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By Natalie Hazel Quimlat On February 1, Sunday, the Philippine Catholic Church observed the National Day of Prayer against Human Trafficking, which has become a pressing social reality and urgent concern for the country, especially for children. In a statement issued by the Catholic Bishops Conference of the Philippines Episcopal Commission for the Pastoral Care of Migrants and Itinerant People (CBCP ECMI), it is said that human trafficking “reflect deeper social conditions that demand urgent and sustained response”. The statement also decried human trafficking as it is a means to deny human dignity, and a cause of marring the conscience of society and spoiling the moral foundation of the nation. “It is a profound moral concern that calls for conversion of hearts and transformation of systems.” CBCP ECMI Chairman Bishop Socrates Mesiona, MSP stressed in the statement that the fight against human trafficking is a shared national call. He urged Dioceses to actively campaign against human trafficking and to strengthen the Diocesan commissions' response for this urgent social concern. “We call on parishes to become spaces of vigilance, education, and protection by integrating human trafficking awareness into catechesis, youth formation, and family life,” he said. “The protection of human dignity must remain at the center of public policy and governance.” In the local Church of Caceres, through a circular dated January 28, Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon expressed solidarity with the National Day of Prayer against Human Trafficking. “The Archdiocese of Caceres joins the Church throughout the country in renewed prayer, vigilance and action against this grave violation of human dignity,” Alarcon said. He also urged participation for the Week of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking, an annual observance led by the Caceres Office for Women and Children Protection (COWCP) headed by Fr. Jhonan’z Vibar. Themed “Gabos kaayon, Gabos may gibúhon: Breaking Exploitation through Faith and Action”, the said Archdiocesan Week of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking started last Monday, February 2, and will end on Sunday, February 8, feast of St. Josephine Bakhita -patroness of victims of human trafficking, and International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking. On February 6, Friday, the 14th St. Josephine Bakhita Lecture Series will be held at the St. Francis of Assisi Parish in Buhi, Camarines Sur.

From The COMBIBLIA Staff NAGA CITY — In a gathering of faith and fellowship, the Archdiocese of Caceres, through its Commission on Biblical Apostolate (Caceres COMBIBLIA), held a Bible Congress on January 31. The event brought together 335 Bible animators called “Bible Apostles” –parish coordinators, religious sisters and lay leaders –at the Legaspi Hall within the Peñafrancia Basilica Compound. Guided by the theme “The Word of God Gives Life in a Church where Everyone Belongs,” the Congress marked a dual milestone: the 40th anniversary of Caceres COMBIBLIA and the 75th Diamond Jubilee of the Archdiocese. The day was meant as an encounter with the Word through prayer, testimony and a shared vision for the future of the Apostolate. Following the solemn Bible Enthronement, Archbishop Rex Andrew C. Alarcon, D.D. delivered a stirring keynote address -defining the true identity of a Bible Apostle. “The Bible Apostle is a disciple of the Word, an apostle of the Word, and a community builder,” he declared. He emphasized three essential dispositions for every Bible Apostle: the openness to listen, the readiness to be sent and the commitment to work together. A highlight of the morning was a panel discussion featuring the current and former directors of COMBIBLIA. Fr. Danilo Imperial, the pioneer Director, recalled humble beginnings: “Though I was not a Biblical scholar, I was entrusted to start the Apostolate —no fund, no office, no staff; but we built the necessary foundation.” Msgr. Rodel Cajot, who served for 15 years, detailed the growth of Biblical programs and printed guides like “Enot na Pag-adal kan Biblia” and “Maghinanyog an Puso”. Fr. Philip Bersabe shared personal insights on deep scriptural study, while current Director, Fr. Erwin Blasa, expressed gratitude: “I am grateful that after 40 years, we are now harvesting the fruits of the labors of our former Directors.” The gathering was further energized by the Basilica Cantores de Peñafrancia and the remarkable Bible reading and preaching of an 8-year-old child, Ethan Alfonso. The afternoon featured moving testimonies from Fr. Jene Lois Sarmiento; Sr. Monina V. Baybay, FSP; Ronald Greg and Jocelyn Aguila and their children; Mark Emman Huit, a youth; and Bing and Ethan Alfonso, mother and son, who candidly shared their struggles and joys in encountering the Scriptures. Looking ahead, Fr. Blasa presented the Vision-Mission-Goals and facilitated its ratification by the Assembly, along with the COMBIBLIA Roadmap for 2026-2027. He announced the launch of “Baklay Biblia,” a caravan set to visit the Bay, Central, Partido, and Rinconada districts throughout the year. There was also a time of personal prayer, reflection, and sharing through a Spiritual Conversation geared towards concrete plans of action in respective communities. The Congress culminated with a Holy Mass presided over by Archbishop Alarcon. Drawing inspiration from St. Peter Baptist, the principal patron of Caceres, the Archbishop reminded the assembly, “St. Peter Baptist, like us, Bible Apostles, was a disciple, an apostle and a community builder.” He sent the participants forth to their respective parishes and communities, through a moving commissioning ceremony -charging them with the sacred duty to keep the Word of God alive and vibrant in Caceres.

