By Paulo DS. Papa THE national and regional headquarters of the Philippine National Police, as well as the Naga City Government, have backed the request for a localized gun ban during this month’s Peñafrancia Fiesta. The suspension of permits to carry firearms outside residences was requested by the Naga City Police Office, with uniformed personnel exempted from the restriction, from September 3 to 21, 2026, said Police Lt. Col. Elmer Azurez Jr., chief of the City Community Affairs and Development Unit. In an interview, Azurez said the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Naga has passed a resolution supporting the request, which was also discussed during a meeting attended by Police Regional Director Police Brig. Gen Randy Glenn Silvio, other high-ranking PNP-Bicol officials, and City Mayor Leni Robredo. Azurez added that devotees, visitors, and local residents should expect gun-ban checkpoints during the period, with the carrying of any type of firearm prohibited, even for those who are licensed to possess or carry firearms. He disclosed that anyone who violates the ban could face criminal charges and revocation of their firearm license. Meanwhile, Azurez urged the public to remain vigilant and take extra precautions with their personal belongings during the busy and crowded days of the Peñafrancia Fiesta, particularly amid the various civic and religious activities in the city.

Fourteen grassroots leaders have successfully completed the Certificate in Barangay Governance (CBG) program, marking a significant milestone in local leadership and public service capacity-building in the province. The intensive program, conducted throughout June and July 2026, brought together participants from various barangays across the municipalities of Presentacion, Gainza, Pamplona, and San Fernando, Camarines Sur. The graduates were formally recognized during a conferment ceremony on July 29, 2026, at the Center for Research, Learning and Development Office along Magsaysay Avenue, Naga City. The CBG curriculum is specifically designed to strengthen governance and leadership competencies at the barangay level. To graduate, participants completed seven comprehensive modules focusing on practical local administration: • Fundamentals of Barangay Governance • Development of Barangay Plans • Implementation and Monitoring • Fiscal Administration for Barangays • Legislation in the Local Unit • Localized Justice System • Barangay Administrative Service and Barangay Automation The program was made possible through a strategic partnership between the Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Camarines Sur and the Naga College Foundation Inc. (NCF). The training was enriched by the expertise of DILG resource persons, including Cluster Head Engr. Jerwin A. Novio, PhD; Ms. Ma. Christina A. Francisco, LGOO II; Mr. Ervin J. Belano, LGOO VI (DILG-Garchitorena); and Ms. Salvacion Gladdy San Joaquin, LGOO VI. The initiative was executed under the guidance of DILG Provincial Director Ray B. Caceres, CESO V, and received full institutional backing from NCF President Mario C. Villanueva. Crucial coordination, development, and delivery support were provided by the NCF Academic Business Development Team, composed of Dr. Edwin P. Bernal, CPA, CME; Prof. Jayme Ignacio; Dr. Maria Antonette Lamery; and Prof. Leomir K. Paz. The successful completion of this inaugural CBG cohort underscores the shared and enduring commitment of NCF and DILG Camarines Sur to empower grassroots leaders and elevate the standard of community-level public service.

