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RSSThe Mess That Is Calaguas Island
02 May 2012 45 Comments
in Camarines Norte, Travel Tags: Bicol, Calaguas, camarines norte, CNN, tourism, travel
My blog title may be misleading but two days ago, my Facebook news feed had some really interesting things going on. It started with a blog that appeared on Tramping Philippines:
Nasa Calaguas Parin Ba Ako? had a video of the Calaguas we knew and the Calaguas that the traveler and concerned citizen found on that Saturday night in the beach of Mahabang Buhangin (Long Beach).
The Calaguas is a group of islands in the Philippine province of Camarines Norte. It includes the islands of Tinaga, Guintinua and Maculabo and several other minor islands.
Most of the islands are under the administrative jurisdiction of Vinzons, Camarines Norte while the minor island of Maculabo is under the jurisdiction of the municipality of Paracale, Camarines Norte. The island of Tinaga where the famous long beach called Mahabang Buhangin is located is experiencing influx of tourists in the area despite the absence of accommodation. Campers and backpackers are coming and going daily to experience its powdery white sands. (Source: Wiki)
I have been to Calaguas myself and blogged about it here and here. I can understand the sentiment and know exactly what is going on. Unlike my friends, I opted not to say anything about the issue. Two days later though, I found myself being plagued by it because of the number of posts appearing on my Facebook feed. It turns out, except for concerned citizen on Tramping Philippines and the person who wrote on the Calaguas Island Facebook page, I knew all the people involved here. Now I think would be a good time to share what I know and what I think. I am sorry for all those who will be affected by this.
I know well enough the power of social media – and information. Because I have access to information, I feel compelled to use it, to whatever purpose I may deem fit. Since the Facebook page is public, I am assuming that I can post some screenshots here.
I cannot fault Joel Aldor for having done what he did. It was indeed a bold move. Even if a wrong one. I cannot fault Melvic Brinas, the page owner, if he felt compelled to defend himself, his group and/or his company. But looking at all these, there is just something wrong in this whole scene.
One, Mr. Aldor could’ve sent Mr. Brinas a private message, if he wanted an explanation. But seeing that Mr. Aldor wanted it all for the public to see, Mr. Brinas issues then a public reply. A badly done one at that. They all know each other and could’ve easily communicated with each other problems such as these and saved themselves the trouble of pointing fingers, “It was this other group! It was the LGU (local government unit)!” A “Thank you for your concern. I’m sorry about all this. It was not my group but rest assured we have channeled this issue to the right people and we will do what we can. We love the beach/island as much as you do,” or something to that effect, would have sufficed.
Mr. Brinas gave a clue that I was not familiar with; but I saw a friend of mine post photos of Calaguas that were taken on that night and went to look at the album.
Yes, there was a mobile bar. It had a product that is actively being promoted by its owner and developer, Mr. Cabalquinto of Calaguas Northwine, a friend of mine. Yes, there was live music, courtesy of Wowie and Jojo of Tanikala Tribe, a band that regularly performed at Wharf Galley and the two are friends of mine. Because there was live music that needed a microphone and a speaker, yes, there was a generator in the island on that night. And because I did not know what tour operator organized this event, I googled the number on the tarp – a detail that Mr. Brinas pointed out with, “it’s not my genset nor my signage.” and there it was.
Mr. Brinas was referring to Northlink Travels/Tours, the owner/operator of which I personally know. We are also friends, to some extent, just as Melvic and I are. A friend from Travel Factor also happened to be on the island that night and he wasn’t happy either about what happened or is happening.
Why am I naming names, which seems to me not very unlike what Mr. Aldor did, when he said he had connections. These are people I personally know.
Truth is, the issue here is not who did what but the fact that there is something wrong in how all these are being handled by everyone here concerned. Yes, we want to promote the island and boost tourism.
I am well aware of the fact that Cam. Norte is trying hard enough to catch up with its neighbor Cam. Sur, which in turn is not bereft of tourism-related issues coupled with politics and the associated corruption and abuse of power. The whole of Bicol is trying its best to boost tourism, in line with DOT’s drive and its “It’s more fun in the Philippines campaign.” Is it not true that my friends are organizing the week-long Butanding Festival in Sorsogon, the 5th Bagasbas Surf Festival happened just last weekend and the month-long Magayon Festival is still ongoing? I myself actively promote these events. Also, just this afternoon, as I sat in a coffee shop with my frapp and a copy of Cebu Pacific‘s SMILE magazine, I saw three whole-page advertisements for Iriga City, Daet and Sorsogon.