The feast of St. Peter Baptist, principal patron of the Archdiocese of Caceres, was widely celebrated across the Archdiocese last Feb 1. A mass was officiated by Caceres Archbishop Rex Andrew Alarcon on the saint's feast day at the Naga Metropolitan Cathedral. In his homily, Alarcon urged the faithful to remain rooted in Christ. Having contributed much to the establishment and development of several towns that now comprise the Archdiocese, Baptist, who was a missionary from Spain, was chosen to be the principal patron of Caceres. (Photo from The Naga Metropolitan Cathedral)

By Rhaydz B. Barcia LEGAZPI CITY --- Tired and disillusioned, six members of the communist guerrilla movement, including a pregnant woman from the provinces of Camarines Sur and Camarines Norte, laid down their arms to return to mainstream society and the fold of the law. Army Major Frank Roldan, spokesperson of the Army’s 9th Infantry Division, said Karen Ombao, alias Lyka, a seven-month-pregnant medical officer of Squad 1, Platoon 2, KLG1, SRC2 of the Bicol Regional Party Committee (BRPC), voluntarily surrendered her firearm to live freely with her unborn child. “A mother’s love prevailed over false ideology after Karen Ombao, alias Lyka, seven months pregnant and a medical officer of Squad 1, Platoon 2, KLG1, SRC2, BRPC, voluntarily surrendered to the 83rd Infantry Battalion (83IB) and the Philippine National Police (PNP) in the municipality of Presentacion, Camarines Sur on January 27,” Roldan said. Roldan said Karen’s surrender was the result of a successful joint inter-agency operation led by the local government of Presentacion under Mayor Jimmy Deleña, in line with the Whole-of-Nation Approach. According to Roldan, Karen narrated the hardships and struggles she endured under the communist movement despite her delicate pregnancy, which, he said, violated her rights, protection, and safety as a pregnant woman. Karen is currently undergoing medical and psychosocial assistance from the government as part of her reintegration process to help her start a new life. “This proves that joint actions by the government, LGUs, AFP, PNP, communities, and other agencies are effective in encouraging our kababayans who were deceived by the enemy of the state to surrender their firearms and return to mainstream society to live freely and happily with their families,” Roldan said. Aside from Karen, five other rebels also surrendered—three from Basud, Camarines Norte, and two from Libmanan, Camarines Sur. The three rebels, identified by their aliases Esme, Larry, and Alen, voluntarily surrendered to personnel of the 81st Infantry Battalion, 42nd Infantry Battalion, and the PNP in Basud, Camarines Norte at around 4 p.m. on January 27, 2026. Hours after their surrender, government forces proceeded to Barangay Salvacion, Ragay, Camarines Sur, where Esme revealed the location of rebel firearms. Composite AFP and PNP forces recovered four M16 Bushmaster rifles, magazines, and ammunition. Subsequently, two more M16 rifles, along with magazines and ammunition, were found in a neighboring barangay near Barangay Baya after Larry disclosed their location. In Libmanan town, two more rebels identified by the aliases Bruno and Lucky surrendered to Charlie Company of the 502nd Ready Reserve Infantry Battalion (502RRIB), the 502nd Community Defense Center (502CDC), and the Local Peace Engagement Team (LPET) on January 28. All rebel surrenderees are currently undergoing debriefing and documentation to avail themselves of the government’s Enhanced Comprehensive Local Integration Program (E-CLIP). Army Major General Aldwine Almase expressed gratitude to the former rebels for choosing to return to the fold of the law and rejoin mainstream society with their families. Meanwhile, a rebel facing criminal charges was arrested in Barangay Chrysanthemum, San Pedro City, Laguna on January 26 by combined forces of the 22nd Infantry Battalion, 59th Infantry Battalion, and the PNP. Leo Gestole, alias Bhem, a member of KLG2, SRC3, BRPC, was arrested for a charge of illegal discharge of firearms and was found in possession of a hand grenade during the operation, Roldan said. Roldan added that Gestole is among the CPP-NPA-NDF members allegedly involved in armed encounters in Sorsogon province. He is currently under PNP custody for proper disposition. On January 29 at around 6:30 a.m., the Philippine Army in Bicol also uncovered 13 high-powered firearms in the hinterland of Barangay Guibahoy, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur. The weapons were recovered by joint forces of the Army’s 83rd Infantry Brigade and the 2nd Infantry Battalion. Recovered items included 12 M16 rifles, one M60 machine gun, two anti-personnel mines, magazines, and ammunition. The firearms were transported by Philippine Air Force helicopter to the Army