Bicol News Star

20/04/2024

Calabanga hosts workshop to address fisheries challenge

CALABANGA, CAMARINES SUR--- A Coastal Resource Management Plan Workshop was conducted on April 20, 2024, in Calabanga, Camarines Sur, aimed at addressing pressing issues faced by the local fishing sector.

The workshop gathered barangay officials from 11 coastal communities, representatives from various government agencies, and local authorities to deliberate on solutions for ongoing challenges.

The primary concerns identified during the workshop were illegal fishing practices and the lack of adequate funding to support sustainable fishing.

These issues have posed significant obstacles to the economic stability and environmental health of the region’s fisheries.

Illegal fishing, including the use of destructive gear and violation of fishing zones, was highlighted as a critical threat to marine biodiversity and the sustainability of fish stocks.

The discussion also centered on the need for more substantial financial support for local fisherfolk, which is essential for upgrading equipment and adopting environmentally friendly fishing methods.

Participants of the workshop committed to taking actionable steps to combat these challenges.

Proposals included stricter enforcement of existing fishing laws and increased government funding to support the sector's modernization and sustainability efforts.

The findings and recommendations from this workshop are expected to guide local and regional policies to bolster the fishing industry while ensuring the conservation of marine resources in Calabanga.

This initiative reflects a concerted effort by the community and governing bodies to tackle significant economic and environmental issues head-on, ensuring the long-term viability of the local fishing industry.

San Miguel Bay

22/11/2023

Headline news (Bicol News Star, 11/27.23 issue)

NCPO begins search for new Police Director as Pacalzo prepares to retire
By Noriel G. Oya

NAGA CITY - The Naga City Police Offices (NCPO) is currently in the process of appointing a new City Director for Naga City, as outgoing City Director P/Col. Nelson Pacalzo prepares to retire next year.

Two potential candidates, whose identities have not been disclosed, recently paid a courtesy call to the office of Mayor Son Legacion.

Legacion, who spoke to local media revealed that he expects more nominations or names to be submitted to him by the Police Regional Office 5 (PRO-5).

Legacion emphasized the importance of preserving the positive relationships between the police and the local government unit (LGU) of Naga City, as the search for the new City Director continues. The NCPO's decision is expected to be announced in the near future.

The new City Director will take over from Pacalzo, who has served in the position since 2017. Pacalzo's retirement will mark the end of a 35-year career in the Philippine National Police (PNP).

As the search for the new City Director heats up, speculation is rife as to who will emerge as the top contender for the coveted position. The NCPO has not yet announced a timeline for the appointment process.

22/11/2023

MIND-BLOWING (Bicol News Star, 11/27.23 issue)
By Noriel G. Oya

A Complex Picture

The Social Weather Stations (SWS) reported a 0.6-point decrease in Overall Hunger in the Philippines between June and September 2023.

While this decrease is positive, the picture is complex. The decline was primarily driven by decreases in hunger levels in the Visayas and Balance Luzon regions, but Metro Manila, traditionally with lower hunger levels, saw a slight increase in hunger.

This increase is concerning as it suggests that even areas with lower hunger levels are not immune to the impacts of poverty and economic hardship.

The increase in hunger levels in Metro Manila is particularly troubling given its role as a hub for economic activity and employment, which has been disproportionately affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.

Despite this, the overall decrease in hunger levels is still a positive development, with stability in Mindanao contributing to the decrease.
The SWS survey also revealed that improvements in food consumption contributed to the decrease in hunger levels.

Policymakers must continue prioritizing efforts to address hunger and poverty, particularly in vulnerable areas, through measures to improve access to food, increase social protection programs, and address the root causes of poverty and economic hardship/
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The Philippines and the US have conducted their first joint patrol in the West Philippine Sea since President Rodrigo Duterte took office in 2016. The patrol involved the US Navy destroyer USS John S. McCain and the Philippine Navy frigate BRP Gregorio del Pilar, with the aim of enhancing maritime security and promoting regional stability.

The joint patrol offers several advantages for both countries, including strengthening military ties, allowing the Philippines to learn from the US Navy's expertise in maritime security, deterring potential aggression, promoting adherence to international law, and boosting the Philippines' own maritime security capabilities.