We want to let people know that we have an astounding number of beautiful beaches and islands. We loved that CNN Go just came out with the article, The Philippines’ Best Beaches and Islands. Someone said they forgot to include Calaguas in the list that had El Nido, Boracay, Palaui and Panglao to name the top 4. Melvic once told me he wanted to let people know of Calaguas just as much as people know of Boracay.
A question here is, “Do we really want to turn Calaguas into another Boracay?”
Most of the people I know would say, “No.” Mahabang Buhangin is appreciated for its absence of accommodations, night life, and other so-called comforts.
Another question here is, “What does the government of Camarines Norte really want to do?”
Do they really want to develop the beach into something like Boracay? What of Bagasbas? It is a beach that I love going to to surf and hang out when I am in dire need of a view of sea, the spray of salt water, the sound of crashing waves, and the smell of the salt of the sea in the air, despite my disappointment with tricycle drivers and their tendency to abuse tourists, white-skinned or not, and the overpricing of available accommodations if not the shortage of good ones.
I was supposed to go to the Bagasbas Surf Festival. I almost always go every year, from the first ever to this year’s. I am always paid in advance for it. But when I learned that the new festival schedule (the original schedule of April 13-15 was moved to 28-29 because of the supposed NoKor rocket launch) coincided with the local fiesta, I opted not to go. A wise decision when I was informed a riot had broken out on the beach Friday night.
If we are to promote and boost tourism in this country, we need to educate the locals. What is the sense in bringing people to your place, if they will only be turned off by their experiences, and vow not to come again? We need to educate the tour operators, to take care of the environment, to preserve it as well as preserve themselves, locals of the very place they promote. Not to turn against each other and point fingers when confronted by real problems.
I have seen what tourism can do to a place. Some people say when going to a particular place is hard, it helps preserve the place, but I have personally found this to be untrue. When I was living in El Nido in 2005, we swam in the beach in front of town nearly everyday. Some days there were even tourists sunbathing. The beach was white and beautiful then; but it was even more beautiful in the photos of El Nido I saw that were taken in the 1980s. Incomparable. When I was back there in 2010, only five years later, the sand on the beach was almost brown. You would not want to lay there and sunbathe either. I have enough knowledge of the state of the environment and tourism in El Nido to say that truly, things are never what they seem.
Everywhere, people and places are paying the price of tourism. It is a sad affair and we aren’t even halfway there. While we are addressing issues on how to get more people to come to our shores, such topics discussed in the article, “Special report: Philippines tourism, a tough sell?“, we fail to address the fact that maybe our own people – the local government, with the mayors, baranggay captains, councilors, the tourism council, business owners, tour operators, transport operators, yes, even the local tambays, are not prepared. If that be true, then the P63M the Aquino administration plans to spend on CNN ads would be better off, again, set aside for awareness and education, rather than promotion.
45 Comments (+add yours?)
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May 02, 2012 @ 04:19:27
Applause!!! This is the best blog I’ve ever read so far. My sentiments exactly! And I believe a lot of us who’ve experience the serenity of Calaguas would share the same sentiments.
People don’t really care who did what, they don’t care how influential the organizers were. And it doesn’t really matter who ‘discovered’ the island. BUT WE CARE about preserving it and letting others experience the unspoilt island life.
What’s happening to Calaguas is wrong and it should stop NOW.
I wish for the LGU to act fast, lay the ground rules, educate the people involve, and fine those who violate the rules. LGU should prioritize the interest of their jurisdiction and BEFORE their personal business interests.
If a tourist calls the tourism office of Daet, which tour operator would they recommend? I know the answer and this is where the bias starts.
May 02, 2012 @ 05:07:44
Thanks for posting this blog.
I know all the tourism operators in Camarines Norte, may i know who is Joel Aldor? What did he do to promote Calaguas Island? the way he talk to tour operators is not acceptable and it irritates me. ang yabang mo boie, puro ka satsat.. para kang babae putak ng putak baka nga isa ka sa mga undisciplined trippers nag mamalinis ka pa. Feeling mo ang galing galing mo sa post mo na yan.
You are all responsible sa mga sinusulat nyo, make sure before you post any information dapat tama lahat ang sources nyo, Unnecessary commentors na nakikisawsaw wag na kayo sumawsaw ang daming problema ng Pilipinas wag nyo ng dagdagan. UTANG NA LOOB.