By Rosalita Manlangit DAET, Camarines Norte --- The Queen Pineapple of Camarines Norte took center stage during the August 19–21 Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week (RSTW), which featured activities centered around “Piñavation.” “This year, we celebrate RSTW alongside Piñavation, a partnership that highlights how local resources and strengths can serve as foundations for innovation,” said Science and Technology Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. during the opening ceremony on August 19. The Queen Pineapple of Camarines Norte is more than just an agricultural product; it symbolizes the dedication, knowledge, and perseverance of the farmers and communities that have nurtured this industry over the years, Solidum added. He noted that through science, technology, and innovation, the industry can be further strengthened by improving production, creating value-added products, boosting competitiveness, and expanding opportunities for the community. Solidum emphasized that local research in Camarines Norte is already shaping the future of the Queen Pineapple industry. Under the Department of Science and Technology’s (DOST) Niche Centers in the Region for Research and Development (NICER) Program, support has been extended to the province’s Queen Pineapple Research and Development Center (QPRDC) in partnership with the University of Camarines Norte (UCN). The collaboration aims to provide science-based solutions for local production challenges. Solidum said that the QPRDC-UCN partnership is already equipping local farmers with practical tools. They include the Queen Pineapple Intelligent Pest Detector and Crop Protection Management System, an AI-powered smartphone app for early disease detection, organic treatments for mealybug infestations, post-harvest cold storage facilities, and demonstration farms designed to maintain crop quality and boost yields. Solidum also highlighted the support provided to the Labo Progressive Multi-Purpose Cooperative (LPMPC), one of the province’s largest cooperatives. LPMPC received support from DOST’s SETUP for handmade paper and pineapple jam production, funding from TAPI for its “Queench” pineapple juice, and assistance from the DOST-Lazada Program to enhance its e-commerce platform. Undersecretary Sancho Mabborang emphasized DOST’s outreach, stating that “every community faces unique challenges but can innovate with the right tools.” He highlighted the agency’s commitment to bringing technology to communities. DOST Regional Director Rommel Serrano thanked partners, entrepreneurs, and local government units for their support. During a press conference, QPRDI Director Arlene Alegre said that findings are relayed to local farmers through training sessions and that the institute collaborates with local governments to improve harvesting practices, extending the shelf life and minimizing post-harvest losses. The RSTW showcased initiatives such as “Piñavation” that included a competition for college students focused on the Queen Pineapple industry, Sustainable Development Goals forums, advanced manufacturing, health research, and MSME innovation. The event featured the SARAI Bicol Congress, the TECHGROW Forum, food safety and resilient housing training for Indigenous Peoples, a tree-planting drive, and a three-day exhibit of provincial products. The closing ceremony included the signing of a STARBOOKS MOU with local clubs and the presentation of key awards, culminating in Masbate accepting the role as host province for next year’s RSTW. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte) Department of Science and Technology officials lead the opening ceremony of the Regional Science, Technology, and Innovation Week, August 19, 2026. Featured in the photo is the exhibit showcasing product innovations from various provinces across the Bicol region. (PIA Bicol/Camarines Norte)

By Connie Calipay LEGAZPI CITY --- A total of 162 newly absorbed Fire Officer 1 personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection-Bicol (BFP-5) recited and signed a covenant rejecting the slot-for-sale practice during their oathtaking ceremony in Ligao City, Albay on Tuesday. BFP-5 Regional Director Fire Chief Superintendent Junito Maslang said the covenant was part of the internal cleansing efforts being pursued by the agency under the direction of Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla. “Our secretary is very much into the internal cleansing of our organization,” he added. He said Remulla has directed that the investigation into the matter will continue. He warned the new firefighters that their signed commitment would carry consequences if an investigation later found them involved in prohibited transactions. Under the covenant, the recruits affirmed that they did not give, offer, promise or agree to give money, gifts, favors, services or other consideration in exchange for a recruitment slot, position, appointment, or any undue advantage. They also declared that they had not solicited, negotiated or entered into any agreement involving the sale, purchase, or reservation of a recruitment slot. The recruits rejected the notion that a position in the BFP could be