headquarters. Authorities said the weapons were buried in a mountainous area identified by residents who noticed suspicious individuals frequently moving in the area. The site is one barangay away from where troops recovered firearms and ammunition in Sitio Benguet, Barangay Pinamihagan, on December 20 last year. Army officials believe more weapons may be recovered in the coming weeks or months as community cooperation continues. TROOPS from composite forces of the Army’s 83rd Infantry Brigade and 2nd Infantry Battalion, under the Army’s 9th Infantry Division, uncover 13 high-powered firearms in the hinterland of Barangay Guibahoy, Lagonoy, Camarines Sur on January 29, 2026. Recovered items included 12 M16 rifles, one M60 machine gun, two anti-personnel mines, magazines, and ammunition. ( Rhaydz Barcia/ Photo courtesy of the 9th Infantry Division, Philippine Army.)

The Metro Naga Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Inc. (MNCCI) successfully conducted its First Quarter General Membership Assembly and the induction of a new set of officers for the calendar year 2026. The event took place on January 30,2026, starting at 5:00 PM at the 2nd Level, Villa Caceres Hotel Ballroom, Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City, with 163 participants in attendance, all dressed in business attire. The assembly commenced with the acknowledgment of guests and participants, warmly welcomed by Maria Milagros Lim-Solis, Vice President for Special Projects, International Linkages, and Collaboration. Following this, Immediate Past President Mario C. Villanueva delivered the welcome remarks and handed over the gavel to the newly elected President, Dr. Emelita O. Menes, who expressed her gratitude in an acceptance message. A highlight of the evening was the launch of the MNCCI Hymn, composed and arranged by Ferdinand LI Dimadura. The hymn was played, and attendees sang with great fervor, with some members visibly moved. Part two of the program featured the Charging of the Newly Elected Officers, led by Regional Governor Gilbert Albero, PCCI Representative for South Luzon Area. This included the formal charging of Dr. Emelita O. Menes as the new MNCCI President, accompanied by her husband and children. The keynote address was delivered by the Honorable Maria Leonor Gerona Robredo, the City Mayor, who congratulated the new officers and emphasized the importance of unity in their efforts to assist the City of Naga in becoming more proactive in building a sustainable community. She urged MNCCI to encourage more investors and businesses to establish themselves in the city to help achieve her vision of the “8 Finished Lines by 2028,” calling for increased partnerships and collaborations. Following the keynote address, Immediate Past President Mario C. Villanueva conducted the Charging of new MNCCI members, which was succeeded by the induction of new members by President Dr. Emelita O. Menes. The event concluded with a recognition of past outstanding performances, where MNCCI was honored as both the Most Outstanding Chamber in South Luzon and awarded back-to-back as the Most Outstanding Chamber in the Philippines. A congratulatory video message from PCCI Vice President Hoover Picar for the South Luzon Area was shared, celebrating this achievement. The program wrapped up with closing remarks delivered by Executive Vice President Atty. Carlo C. Villanueva, marking a successful gathering that set a positive tone for the year ahead. A Night of Recognition and Fellowship The First Quarter General Membership Assembly and Induction of New set of MNCCI Officers for the year 2026 held on January 30,2026 was a resounding success, bringing together members and distinguished guests for an evening of celebration and camaraderie. The event commenced with a heartfelt recognition of our esteemed past presidents, who have significantly contributed to our organization. We were honored to have Past President Adolfo “Aping” Olivan, Past President Ramon Philip Imperial III, Past President Albert Bercasio, and PPP Gilbert Albero present to share in this moment of appreciation. Following the recognition ceremony, attendees enjoyed a delightful fellowship dinner, fostering connections and strengthening bonds within our community. The evening was expertly guided by our gorgeous Master of Ceremony, Ms. Antonnette Eduardo, whose charm and poise added a special touch to the program. We extend our gratitude to everyone who participated and made this event memorable. Together, we look forward to continuing our mission and supporting one another in the future. Hon. Naga City Mayor Maria Leonor “ Leni Robredo” receives the plaque of appreciation as Keynote Speaker during the Induction of New MNCCI Officers and members for the year 2026 at the Villa Caceres Hotel Ballroom in January 30, 2026 at 5:00PM.