May 02, 2012 @ 08:46:36
Thank you for clarifying on this issue and as I read through it, accountability should rest where it belongs. As I read through your post though, I have a question in my mind.
- Aren’t the tour operators policing your ranks?
This is an obvious lack of foresight and consideration to other backpackers and campers in the area to seek nothing but solitude and inspiration. As a travel blogger myself, I have never been to Calaguas and wanted to in the future. I hope that what I will see in it is the pristine, peaceful, inspiring Calaguas, not some dirty, noisy and polluted strip of white sand. We all share responsibility in pursuing creatively how we can entice others to come and visit Calagaus but never in the manner that destroys it or disturb its peace.
May this post put a stop on whatever ensuing events after that unfortunate event. I thank you for your stand on this issue and let us all work, in the interests of nature and the people of Calaguas. We owe it to ourselves to care for the environs which we get our income too. We owe it, much to ourselves to protect it for future generations to appreciate and enjoy.
God bless you and God bless
May 02, 2012 @ 10:33:11
thank you for being the ‘truth’ in the 3 sides of the story mam [:)] public allegations must be publicly addressed. i’m always asking them for a proper forum, a dialogue perhaps but you witnessed what happened. When somebody rudely intrudes into your own perimeter, you won’t expect a warm welcome. Respect is earned not given.
May 02, 2012 @ 12:53:22
“When somebody rudely intrudes into your own perimeter, you won’t expect a warm welcome. Respect is earned not given.”
- Like how the tour groups there last Saturday intrudes to the peaceful calm of Calaguas? Yup, you said it right. Respect is earned, not given.
May 02, 2012 @ 13:01:09
“thank you for being the ‘truth’ in the 3 sides of the story mam [:)] public allegations must be publicly addressed. i’m always asking them for a proper forum, a dialogue perhaps but you witnessed what happened.”
- Yes, that’s why I’m publicly making this issue obvious for everyone to read. We make these allegations because ME and MY FRIENDS saw what you did. Now if you’re insisting that it’s the “LGU” that’s dumping trash and making the place smell of filth, then I dare you to do drop names.
May 02, 2012 @ 10:44:54
A very well written article. I know I’m wrong in writing my post one way or another but I was just another person that wanted to spread awareness. All of your points were right and I hope this post reaches the locals tourism office for them to make a firm stand on what image they want Mahabang buhangin to become.
May 02, 2012 @ 13:09:00
Hi Dane,
WHAT YOU DID WAS JUST RIGHT, PERIOD.
And I thank you for spreading the word.
Joel
May 02, 2012 @ 11:59:12
Hi Angku,
You could call me Joel. Thank you for making me suddenly notoriously famous (again). Well this is not new to me. Trust me when I say I’m notorious. Ask some travel bloggers you know, hehehe!
OK, kidding aside.
I went to Calaguas this past weekend with my group of friends to enjoy the peace it offers, only to be disturbed by these tour groups. I got dismayed. My friends got dismayed. I share the same sentiments with the other blogger: “Nasa Calaguas pa ba ako?”
Being a true-blodded Bicolano myself, with roots from Libon, Albay and Daet on my mother’s side, I was compelled to make noise about this issue. If there’s anything I could do to stop the mess before it worsens, I will do it. Hence I made the issue (very) obvious. And for the record, everything I said on the screenshots you posted are true.
Now as I think and retrospect about this whole “mess”, I could draw some parallels with similar incidents in other places in the country. Siguro hindi kasi parte ng kultura natin ang pagiging “whistleblower” when we see something wrong. Siguro dahil na rin sa kultura ng pakikisama. But, you know Angku, at some point, each one of us has to draw the line.
If I don’t bring this up to authorities, who will? Eventually, we’ll become more complacent over time, and we won’t realize how much trash and waste we’ve been actually dumping on that pristine beach all this time. If I don’t bring this up in the most provoking way I know, more and more incidents like this will happen in the future.
I think what I did is to get the message across, not just to the tour group, but to everyone who wants to go to Calaguas, whether it is a private trip or a camping tour group. I think that goal was achieved, because everyone started to talk about it, including you. But of course, that doesn’t stop there.
I’ve touched base with Daet tourism office so far, and I’ll also inform the ones from Paracale and Vinzons too (my friends HAVE those connections). A letter will be sent to them informing of the incident (with your inputs from this blog entry), with the hope that they will respond positively and carry out a preventive action.