This joint patrol is a positive development for both countries and the region as a whole, as it demonstrates a commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the West Philippine Sea.

22/11/2023

Editorial (Bicol News Star, 11/27.23 issue)

Fulfill Campaign Promises and Lead Towards Good Governance

In a recent statement, DILG Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr. urged newly-elected Sangguniang Kabataan (SK) officials to fulfill their campaign promises and serve as examples of good governance.

Abalos' call comes as the nationwide mandatory training for SK officials nears completion. The training, mandated by Section 28 of Republic Act 11768, covers five key sessions on topics such as Decentralization and Local Governance, SK History and Salient Features, Meetings and Resolutions, Planning and Budgeting, and Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards.

Paragraph 3: Abalos emphasized that the lessons learned during the training should inspire SK officials to lead towards good governance and contribute to societal development as the next leaders of the country.

After the completion of the training, a separate mandatory bookkeeping training is being developed for appointed SK treasurers, which complies with the new guidelines set by the DILG on the qualifications of SK secretaries and treasurers.

Paragraph 5: Abalos' message highlights the importance of accountability and fulfilling campaign promises, which are crucial elements of good governance. As the country's youth leaders, SK officials have a responsibility to set an example for their constituents and promote transparency and integrity in local governance.

By fulfilling their campaign promises and embodying the principles of good governance, SK officials can inspire trust and confidence in their communities and contribute to a more prosperous and just society.

As the country continues to grapple with issues such as corruption, poverty, and inequality, the role of youth leaders in promoting good governance and social development cannot be overstated.

It is crucial that SK officials understand their responsibilities and obligations as public servants and strive to fulfill them to the best of their abilities. By doing so, they can help build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society for all Filipinos.

Abalos' message serves as a timely reminder to SK officials to uphold the principles of good governance and fulfill their campaign promises. As the country's youth leaders, they have a unique opportunity to inspire change and promote social development. By setting an example for their constituents and embodying the principles of good governance, SK officials can help build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous society for all Filipinos/

15/11/2023

Headline News (Bicol News Star, 11.20.23,)

:Legacion vows to sustain development after winning Most Competitive Component City Award

By Noriel G. Oya

Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion has pledged to sustain the development of the city after it was named the Most Competitive Component City for the third consecutive year. The award was given by the National Competitiveness Council (NCC) in recognition of Naga City's efforts to promote economic growth, improve governance, and enhance the quality of life for its residents.

Mayor Legacion expressed his gratitude for the recognition and reaffirmed his commitment to continue working towards the betterment of Naga City. He emphasized the importance of sustaining the city's development and ensuring that its progress is inclusive and sustainable.

"We are proud of this recognition, but we know that there is still much work to be done. We will continue to prioritize the needs of our people and work towards a brighter future for Naga City," said Mayor Legacion.

The award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the people of Naga City, who have worked tirelessly to make their community a better place to live. The city's success is a result of a collaborative effort between the government, private sector, and civil society organizations.

Naga City's achievements in the areas of economic development, social development, and environmental sustainability have earned it a reputation as a model for other cities to follow. The city's success has also attracted investment and created job opportunities for its residents.

As Naga City continues to lead the way in development, it serves as an inspiration to other cities in the region. Its success is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

Mayor Legacion's pledge to sustain development is a reflection of the city's unwavering commitment to progress and a better future for its residents. With his leadership and the continued efforts of the people of Naga City, the city's success is sure to continue for years to come

15/11/2023

MIND-BLOWING (Bicol News Star, 11.20.23 issue
By Noriel G. Oya
Exceptional Leadership

Naga City Mayor Nelson Legacion has once again proven his exceptional leadership skills by receiving the prestigious award for being the most competitive component city for the third consecutive time.

This achievement highlights his visionary approach to governance, emphasis on transparency, and commitment to inclusivity, innovative policies,

Mayor Legacion has attracted investments, improved infrastructure, and created more job opportunities.

