Polangui, Albay

Polangui
Banwaan nin Polangui
Municipality
Municipality of Polangui
  transcription(s)
 • English Municipality of Polangui
 • Filipino Bayan ng Polangui
 • Spanish Municipio de Polangui
 • Bikol Banwaan nin Polangui
 • Bikol-Polangui Banwa ning Polangui / Banwang Polangui
Nickname(s): Bayan ni Pulang Angui
Motto: "Next Level...Progress" (2010-present)

Map of Albay showing the location of Polangui
Polangui

Location within the Philippines

Coordinates: 13°17′32″N 123°29′08″E / 13.29222°N 123.48556°E / 13.29222; 123.48556Coordinates: 13°17′32″N 123°29′08″E / 13.29222°N 123.48556°E / 13.29222; 123.48556
Country  Philippines
Region Bicol (Region V)
Province Albay
District 3rd district
Municipality 1584
Barangays 44
Government[1]
 • Type Mayor–council
 • Mayor Cherilie M. Sampal (Liberal Party)
 • Vice Mayor Raul G. Lim (Liberal Party)
 • Sangguniang Bayan
Area[2]
 • Total 145.30 km2 (56.10 sq mi)
Population (2010)[3]
 • Total 82,307
 • Density 570/km2 (1,500/sq mi)
Demonym(s) Polangueño
Time zone PHT (UTC+8)
ZIP Code 4506
Dialing code 52
Income class 1st class; partially urban
Website www.polangui.gov.ph

Polangui is a first class municipality in the province of Albay, Philippines. It is now a thriving, progressive first-class growth center, considered as the most promising and potential economic destination of the flourishing trade and commercial activities of the Third District of Albay. According to the 2010 census, it has a population of 82,307 people,[3] a labor force of 37,247 and 46,586 voting population.[4]

Etymology

The origin of the name Polangui has many versions. The foremost and seems more accepted version is, "that of a giant robust tree which existed majestically in the early municipal settlement". The natives of the settlement called the "Oyangue", which also served as the early landmark of the area whereby new settlers looked upon in their wandering. Similarly, the early Spanish frontier settlers found this tree and it became their famous settlement landmark. The settlement was then called "Binanuaan" but often referred to as "Oyangue" by nearby settlers. As more settlers came to dwell and engage in various trade endeavors with the indigenous dwellers, the more was the settlement known in distant areas by the name "Oyangue" referring to the tree landmark which was more widely accepted than "Binanuaan". The passing of generations corrupted the word "Oyangue" into several acronyms. Most acceptable and widely used before was "Polangue" and later "Polangui" which has remained today.

Another legend is about the story of a maiden named "Pulang Angui" which means "Red Maria" (Angui is the nickname for Maria) who loved red colors for dress and whose beautiful body, face and red lips became the object of affection by the males to the point of adoration. She was modest in her ways, talented for possessing various skills, with happy disposition, showing love of arts and religion. She would lead the tribe in festivities. When the Spaniards came, the soldiers who first set foot in Polangui asked for the name of the place. The native thought the foreigners was asking for the name of "Pulang Angui" and said so. The Spaniards recorded the name of the place as Pulangui, a concoction of the name which was later on, as years went by, was converted to Polangui.

Formation of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

Interesting legends on how the parish and town of Polangui came to have been passed on from generation to generation. Certainly, during the early period of the Spanish regime in about 1584, it was believed that trees called "Oyangui" abound all over the land. A priest, Fray Baltazar dela Magdalena came to this place, thus called it "Polangui". It was also then inhabited by approximately 500 people. The Parish was founded by the baptism of 25 elderly citizens. The early church was built in "Binanwaan", a low level area prone to floods. Later, the church was transferred to a higher place, where the present church now exists. The church construction was started in 1654 by Fray Alonzo de San Juan. At that time, the church and the state were governed as one. The priest enacted both as a mayor and pastor. The construction was finished in 1664 under the management of Fray Juan Bautista Marza.

It was then in the early 1800 when significant people and events were recorded. In 1823, Fr. Francisco Armengol was the priest assigned. Five years later, in 1828, Fr. Pedro Regino became in-charge. In the same year, Fr. Santiago de Jesus replaced him. Then Fr. Esteban del Castillo was assigned in the town until 1831.

In 1832, Fr. Jose Arnao became the parish priest until 1852. It was during his administration when roads and bridges were constructed adjoining the town to its neighboring places. Fr. Basilio Castillet was assigned from 1852 to 1855. He was succeeded by Fr. Vicente del Rosario for a short period. Another priest took over- Fr. Francisco Cabrera, who, although stayed only for a short period yet was able to have the first cemetery built.