Please pardon me if I’m too passionate and emotional about this. Calaguas is also close to my heart just like yours. I plan to write a full-page article about Calaguas in my Travel & Discover column in one of the upcoming issues of The Fortnightly News Magazine (yes, I’m a fellow writer as well), and I hope not to disappoint readers who might plan to go there soon.
Thank you for your diplomacy and your two cents about the mess. No worries, I wasn’t affected at all. I just stand up for what I believe is right.
Regards,
Joel
May 02, 2012 @ 14:29:41
• Like how the tour groups there last Saturday intrudes to the peaceful calm of Calaguas? Yup, you said it right. Respect is earned, not given.
Like how you excitedly post on my page wall allegations that were not really meant for me? Yup, I said it right. Respect is earned, not given.
• Yes, that’s why I’m publicly making this issue obvious for everyone to read. We make these allegations because ME and MY FRIENDS saw what you did (YOU SAW WHAT? I DID WHAT?). Now if you’re insisting that it’s the “LGU” that’s dumping trash and making the place smell of filth, then I dare you to do drop names.
Mr. Joel Aldor, just in case you had over looked the article kindly read the excerpts:
Mr. Brinas gave a clue that I was not familiar with; but I saw a friend of mine post photos of Calaguas that were taken on that night and went to look at the album.
Yes, there was a mobile bar. It had product that is actively being promoted by its owner and developer, Mr. Cabalquinto of Calaguas Northwine, a friend of mine. Yes, there was live music, courtesy of Wowie and Jojo of Tanikala Tribe, a band that regularly performed at Wharf Galley and the two are friends of mine. Because there was live music that needed a microphone and a speaker, yes, there was a generator in the island on that night. And because I did not know what tour operator organized this event, I googled the number on the tarp – a detail that Mr. Brinas pointed out with, “it’s not my genset nor my signage.” and there it was.
Mr. Brinas was referring to Northlink Travels/Tours, the owner/operator of which I personally know. We are also friends, to some extent, just as Melvic and I are. A friend from Travel Factor also happened to be on the island that night and he wasn’t happy either about what happened or is happening.
Why am I naming names, which seems to me not very unlike what Mr. Aldor did, when he said he had connections. These are people I personally know.
• Please pardon me if I’m too passionate and emotional about this. Calaguas is also close to my heart just like yours. I plan to write a full-page article about Calaguas in my Travel & Discover column in one of the upcoming issues of The Fortnightly News Magazine (yes, I’m a fellow writer as well), and I hope not to disappoint readers who might plan to go there soon.
A writer knows by heart the eight (8) characteristics of good writing:
1. Clarity and focus
2. Organization
3. Ideas and themes
4. Voice
5. Language
6. Grammar and style (You must have mastered this one.)
7. Credibility or believability: nothing says shoddy writing like getting the facts wrong or misrepresenting oneself. In fiction, the story must be believable (even if it’s impossible), and in nonfiction, accurate research can make or break a writer.
BINGO! Check your facts Sir, even the video footage proved your allegations on me were all wrong.
8. Thought-provoking or emotionally inspiring
May 02, 2012 @ 15:38:45
So san mo naman nakuha yang “8 characteristics of good writing” na yan? Sa WritingForward website? Di ka man lamang nag-cite ng source. So feeling good writer ka rin pala. IKAW NA.
Granted, for the sake of argument, that you’re not the one dumping the trash and making the place filthy (KAYO NA ANG MALINIS!), are you now acknowledging that you’re pointing the finger to Northlink and the LGU? And I quote:
“sir joel those groups are from LGU ung umihi, nagkalat at nag-ingay they’re catered by n*******k tours u can check the infos with them to get your facts right
…”
I’m attaching the screenshot here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/77859026@N02/7134748973/sizes/l/in/photostream/
If that’s the case, why not you make your allegations DIRECT AND PUBLIC instead? Bakit kelangan pang may “******” kung pwede naman pala kayong mag-salita laban sa kanila? Eh nag-sulat na nga kayo ng STOP THE HATE campaign nyo eh (which by the way, is way too defensive in tone – a typical indication of guilt), bakit di nyo pa deretsahang sabihin na rin? Eh tutal nagne-namedropping na rin naman tayo eh.
And by the way, my friends still stand to their claim that they picked up some trash as they passed over the sands in your area. Hence, your group are still responsible for your mess.