His administration's responsible use of public funds has built trust among residents, and his commitment to community empowerment has fostered unity in Naga City. Mayor Legacion's achievements make Naga City a model for other component cities to follow.
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Former Department of Justice Secretary Lilia De Lima's release from prison marks a significant moment in her long and controversial legal battle. De Lima, who had served as as the Secretary of Justice under the P-Noy administration, was arrested in February 2017 on charges of drug trafficking.

De Lima was accused of receiving drug money from a high-profile drug lord and using it to fund her 2016 senatorial campaign. Her arrest and subsequent detention were met with widespread criticism from human rights activists who claimed that it was a politically motivated move to silence her as a vocal critic of President Rodrigo Duterte's controversial war on drugs.

During her time in detention, De Lima maintained her innocence, claiming that the charges against her were fabricated as an act of retaliation for her anti-drug campaign. Her case attracted international attention, with numerous organizations and individuals calling for her release and condemning what they saw as a violation of human rights.

Her release has been met with mixed reactions. Supporters view it as a triumph for human rights and a step towards justice for De Lima. They argue that her detention was politically motivated and that she was unfairly targeted for her anti-drug advocacy. On the other hand, critics argue that her release undermines the government's anti-drug campaign, implying that De Lima is being shown favoritism due to her political connections.

As De Lima rebuilds her life outside of prison, it remains to be seen how this chapter of her life will shape her future. Undoubtedly, she will continue to be a prominent figure in the fight for human rights and the battle against drug-related crimes in the Philippines, using her firsthand experience to shed light on the flaws and challenges of the country's justice system.

15/11/2023

Editorial (Bicol News Star. 11.20.23)

An Imperative Call

The Philippine National Railways' (PNR) Bicol-Manila route has long served as a crucial transportation link for the residents of the Bicol region. However, due to various challenges, the service has been disrupted for an extended period. This editorial aims to highlight the significance of the PNR Bicol-Manila route and advocate for its prompt and complete resumption.

The Bicol region, located in the southeastern part of Luzon Island, is home to millions of Filipinos who heavily rely on this railway infrastructure for their travel between their hometowns and the capital city of Manila. This railway connection holds immense economic, social, and environmental importance.

Economic Significance

Firstly, the PNR Bicol-Manila route plays a pivotal role in economic development. With the resumption of this route, trade and commerce between the Bicol region and Manila will flourish. Businesses will thrive, creating employment opportunities and boosting the local economy. Moreover, the region's abundant natural resources can be efficiently transported to Manila, providing a broader market for the Bicolano products. As a result, the Bicol region's overall economic competitiveness will witness a significant upturn, ultimately benefiting the entire nation.

Social Impact

The social impact of restoring the PNR Bicol-Manila route cannot be overstated. The resumption of this transportation link will restore the ease of travel, allowing families and friends to be effortlessly reunited. Currently, without the route, individuals from Bicol face exorbitant travel expenses and inconvenience when visiting loved ones in the capital. This separation adversely affects the social fabric of our society, hindering the nurturing of strong and cohesive communities. By reconnecting Bicolanos with their family and friends in Manila, the route's resumption will foster social bonding, cultural exchange, and enhance national unity.

Furthermore, the railway being a more sustainable and efficient mode of transportation, it will reduce the emissions of greenhouse gases and traffic congestion on the region's highways. Encouraging residents to opt for train travel will promote a greener and cleaner environment. By reinstating the PNR Bicol-Manila route, the government can fulfill its commitment to sustainable development and contribute to the international fight against climate change

Expanding Tourism Potential

Additionally, the resumption of the PNR Bicol-Manila route will unlock the tourism potential of the region. The Bicol region is renowned for its natural wonders, including the majestic Mayon Volcano, the pristine beaches of Camarines Sur, and the breathtaking whale shark interaction sites in Donsol. However, the absence of an efficient transportation infrastructure deters potential tourists from visiting this captivating part of the country.

By establishing a reliable railway service, tourists will be encouraged to explore and experience the diverse beauty of Bicol. This influx of visitors will provide a significant boost to the local tourism industry, creating employment opportunities and increasing government revenue. Ultimately, the resumption of the PNR Bicol-Manila route will put Bicol prominently on the tourist map, contributing to the Philippines' branding as a premier travel destination.