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church (circa 1966)
Sts. Peter and Paul Parish Church (circa 2010)

After the liberation in 1945, Fr. Vidal Rempis became the parish priest. It was during his term when a Catholic school, St. Peter's Academy, was put up inside the church premises in the early 1950s. He was conferred later as "Domestic Prelate" in the early 1960s. Due to the fast growth of parishioners, the barangays of Alnay, Ponso and others was organized as a separate parish (St. Anthony of Padua Parish). With the passing of Fr. Rempis, Msgr. Teodolo Borrero replaced him and served from 1968 to 1974.

The first Polangueño parish priest, Fr. Felix Basquiñez, was installed in 1974. This time, the physical structure of the church needs repair. Also, the Catholic school was closed due to lack of support of the parishioners. Fr. Basquiñez then was instrumental in having the annex on the western part of the church. Much attention was also given to the expansion of the Catholic cemetery. Again, due to the fast population growth in the area, the parish was reduced further with the organization of the barangays Matacon, Santicon and others as a separate parish (St. Dominic of Guzman Parish). Upon his retirement, Msgr. Ernesto Alberto became parish priest from 1985 to 1992. This time, the physical structure of the church was totally renovated as an offering to celebrate the 400 years as community of God.

Upon the retirement of Msgr. Alberto, Fr. Armando Red was assigned pastor from 1993 to 1999. During his term, additional physical structures such as the function hall, rectory, additional priest quarter, mess hall, driveway, toilet, parks, office and others were materialized. For the third time, the area of jurisdiction of tha parish was reduced further upon the organization of the Parish of Lidong (Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish).

From 1999 to 2002, Fr. Cecille Nuñez served as the parish priest. The parish is continuously the center of religious activities. Physical church renovation was done and the construction of the Parish Pastoral Center took place.

Fr. Roberto Crisol succeeded as the parish pastor from 2002 to 2007. During his term, the church had the complete makeup- repainting of the church, refurbishing of the church pews, construction of the side wing of the church, installation of the gallery of saints, construction of the parish patio, and medical-dental mission every month in different barangays of the Parish.

Due to reassignment of Fr. Crisol, Msgr. Crispin Bernarte, Jr. replaced him as parish priest from 2007 to 2010. During his term, the Parish Pastoral Center reached completion. The chapels in both sides of the church, as well as the main altar, was face-lifted by putting a "retablo". It was also during his term that the parish church was named as a "Church of Pilgrimage" in 2009, as part of the worldwide celebration of the Pauline Year (Jubilee Year of St. Paul). Spiritual development of the parishioners was the main thrust of his administration.

From 2010-2012, Fr. Bienvenido Realuyo, Jr. became parish priest. Minor physical renovations were made. The parish started to embrace technology with its improved sound system, as well as the installation of a white screen and LCD projector that serves as guide for the parishioners during mass. The re-structuring of the Catholic cemetery at Barangay Sugcad also took place. The Parish Ossuary was also moved to an acquired lot beside the church, and is still being developed until now.

At present, the parish is under the management of Fr. JC Omar Socrates Vita II. A comprehensive development plan was already laid out and aims to improve the church facade as well as the further development of the Parish Ossuary, with the proposed construction of a pavilion that will serve as a place for gathering during special ecclesiastical events. Improvement of church facilities such as comfort rooms and the church patio was also included.

Spanish Era (1590-1898)