And hence, I will not retract my allegations. In short, PAREHO KAYONG PARTE NG PROBLEMA.
P.S. I am not connected with Northlink Tours in any way.
May 02, 2012 @ 17:50:05
I never said I am a “writer”. Reread your replies and kindly reflect how they affect your demeanor as a proclaimed writer. Credibility matters most. The issue is plain & simple. You accused me of something I did not do. You post it on my wall complete with a link that has a video footage and brag about your connections. I refute the allegations. The truth proves my innocence. So be it. Anything beyond this forum is out of order and none of my business. You want to know who are they are, suit yourself a correct research this time. Have a nice day
May 02, 2012 @ 18:13:23
Melvic, bakit di nyo na lang kasi aminin na talagang nagkakalat kayo sa Calaguas? That your group is also PART OF THE PROBLEM? You brag about your clean-up drives, pero grupo nyo rin pala nagdudumi. Tapos nanduduro pala kayo ng iba pang tour group na Northlink pero kayo rin pala itong makalat. We could go on and on, and on and on, and on and on with this hopeless argument, but the fact remains that your group is PART OF THE PROBLEM, PART OF THE PROBLEM, PART OF THE PROBLEM.
I don’t wanna even begin with my writing, but hey dude, my writing gig and my so-called “demeanor” doesn’t have anything to do with what happened last weekend. Will you even do something about it, let alone acknowledge fault?
Responsible tour organizer “raw.” I don’t think so. Anyway, I already did my part in this whole sh*tshow, and I’ll just sit down and watch this whole sh*t petrify before my own eyes. Maybe next year Calaguas may become worse, if I’m pessimistic. Thanks to you and Northlink.
Have a nice day too!
May 02, 2012 @ 18:34:08
Hi Melvic,
The actions of Joel doesn’t reflect the views of my post. I just posted what I saw, I didn’t name names. I didn’t exaggerate and all the facts posted there are true.
About your standing with Joel is kind of out of our business but I think the point Joel here is pointing out is that you started the trend of party atmosphere and drinking at Calaguas that’s why you are the one being lambasted by critics.
Ang naging problema dito ay dahil gusto kang mapatumba ng mga kalaban mo, mas malakas sila, mas magulo sila at mas matagal silang nagpeplay ng loud noise.
I think saying that you are out of this problem is wrong and I think you yourself should address the problem that is currently happening in that Island.
Andun ka last weekend and alam mong maingay hanggang 2 AM, alam mong mapanghi at alam mong makalat nung gabi. I’m not saying that its your fault pero alam mo yun. Kahit pa Northlink ang me pakana nun we should all make a move to stop the destruction of the island.
Lalo na kayo. Kayo kayo ang mga tour operators dapat kayo mismo nagkakausap about dun.
Ako wala namang akong kakilala sainyo e. Wala akong kakilala sa Hullaballoo, Travel Factor, Northlink, etc. etc.
And actually before this trip the only facilitator I knew was Travel Factor. So wala kaming magawa kasi hindi namin kayo kakilala.
So I think the one who should make a move and make rules and regulations here is Kayong mga tour operators kasi wala na akong inaasahan sa local govt.
Almost all of our leters, especially from blogger, were ignored or replied with “will take a look at it” but nothing happened.
Yun lang e. Rules and regulations. Sana pag alam nating me ginagawang mali yung isa sana gumagawa tayo ng paraan lahat. Thats why I created the post to spread awareness.
Again, I didn’t exaggerate the fact written in my post. All of that are true and based on my experience last weekend. Talagang maingay ung genset, amoy gasolina, mapanghi at noisy up until 2 AM.
-Dane | Tramping Philippines
May 02, 2012 @ 21:54:49
Hello Dane,
I appreciate your decorum in asking me to help make a move regarding the Calaguas Tourism instead of falsely accusing me
I will try to convene all the Local Tours and the Local Govt to set regulations and parameters concerning Calaguas and other tourist spots of CamNorte. Hopefully, they will all join in so we can come up with a resolution that’s favorable to all stakeholders.
Guaranteed you will be notified for any updates vis-à-vis Calaguas Tourism.
May 02, 2012 @ 13:09:50
Very well said Angku.
In the past years, there have been a lot of emerging destinations made popular through word of mouth, and through new media. Zambales’ Anawangin, Nagsasa, Magalawa, Potipot, CamNorte’s Calaguas are some of the most popular.
