Albay TV

The Philippine political landscape lost one of its most formidable legal minds and consistent human rights defenders with the passing of Edcel Castelar Lagman Sr. (May 1, 1942 – January 30, 2025). A stalwart of Albay and a titan of the House of Representatives, Lagman’s career spanned nearly four decades, defined by a fierce commitment to secularism, social justice, and the rule of law. Early Life and Academic Excellence Born in Malinao, Albay, to educators Pedro and Cecilia Lagman, Edcel’s path was marked by intellectual rigor. He was a product of the University of the Philippines Diliman, graduating cum laude in Political Science (1962) before obtaining his Bachelor of Laws in 1966. His student years foreshadowed his future as a public intellectual; he served as the managing editor of the Philippine Collegian, the university's legendary student publication known for its critical stance against authoritarianism. A Legacy of Landmark Laws Lagman was rarely a "silent" legi...

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...

Governor Edwin “Boboy” Hamor has officially received the prestigious Outstanding Governor of the Philippines award, recognizing his exceptional leadership and "hands-on" dedication to social services in the province of Sorsogon. The award was conferred during the 29th National Convention and General Assembly of the Association of Local Social Welfare and Development Officers of the Philippines, Inc. (ALSWDOPi) held in Zamboanga City. As the premier organization for social workers in the country, ALSWDOPi’s recognition carries significant weight in the field of public welfare. Excellence Through the 7K Plus Program The distinction highlights the effective implementation of the provincial government’s 7K Plus Program. Four of the program’s core pillars are directly dedicated to social services, ensuring that government assistance reaches the most impoverished and vulnerable sectors of the province. Key areas addressed under this comprehensive initiative include: Health and Well...

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...

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...

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 Bicol Region’s healthcare landscape is defined by one institution that has stood the test of time, war, and transformation. What began as a modest 10-bed wooden barracks is now evolving into the "Modern PGH of South Luzon." This is the storied history of the Bicol Regional Hospital and Medical Center (BRHMC), formerly and long-known as the Bicol Regional Training and Teaching Hospital (BRTTH). A Legacy of "Firsts" While Bicol’s medical history dates back to Franciscan infirmaries in the 1500s, the Albay Provincial Hospital—now BRHMC—holds the distinction of being the first government hospital in the region. Its journey is a timeline of constant elevation: · 1918: Its humble beginnings started as a one-story, wooden army station hospital within the US Army Reservation (Regan Barracks) on Sagpon Plain. · · 1927–1928: Formalized under Commonwealth Act No. 2168, a landmark two-story concrete building was constructed. This building, designed in the Renais...

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,...

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 ...

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!

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....

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...

PANDAN, CATANDUANES — The shores of Northern Catanduanes beamed with pride as the municipality of Pandan officially kicked off the 33rd Dinahit Festival, marked by a grand parade that transformed the streets into a kaleidoscope of culture and community spirit. This year’s celebration reached a new milestone, proving that after over three decades, the "Dinahit"—a traditional sailing vessel used by ancestors—remains a powerful symbol of the Pandananon’s resilience and seafaring heritage. The festivities began with a massive display of local solidarity. The Grand Dinahit Parade saw an impressive turnout from various sectors. As the parade wound through the heart of the town, onlookers were treated to a spectacle where "every step moves to tradition, and every smile tells a story," embodying the deep-rooted connection the people have with their history. The energy reached a fever pitch during the Opening Program with a headline performance by the Gubtik PANdance Group. ...

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...

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-...

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...

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...

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....

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...