bought, sold or obtained through connections, money, influence or personal favors. They likewise pledged to protect the integrity of the recruitment process and uphold fairness, transparency and equal opportunity for all applicants. As part of their collective pledge, the recruits declared “walang bayad ang pagpasok sa (there is no fee to make it to) BFP Region 5.” Maslang reminded the recruits that joining the BFP marks the beginning of greater responsibility. “Being a firefighter is not just about wearing a uniform. It means accepting a duty that requires courage, discipline, integrity, sacrifice and compassion to your fellowmen,” he said. He said the recruits underwent a long and difficult recruitment and selection process, including assessments of their physical, mental, and emotional readiness. (PNA) FIRE OFFICERS. The 162 newly appointed Fire Officer 1 personnel of the Bureau of Fire Protection in Bicol, together with officials, show the signed covenant rejecting the slot-for-sale practice during their oathtaking ceremony in Ligao City, Albay on Tuesday (Sept. 1, 2026). The officers declared that they had not solicited, negotiated or entered into any agreement involving the sale, purchase or reservation of a recruitment slot. (Photo courtesy of BFP-5)

By Connie Calipay LEGAZPI CITY – A ranking leader of the Communist Terrorist Group (CTG) in the Bicol Region was killed following a 10-minute armed encounter between government forces and around five New People's Army (NPA) members in Barangay Magogon, Camalig, Albay, the 9th Infantry Division (9ID) reported on Tuesday. In a report, Maj. Frank Roldan, 9ID spokesperson, said troops of the 31st Infantry Battalion (31st IB), together with personnel of the Philippine National Police (PNP), encountered the group Monday night. Roldan identified the leader, who used the aliases "Jerry," "Josam," "Floyd" and "Maeng," as the leader of the Regional Sub-Office Guerrilla Operations of the Bicol Regional Party Committee. "Following the exchange of gunfire, Josam was found dead at the encounter site after his companions reportedly left him behind," Roldan said in an interview. Government forces recovered a Glock 17 9mm pistol, subversive documents and personal belongings. He said Josam had been a member of the NPA for more than three decades and had served in various leadership positions within the communist terrorist group in Bicol. He was also reportedly facing multiple criminal charges, including several counts of murder and attempted murder, robbery with homicide, and multiple murder with frustrated attempted murder. Roldan added that Josam was the principal suspect in the killing of two soldiers who were conducting rescue operations and buying supplies in Barangay Cotmon, Camalig, in February 2023. The 9ID also renewed its call for remaining CTG members to abandon the armed struggle and return to the fold of the law through the government's reintegration programs. (PNA) ENCOUNTER. A New People's Army leader was killed in an encounter in Camalig, Albay, on Tuesday (Aug. 31, 2026). The slain leader, who used the aliases "Jerry," "Josam," "Floyd" and "Maeng," was identified as the leader of the Regional Sub-Office Guerilla Operations of the Bicol Regional Party Committee. (Photo courtesy of 9ID)

By Ernie Delgado LEGAZPI CITY --- Families who recently returned to their communities near the danger zone of the Philippines’ most active volcano received a total of P3,318,000 in cash assistance to help them rebuild their lives. Last month, about 4,100 individuals, comprising 1,131 families, returned to their communities located in the cities of Tabaco and Ligao, as well as the towns of Camalig and Malilipot in Albay province after evacuating in January due to the raising of Alert Level 3 for Mayon Volcano. Most of these families spent about seven months in evacuation centers, while others stayed with relatives. Last week, 1,106 of these families received cash aid under the Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations program of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD). According to the DSWD Bicol Field Office (DSWD 5), each family received P3,000 in cash assistance, part of the agency’s enhanced support for families affected by the volcano’s eruption. Town residents lamented that when they returned home, they found their livestock and crops all gone. “Volcanic ash covered our fields. We will have to replant and revive our farms so we can provide for our families,” said Vilma Mostera of Barangay Anoling, Camalig, one of the areas severely hit by the volcanic ashfall in May. Heeding the directive from President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Social Welfare Secretary Rex Gatchalian, DSWD Regional Director Norman Laurio implemented the cash relief operation last Aug. 26-28. To help the returning evacuees cope, DSWD 5 provided each family with five food packs, each containing rice, canned protein items, and drink sachets. Between January and August 2026, the DSWD also supported local governments by assisting 4,108 displaced persons through the distribution of food, household items, medical supplies, and the provision of potable water. In a report, the DSWD said that some P328 million worth of cash, food, and non-food assistance was provided to families during their seven-month stay in evacuation centers. Of that total, P135 million was allocated for food and non-food items, while P179 million was directed towards early recovery programs. These included the Emergency Cash Transfer program, cash-for-work assistance for internally displaced persons, and cash-for-work initiatives for affected farmers. In addition to financial assistance, the DSWD distributed 166,000 family food packs and 1,400 ready-to-eat food boxes to affected families throughout the emergency response. (PIA Bicol)