Inclusive Years Cura Párroco
1590 Fray Baltasar de Los Reyes o de Magdalena
1590 Fray Marcos de Lisboa
1597 Fray Andres de San Pedro o Colmenar
1599 Fray Francisco de Santa Lucia
1595 Fray Gaspar Velazquez
c. 1620 Fray Juan de Candeleda
c. 1610 Fray Luis de San Juan
c. 1640 Fray Alonso de San Juan
1600 Fray Andres de San Bernardino
1616, 1626, 1630 Fray Geronimo Alonso de Las Casas
1633 Fray Domingo de los Martires
1614 Fray Francisco de Borgus
1644 Fray Francisco de Sta. Ana
1624 Fray Andres del Sacramento
c. 1611 Fray Franciso Morales
c. 1650 Fray Juan de Balconete
c. 1628 Fray Pedro Ramirez
c. 1617 Fray Francisco de San Diego
1619 Fray Domingo de San Jose
1640 Fray Pedro de Madrid
c. 1640 Fray Juan Iranzo
c. 1660 Fray Francisco Ortega de la Concepcion
c. 1637 Fray Esteban de San Francisco
1654 Fray Alonzo de San Juan
1665 Fray Juan Bautista Marza
c. 1680 Fray Pedro Espallargas
1636 Fray Pedro Mondejar o de la Madre de Dios
1658 Fray Juan de La Cruz - Melchor Merino
c. 1680 Fray Pedro Piqueras
c. 1684 Fray Acacio de la Concepcion
c. 1669 Fray Francisco del Arroyo
1709 Fray Mateo de San Jose
1682 Fray Francisco de Calzada
c. 1681, 1700 Fray Carlos de Jesus
c. 1710 Fray Francisco de Villamiel
1709 Fray Francisco de la Madre de Dios
c. 1688 Fray Francisco de la Soledad
c. 1697 Fray Alonso de San Buenaventura
c. 1703 Fray Jose de la Cerda
c. 1712 Fray Bartolome del Sacramento
1726 Fray Pedro Nolasco Ancias
c. 1720 Fray Francisco Blanco
c. 1710 Fray Jose de la Virgen
c. 1730 Fray Bernardo Caballero
1736 Fray Miguel Pueyo
c. 1730 Fray Jose Figuerola
1737 Fray Julian Martinez
1740 Fray Santiago de Jesus Maria
c. 1740 Fray Manuel Bonilla de San Antonio
c. 1740 Fray Manuel Diaz Cuellar de San Antonio
c. 1745 Fray Francisco Rivas
c. 1750 Fray Juan Canosa
c. 1758 Fray Vicente Polop
c. 1760 Fray Gines Antonio Fernandez
1762 Fray Jose Hervas
c. 1770 Fray Tomas Balaguer
c. 1750 Fray Simon de San Pedro Alcantara
c. 1775 Fray Juan Duarez
c. 1775 Fray Rodrigo Sanchez del Rosario
1776 Fray Juan Jadraque
c. 1780 Fray Jose de San Buenaventura y Morata
c. 1783 Fray Francisco Guillen
c. 1798 Antonio Cobo
1823 - 1828 Fr. Francisco Armengol
1828 Fr. Pedro Hegino
1828 Fr. Santiago de Jesus
1828 - 1831 Fr. Esteban del Castillo
1832 - 1852 Fr. Jose Arnao
1852 - 1855 Fr. Basilio Castillet
1855 - 1856 Fr. Vicente de los Barrios (Encargado)
1856 - 1857 Fr. Francisco Cabrera
1857 Fr. Marciano Buenaventura (Encargado)
1857 - 1858 Fr. Juan de Toledo
1858 - 1867 Fr. Isidro Pons
1867 - 1870 Fr. Manuel Crespo
1870 - 1872 Fr. Roman Santiago
1872 - 1883 Fr. Julian Gutierrez
1883 - 1884 Fr. Florencio Cariño (Economo)
1884 - 1885 Fr. Damaso Martinez
1885 - 1886 Fr. Mariano Maneja
1886 - 1888 Fr. Eusebio R. Platero
1888 - 1890 Fr. Vicente Sangrador
1890 - 1894 Fr. Mateo Atienza
1894 - 1898 Fr. Andres Prieto
1898 Fr. Mariano Velasco

Philippine Revolution / End of Spanish Rule (1898−1946)

Inclusive Years Parish Priest
1898−1899 Fr. Julian Calleja
1899−1905 Fr. Tomas Cariño
1905−1911 Fr. Juan Ravalo
1911−1915 Fr. Remigio Rey
1915 Fr. Leoncio Dimarumba
1915−1922 Fr. Dionisio Ballener
1922−1925 Fr. Leoncio Arejola
1925−1932 Fr. Leoncio Dimarumba
1933−1946 Fr. Leopoldo Ragos

Post-War Period (1946−date)

Inclusive Years Parish Priest
1946 Fr. Vidal Rempis
1968−1974 Msgr. Teodolo Borrero
1974−1985 Fr. Felix Basquiñez (First Polangueño Parish Priest)
1985−1992 Msgr. Ernesto Alberto
1993−1999 Fr. Armando Red
1999−2002 Fr. Cecille Nuñez
2002−2007 Fr. Roberto Crisol
2007−2010 Msgr. Crispin Bernarte, Jr.
2010−2012 Fr. Bienvenido Realuyo, Jr.
2012–present Fr. JC Omar Socrates Vita II

History

Pre-Colonial Period

Pre-colonial Polangui was a fertile valley cradled by the virgin forests of Mt. Masaraga. It was formed out of five settlements ruled by the Datu of Ponso till the late 1583. The center of the settlements was called “Banwang gurang”, meaning old town and is now known as “Magurang”.