In conclusion, the complete resumption of the PNR Bicol-Manila route is vital for the economic, social, and environmental progress of the Bicol region, as well as the nation as a whole. This restoration will facilitate trade and commerce, foster social unity, and contribute to sustainable development. Additionally, it will open up the untapped potential of Bicol's tourism industry and promote national unity. It is the responsibility of the government and relevant authorities to prioritize the restoration of this crucial transportation link, ensuring a brighter future for Bicolanos and the entire nation.

30/03/2023

29/03/2023

Bicol News Star Daet Branch is now open for all your publishing needs, you may visit us at 2nd Fl. Barcelona Bldg., J. Lukban Ave. (behind Camarines Norte Provincial Capitol).

Please come and visit us and we are happy to accomodate you.

29/03/2023

Bicol News Star Daet Branch ✨️
Blessing & Opening

Bicol News Star Daet Branch is now open for all your publishing needs, you may visit us at 2nd Fl. Barcelona Bldg., J. Lukban Ave. (behind Camarines Norte Provincial Capitol).

Please come and visit us and we are happy to accomodate you.

21/03/2023

MISSING
To all our fb friends, we are seeking help po to find JONATHAN REYES.

"Based on CCTV Footage Last seen at Getta Fuel Pili last Saturday past 11:34 PM. Nagstop sya sa gilid ng Gasoline station for almost 1 hour and nag uturn sya going to Pili road.

Ito po yung sasakyan na gamit nya with plate number S6 U901.
Bka po may nadaanan kayong nkpark sa area nyo. If may alam po kayo and nakita nyo po pacontact po sa number ko 09189079674
P.S We already reported na din po sa Police Station ng Pili. naglabas na din po sila ng Flash Alarm of Missing Person sa lahat ng police station sa buong Camsur.

Chubs, uli na po almost 36 hours kanang mayo. Yaon mn baga kami."
--Trixie Mae

11/03/2023

11/03/2023

BNS DAET BRANCH

11/03/2023

Soon to OPEN DAET BRANCH 🌟 BICOL NEWS STAR 🌟🙏🏻

24/02/2022

Editorial (Feb. 28, 2022 issue)

Lack of disposition

The Department of Education in Naga City should double its effort in the implementation of distance learning, particularly Modular Distance Learning. Dismayingly, the city has recorded 600 students in different public schools who failed in the classes, and of this number 236 did not repeat the module. Based on the record, of the 27,757 enrollees from 2021 to 2022 in Elementary 57 have failed and 49 are no longer repeating the module. Of the 17,854 Secondary students, 347 have dropped out and 161 have not resumed the module. In Senior High School, which has 6,886 enrollees, 39 have dropped out and 26 have not yet participated in the class. Unbelievably, the high standard of education in the city began to deteriorate. Whose fault is this?

Even with too much media mileage of the DepEd in the implementation of distance learning, it is still short in achieving the desired outcome. Unimaginably, how would these 600 students fail in their classes? What are the remedies conducted by the department to save the students from failing the classes? Accordingly, early responses to the issue are the various programs conducted by the DepEd such as Call for Parents Meeting, Home Visitation, Creating Group Chat with Parents and Students, Extension of the Deadline of Submission of Output among the students who have difficulty with lessons. Also, the DepEd has its Radyo Aralan, an on-air class that tackles modular lessons.

However, what is lacking here is the evaluation and analysis of educators if the modules they conceptualized are fitted to the level of intelligence of the students. We mean if the lesson can be comprehended by the students without the help of other people including their parents and tutors. Well, it’s better late than never. The remedies that the DepEd are implementing are better than nothing. But, seriously, it should consider the revisiting of the conceptualized modular lessons. Revision should be considered for lessons that are not easily understood by an ordinary level of a child's intelligence. Modular Distance Learning cannot be compared to physical classes where the students and teacher have an intervention during classes. This is the most important factor that affects the learning of students. MDL is just relying on whatever educational resources are available to augment the learning process.

