Coca-Cola celebrates Peñafrancia Festival and enduring presence in Naga

October 13, 2026 | Manila, Philippines – For nearly eight decades, Coca-Cola has maintained a longstanding presence in Naga City, supporting the growth of its communities and bringing refreshing beverages to Naga for generations. 

Building on its annual participation in the Peñafrancia Festival, Coca-Cola this year brought together its iconic brands, flagship PET bottle collection initiative, and live Coke Studio performances in celebration of the people and traditions that have long been part of its journey in Naga City.

Coca-Cola celebrates the Peñafrancia Festival alongside Nagueños, bringing together local talent, sustainability initiatives, and meaningful community engagement.

 

Celebrating Real Magic in Peñafrancia 

As part of the Peñafrancia festivities, Coca-Cola brought a range of refreshments and entertainment for festivalgoers to enjoy.

At the Balatas Development Complex, the Coca-Cola Food Strip became part of the festival's vibrant banchetto-style food market, allowing visitors to enjoy local festival favorites paired with ice-cold Coca-Cola products. The food strip had a Sprite Spicy Booth, which offered a refreshing counterpoint to bold and spicy flavors. At Plaza Rizal, the Royal Rambol activation created a welcoming space where visitors could take a break from the festivities, enjoy interactive games, and share memorable moments with family and friends.

Supporting sustainable festival celebrations, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines (CCEAP) brought its nationwide bottle collection program, Tapon to Ipon, to Peñafrancia for the fourth consecutive year. Since first joining the festival in 2022, the initiative has encouraged festivalgoers to drop off empty clear PET plastic bottles of any brand at its collection booth in Plaza Quince Martires in exchange for Coca-Cola products or limited-edition merchandise.

Bringing music to the heart of the festivities, Coca-Cola staged its annual Coke Studio Concert, where locals enjoyed live performances by hip-hop icon Al James, singer-songwriter Kemrie, and reggae-inspired band Olay Yapanit. Festivalgoers who purchased Coca-Cola products at the event were treated to a Coke Studio VIP Experience, which gave them front-row access to the Peñafrancia stage.

"For generations, Coca-Cola has been part of the moments, occasions, and celebrations that matter most to Filipinos. Through Peñafrancia, we are honored to join Nagueños in celebrating a deeply cherished tradition while creating experiences that bring refreshment, enjoyment, and connection to families and friends. We are grateful to be part of the festival and look forward to continuing our shared journey with Naga for years to come," said Andrea Cheng, Commercial & Franchise Senior Director of Coca-Cola Philippines.

Celebrating a shared journey with Naga City

Established in 1948 along Concepcion, Pequeña, Coca-Cola Europacific Aboitiz Philippines’ (CCEAP) Naga Plant remains as Coca-Cola’s oldest-standing manufacturing facility in the country. For nearly 80 years, Coca-Cola has helped bring Filipinos' favorite Coca-Cola beverages closer to consumers across Naga and neighboring communities while generating local job opportunities and contributing to the region’s economic growth.

"Our roots in Naga extend far beyond the beverages we make, move, and sell. As home to our oldest standing manufacturing plant in the Philippines, Naga City holds a special place in our history and continues to be an important part of our story. The Peñafrancia Festival gives us a meaningful opportunity to celebrate our longstanding presence in the city, support local businesses and partners, and create experiences that bring people together. We are proud to celebrate alongside Nagueños each year as we continue growing with the community," said Frank Garcia, Commercial Vice President of CCEAP.

Over the years, CCEAP has supported Naga City's solid waste management efforts through its flagship Tapon to Ipon program. In 2024, the company began working with the City Government of Naga through the turnover of a baling machine to help improve PET bottle recovery and strengthen local waste diversion efforts. Collected bottles are then sent to PETValue Philippines, the country's first bottle-to-bottle recycling facility, where they are recycled into new food-grade material.

Coca-Cola Philippines has also partnered with the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), the City Government of Naga, and the Camarines Sur Institute of Fisheries and Marine Sciences (CASIFMAS) to support the rollout of the Solid Waste Management Operations (SWMO) Level III Training Program in Naga City under the expanded SIKLO Program. The initiative equips barangay officials, local government personnel, and environmental workers with advanced skills in waste management planning, waste segregation, materials recovery operations, and community education.

By building strong local partnerships, creating meaningful brand experiences, and supporting initiatives that matter to the communities it serves, Coca-Cola in the Philippines remains committed to creating a lasting positive impact in the places it proudly calls home.