Dear Sirs: I am a regular subscriber of the Bicol Mail, which is delivered to us together with other newspapers, including the Manila Bulletin, Malaya, and the Philippine Daily Inquirer. I recently read the front-page article in the August 14, 2026 issue of the Bicol Mail entitled, “Salceda Seeks Debt Write-Off for Troubled ALECO.” This issue deserves serious public discussion. If the proposal to write off the debt of the Albay Electric Cooperative (ALECO) is approved, is this ultimately a political decision, a financial decision, or a decision based on the long-term interest of the people of Albay? The most important question is: Who will ultimately be responsible for the debt that is being written off? If ALECO’s liabilities are written off, the debt does not simply disappear. Someone will ultimately bear the financial consequence. Will it be ALECO itself, the provincial government of Albay, the national government, or, ultimately, the Filipino taxpayers? The provincial government and concerned government agencies should clearly explain this matter to the constituents of Albay. The public has the right to know who will assume responsibility for these liabilities and whether taxpayers will eventually shoulder the cost. We must also consider the consumers of ALECO. They are ordinary people who depend on electricity for their homes, businesses and livelihood. They should not be left with the burden of a problem that they did not create. If a government-related institution incurs substantial losses and its debts are eventually written off, we should ask whether this establishes a precedent for other government institutions that may also experience financial difficulties. Where does accountability begin and end? The government must therefore be transparent about the proposed debt write-off. The people deserve to know the full amount involved, the reasons for the debt, who will benefit from the write-off, and most importantly, who will ultimately pay for it. Kawawa at kahirap-hirap ang mga ordinaryong consumers ng ALECO at ang mga taxpayers if, in the end, they are the ones who will carry the burden. I respectfully urge the concerned officials to explain this issue clearly and openly to the people of Albay. By: Raul R. Montino Naga City Camarines Sur

By Rhaydz Barcia AS the Diocese of Legazpi commemorates its 75th Diocesan Diamond Jubilee this year, the City Government of Legazpi, through the Museo de Legazpi, is showcasing sacred artifacts, historical memorabilia from the once-in-a-lifetime historic visit of St. John Paul II, and valuable photographs documenting the establishment of St. Gregory the Great Cathedral 75 years ago. The exhibit, locally called “Pagsalingoy,” a Bicol term meaning “looking back,” features the oldest “Manto ni Ina” (the sacred cloak or cape of the Mother), the revered image of Nuestra Señora de Salvación, the heavenly patroness of Albay, along with other relics and sacred artifacts of the Diocese of Legazpi at the Museo de Legazpi here. This is the first time that the Diocese of Legazpi, led by Bishop Joel “Bong” Z. Baylon, has given the green light for the exhibition of its rich heritage and historic journey, which have shaped the deep-rooted faith, heritage, and religiosity of Albayanos. Bishop Joel “Bong” Z. Baylon of the Diocese of Legazpi said the exhibit is a gift to the younger generation, allowing them to learn about the lasting legacy and history of the establishment of St. Gregory the Great Cathedral Parish in Legazpi as the Diocese of Legazpi celebrates its 75th Diocesan Diamond Jubilee. Baylon highlighted the importance of the exhibit in helping people understand the reason behind the Diocese of Legazpi’s celebration of its Diamond Jubilee. He urged Bicolanos, particularly the younger generation, to discover the story of the province’s local churches through historic photographs, documents, sacred artifacts, and memorabilia—from the beginnings of the Diocese to its parishes, communities, bishops, and clergy. The prelate underscored the centuries-old devotion to Nuestra Señora de Salvación and the historic visit of St. John Paul II, as well as many other moments that have shaped the life and mission of the local Church. “Take a journey through 75 years of the Diocese of Legazpi through photographs, historical records, sacred objects, and memorabilia that tell the story of our local Church. The Pagsalingoy Exhibit will remain open for one year,” the church official said. Legazpi City Mayor Hisham Ismail expressed gratitude to Bishop Baylon for allowing the city