We understand, the modular lesson being used by the DepEd Naga was regionally designed through the DepEd Region 5. They followed the DepEd national standard. However, our point is that low learning school children will be lagged behind if the DepEd will not do anything about it. Perhaps, the DepEd Naga can conceptualize lessons in which the slow-learning students can cope with the difficulties in the standard lessons. It can make the lessons easier than what has been standardized. Also, the DepeD should limit the conceptualization of lessons involving the internet. There are students who cannot access the internet because their families cannot afford to subscribe to its services. It means the department should consider the living conditions of their students if they are able to do the lessons without spending too much.

Those who failed and did not repeat the modules are the outcome of lack of disposition of the DepEd.

17/02/2022

DOH opposes relaxation of health protocols in an election campaign


DOH SECRETARY FRANCISCO DUQUE III

MANILA, PHILS.---Health Secretary Francisco Duque III strongly opposed calls to further relax the health protocols of the Commission on Elections for in-person campaigning in the face of the threat of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Some political parties have called on the Comelec to allow candidates to shake hands, take selfies, and kiss on the cheeks during the height of the campaign rallies.
But according to Duque, the public should also value their safety, and should now be able to live amid the limitations caused by the global health crisis.
The Comelec said they were open to the possibility of re-examining their previously released guidelines.
According to Acting Comelec Chairman Socorro Inting, their previously issued guidelines for in-person campaigning are also based on those set by the IATF.
Meanwhile, the government will slowly make the transition to the new normal or below Alert Level 1, according to the Department of Health (DOH).
Health spokesperson Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire said, along with the path to be taken is the non-removal of the directive regarding the mandatory wearing of face masks.
To put a place under Alert Level 1, Vergeire said its vaccination rate should be 80 percent for senior citizens and people with comorbidities in addition to the fact that establishments should also have safety seals on them.
Based on DOH data, there are already 60 million people in the Philippines who have been fully vaccinated, while another 60.6 million have only received the initial dose, and 8 million booster shots have been injected as of February 9.

17/02/2022

Editorial (The Bicol News Star Feb. 21, 2022)
2022 election: New economic chance for Cabusao
The 2022 election is considered a new chance for Cabusao town to leap economically. By voting candidates who possess the ability to bring progress in this town, surely it will achieve economic development. The old traditional political system in which leaders of the town thrive affected the improvement of this town. Cabusao was lagged in progress. The promises of economic development last election remain promises while some officials forgot their commitment. The voters must elect candidates who can recognize the economic potential of the town. Despite its vast farmland and huge sea waters, the economic viability has not been able to comprehend by the elective officials. It hasn’t changed economically. The poor became poorer and the place remained stagnant and underdeveloped. Cabusao town remained a fifth-class municipality in Camarines Sur.
Yes, it’s a new chance. Let us vote for candidates who are capable in the posts. As previously described, the town is an agricultural town. This is the biggest potential for economic progress if we can elect candidates who are concerned about agriculture. Concerned in the sense that he will concentrate on developing the agriculture sector of the town—from fishery to farming. Also, we should choose candidates who already proved that they can bring improvement to the town. We should choose candidates who are not jobless to spare the municipality from paying inutile people. Some of the candidates in town were jobless and making the political exercise their means of getting a job. Let us not vote for incumbent officials who just waited for the salary but do not perform as elective officials of the town.
Moreover, we should elect candidates who can comprehend the functionality of being a leader. So to say our leader must understand his work as an elected official. A leader who is lack understanding cannot dispose properly of his function because he doubts he might commit an error. The most important characteristic of a leader is empathy. It is the “ability to sense other people’s emotions, coupled with the ability to imagine what someone else might be thinking or feeling.” This character must be possessed by a leader. Governing is not just running the government but it is also dealing with people in the government and the public. An elective official who does not possess this character cannot be an effective leader. You cannot run the government smoothly if you are an apathetic person who is calloused about the feeling of your subordinates. Perhaps, most political aspirants in Cabusao town possess this character. Let us decide over it when election time comes.
Let us redirect the old political system in this town where voters sell their votes during the last hour of the campaign. In the last election, the political battle resorted to vote-buying. We can select the right candidates for their positions if we won’t tolerate vote-buying or we won’t sell our votes. If we once again tolerate this cheating we sell the future of this town. How about accepting election money thinking it belongs to you? It is far from reality because the act of accepting money during an election is bribing yourself. The voting slogan “ An Kwarta sa Bulsa An Boto sa Balota” is immorally pushing the voters to collect the bribe money while swindling them by not voting in the election. Voting is a substantial moral obligation that is rationally discharged. Obligation as a voter and obligation to the government choosing the right candidate. Your vote makes a significant difference in the political condition of the estate or for that matter in Cabusao town you will make a difference in its political system.
So let’s vote by our conscience.