By Paolo DS. Papa THE city government of Naga is unable to process the reclassification of the nine-hectare agricultural land in Barangay Pacol acquired by Eternal Gardens for the development of another private cemetery. The developer reportedly began dumping activities in the irrigated rice field sometime in 2024, even before securing land reclassification, which is required prior to any land conversion and must first be approved by the local government. City Councilor Frank Mendoza, chair of the Committee on Agriculture of the 15th Sangguniang Panlungsod, said in an interview that land reclassification is a requirement of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR) before the land conversion process can proceed. Mendoza added that under DAR rules, lands subject to conversion must not be irrigated or irrigable. In February last year, the city government issued a notice of violation against Eternal Gardens for undertaking development activities without securing the required land reclassification. Following the violation, the City Planning and Development Office ordered the cessation of construction activities at the site, except for fencing works that were permitted by the City Engineer’s Office. Mendoza said the reclassification of the area must undergo a series of public hearings and be approved by the Sanggunian through a city ordinance. The developer applied for land reclassification in March 2025, but Mendoza reiterated that the documents submitted by the company were incomplete for the stated purpose. As of this writing, the reclassification process remains suspended due to the six-month moratorium on the processing of land reclassification applications imposed by the Department of Agriculture (DA) from January to June this year. In a separate interview, Acting City Agriculturist Ernesto Asence III said the suspension is a favorable move for the agriculture sector. He said the six-month suspension allows the national government sufficient time to review existing land reclassification policies, which could lead lawmakers to introduce regulations limiting the rapid conversion of farmlands for other economic purposes. Asence also disclosed that Philippine Statistics Authority data show that Naga City had about 4,550 hectares of agricultural land, but this figure dropped to around 1,500 hectares from 2014 to 2024 due to extensive land conversions over the past decade.

By Ernie Delgado LEGAZPI CITY --- Mayon Volcano continues to rumble, with no sign of slowing down after more than three weeks of effusive eruptions, a government volcanologist said on Thursday. However, there are also no signs that the eruption will get worse soon, according to Paul Karson Alanis, the resident volcanologist at the Ligñon Hill Mayon Observatory Station. “As of now, the volcano’s behavior is not escalating except for the lava flow continuing to lengthen,” Alanis said during the Ugnayan sa Bicol briefing. “But we are also not observing any signs of a decrease or weakening in the activity,” he added, speaking in Filipino. As a result, the observatory has maintained Mayon’s Alert Level 3 status, which warns that the volcano remains in a high level of “magmatic unrest” and that the threat of moderate-sized explosions persists. “Overall, the situation at Mayon Volcano is still abnormal, and we are still at Alert Level 3,” Alanis said. In its latest observation bulletin, the Philippine Institute of Volcanology and Seismology (Phivolcs) said Mayon logged 119 volcanic earthquakes, 51 pyroclastic density currents, and 344 rockfall events in the past 24 hours. Meanwhile, the volcano spewed 1,275 tons of sulfuric gas within a 24-hour period on Jan. 29. Moderate plumes of smoke rose to up to 1,000 meters above the crater, drifting in two directions: east-southeast and southeast. The bulletin noted that the crater’s glow was “fair” to the naked eye and that the volcano remains inflated, suggesting ongoing magma activity. Alanis reiterated that under Alert Level 3, entry into the Permanent Danger Zone, which is six kilometers from the volcano, is prohibited. Phivolcs also advised aircraft to avoid flying near the area. Mayon erupts on average every three to 10 years. In 2013, a sudden phreatic eruption claimed the lives of five climbers, followed by new lava dome growth in late 2014. Known as the “perfect cone” stratovolcano, Mayon is a popular tourist attraction, even though its eruptions often force thousands of villagers to evacuate their homes and livestock, leading to significant destruction. (PIA Bicol)