In 1584, Fray Baltazar de la Magdalena, OFM, left Ambos Camarines and stumbled upon this place west of Mt. Masaraga. He found that each of the five settlements had about 100 inhabitants. In the same year, he founded a settlement within the fertile valley and established a ranch, which he called "Binanwaan". Being inland and strategically situated, the town was spared from the frequent raids of sea pirates as well as from the occasional destruction caused by the eruption of Mayon Volcano.

Polangui became a visita, or outreach village under the jurisdiction of the Villa Santiago de Libon, which was established in 1573 by Juan de Salcedo, the grandson of the Spanish conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. The villa, which lies south-west of Polangui, would be known as the fourth of its kind in the entire archipelago.

Oyangui trees

Fray de la Magdalena found the settlements abounding with Oyangui trees, now extinct, and this was how it got to be known as "Polangui". That same year he arrived in the area, he founded a settlement in what is now Binanwaan. From there, he launched his evangelical work starting with the baptism of 25 elderly inhabitants.

He settled in Binanwaan and set up a ranch; the valley was rich and lush in vegetation. Fray de la Magdalena was credited with the founding of Polangui. Old manuscripts in the Archives of Manila and in the Franciscan Convent in Manila point to 1584 as the year Polangui was founded, and thus considered as one of the oldest municipalities in the Philippines.

Spanish Regime

By 1654, the original settlement became considerably bigger when Fray Alonzo de San Juan, OFM, was assigned in Polangui as "Encargado". The settlement was expanded reaching the present barangay sites in Lanigay, Ponso and Balinad. The town proper was established in Lanigay where a church made of wood was erected adjacent to about 280 wooden dwellings and more than 1,000 nipa huts. Unfortunately, this church together with the dwelling units was razed by a fire to the ground.

With the coming of another missionary, Fray Juan Bautista Marza, a new church made of bricks and stones was completed in 1664. This church stood on a new elevated site and still stands to this day. Under the leadership of Fray Marza, roads and bridges were also initiated and schools were introduced simultaneously with the Christian Doctrine and Spanish culture.

Growth of the settlement was so fast that it became a Poblacion and finally recognized as a Pueblo in 1674. Owing to its steady growth, a link with nearby Libon and Oas became a necessity. Hence, Fr. Jose Arnao, parish priest and Encargado from 1832 until 1852, directed the construction of roads and bridges that would connect Polangui to neighboring towns, including upland Buhi in Camarines Sur.

During Spanish regime, a significant highlight is the construction of its parish church which took 10 years to be completed starting in 1654 by Fray Alonzo de San Juan and completed in 1664 by Fray Juan Bautista Marza.

Polangueño martyr, Camilo Jacob, who is a photographer, was executed in January 4, 1897 with other Bicolanos. They are now commemorated as the Quince Martires del Bicolandia. A year later, the Spanish rule in Bicol ended with the mutiny of Guardia Civil in Naga led by Don Elias Angeles.

American Period

Sometime during the Philippine-American War, Polangui became the seat of the Provincial Government of Albay for a brief period of time under then Provincial Governor Domingo Samson. When the Americans conquered Polangui in 1890 without firing a single shot, the form of government went through transition from military to civil government then Commonwealth system. The seat of the municipal government was in Ponso with Don Clemente Sarte as the acting Chief Executive. A few months later, the seat of the municipal government was transferred to Centro Occidental and still remains up to this day.

Japanese occupation

When the Japanese forces occupied Polangui on December 13, 1941, Cipriano Saunar, then vice mayor of the defunct Commonwealth government was appointed mayor by the Japanese military administration. A secret civil government was established simultaneously headed by Julian Saunar which was supported by the people. Cipriano Saunar’s successor was Manuel Samson Sr and in turn was succeeded by Jesus Salalima who ruled from 1947 to 1960.

It was the people of Polangui’s common-traits-residency and flexibility that spared the town from destructive fury of the Spanish, American and Japanese occupying forces including its share of the national misfortunes such as strong typhoon of 1891 and strong flood of 1873 and also the raging fire of 1876.

Now 430 years from the formal founding in 1584, Polangui has grown to be a 1st class, progressive town covering 44 barangays within the Third District of Albay.

