

The Bicol Region continues its streak of academic excellence as another local scholar secures a prestigious spot in the national rankings of the March 2026 Licensure Examination for Professional Teachers (LEPT). Christian Lanuza Quinao, a resident of Barangay Pamukid in San Fernando, has emerged as one of the top-performing examinees in the country. A graduate of the Bicol State College of Applied Sciences and Technology (BISCAST), Quinao achieved a remarkable general average of 93.80%, earning him the Top 7 spot in the secondary level. A Mathematical Milestone Quinao, who earned a Bachelor of Secondary Education degree, Major in Mathematics, proved his proficiency in one of the most challenging subjects in the board exam. His success is a testament to the rigorous training provided by BISCAST and the unwavering support of the San Fernando community. Local officials and neighbors in Brgy. Pamukid has expressed immense pride in Quinao’s achievement, citing him as an inspiration for yout...

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...

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...

On this day in 1942, one of the most significant early victories for the Filipino resistance took place near the Waras River in Iriga, Camarines Sur. This legendary ambush remains a testament to the bravery and local coordination of the Bicolano people during World War II. Historical Highlights The Date: May 9, 1942 (though some accounts also cite May 11). The Forces: A coalition of patriotic civilians, USAFFE soldiers, and guerrilla units led by Jose G. De Lima and Isidro M. Villar. The "Ragtag Squadron": The engagement was unique for the participation of Agta (Negrito) warriors commanded by Dionisio "Gulay" Corong, who used poisoned arrows to inflict "silent death" on the enemy. The Outcome: The ambush resulted in 32 Japanese casualties, including high-ranking officers Colonel Yuguitsu and Captain Jumbo. The Sacrifice: The resistance suffered the loss of three guerrilla members and approximately fourteen Agta warriors. The Aftermath: Following the defeat...

Get ready to look up and lose yourself in the music. The long-anticipated 1st Isarog International Hot Air Balloon and Music Festival is officially set to transform the skyline this May 1–2, 2026.   Organizers have finally released the full event schedule, promising a two-day "elevated experience" that blends the serene beauty of international hot air balloons with a high-energy, star-studded concert lineup. A Feast for the Eyes and Ears The festival is designed to be a multi-sensory journey. Mornings will feature the magical sight of colorful hot air balloons ascending against the backdrop of Mt. Isarog, while the evenings will ignite with "night glows" and performances from some of the biggest names in Philippine entertainment. The Star-Studded Lineup Includes: Headliners: Vice Ganda, Rivermaya, and Silent Sanctuary. OPM Favorites: Orange & Lemons, Dwta, and Tothapi. The Beats: DJ MOD and Raven Heyres. Local & Rising Stars: Lucas Garcia, Aya Band, Guling G...

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...

A graduate from the Camarines Sur Polytechnic College (CSPC)-Nabua has emerged as the top performer in the April 2026 Midwives Licensure Examination (MidLE), according to results released by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) on Monday. Roi Zedrick Follosco Belen secured the Rank 1 spot with an impressive rating of 93.70%, leading the latest batch of successful examinees across the country. The achievement marks another milestone for CSPC-Nabua, further cementing the institution's reputation for excellence in health sciences and professional education in the Bicol Region. Belen leads a competitive list of topnotchers, followed closely by Kyra Lianne Hibo Gamboa of New Era University (93.55%) and Jeric Palisoc Ursua of Virgen Milagrosa University Foundation (93.20%). Congratulations to all the passers who are now ready to serve the nation in the field of maternal and newborn care!

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...