THE NATION is preparing for a historic milestone with the planned launch of Oplan Kontra Baha–Bicol (OKB), a comprehensive flood mitigation initiative anchored on the Bicol River Basin Masterplan. The target launch date is February 21, 2026, with expected participation from President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., key Cabinet Secretaries, the Regional Development Council chaired by Governor Noel E. Rosal, Governor Luis Raymund “Lray” F. Villafuerte, members of Congress from Camarines Sur, and local government leaders, including Mayor Maria Leonor “Leni” G. Robredo of Naga City and Mayor Rubilyn “Bhing” C. Euste of Milaor, Camarines Sur. While this date serves as a working target, organizers underscore that it remains flexible to ensure inclusive participation and full operational readiness across all sectors. At the heart of Oplan Kontra Baha lies not only the science of flood mitigation, but also the soul of the Bicolano people, deeply rooted in spirituality and embodied in devotion to Our Lady of Peñafrancia, Patroness of Bicolandia. Celebrated annually through the grand fluvial procession and countless acts of faith, this devotion symbolizes resilience, hope, and collective strength, values that resonate powerfully with the mission of OKB. The Bicol River Basin, long vulnerable to recurring floods, is more than a geographic challenge; it is a living testament to the interplay of nature, community, and faith. By integrating spirituality with science-based interventions, Oplan Kontra Baha recognizes that resilience is built not only through infrastructure, but also through spiritual fortitude and the enduring bayanihan spirit of the people. The initiative represents a meaningful convergence of science and spirituality. Engineering solutions, hydrological studies, and infrastructure projects aim to safeguard lives and livelihoods, while participatory governance is enriched by values of humility, compassion, and solidarity inspired by Marian devotion. Civic groups, local government units, engineers, architects, and ordinary citizens unite, much like devotees during the Peñafrancia festivities, in a shared mission of protection and renewal. Oplan Kontra Baha transcends conventional flood control, envisioning nation-building through bayanihan, where every contribution, technical expertise, civic engagement, or spiritual solidarity, becomes part of a collective offering. Just as the faithful carry the image of Our Lady of Peñafrancia together, so too do communities carry the shared responsibility of resilience and sustainability. In the short term, the program will focus on comprehensive flood risk mapping of the Bicol River Basin and its tributaries, priority dredging operations led by the Bureau of Equipment under Director Toribio Noel L. Ilao, and the strengthening of local Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) capacities through targeted workshops and technical training. To support these efforts, a broad coalition of civic, youth, faith-based, professional, and academic organizations—including the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Church ministries of the Archdiocese of Caceres, Tau Gamma Phi, business groups, APO, PICE, architectural, mechanical, medical, and nursing associations, public and private schools, Sangguniang Kabataan, socio-civic clubs (Rotary, Lions, Jaycees, Eagles), uniformed services, OLPA, and other religious and academic institutions will be mobilized for community-based monitoring and public awareness campaigns. In the long term, the initiative aims to institutionalize risk-informed infrastructure planning across the Bicol Region, establish a regional flood resilience framework that can be scaled nationwide, and sustain multi-sectoral collaboration among professional associations, faith-based NGOs such as Bayanihan Para Ki Ina, Inc., the business sector, academe, alumni groups, environmental advocates, medical and nursing organizations, and the clergy. Collectively, these efforts seek to embed bayanihan values into disaster preparedness and recovery, transforming resilience from a programmatic goal into a lasting cultural cornerstone. Recent milestones underscore the initiative’s growing momentum. On January 25, 2026, a DPWH Central Office delegation led by Undersecretary Charles T. Calima Jr. and Director Toribio Noel L. Ilao visited the region, joined by technical experts including Coastal Engineer Vincent Jan Aurelio Nicer, Engr. Bernadette Ann A. Rociento, Engr. Dindo M. Macabante, and Engr. Shander T. Tasarra. Their presence affirmed the administration’s commitment to grounding policy in technical rigor and operational readiness. The delegation paid a courtesy call on Albay Governor Noel E. Rosal, Chair of the RDC, followed by a working luncheon with DPWH Regional Office V and District Engineering Offices in Camarines Sur, focusing on aligning local priorities with the Bicol River Basin Masterplan and the broader OKB framework. From January 26–27, 2026, Undersecretary Calima, in his capacity as Task Force Commander of Oplan Kontra Baha, together with Director Ilao and technical engineers, conducted a courtesy visit to Mayor Leni Robredo of Naga City. The meeting convened representatives from government agencies and civil society organizations, reinforcing the importance of local-level collaboration. Discussions centered on synchronizing OKB with ongoing city initiatives and ensuring that Naga’s role as a critical flood prone area is fully integrated into the