Is there an active volcano in the vicinity of Naga, Camarines Sur? Yes. Is it Mount Mayon? Contrary to a popular blogger’s belief, no. But instead of dwelling on the Presidential Communications Secretary’s “tiny mistake,” let’s take a look at other breathtaking and must-see attractions in the volcanic-disaster-free Naga City. Perhaps Mocha Uson’s gaffe was simple and honest—people often forget their elementary social studies after all.
Mt. Isarog
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A fifteen-minute drive away from the downtown city center is this 2,000-meter-high mountain and potentially active volcano. It is home to diverse species of flora and fauna, including a shrew rat and eight distinct species of Philippine-endemic snakes.
Jesse M. Robredo Museum
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Last August, the Museo ni Jesse Robredo opened in Naga City, funded by the National Historical Commission (NHCP). The four galleries within the structure pay tribute to former Naga city mayor Jesse Robredo’s legacy of good governance and exemplary life in local politics.
Peñafrancia Basilica Minore
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Naga is known not for its misplaced mountain peaks but rather for its colorful fluvial festival every September. They don’t call it the Pilgrim City for nothing. The Basilica houses a miraculous 18th century image of the Virgin Mary said to have resurrected a sacrificial dog.
Metropolitan Cathedral
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An echo of the colonial era, the 175-year-old cathedral is one of Naga’s structures which survived World War 2. The architecture remains the same despite its repainted interior. Arches within its cruciform structure counter the effects of earthquakes.
Malabsay Falls
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You need to be willing to brave a bumpy ride and a rough trek through Mt. Isarog National Park for this. Still, the reward of refreshingly cool and pristine waters is hard to resist. The locals are very conscious about environmental pollutants, so take your trash out with you.
Header photo courtesy of Unsplash.
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Writer: BELLE O. MAPA