All of these are unregulated. No rules to follow, no guiding principles to police visitors and tour operators. This is where the problem lies.
For Calaguas’ sake I hope a TOURISM COUNCIL is formed represented by the following stakeholders: Vinzons LGU (Municipal Level), Calaguas LGU (Barangay Level), Department of Tourism, Land Owners of the Campsites in Calaguas, Tour Operators/Organizers.
We need to set what path Calaguas will take. Development is not so bad as long as it is responsible, sustainable and controlled. With all the stakeholders, we can set rules on generators, garbage, entrance fees, noise levels, etc. If the council wants Calaguas to be another party island, fine. At least there’s clarity. (Although I PERSONALLY advocate Calaguas to be a preserved, virgin beach for the generations to come.)
Regulate Calaguas.
May 02, 2012 @ 19:17:12
(palakpakan)
May 02, 2012 @ 14:49:18
who’s collecting the environment fee when visiting calaguas?
that government unit should be the one responsible for creating, promulgating and enforcing rules, regulations and acceptable behaviour in the island.
May 02, 2012 @ 15:47:38
The fees collected go to the land owners / caretakers there in Calaguas. There is no environmental fee so to speak.
Ang hirap ng walang batas. Walang tama, walang mali.
May 02, 2012 @ 15:37:17
Thank you guys for the comments. I found myself staring at the “Publish” button for a long time, contemplating whether I should or should not, hit it, aware of what might happen. I have been through that road before when my careless words have sparked a controversy that involved a lot of people and left a trail of hurt egos and strained relationships.
There are some comments that are awaiting moderation. I’ve emailed an author asking if she might consider revising her tone or her words, as I would still like to give her a voice, and if she says publish it as it is, then she is aware of and prepared to defend her points. And that everything she said was written with careful thought.
I try to moderate comments in this site so as to foster a healthy environment for discourse. We are but of the same vision and passion, and what a wonderful place our country would be if we could all work together and live in mutual respect.
May 02, 2012 @ 17:22:41
Dear Joel (i’m sorry ur not popular) so i don’t know your last name, here’s the deal, call me if you have your own tour package site kahit “majayjay lang”
cargo: “thanks for making me suddenly notoriously famous (again)”
for me was the most “awful statement i read, i wanna curl inside my blanket and cry for your life’s emptiness ..
May 02, 2012 @ 22:29:53
“Hello Dane,
I appreciate your decorum in asking me to help make a move regarding the Calaguas Tourism instead of falsely accusing me
I will try to convene all the Local Tours and the Local Govt to set regulations and parameters concerning Calaguas and other tourist spots of CamNorte. Hopefully, they will all join in so we can come up with a resolution that’s favorable to all stakeholders.
Guaranteed you will be notified for any updates vis-à-vis Calaguas Tourism.”
Sana nga Melvic, mangyari yan. Di lang sya dapat pakitang tao at pagbabalat-kayo para lang sa pansariling interes. Kung meron pang mabuting madudulot ito ay may umaksyong positibo para sa isla. Redeem yourselves, dahil kayo na talaga ang kawawa dito.
May 03, 2012 @ 13:34:07
Sir Joel, meron pong meeting sa provincial tourism now, why not join them? do something for Calaguas too.. and we readers are looking forward for the action you can do and what you can do for the island.
Goodluck and update as soon as possible.
May 03, 2012 @ 13:36:14
Sir Joel, meron pong meeting sa provincial tourism now, why not join them? do something for Calaguas too.. and we readers are looking forward for the action you can do and what you can do for the island. If the local government cant do anything about it probably you can inform them sa pamumuno mo.
Goodluck and update as soon as possible.
May 03, 2012 @ 17:59:49
Kung ako ay talagang “concerned” at Isa lang naman an hangarin… (gaya ng sinasabi) e bat d nalang ako manahimik at gawin ang magagawa??? ok lang din mag argue…pero bakit paulit ulit??? Parang nawawala yung sincerity na ang hangarin ay mapabuti ang lugar ng calaguas. Saka wag tayong masyadong kritiko at sobrang matalino mag focus sana sa problema ndi kung san san pa.