masterplan. On February 3, 2025, a courtesy visit and collaborative meeting was convened with Mayor Rubilyn “Bhing” Euste of Milaor, attended by the founder and lead organizer of Bayanihan Para Ki Ina, Inc., together with fourth-year nursing students from Naga College Foundation, Inc. The students, engaged in community organizing and participatory research, incorporated the Oplan Kontra Baha (OKB) framework into their data gathering and planning activities, thereby aligning academic inquiry with practical disaster risk reduction initiatives. The meeting also brought together department heads of LGU Milaor, underscoring the importance of multi-sectoral participation in flood resilience planning. Discussions highlighted the integration of insights from technical personnel who had earlier participated in the year-end report in Legazpi with the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (PDRRMO). Their sharing of experiences, technical expertise, and institutional commitments reinforced the collaborative spirit of OKB, ensuring that government-led initiatives are supported with open arms by local communities. Milaor, recognized as a critical catchment area in Camarines Sur and within the broader Bicol River Basin, was emphasized as a strategic site for implementing flood mitigation measures. In this context, both Naga City and Milaor were identified as initial proposed launch sites for the OKB program, given their pivotal roles as catchment areas of the Bicol River Basin. Their inclusion reflects not only the hydrological significance of these localities but also their readiness to serve as models for participatory, risk-informed planning. By embedding community engagement, technical collaboration, and bayanihan values into the program’s foundation, the initiative aims to transform disaster preparedness and resilience into enduring cultural and institutional practices across the region. On January 31, 2026, echoing and presentation of the recently Year End Report by the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management headed by EDMERO Chief Luzen N, Bermeo of the Province of Camarines Sur was conducted at the 3rd District Engineering Office in Canaman, Camarines Sur, hosted by District Engineer Jose Gigantone Jr. The workshop gathered representatives from DPWH Central and Regional Offices, five District Engineering Offices, representatives from varied Municipalities along with civic partners. Activities included participatory flood-prone area mapping, technical presentations, and collaborative strategy-building sessions. Director Ilao emphasizes the importance of modernized equipment and logistics, while newly appointed DPWH Region V Director Engr. Khadaffy D. Tanggol underscored continuity and innovation in regional flood management. The breadth of participation from government institutions and civil society to academia, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines (BSP), Tau Gamma Phi (TGP), OLPA, and youth organizations—underscores that Oplan Kontra Baha is not merely a government-led intervention, but an emerging movement for nation-building. Its strategic focus on the Bicol Region reflects both urgency and opportunity: urgency in responding to the recurrent and systemic flooding of the Bicol River Basin, and opportunity in demonstrating how bayanihan can elevate disaster risk reduction from a technical undertaking to a replicable national model for resilience. Ultimately, the success of Oplan Kontra Baha will not hinge solely on government agencies or engineering solutions, but on the collective will and sustained engagement of the Filipino people. Local governments must continue to advance participatory planning processes that amplify and empower the voices of flood-affected communities. Schools and universities play a critical role in cultivating the next generation of engineers, architects, health professionals, and civic leaders who will sustain and innovate resilience efforts. Meanwhile, civic groups, professional associations, and youth organizations must remain steadfast in volunteerism, public education, and grassroots action, ensuring that resilience is embedded not only in infrastructure and policy, but in the social fabric of the nation. Grounded in our love of God and country, our involvement reflects a shared moral responsibility to care for one another and for the land we have been entrusted to steward. Most importantly, ordinary citizens can embody the spirit of bayanihan by staying informed, participating in community initiatives, and supporting flood-resilience measures in their barangays. When institutions and individuals act together, resilience becomes more than policy, it becomes a way of life, rooted in faith, patriotism, and shared purpose. As preparations move forward toward the target launch of February 21, 2026, the call is clear: let us unite in bayanihan, guided by science, solidarity, and service, to build a safer, stronger, and more resilient Bicol Region, and ultimately, a more resilient Philippines.