Jiu-jitsu star Annie Ramirez has cemented her legacy as a continental powerhouse, capturing her third consecutive Asian Beach Games gold medal after defeating fellow Filipina Emily Thomas in the women’s -57kg final on Friday. The victory marks a "three-peat" for Ramirez, who previously stood atop the podium at the 2014 Phuket and 2016 Da Nang editions of the Games. A Hard-Fought Road to the Podium The road to the all-Filipino final was grueling for both athletes. Ramirez secured her spot by edging out Mongolia’s Shurentsetseg Ehnkhmunkh with a 5-2 score in the semifinals. Meanwhile, Thomas earned her place in the gold medal match by narrowly defeating Shamsa Alameri of the United Arab Emirates, 4-2. The final bout, originally scheduled for the Sanya Bay Yuhai Club, faced a two-hour delay due to heavy rainfall. Organizers eventually moved the match to an indoor venue at the Athletes’ Village to ensure the safety of the competitors. The Final Showdown In a technical and tightly...

April 23, 1965, marks the birth of Maria Leonor Santo Tomas Gerona, known to the world as Leni Robredo. Born in Naga, Camarines Sur, her journey from a human rights lawyer to the second-highest official in the Philippines is a testament to her dedication to "laylayan" (those on the margins of society). Early Life and Education Robredo’s foundation in public service began with her education. She earned her degree in Economics from the University of the Philippines and later pursued law at the University of Nueva Caceres. Before entering the national spotlight, she spent years as a legal advocate through SALIGAN, focusing on rural empowerment and women's rights. Political Ascent Her official entry into politics occurred in 2013 when she was elected as the representative of Camarines Sur’s 3rd District. During her term, she became a champion for: Transparency: Pushing for full disclosure and anti-dynasty measures. Participatory Governance: Empowering citizens to have a say i...

Born on April 23, 1850, in the quiet town of Baao, Camarines Sur, Jorge Imperial Barlin did not just enter the priesthood; he entered a battleground of racial and intellectual prejudice. During the Spanish colonial era, a "glass ceiling" existed within the Catholic Church, fueled by the derogatory belief that native Filipinos lacked the capacity for high-level ecclesiastical leadership. Barlin’s journey from the halls of the University of Santo Tomas to the altar of the Diocese of Cáceres changed the course of Philippine history. When he was consecrated as Bishop in 1905, he became the first native Filipino to reach such a rank. His elevation was more than a personal achievement—it was a national victory that dismantled the myth of "ecclesiastical inferiority" and paved the way for generations of Filipino clergy to lead their own flock. A Hero in Rome Bishop Barlin’s story carries a poignant, modern-day mystery. While visiting Rome in 1909 for his Ad Limina (a requi...

If your idea of a perfect getaway involves trading the noise of the city for the rhythmic hum of crashing waves, look no further. Nestled 60km away from the bustling streets of Naga City lies Caloco Beach in Tinambac, Camarines Sur—a hidden sanctuary where time slows down, and nature takes the lead. Unlike the heavily commercialized tourist hubs in Bicol, Caloco Beach remains a "secret" favorite among locals. It offers a raw, untouched beauty characterized by powdery light sand, swaying palm trees, and a tranquility that is hard to find elsewhere. Why You’ll Love the "Caloco Vibe" This isn't a place for luxury hotels or high-energy beach parties. Caloco is the capital of slow living. It is a community-driven destination built on hospitality and environmental stewardship. Unplugged Serenity: With no mobile signal, you are forced to disconnect from your notifications and reconnect with yourself. The "Probinsiya" Charm: Expect rustic cottages, friendly lo...

On this day in 1578, the foundations of Buhi, Camarines Sur, were being laid in the heart of Bicol. Known as the land of the "escaped" (naka-buhi), this town was built by resilient souls who survived Mayon’s ancient fury. Today, it’s home to the majestic Lake Buhi and the tiny but mighty Sinarapan. Happy Foundation anniversary to the beautiful Banwaan nin Buhi! 🐟✨ References: LGU Buhi. History of Buhi. https://buhi.gov.ph/history-of-buhi/ Wikipedia. Buhi, Camarines Sur. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buhi,_Camarines_Sur ​#TodayInHistory #Buhi #CamarinesSur #BicolHistory #Sinarapan #NakaBuhi #VisitPhilippines #BuhinonProud