May 03, 2012 @ 19:33:59
If Calaguas is your source of income, might as well take care of it if you want your business to last. You do not just disturb an island and compromise it’s beauty just because you make money. Given the status of our government right now, would you care put your “business” at stake just because you feel you are an obligation of the LGU? Would you care put Calaguas at stake? If you really are well educated, can your 8 characteristics of good writing and your broken ego do something about what the real problem is? Shame on you for finding fault in others when you yourself cannot acknowledge your shortcomings. Why not focus on solutions?! As a tour organizer, you could at least include in your environmental guidelines to have your guests carry their trash with them or maybe place garbage bins for your rafts or boats to carry back from the island after the tour. At least, if your more concerned in just watching people pick up trashes then you could point fingers to your guests and reference them to your guidelines. Try to reflect and not be emotional just because you think this is a bad review for you. Take constructive criticisms. It could have been better if you just responded you’ll take action.
May 04, 2012 @ 11:28:13
“Take constructive criticisms.”
Constructive criticism is different from an assault. Constructive criticism does not break ego, it rather offers solutions and not threats nor slander. Most importantly, constructive criticism should be based on accurate allegations. You witnessed how it has been done. The end does not justify the means.
“It could have been better if you just responded you’ll take action”
In case you had overlooked, I responded with same etiquette to an authentic constructive criticism.
“Hello Dane,
I appreciate your decorum in asking me to help make a move regarding the Calaguas Tourism instead of falsely accusing me.
I will try to convene all the Local Tours and the Local Govt to set regulations and parameters concerning Calaguas and other tourist spots of CamNorte. Hopefully, they will all join in so we can come up with a resolution that’s favorable to all stakeholders.
Guaranteed you will be notified for any updates vis-à-vis Calaguas Tourism”
CALAGUAS TOURISM UPDATE:
We had an Initial meeting with the Tourism Officer yesterday May 3, 2012. Some guidelines were drawn. Let us await the Official Calaguas Tourism Guidelines to avoid preemption. You may refer to this link should you want to verify: The Provincial Tourism Office of Cam. Norte fan page https://www.facebook.com/cometo.camnorte or call Atty. Debbie Francisco our Tourism Officer
May 04, 2012 @ 12:03:03
Ano ba yan paulit ulit, parang di maka get over. suggest nalang kayo ng dapat, no need mag bangayan. tinanggap na, nagpaliwanag na, ano pa ba gusto? sana yun susunod na mag ko comment may gagawin na maganda sa calaguas, tutulong para maging maayos ang calaguas. hindi mag dadakdak para sumikat!
ayan website ng vinzons tulungan nalang! https://www.facebook.com/pages/Vinzons-Camarines-Norte/169982699689928
http://vinzons.camnorte.ph/
isipin mo muna kung makakatulong ka pag nag post or makikisawsaw ka lang!
May 04, 2012 @ 13:49:08
Are you from Vinzons LGU? I sent a formal letter to the Vinzons LGU last April 12 about this issue and haven’t got a reply.
May 04, 2012 @ 20:31:41
Interesting comments! Did someone just hired an english writer to comment on his behalf? 1-point for the effort!
May 09, 2012 @ 16:25:21
Wag na kaung mag bangayan pa!pangaagaan at ingatan ang calaguas ng di matulad sa galera!maging responsable taung lahat!wag ng magsisihanpa!tau at tau lng din ang mkakapaglaga at makakapag panatili ng ganda at linis ng paraisong island ng calaguas!
May 21, 2012 @ 15:24:14
Simple lang ang problema nyo tol.. After ng mga party nyo its your responsiblity to keep those trashes away from the island ganun lang kasimple.. And kung talagang concern kayo sa isla then why not put those bars somewhere NOT near those group of islands d ba.. siguro mas maganda kung ilagay nyo na lang sa pier yan kung meron para d makasira at tipid pa sa gasolina.. magtulungan na lang kayo instead na magaway wala rin naman mangyayari..
May 21, 2012 @ 15:26:42
Simple lang ang problema nyo tol.. After ng mga party nyo its your responsibility to keep those trashes away from the island ganun lang kasimple.. And kung talagang concern kayo sa isla then why not put those bars somewhere NOT near those group of islands d ba.. siguro mas maganda kung ilagay nyo na lang sa pier yan kung meron para d makasira at tipid pa sa gasolina.. magtulungan na lang kayo instead na magaway wala rin naman mangyayari..
Jun 05, 2012 @ 15:37:48
Haters gonna hate, hahaha.
Jun 05, 2012 @ 15:45:57
Obviously, may pinagpipilitan talaga itong si Mr. Joel Ador. He doesn’t sound concern at all para sa Calaguas, personal ang mga banat eh. He’s mad and parang tanga lang. OA ka na sir ha… Daming nag mamagaling… hahahaha
Aug 02, 2012 @ 17:37:43
just got from my Calaguas adventure.
