La Vida Oriental Negrense

  Dumaguete celebrates the 164ᵗʰ Birth Anniversary of Dr. José P. Rizal June 19, 2025 | Pantawan Rizal People’s Park, Dumaguete City DUMAGUETE CITY – As twilight brushed Pantawan Rizal People’s Park with gold and rose, the soft roll of drums signaled the start of a tribute that has become both ritual and renewal for Dumagueteños: Halad Alang sa Adlaw’ng Natawhan ni Rizal , the city’s heartfelt offering on the 164ᵗʰ birthday of the nation’s foremost hero, Dr. José P. Rizal.  A park transformed into a national shrine By 5:30 PM, rows of American Era Lamp post lined the sea‑front promenade, their steady flames mirrored on the calm Dumaguete Bay . The air carried the scent of  roses garlands carefully woven by local students. Beneath the park’s towering Rizal monument, delegates of the Order of the Knights of Rizal —from Negros Oriental to Dumaguete Chapter—took their places in immaculate Barong Tagalog and glittering medals, a living tapestry of brotherhood that stretch...

  Love, laughter, and happily ever after — these words encapsulated the magical wedding day of Shelton John Calimpon and Daisy Buscato, an event that not only celebrated their love but also brought together families from various corners of Negros Oriental, Philippines. On this unforgettable day, guests witnessed a beautiful union enhanced by the scenic backdrop of the historic St. Anthony de Padua Parish Church in Sibulan and celebrated at The Barn at the Mango Ranch in Valencia ,Negros Oriental.   The Venue: A Perfect Setting for Love The couple chose St. Anthony de Padua Parish Church, a remarkable site steeped in history, to exchange their vows. The church's timeless architecture and serene atmosphere created an idyllic environment for the ceremony. Friends, family, and coworkers from BDO Banco de Oro gathered to support the couple as they committed their lives to each other in a traditional yet heartfelt ceremony. Shelton and Daisy’s union was not only a merging of h...

In 2025, Negros Oriental marked an extraordinary milestone in its history—the 135th anniversary of its establishment as a province. This significant occasion was commemorated with an event that not only honored the province’s history but also celebrated its vibrant culture and the contributions of its artists, historians, and writers. Kolokabildo 2025, organized by the Negros Oriental Alliance of Culture & Arts Advocates Inc. (NOACAA-INC.), the Buglas Reading & Writers Club, and The Open Book Circle, brought together individuals from various walks of life to reflect on the province’s remarkable journey and to recognize its cultural legacy.  A Tribute to Local History and Culture   Kolokabildo 2025 was more than just a celebration—it was a tribute to the timeless contributions of local historians, artists, and writers who have helped shape the province’s identity over the years. The event’s organizers, led by Chairperson Gemma Minda Laxina Iso and President Prof. Penn T...

  Gabriella Mai "Gabbi" Carballo, a proud daughter of the Villanueva Clan of Bais City and Northern Negros, was crowned Miss Universe Philippines Cebu 2024 on December 18 at the prestigious Waterfront Hotel Cebu . Gabbi, who hails from the City of   Guihulngan , is the daughter of   my humble. cousin Ruben William Villegas Carballo. At 26 years old, she is not only a doctor of medicine, having graduated from Cebu Doctors’ University, but also a passionate English teacher. Her pageantry journey began in 2018 when she was crowned Miss Mandaue, and she later went on to win Miss Cebu in 2022. With her eyes now set on the national crown, Gabbi continues to inspire with her grace, dedication, and relentless pursuit of excellence.  Representing the prominent Carballo, Villanueva, Vergara, Pinili, and Villegas (Dela Viña) clans of Negros Oriental, her victory is a momentous occasion for her hometown and all of Northern Negros. Gabbi’s success is a testament to her hardwo...

  Today, we gather to honor the theme, "Empower the Youth, Embrace Freedom," which resonates deeply with the legacy of our local heroes. These individuals, who once walked our streets, fought for our independence, and advocated for justice, were driven by a vision of a future where the youth could thrive freely in a society of equality and opportunity. Our local heroes understood the power of the youth. They knew that young minds are the spark that can ignite change, and they invested in the belief that future generations would carry the torch of freedom forward. Their sacrifices laid the foundation for the rights and freedoms we enjoy today, but it is our responsibility to continue their work. Prof. Penn T. Larena, Alex Amor and Foundation University Students Empowering the youth means providing them with the tools to shape their own destinies. Education, leadership, and self-belief are essential for young people to take charge of their future. Just as our local heroes f...

 This year, St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD) proudly commemorates its 120th foundation anniversary, marking over a century of educational excellence, community service, and spiritual growth. Established in 1904 by the Sisters of St. Paul of Chartres, SPUD has played a vital role in shaping the educational landscape of Dumaguete City and beyond. The Congregation of the  Sisters of St .  Paul of Chartres  (SPC) The anniversary celebration is not only a time for reflection on the rich history of the institution but also an opportunity to look forward to its future. SPUD has continuously adapted to the changing needs of its students and the community, offering a diverse range of programs that promote holistic development. From its roots in basic education to its current array of undergraduate and graduate programs, the university remains committed to nurturing leaders who are equipped to make a positive impact in society. This milestone is celebrated through various ...