10/02/2022

Kontra Daya group appeals to the public to be vigilant against election fraud


MANILA, PHILS. ---- Election watchdog Kontra Daya called on the public to remain vigilant against any form of election fraud now that the campaign period for national candidates and party-list groups has begun.
The public must strictly guard against any abuse or misuse of government resources, harassment, intimidation, disinformation, disenfranchisement, vote-buying, and red-tagging.
They also keep the public from taking photographs and video footage of anything far out of the ordinary and send this evidence to them at Kontra Daya.
It is best if the video and photo transmission includes the date, time, and place where they were taken, as well as a strict explanation of what happened and why they were taken.
According to Kontra Daya, they will collect the information they receive for them to study and also send it to the authorities.
It said they can contact their website, page, Twitter account, or email address for any complaint related to election fraud.

10/02/2022

Editorial (BNSFeb.14,2022)
Broken promises for Bicol
The upcoming election is closer.
Candidates at the national level started courting the rich votes of the Bicol Region. The traditional clannish voting attitude of the region inspired the candidates to sway the support of every Bicolano voter. However, this kind of voting attitude wasn’t anymore practiced by most Bicolanos. In the past elections, Bicol voted for the candidates it had chosen particularly at the national level even the region had several national candidates. Perhaps because of their experience in politics of broken promises. Most of the candidates that the region supported in the past elections did not fulfill their promises for Bicol. Even we have our presidential aspirant in the 2022 election, the region is not solidifying its vote but rather dissipating in other presidential aspirants. The region had sad political experiences.
Take the case of the Bicol Express or the Bicol route of the Philippine National Railways. During the Marcos regime, this route was the main mode of transportation for Bicolanos. When the Aquino administration assumed it neglected the prime mass transportation instead approved numerous bus companies to operate leaving the Bicol train behind the development. When the Arroyo administration took over the government, the attempt to revive the railways did not triumph because the people running the railways were inefficient and lack in knowledge on how to effectively operate the transport system instead some of them became rich milking the railways. The Pnoy administration did not take action to bring the old glory of the mass transport system to the country.
However, the good news is only the Duterte administration took seriously to construct a new railway for Bicol that will commence by 2023. The next administration will be benefited from the credit of this economic project.
Some national candidates are utilizing the issue of reviving the Bicol Express only to get the support of Bicolanos. Shame on them. We are not an idiot anymore. We won’t support candidates from Bicol who are blowing our heads. Even, those elected officials who did not even help the revival of the construction of a new railway will not get our votes.
It’s like the issue on a separate Bicol Grid, a transmission line for power supply in the region. Constructing such a grid has been perennially used during elections. Had Bicolanos officials true to their promises the region wouldn’t have suffered frequent brownouts and will have a lower power rate compared to what we are paying today. During this campaign period, the issue was revived by idiot politicians. They are promising the region of the efficient supply and rate of electricity. Shame on them.
Another economic project that was not implemented because of the difference in politics was the construction of the Naga-Libmanan Bridge that could leap the economy of the areas along its highways. The PNoy administration stopped the construction of the bridge even its budget was stipulated in the national budget. Instead, the budget was used in the road widening projects of the DPWH which was tainted with corruption issues. Also, part of the amount was allocated to the flood control project particularly the riprapping of river banks.
If we were asked to tell our candidates at the national level, from the president, vice president, and senators we would prefer aspirants who can fulfill these broken promises of idiot politicians.