By Benilda Recebido SORSOGON CITY, Sorsogon --- Public Works and Highways Secretary Vince Dizon praised the highway in Sorsogon on Sunday, referring to it as the best segment of the Maharlika Highway. Dizon inspected the Maharlika Highway by riding a bus along the 101-kilometer stretch from the boundary of Albay to the southernmost town of Matnog, Sorsogon. He compared this stretch to other segments of the highway and concluded that Sorsogon has the best portion. “Maayos ang segment ng Maharlika Highway sa Sorsogon,” Dizon told reporters who accompanied him in the bus trip. (The segment of the Maharlika Highway in Sorsogon is excellent.) He noted that while there are a few areas needing improvement, Sorsogon’s road outshines the Andaya Highway and parts of Quezon province. “I just saw a Maharlika Highway with four lanes, a shoulder, and proper drainage,” Dizon added. In a media statement made in Albay prior to his trip to Sorsogon, Dizon emphasized that a four-lane road is a long-term solution to ensure the safety of motorists. Sorsogon Governor Jose Edwin Hamor, who accompanied Dizon during the bus trip, expressed his happiness about the Secretary’s visit to the province. “I am pleased that the secretary visited and personally witnessed the quality of the roads in Sorsogon,” Hamor said. Dizon also mentioned that because Sorsogon’s roads are in good condition, no additional funding will be allocated for them. Instead, resources will be directed to areas that require more attention. In Matnog, Dizon listened to local concerns and addressed the issue of frequent flooding, particularly in Barangay Gadgaron. He directed the engineers of the Department of Public Works and Highways to undertake the best solution to the problem of flooding. “If dredging is needed, do dredging to stop the flooding that is being reported,” he said. The flooding has been a persistent issue for teachers and students at Matnog National High School, as well as for employees and patients at Matnog Medicare Hospital. Matnog Mayor Robert Rodrigueza expressed his gratitude to Dizon for his prompt attention to the flood problem. (PIA 5/Sorsogon) Sorsogon Governor Jose Edwin Hamor warmly welcomes DPWH Secretary Vince Dizon during the second phase of the secretary’s inspection of the Maharlika Highway and other major infrastructure projects of the government in Albay and Sorsogon. (Photo Sorsogon Public Information Office)

By Rosalita Manlangit DAET, Camarines Norte --- A total of 4,537 professionals benefited from the mobile registration service conducted by the Professional Regulation Commission (PRC) at SM City Daet in Camarines Norte from January 26 to 28. “The mobile registration is one of the major programs of the PRC, aimed at bringing our services closer to the public,” said Jerome Bañes, PRC chief professional regulation officer for the Bicol region. Bañes said that the initiative helps clients avoid long-distance travel, as PRC Bicol personnel collaborate with the provincial government of Camarines Norte to reach various towns. Among those who utilized the PRC mobile services was Dian Poblete, a 33-year-old news anchor and writer for a radio station in Daet. She used the opportunity to renew her professional teacher’s license for the first time, as she considers pursuing a teaching career. “The mobile services provided by the PRC are incredibly helpful. They are more cost-effective since I no longer have to travel to Naga City, Lucena City, or Legazpi City,” Poblete said. “It’s also much more convenient because it’s challenging to take a leave of absence from work or leave my child at home while I’m away,” she added. Ramon Ravida, a 31-year-old teacher from Capalonga National High School, renewed his PRC license for the third time and expressed similar sentiments. “The mobile registration is a significant help because it saves me time and effort,” he said. “I no longer need to travel to other cities to get my license.” Teachers need to renew their professional licenses every three years to continue practicing their profession. Gemma Jalimao, a 50-year-old teacher at Vinzons Pilot High School, is seeking a promotion and took advantage of the mobile registration to secure her PRC ID and a certificate of good standing, which are requirements for her application. “The transaction here was smooth. I no longer have to travel far, and the costs are significantly lower with this type of PRC service,” Jalimao remarked. Among the services provided during the mobile registration were applications for licensure examinations, initial registrations, certificates of good standing, passing and rating, authentication of PRC documents, renewal and issuance of duplicate professional identification cards, and technical assistance. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)