government to exhibit the sacred artifacts and memorabilia at the Museo de Legazpi. “The City Government of Legazpi totally supports this initiative in recognition of the Church’s immense contribution to our city’s culture, faith, and history. Together with Bishop Bong Baylon, Bishop Lilo Quiambao, the entire staff of the Diocese, and Cong. Alfredo ‘Pido’ Garbin of the Ako Bicol Party-list, we invite every Legazpeño and visitor to join us and view this meaningful exhibit,” he said. “Although the activity is scheduled to run for one year, we are asking Bishop Baylon to lend us the memorabilia so that they may remain at the Museo de Legazpi permanently. This will allow the people of Legazpi and our guests, particularly the younger generation, to learn where and how the Cathedral of Legazpi started, as well as the history of the churches in Legazpi,” Ismail said. Herbie Aguas, DOT Bicol regional director, said the exhibit jointly mounted by the Diocese of Legazpi and the LGU of Legazpi is a meaningful celebration of faith tourism that could attract tourists to visit the Museo de Legazpi. “A meaningful celebration of 75 years of grace, guidance, and mission unfolded today, August 26, 2026, at the Museo de Legazpi as they officially launched the Pagsalingoy Exhibit: 75 Taon Nin Biyaya, Pag-antabay, Asin Misyon,” Aguas said. “The exhibit offers a glimpse into a remarkable journey preserving memories, milestones, stories, and the enduring legacy of a community shaped by faith, service, and mission. Congratulations to the Diocese of Legazpi, City Government of Legazpi, and Museo de Legazpi,” Aguas said. Darlito Perez, former curator of the Museo de Legazpi, said the exhibit provides valuable knowledge for the new generation. “We are grateful because Bishop Baylon is hands-on with this exhibit. Thank you, Bishop, for allowing the City Government of Legazpi to exhibit the artifacts from the Diocese of Legazpi in recognition of the 75 years of St. Gregory Cathedral,” Perez said. The exhibit is open to the public Monday to Friday at the Museo de Legazpi, 2nd Floor, The Gregorian, Legazpi City, except on holidays.

Naa-alarma naman an mga may mga origan sa tahaw kan pagbuwat kan African swine fever (ASF) virus sa tolong provincia sa Rehiyon Bicol na kinababalehan kan Camarines Sur, Camarines Norte, asin Catanduanes. Magigirumduman kan mga nakaaging taon nagpoon sana sa Bombon, CamSur an caso alagad dai nakontrol sagcod na naglakop sa iba pang provincia. Alagad an Department of Agriculture nagpatanid na si may mga hayopan na nagdududa may helang an saindang ataman na orig isombong tolos sainda nganing makuanan nin blood sample para ma-examin kan DA Bicol Regional Animal Disease Diagnostic Laboratory nganing makumfirmar kun positivo sa virus. Si Lovella Guarin, regional spokesperson kan DA Bicol nagsabi na an mga lugar na may caso kan ASF sa Camariness Sur sa Barangay La Purisima, Santiago asin La Trinidad, sa Ciudad nin Naga sa Barangay Carolina, sa Nabua sa Barangay Lourdes Old, sa Barangay Amomokpok, Ragay asin sarong Barangay sa Pamplona asin Pili. Sa Catanduanes sa Barangay Pandan asin Virac asin Barangay Paracale, Camarines Norte. Si mga nagpositivo sa ASF virus tolos man pig-depopulate nganing dai mag-ulakit mantang nagpapadagos an pag-monitor sa iba pang mga barangay. Sinabi pa na estrictong iimplementar an biosecurity measures, pagpalinid sa atamanan hayop madis-impektar an mga tangkal. Hinagad na sa mga LGUs na magpasunod nin border control asin dai basta magpalaog nin mga orig na hale sa ibang lugar. An DA, LGUs, asin National Meat Inspection Service igua nang mga coordinasyon nganing maibitaran an paglakop kan virus sa hayop. PADAGOS na pig-eenkaminar kan mga nanunungdan an mga hog raisers sa Kabikolan na gibuhon an mga medyos sa saindang mga tangkalan kontra pag-ulakit kan ASF (PNA FILE PHOTO)

Maatubang ngunian na aga (Septiembre 3) sa Committee on Public Utilities sa senado an mga opisyales kan Casureco I sa pamamayo ni General Manager Edna Valerio para sa saindang petisyon sa hinahagad na renewal kan 25 anyos na franquiza. Si Diputado Nelson Legacion kan tercer distrito kan Camarines Sur iyo an pagdreno sa petisyon kan renewal sa franquiza alagad kinokontra kan sarong poderosong politico sa Camarines Sur sa tahaw kan saiyang pig-eendorsar na sarong pribadong electricidad. Mayoria sa mga alcalde na sakop kan serbisyo kan Casureco Uno an nagpirma na nag-eendosar sa 25 anyos na renewal kan franquiza. An mga alcalde kinababalehan ninda Alcalde Son Marfil kan Libmanan, Nino Tayco kan Pasacao, Alcalde Manuel Agustin kan Pamplona, Alcalde Tom Bocago kan Sipocot asin Alcalde Diano Ibardaloza, Jr. kan Camaligan. An saindang endorsement narecibe na sa Committee on Public Utilities sa Camara-Baja asin sa ngunian yaon na sa senado. Napag-araman na iguang politico sa Camarines Sur na mawot ipabawi sa sinambit na jefe ejecutivo an saindang endorsement na nagpapabor sa franquiza sa sinambit na cooperativa nin electricidad. Kasabay sa committee hearing sa senado iyo an First Catanduanes Electric Cooperative asin Casureco II alagad kan apodan kan Bicol Mail an saindang spokesperson Rinner Bucay nganing hagadan inpormasyon dai nagsisimbag sa telepono.