Kuya Ricky (our boatman), I can say, is the NICEST and MOST ACCOMODATING boatman ever.
we were there when bagyong Gener is on its strongest.
Kuya Ricky took care of us,he even cooked our breakfast while we are suffering from hangover.
After the 4hr boat ride (usually it will only took 2hrs) and after surviving the huge waves and strong winds due to bagyong Gener, we went straight to his house and his wife even cooked pancit and prepared some sandwiches for us.
TAKE NOTE:::: HE DID NOT ASK FOR ANY ADDITIONAL AMOUNT FROM THE ORIGINAL THAT WE AGREED ON.
i am just doing this to payback the kindness and the lesson we learned from Kuya Ricky.
Kuya Ricky’s Number: 0912 736 5717
0912 736 5717
0912 736 5717
0912 736 5717
Just tell him that you got his number from JOANNE ABSOLUT.
hehehehehehe =)
Aug 02, 2012 @ 19:51:45
I’m glad your trip went well and you are all safe.
May I humbly ask, what lesson did you learn?
I hope it’s a lesson on not to go on a boat bound for an island while there is a weather disturbance. The coast guard shouldn’t have let you go. Your lives and safety are of utmost importance.
We are glad nothing bad happened to you and your group.
Feb 11, 2013 @ 14:17:54
any updates on TOURISM COUNCIL? malapit na po ang summer…
Feb 11, 2013 @ 19:48:31
When this first came out, representatives from the LGU and the tourism council said they’ve already sorted it out. I hope they have!
Cheers to the upcoming summer! May we all learn to care for our natural resources.
Mar 04, 2013 @ 13:15:22
Just fresh from Calaguas this past weekend. Totoo ung lahat ng nabasa kong comments sa blog site na to. Sobrang ingay nung sound system nung andun kami. As in til midnight yung sound. Mabuti sana kung ok sana yung music na pini-play. Some,music were played in other language we don’t understand.( Puro pop rock music) I agree na nawala tlga yung serenity nung place dahil sa sobrang ingay. And that weekend andun din ung mga ngtotour. But not sure if the sound system is included sa package.I feel the concerns of preservation of Calaguas that it should remain as it is. (The calmness, turquoise blue water). And sa nag-oorganize ng mga tour, sana maging responsible nman po tayo…Yun lang po…Tama na ang sagutan at batuhan ng comments….=)
Mar 15, 2013 @ 12:17:12
Kaloka naman mga dumadayo ng party at pagdudumi sa calaguas. Sana mapagtuunan ng pansin. We’re planning to visit calaguas this holyweek. Pwede naman magparty sa syudad. kaloka
Apr 18, 2013 @ 15:47:49
hi all,
haba ng comments pero di ko ma gets, lahat me point. Asar talo, pero apektado. comment lang ng isang true blooded na taga calaguas na nakapag aral sa manila at nakalimutan na ang isang napakagandang paraiso na dati ay nakatago sa mata ng ng mga taong nga hahanap ng totoong ganda ng isang paraiso. sa unang banda natuwa ako sa magandang nangyayari sa lugar ko, madaming kababayan ang nag katrabaho pero ang tingin ko mga negosyante lang ang kumikitang totoo, pano na na silang maliliit na tao. hay….me balita pa ako ang mga tao inaagawan na ng totoong trono, pati ang mga pulitiko na dati ay walang pakialam sa lugar na ito nag pa pirma sa mga tao na kanila ng ang isang parte ng islang ito. hay…kawawang mga kababaryo ko di nila alam ang tunay na hatid nito. sa una ay kikita sila dito pero sa tingin pag laon ay ihahanap na sila ng panibagong isla para nag calaguas ay kanila na ng buong buo. simula palang ito. sana naman kahit papano ay mapakinggan nyo ito.
(been in calaguas two days ago just to visit my maderes and paderes and my beloved mahabang buhangin too….with side trip to pulong kinamanukan also)
May 04, 2012 @ 14:09:26
This comment was brought to my attention. This did not come from me! Please delete!
May 04, 2012 @ 14:25:41
Hi Ivan,
Will email you.
May 04, 2012 @ 15:02:03
Hi guys,
I have cleaned up a bit on the Comments section because of requests from authors (or supposed authors at that).