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VinFast Brings BEV Ecosystem Footprint to Bicol Region with 1,542-Square-Meter 3S Dealership in Camarines Sur

MANILA, PHILIPPINES | October 14, 2026 – VinFast Philippines has officially opened a 1,542-square-meter 3S (Sales, Service, and Spare Parts) dealership in Camarines Sur.

Established in partnership with GR8 Motors Marketing Incorporated, the new facility marks VinFast’s first dealership in the province and its second dealership in the Bicol Region. Located along the Maharlika Highway in Zone 1, San Juan, Palestina, Pili, the dealership provides Bicolano customers with an integrated destination for vehicle sales, after-sales service, and genuine spare parts and accessories.

The new facility features a 799-square-meter showroom capable of displaying 10 to 12 vehicles from VinFast’s growing lineup, including the VF 3, VF 5, VF 6, VF 7, and VF 9. Complementing the showroom is a 743-square-meter service and maintenance area designed to support customers from Camarines Sur and neighboring provinces.

As a full-fledged 3S facility, VinFast Camarines Sur delivers an end-to-end ownership experience backed by dedicated after-sales capabilities. The 743-square-meter workshop features four service bays and is staffed by certified technicians equipped to address a range of EV servicing requirements, from routine preventive maintenance and diagnostics to specialized vehicle care.

The facility is equipped with a wheel alignment area, overhaul area, tire changer, and car wash area. It also provides EV battery and high-voltage services, body repair, vehicle care, and access to genuine VinFast spare parts and accessories. These capabilities give Bicolano EV owners greater access to essential service and maintenance support within the region.

Underscoring its commitment to sustainable operations, the facility is solar-powered, equipped with a 120-panel solar array generating 74,400 W of clean energy, a 125 kW hybrid inverter, and a 165 kWh battery storage system. The dealership is further supported by two dedicated charging stations, complementing its after-sales and warranty support to give Bicolano EV owners an accessible, eco-conscious ownership experience.

The opening deepens the partnership between VinFast Philippines and GR8 Motors Marketing Incorporated. Following the launch of its 1S facility in Sorsogon in April 2026, the dealer partner is expanding its presence in the region and helping extend VinFast’s sales and after-sales network across Bicol, contributing directly to the brand’s goal of reaching 60 dealerships nationwide by the end of 2026. 

VinFast continues to expand its presence in the Philippines through an integrated approach covering vehicles, charging infrastructure, retail locations, and after-sales support. The company also offers ownership solutions including its Battery Subscription program and Residual Value Guarantee, alongside free, unlimited charging at authorized V-Green charging stations until March 31, 2029, subject to applicable program terms. 

VinFast Camarines Sur is open Monday to Sunday, from 8:00 AM to 5:30 PM.

To learn more about VinFast and upcoming showroom openings, visit VinFast Philippines’ official website or follow VinFast Philippines on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok. 

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Bunny & Piggy Superstore

 A SUPERSTORE with NO MEMBERSHIP FEE!

𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐔𝐋𝐓𝐈𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐄 𝐇𝐔𝐁 𝐅𝐎𝐑 𝐘𝐎𝐔𝐑 𝐇𝐎𝐌𝐄 & 𝐁𝐔𝐒𝐈𝐍𝐄𝐒𝐒 𝐍𝐄𝐄𝐃𝐒! 

From everyday home must-haves to complete packaging solutions for your business! Perfect for BULK and RETAIL orders. 

Frozen Foods, Cup Printing, Food Service Equipment

Packaging Supplies, Cleaning & Janitorial Supplies,

Office & School Supplies

Location: Concepcion Grande, Naga City (Back of Bigg's Grande, in front of Hino)

OPEN EVERYDAY from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm

Contact No. 0938 278 1014

MORE PHOTOS via our Facebook Page

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Peñafrancia Festival 2026 Schedule

Peñafrancia 2026 Schedule

DATES TO REMEMBER

MADYA NA, MAKISUMARO SA PEÑAFRANCIA FIESTA! 

For other activities, let us wait for the announcement of the Naga City Government Facebook Page or the CEPPIO-Naga City Facebook Page

Here's the Penafrancia Fiesta Major Civic and Religious Events Schedule for 2026. 