By Edna Bagadiong VIRAC, Catanduanes ---The Department of Information and Communications Technology (DICT) began distributing thousands of SIM cards with free internet access to students in remote areas of Catanduanes on Monday. According to the DICT office in Catanduanes, a total of 1,134 SIM cards were provided to students in public schools located in the towns of Bato and San Miguel. This includes the San Miguel Central School, Libjo Elementary School, Sibacungan Elementary School, Mintay Elementary School, San Pedro Elementary School, Bagumbayan Elementary School, Buenavista Elementary School, and Boton Primary School. John Nomel Ebuenga, the DICT connectivity focal person for Bicol, said that each SIM card comes with 25 GB of data, which is automatically renewed monthly for up to one year. The SIM cards will provide students and their families with continuous access to online learning, information, and communication, Ebuenga said. The SIM card distribution is part of the Bayanihan SIM project, designed to bridge the digital divide by offering free and reliable internet connectivity, especially in geographically isolated and disadvantaged areas, he added. The agency intends to continue distributing SIM cards in other remote areas within Bato and San Miguel, aiming to reach over 2,700 beneficiaries across the two municipalities. Socito Padilla Jr., a parent of two grade school children who received the free SIM cards, expressed his gratitude for the government initiative. “These free SIM cards with internet access are a tremendous help to us because our children can now use the internet for their research,” Padilla said. Ronnie Trinidad, the head teacher at Buenavista Elementary School, also thanked the DICT, noting, “DICT is a great support because the SIM cards are free for our students and teachers.” Catanduanes Governor Patrick Alain Azanza, who was present during the distribution, expressed his appreciation to President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. for the initiative. He commended the President’s directive to provide fast and reliable internet connectivity to schools and remote areas across the country. “We are fortunate to be part of the Digital Bayanihan program, and the provincial government will continue to support this initiative,” Azanza said. (PIA Bicol/Catanduanes)

Pili, Camarines Sur --- Yaon pa lang sa monitoring kan presenting presyo nin paroy an Department of Agriculture (DA) sa Bicol alagad mayo pa nin enforcement sa rehiyon sa pinaluwas na Executive Order No. 100 ni Presidente Ferdinand Marcos Jr. An EO No. 100, pinirmahan ni Presidente Marcos kan Oktubre 25, 2025, nganing matabangan an mga paraoma sa paagi kan mandatory floor price kan paroy na P17 hasta P30 alagad depende sa calidad. Ini, para sa proteksyon kan paraoma sa hababang presyo kan paroy na binabakal kan mga negosyante o kumprada. Ini an piglinaw kan DA Bicol sa paagi kan saindang opisyal na parataram, Lovella Guarin mantang hinahalat ninda an directiva hale sa saindang opisina sentral. Alagad ngunian na mga bulan bako pang panahon nin aranihan asin naghahalat an paraoma na ma-implementar an floor price sa pagpoon kan aranihan sa bulan nin Mayo 2026. Pasalamat an sektor paraoma sa EO 100 ni Marcos huli ta makakatabang sa saindang income sa tahaw kan ginigibo kan mga oportunistang negosyante na baratong an presyo kan saindang paroy kun mga bulan na gayo nin aranihan. Sa ngunian an presyo sa ibang mga kumprada sa Libmanan, Camarines Sur P15 hasta P17 alagad mayo paman nagpapatungod h ale sa paraoma, sa Partido area P11 hasta P12 mantang sa Calabanga asin pagtaraig na banwaan sarado an mga kumprado huli ta bako pang aranihan asin mayong pang pinapatungod na paroy. An EO nagmamando sa DA asin National Food Authority bilang responsable sa pagpasunod kan ‘‘minimum buying price for palay’’ sa inisyal na presyo sa pag-ultanan kan P17 hasta P30 cada kilo defende sa calidad. Binabasol kan sektor nin paraoma sa pagparabarato kan presyo huli sa Rice Tariffication Law na inaprubaran ni dating Presidente Rodrigo Duterte kan Febrero 1919. Act Republica No. 11203 o Rice Tariffication Law na pinirmahan ni dating Presidente Rodrigo Duterte kan Febrero 15, 2019 padagos na kinukondenar kan sektor nin paraoma huli ta naging dahilan ini sa pagparabarato kan presyo kan paroy na mas napaboran an mga negosyantes. Poon na mag-epekto dakul na mga empleados kan National Food Authority nagkaharale sa trabajo asin pinaretiro nin amay sa serbisyo. An NFA ginibo nalang na magtungod nin paroy para sa food security. Sa presenting administrasyon Marcos, sabi eemiendahan sa congreso an RA 11203 nganing masimbagan an agrangay kan paraoma alagad dai man nangyayari sagcod sana sa pangako.