Ni Sonny Malate LAGONOY, Camarines Sur --- Magkakaiguang bagong evacuation center an banwaan nin Lagonoy, Camarines Sur. An fundo kaini naconrsegir kan local government unit (LGU) sa liderato ni Alkalde Dyego Luiz H. Pilapil sa Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG). Segun ki Atty. Brix A. Pasiona, Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction Management Officer/Municipal Administrator, an initial na fundo nasa P25M. Kun magkulang, ini dudugangan kan alocasyon gikan sa LGU. An evacuation center na may duwang eskalon namumugtak harani sa edificio mismo kan MDRRMO asin Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) sa barangay San Vicente. An pagconstruir kaini mapoon sa bulan na Septiembre ngonian na yaon. Dagdag pa kan DRRM Officer an facilidad inaapod na "Smart Evacuation Center" kun saen an LGU pinabuwelo kan DILG kan sadiring disenyo kaini basta magcomple sa mga specificasyon para digdi. An evacuation center igua kan mga kinakaipohan na facilidad para sa mga ocupantes kun may calamidad. Siring man, ini mahiwas, conveniente asin segurado an kapalibotan. Ini may standby generator set asin estable an supply kan tubig. Naoogma asin orgulyo ni Pasiona na sa bilog na probinsya an Lagonoy an pinakaenot na banwaan na nagkaiguang alocasyon hale sa DILG para sa evacuation center. Maroromdoman na kan mga nakaagin g taon an nagigin pailihan kan mga apektadong residentes durante sa panahon nin calamidad iyo an escuelahan, barangay hall, day care center, simbahan asin pribadong mga residencia. Mientrastanto, segun sa pamayo kan MDRRMO an saindang oficina preparado sa pagsimbag sa mga trabahong saindang sinumpaan. Pigtawan niyang doon an importancia kan pagcomplemento kan kakayahan kan personahes asin kaipong mga equipajes. Manonotaran na durante sa panahon kan calamidad dakula asin mahiwas an papel kan MDRRMO sa incident management team. Ini nagpoon pa kan panahon kan Covid. Katakod kaini, pigbuyagyag niya na an saindang mga personahes nasa 41 gabos. Sinda an may sustenidong programa sa skills training bilog na taon. Manonotaran na afuera sa kapatagan, an Lagonoy iguang dagat, salog asin kabukidan na dakula an agyat sa pagresponde kun may calamidad. Naoogma si Pasiona na an personahes niya permanenteng nakadesignar sa saindang oficina kaya facil an pagsustenir kan saindang kakayahan sa pagresponde durante sa calamidad, aksidente, pagtransportar nin pasyente asin ibang pangaipo sa comunidad. Pig-apreciar man niya an higot na suporta ni Alkalde Pilapil para madagdagan an mga equipajes ninda. Sa presente, may apat na ambulancia, boom truck na nasusubli sa General Services Office, mga fiber glass na banca, rubber boat asin iba pang gamit sa eficiente asin marikas na pagresponde. An MDRRMO mantenido an pakikipagtabangan sa ibang mga oficina sa pagserbi sa comunidad sa panahon nin kadeficilan. Kairiba digdi an PNP, BFP, DSWD/MSWDO, Philippine Army, DILG asin DepEd. Dagdag pa digdi an mga Barangay Officials, Simbahan, Business Sector, Radio groups asin ibang force multiplier na sararo sa pagresponde kan pangangaipo kan comunidad.