September 6, 12mn

Penafrancia Marathon

Balatas Development Complex

September 10, 7pm

Miss Gay Bicolandia 2026

Balatas Development Complex

September 11, 12nn

Penafrancia Traslacion Procession

Old Shrine of Our Lady of Peñafrancia to Naga Metropolitan Cathedral

September 13, 4am

South Star Drug Run for Wellness

Robinsons Mall Grounds

September 15 – 19, 6pm

Tagboan Arts, Music and Food Festival

Balatas Development Complex

September 16, 7am

Scouts Parade and Drum, Xylophone and Majorettes Corps Competition

Panganiban Drive to Plaza Quezon

September 17, 7am

Civic and Float Parade

Panganiban Drive to Plaza Quezon

September 17, 2pm

Penafrancia Voyadores Festival Street and Pilgrims Dance Competition

Naga Metropolitan Cathedral to Plaza Quezon

September 18, 7am

Bicol Regional Military Parade Exhibition

Panganiban Drive to Plaza Quezon

September 19, 3pm

Peñafrancia Fluvial Procession

Naga Metropolitan Cathedral to Basilica Minore thru the Naga River

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BPI makes banking easier for communities with BPI On-The-Move program

As the Bank of the Philippine Islands (BPI) marks its 175th year, BPI continues to advance its commitment of building a better Philippines by making financial services more accessible, relevant, and embedded in everyday life, especially for underserved and unbanked Filipinos.

[Center] BPI’s Head of Consumer Segments Marketing Geraldine “Gerrie” Alcuaz and Head of Consumer Banking Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, with Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo and Head of Partnerships Unit Huber Brocales, champion inclusive banking as BPI OnTheMove brings essential financial services to  Naga City residents.

 

Central to this commitment is BPI’s financial inclusion program anchored on BPI On-The-Move, a mobile platform designed to bring essential financial services directly to communities.

The sustainably made, fully equipped mobile banking unit —a dedicated bus— launched in Naga City on January 26 serves as a one-stop financial hub, allowing individuals and small business owners to conveniently access BPI services on-site, including opening of digital and regular savings accounts, registration to BPI’s e-wallet VYBE, and application to various cards, insurance, and loan products.

“Our BPI On-The-Move bus is a one-stop shop for all these needs. We’ve simplified the processes and lowered the barriers so that you can begin your financial journey with total confidence,” said Maria Cristina “Ginbee” Go, Head of Consumer Banking, BPI.

As part of its broader inclusion efforts, BPI, through microfinance arm BanKo, is also conducting financial wellness sessions for Naga City local government unit (LGU) employees, equipping them with practical tools and knowledge for effective money management.

BPI On-The-Move makes its first stop in Naga City, Camarines Sur, bringing accessible and on-ground financial services to more communities. 

Aligned with the Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas’ (BSP) financial inclusion framework, BPI On-The-Move focuses on empowering both the underserved—those whose financial needs are not fully met despite having access to banking—and the unbanked, who remain outside the formal financial system. 

“I would like to extend a very special thank you to Mayor Leni Robredo, our esteemed LGU officials, and the hardworking employees of the Naga City government. You are at the front lines of community service, and we recognize that your leadership is the key to our shared aspiration: making lives better through genuine economic progress,” said Go. 

This 2026, BPI will continue to partner with more LGUs and communities, forging stronger local partnerships to scale targeted financial education programs, and increased on-ground engagement nationwide.

“Ultimately, everything we do is driven by BPI’s vision of Building a Better Philippines, one family and one community at a time,” Go added.

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Cebu Pacific Boosts Naga Connectivity with Direct Flights to Clark

Cebu Pacific (PSE: CEB), the Philippines’ leading carrier, strengthens its connectivity from Naga as it launches a new route that directly connects the city to Clark, giving Bicolano travelers more accessible and affordable options to explore various domestic and international destinations.

Starting October 26, CEB will operate flights between Naga and Clark 4x weekly, every Monday, Wednesday, Friday and Sunday. These are on top of the daily flights that CEB operates between Naga and Manila.

CRK Airpot Image from clarkinternationalairport.com

 

“Cebu Pacific’s direct flights between Naga and Clark open new doors for tourism and trade in central Luzon and Bicol region. This route not only makes it easier for Bicolanos to explore more of the Philippines and travel abroad, but it also helps bring more visitors into Naga, fueling local businesses and supporting our goal of making air travel accessible to every Juan,” said Carmina

Romero, CEB Director for Corporate Communications.

 

Nestled between Pampanga and Tarlac, Clark stands as the tourism and economic hub of Central Luzon, celebrated for its lush landscapes, storied past, and world-class cuisine. It’s also a vital gateway to the Philippines and beyond, with the Clark International Airport linking travelers to top destinations across the country and Asia.