NAGA CITY, Camarines Sur — The "Queen City of Bicol" continues to solidify its reputation as a premier destination for peace and order, securing the 8th spot in the latest World Travel Index rankings for the safest cities in the Philippines as of April 2026. With a robust safety score of 73.58, Naga City outperformed several major metropolitan hubs, reflecting the local government's consistent efforts in maintaining a secure environment for both residents and tourists. The index, which evaluates cities based on crime rates, public safety measures, and traveler feedback, placed Naga City at a global ranking of 1537. Key Highlights for Naga City: This recognition comes on the heels of Naga being named the "Most Competitive Component City" in previous years, further proving that economic dynamism and public safety go hand-in-hand in the heart of Bicol. Naga joins other top-tier safe havens like Dumaguete (Rank 1) and Davao City (Rank 2), standing out as the leading...

A massive forest fire has broken out on the slopes of Mt. Asog, consuming hectares of forest land since it began on Saturday, April 11. Local authorities and emergency teams have been deployed to combat the blaze, which continues to spread across the mountain's rugged terrain. A coordinated effort is currently underway to contain the fire, involving several agencies and local volunteers. The teams are still working around the clock to prevent the flames from reaching deeper into the protected forest zones or residential areas. The cause of the fire is still under investigation. 📷 Iriga City-ENRO

Honoring a Legacy of Excellence 🏛️ April 12, 1868, marks the official opening of Colegio de Sta. Isabel in Naga City. For over 150 years, this institution has transformed from a dedicated school for girls into a premier Vincentian university. Today, we celebrate the enduring legacy of the Universidad de Sta. Isabel and its commitment to academic and spiritual growth. References: Naga City Tourism. Universidad de Sta. Isabel. https://tourism.naga.gov.ph/metro-naga/universidad-de-sta-isabel/ Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga. Early Beginnings. https://www.usi.edu.ph/history Wikipedia. Universidad de Sta. Isabel de Naga. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Universidad_de_Sta._Isabel_de_Naga #USI #StaIsabel #NagaCity #Bicol #VincentianEducation #CatholicEducation #HistoryDaily

LIBMANAN, CAMARINES SUR — The search for the ultimate embodiment of Bicolano masculinity and heritage has reached its grand conclusion. Amidst a sea of cheering supporters and vibrant cultural displays, Antonio Bolante Jr. of Brgy. Bahay was officially crowned Hadeng Handiong 2026 during the municipality's 452nd Founding Anniversary celebrations. The grand coronation night, a centerpiece of this year's festivities, showcased the "strength, soul, and excellence" of Libmanan’s finest. Bolante emerged victorious after a rigorous journey from the preliminary rounds, winning over the judges not just with his physical presence but with a deep-rooted commitment to the municipality's heritage. The Royal Court of 2026 The competition was fierce, with several standout candidates representing the diverse barangays of Libmanan. Joining Bolante in the royal court are: Hadeng Handiong 2026: Antonio Bolante Jr. - Brgy. Bahay First Runner-up: Kyle Joshua Breboneria - Brgy. Poblac...

LIBMANAN, CAMARINES SUR — The streets of Libmanan erupted in a vibrant display of culture and choreography as the municipality celebrated its 452nd Founding Anniversary with the highly anticipated Handiong Festival Street Dance Competition. The event, held earlier today, showcased the "strength, discipline, and Libmaneño heart" of local performers. Local officials expressed their pride and gratitude to all participants for bringing life and color to the historic milestone through their rhythmic movements and traditional storytelling. The Winners' Circle After a morning of intense competition and artistic flair, three groups emerged at the top of the standings: 🏆 Champion Tribu Parauma -  San Juan 🥈 1st Runner Up Hataw Mananayaw - Mandacanan 🥉 2nd Runner Up Young Artist Ensemble - Puro Batia The Tribu Parauma of Barangay San Juan took home the top prize, impressing judges with a performance that perfectly captured the spirit of the festival. The local government extende...