La Vida Oriental Negrense

 Enzo Miguel Kho, a 23-year-old native of Dumaguete and Mabinay Negros Oriental , achieved a major milestone after he was elected to Princeton University's Board of Trustees as a Young Alumni Trustee. Kho, who graduated from Princeton in 2026 with a bachelor's degree in sociology and a certificate in urban studies, was designated to serve a four-year term on the board spanning from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2030. Throughout his undergraduate years, Kho demonstrated outstanding student leadership. He served as the president of Princeton's Undergraduate Student Government, actively engaged with the Princeton Filipino Community, and co-founded the Alliance of Empowered Youth in the Philippines. His extensive contributions to the campus community earned him the prestigious Walter E. Hope Class of 1901 Medal. Following his graduation and appointment, Kho prepared to advance his academic career by pursuing a master's degree in politics and international relations at Peking Un...

  Heartfelt gratitude to Mr. Rudy Juan for inviting me to the relaunching of the Senator José Emeterio Muñoz Romero, Sr. Memorabilia at the third floor of the Silliman University Library System complex. On August 25, 2026, the Silliman University Library proudly relaunched the Ambassador José E. Romero, Sr. Memorabilia collection , honoring the life, contributions, and enduring legacy of one of Silliman University’s most distinguished alumni. The collection preserves precious historical artifacts and stories, offering the Silliman community an intimate glimpse into his remarkable life of public service. Born in Bais, Negros Oriental, Senator Romero was the son of Francisco Romero, Sr. (former mayor of Tanjay and provincial board member) and Josefa Calumpang Muñoz. Over his storied career, he served the nation in several monumental capacities: Senator-Elect & Legislator: Served as a Senator-elect of the First Congress of the Philippines (1946). Prior to this, he r...

  Finalist, Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA) 2026 & Graphic Salute Awardee 2026 The Negros Oriental Alliance of Arts and Culture Advocates (NOACA), Inc., together with the Buglas Reading & Writers Club, extends its warmest congratulations and heartfelt pride to  Gemma Minda Laxina Iso . Her outstanding literary achievements have earned her distinction as a  Finalist in the prestigious Nick Joaquin Literary Awards (NJLA) 2026  and the recipient of the  Graphic Salute Award 2026 . A proud daughter of Negros Oriental, Iso was born in Dumaguete City and raised in Bais City. She completed her early education at Foundation University (Elementary Class of 1976) and Silliman University (High School Class of 1980). She went on to pursue studies in Mass Communication at Silliman University and Business Administration with a major in Economics at Foundation University. Beyond her literary craftsmanship, Iso has long served as a cornerstone of the provin...

  DUMAGUETE CITY — In a landmark celebration of heritage preservation, the National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) officially turned over the newly restored Campanario de Dumaguete (Dumaguete Bell Tower) to the Diocese of Dumaguete. The formal turnover ceremony took place on June 15, 2026 , marking the culmination of nearly two years of meticulous structural and site restoration. The event was highlighted by the unveiling of a permanent bronze marker designating the iconic 18th-century structure as an Important Cultural Property (ICP) , ensuring its elevated status in the nation's historical inventory. A PHP 15-Million Investment in History The extensive rehabilitation project was fully backed by a PHP 15-million allocation from the NMP. Far more than a simple facelift, the funding covered: The comprehensive structural restoration of the historic coral-stone tower. The beautification and development of the surrounding site on which the Spanish-era landmark is situated. The r...

  The Buglas Literature Festival 2026 concluded as a landmark event for the Negros Oriental literary scene, blending the flavors of local heritage with the raw energy of community storytelling. Held in observance of both National Literature Month and National Filipino Food Month , the festival moved beyond the traditional confines of academic gatherings to embrace a more visceral, "real-world" connection to the arts. The Most “Bugoy” Book Launch The highlight of the festival was the unconventional book launch for writer and cultural leader Gemma Laxina Iso . Breaking away from the stiff formalities of typical literary events, the launch was affectionately described as the most “bugoy” —or rogue—gathering in recent memory. There were no stages, no scripts, and no labored speeches. Instead, the book became a living part of the space at the Wild Reef Beach Resort in Zamboanguita. Attendees engaged in spontaneous conversations and honest reactions, allowing the stories to brea...

  In a vibrant celebration of National Women’s Month, the Negros Oriental Alliance of Culture and the Arts Advocates (NOACAA) hosted an inspiring Forum on Women that united leaders in advocacy, wellness, and creativity. Held in March 2026, the event served as a powerful platform for empowerment and community dialogue, bringing together diverse voices to honor the journey of women in the modern era. The forum moved beyond simple discussion, creating a sanctuary where stories of courage, resilience, and hope were shared with an engaged audience.  2026 Women Forum in Negros Oriental The event was highlighted by the profound insights of an esteemed panel that represented various sectors of society. Women’s rights advocate Nancy Estelloso provided deep historical and social context to the struggle for equity, while wellness expert Caroline Van Eeghem offered essential perspectives on holistic health. The panel was further strengthened by the presence of scouting executive Queen ...