 

With direct flights to Clark, travelers from Naga can now connect seamlessly to 16 of CEB’s domestic destinations. Bask in the white-sand beauty of Boracay and Puerto Princesa, explore the island wonders of El Nido, or savor the rich flavors of Iloilo and Davao—all just within two hours away from Clark.

 

For those seeking new adventures abroad, travelers from Naga may connect to four international destinations from Clark. Experience the vibrant city life and cultural fusion of Tokyo, indulge in world-class shopping and dining in Hong Kong, enjoy the modern attractions and culinary delights of Singapore, or immerse yourself in the rich heritage and lively street scenes of Bangkok.

 

To encourage travel, CEB is rolling out a seat sale from October 16 to 31 where passengers can book their flights to all domestic destinations for as low as PHP 99 one-way base fare, exclusive of fees and surcharges. The travel period is from October 16, 2025 to March 31, 2026, perfect for immediate travel needs as well as planned vacations for next year.

 

Passengers are encouraged to add Go Flexi when booking, which lets them cancel and convert their flight into a non-expiring Travel Fund. The bundle also includes a 20kg checked baggage

allowance and a Standard Seat of their choice.

 

CEB offers various payment options, including credit or debit cards and e-wallets, to book flights and buy add-ons.

 

CEB operates in 37 domestic and 26 international destinations spread across Asia, Australia,

and the Middle East.

 

Book your flights at www.cebupacificair.com.

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BDO supports Peñafrancia pilgrims in Naga

BDO Unibank, Inc. (BDO) recently joined the faithful in Naga City during the September celebration of the Peñafrancia Festival, extending a simple gesture of care by providing free umbrellas to pilgrims as they took part in the annual devotion.

“Peñafrancia is about faith, family, and community. We are honored to stand with the Church and local volunteers to help keep devotees—especially seniors and children—safer and more comfortable on their journey,” said Genie T. Gloria, Senior Vice President and Head of Remittance, Transaction Banking at BDO. “As many Bicolano families have loved ones working overseas, this is also our way of saying salamatand affirming that we’re with you—rain or shine.”

BDO is with you—rain or shine. BDO recently joined the faithful in Naga City by extending a simple gesture of care and gave free umbrellas to Peñafrancia pilgrims. The umbrellas embodied BDO’s Alagang Kabayan commitment, and provided devotees with protection from both sun and rain, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: their devotion to “Ina” and the shared spirit of community that defines the Peñafrancia Festival.

 

September often brings rain to Naga, adding both beauty and challenge to the Traslación and fluvial processions, where thousands walk shoulder to shoulder in devotion. By distributing umbrellas during these major events, BDO hopes to provide pilgrims with protection from both sun and rain, allowing them to focus on what truly matters: their devotion and the shared spirit of community that defines the Peñafrancia Festival.

 

 

 

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Run For Wellness 2025: Unleashing Greatness beyond the finish line

Run for Wellness 2025: Unleashing Greatness beyond the finish line.

Largest runner turnout of the Run For Wellness fun run by Southstar Drug and Maxicare

Running, more than a physical activity, is a pursuit of something greater: a healthier body and mind, a community, a sense of fulfillment or perhaps, overcoming a personal challenge. And in the process, it also provides valuable lessons that can be applied in your everyday life to unleash greatness such as taking better care of your body, recognizing big and small achievements, and going beyond your perceived limits.

This is the central theme of this year’s edition of Run For Wellness, an annual running event organized by Southstar Drug and Maxicare that encourages participants to embrace a healthier, more active lifestyle through running.

Run For Wellness 2025 celebrated a vibrant running community across two legs, welcoming beginners, seasoned runners, families, barkadas, running clubs, and fitness enthusiasts. The first leg, held on July 22 at UP Diliman, Quezon City, saw over 9,000 participants, while the second leg held last September 14 in Naga City had 2,713 participants joining the 3K, 5K, and 10K categories.

This combined effort resulted in 11,902 total participants, marking the largest runner turnout for a Run For Wellness series to date.

Continuing their advocacy as champions of health and wellness, Southstar Drug and Maxicare Healthcare Corporation donated Php 50,000 to Naga City’s Persons with Disability Affairs Office that was received by Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo during the awarding ceremony of Run For

Wellness Naga.

[From left to right: Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. Chairman Robina Gokongwei-Pe, Naga City Mayor Leni Robredo, Robinsons Retail Holdings Inc. President and CEO Stanley Co]

“The record-high turnout of participants in this year’s Run For Wellness shows how more people are prioritizing their overall health and well-being by integrating running and exercise in their life. Aside from unleashing greatness, this is also our way of encouraging Filipinos to take the first step towards a better version of themselves and develop healthier habits in the long run,” said “On top of providing the finest healthcare services, Maxicare supports Filipinos in their journey towards their best life through events like Run For Wellness, reaffirming our commitment to enabling a healthier future,” said Raymond Hernandez, Maxicare Chief Customer Officer. Unleashing greatness continues beyond the finish line. Run For Wellness is just the starting point, a catalyst when it comes to prioritizing one’s overall health and well-being. Take all the valuable lessons running has taught you—the rest of the journey is yours to take!

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#NCDfoodtrip 2025: New Menu of Grissini Ristorante that even we locals should try!

#NCDFoodtrip There are times when we Bicolanos treat laing or Bicol Express very ordinarily and we don’t order them anymore when dining out. Guilty? But here comes 𝗚𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗻𝗶 Ristorante offering a fusion of Bicol and Italy cuisine in their menu. This time, for us locals, MAKE SURE you order these from Grissini because they are extraordinarily crafted.

While Naga being a Pilgrim City and a food destination,  we can definitely boasts Bicolano Chefs like that of Grissini for coming up with these fusion. So pwedeng pwede nindo sinda darahon digdi.

My Personal faves: 

❣ Pili Rigatoni - the crunchy topping was what really amazed me, I had to ask what it was made of to the extend na akala ko orange peel hahaha kasi tangy siya and bagay na maray. It was different, but it was different gooood! Assignment ko na po saindo to ask them what is it made of. Genius!

Pili Rigatoni

❣Pili & Caramelized Onion Pizza

I never imagine that I will love the onion on this pizza. Caramelized onion and to the point that it matches again with the roasted Pili nuts tapos iibahan mo pa kang si honey chili syrup. 

Pili & Caramelized Onion

❣Laing Ravioli was perfect! Im not exagerrating here, only that I was happy for laing to be given another kind of twist and sakto lang siya na dai ka mauumay. 

Laing Ravioli

✓Bicol Express Pasta - go for this if fave mo ang Bicol Express

✓Laing Pili Pizza - was also good. What made it exciting was of course the chilly olive oil. 

Tell me which one’s your fave 

Don't forget your Fresh Juice Drinks and yummy desserts!

Grissini Ristorante

Cereza Compound, Magsaysay Ave, Naga City

#GrissiniRistorante #nagacitydeck #Peñafrancia2025 #NagaCity #NagaCityTourism #PeñafranciaFestival

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A smile-worthy success, thanks to the right bank partner

Dentist transforms dental care in Albay through BDO multipurpose loan

 

In the scenic city of Legazpi, Albay, a six-month visit in 1998 turned into a lifelong mission for Dr. Edgar Salvosa, Jr. Born into a family of dentists, Dr. Salvosa arrived in Bicol with limited expectations. But the warmth of the Bicolanos and a nearby bank partner changed everything. 

 

Recognizing the community's need for dental care, Dr. Salvosa opened a small clinic with just one dental chair. As his practice flourished, so did his relationship with his trusted bank, BDO Unibank. That bond proved instrumental to his growth and success. 

 

"The people behind the BDO branch made all the difference," he shared. From savings accounts to investments and home loans, the Bank was there every step of the way.

A lasting partnership. Dr. Edgar Salvosa found steadfast support in Bicolanos and his bank partner in BDO

through the years. 

 

When the time came to expand, Dr. Salvosa sought guidance from his branch manager, James Verdida. He revisited a long-unused property and applied for a BDO Multipurpose Loan to build a new clinic and commercial spaces. "James walked me through the business and the return on my investment. The land was just sitting there. After our talk, I knew it was time I used it,” he recalled.

 

Grateful for the community’s kindness and support, Dr. Salvosa has committed to giving back. He invested in cutting-edge equipment to offer the best dental care to his patients.

 

To this day, Dr. Salvosa speaks highly of his bank partner. “BDO is always there for me, even beyond banking hours,” he remarked. “Its commitment to client care is something I always share with others.” For him, BDO isn't just a bank—it's a true partner in building dreams.

 

As Dr. Salvosa continues to brighten smiles, his story is a testament to what’s possible when community and collaboration come together. To discover how you can build your legacy, visit your nearest BDO branch or explore www.bdo.com.ph today.

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