Geography

Polangui is located in the north-eastern quadrant of the third district of Albay, having a total land area of 14,530 hectares (35,900 acres). It is bounded on the north by the municipalities of Buhi and Iriga City of Camarines Sur province, on the southern part of the municipalities of Libon, Oas and City of Ligao; and on the west by the City of Tabaco and municipality of Malinao. It is about 43 kilometers north of the regional center of the Bicol Region, Legazpi City; 56 kilometers north-east of Naga City and 136 kilometers south of Daet, Camarines Norte.

 Iriga / Buhi, Camarines Sur Malinao
Bato, Camarines Sur Tabaco
   Polangui  
Libon Oas

Climate

The municipality of Polangui has a general climate characterized by dry season with a very pronounced maximum rainfall from November to December. Prevailing wind is in the general direction from north-east to south-west.

Barangays

Polangui has 44 barangays and is politically subdivided into three divisions:

Barangay Land Area (has.) Population

(as of May 1, 2010)[4]

 Class District Etymology Brief History
Agos 298.8375 3,356 Rural RADC The old name of this sitio during the early Spanish rule was "Bato Lis Non". On the eastern side of the sitio was Sitio Matakot, or known to be later as Matacon. Because of the difficulty in remembering its former name, visitors and strangers to the sitio would easily remember the wide river that separates the province of Albay and Camarines Sur, the Agos River. Thus, as time passed by, the barangay was named Agos. A certain Angel Servas was the first Teniente del Barrio to lead a group of 24 households in the early years of Spanish rule. Others to follow were: Antonio Mendoza, Paulino Segui, Vicente Epres, Eustaquio Seda, Pedro General (first to assume the position of Barangay Captain), Felicisimo Cagnayo Sr., and Rogelio Laynes.
Alnay 214.8713 2,194 Urban Poblacion Unknown A sitio of Barangay Ponso in the early days, it was a verdant place and home to colorful butterflies, dragonflies and birds hovering on the ricefields and along roadsides.

In the latter part of the 60's, Dr. Esteban Ante (deceased), a landowner, developed his ricefields into a subdivision, thus attracting people to reside in the place. With that development, Councilor Santiago M. Revale passed a resolution creating Alnay as an independent barangay. It was approved and concurred in by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Albay, headed then by Governor Felix Imperial.

In December 1971, a special election for the Barrio Council was conducted, with Bonifacio Baldemoro (deceased) winning the election. The councilors were Nilda Boqueron, Bonifacio Caya, Telesforo Alciera, Primo Rosel, Dionisio Salapate, Crisanta S. Ollet. Serving as Barrio Secretary was Emmanuel Aguas and Barrio Treasurer was Manuel Ante Jr.

Others to assume the position of Barangay Captain were Bonifacio Baldemoro (1982), Guillermo Durante (1989, re-elected in 1994), Emilio Duran (1997); Durante re-elected again in 2002.

Alomon 154.1867 1,167 Urban Poblacion As old folks would say, the place was inhabited by people who are very industrious, that even in the evening they work at their farms. There was then a visitor in the barrio, a foreigner, who greeted the workers in the ricefields, and jokingly greeted the bright moon in this way: "Hello Moon!". Thinking that the stranger was naming the place, the residents remembered it as "Hello Moon". As the time passed by, the place was named as Alomon. During the early years, Alomon was a sitio of Barrio Kinale. Its first Teniente del Barrio was Domingo Satorre, who was responsible for its establishment as an independent barrio in 1972. Those who followed him, and served as Barangay Captains were brothers Jaime Reforsado (elected in 1980's) and Aniano Reforsado.
Amoguis 147.1277 518 Rural UADC Unknown As old folks used to tell, there were only three barangays that comprised Polangui then in the year 1654 when Father Alonzo de San Juan founded the pueblo of Binanuaan. Amoguis and several other settlements were part of Barangay Layugay (now known as Lanigay). With the passing of time, these sitios became independent barangays through RA 2370 or the Barrio Charter enacted during the term of President Carlos P. Garcia on June 20, 1959.

Among the prominent residents of Amoguis that served as Teniente del Barrio were the following: Martin Sandagon, Petronio Quirao, Pedro Ced, Antonio Casoco, Benigno Ceneta, Balbino Casoco, Gregorio Caspe and Rodolfo Casoco.

Anopol 200.3163 1,085 Rural UADC The barangay got its name from a vine called "anopol", with the leaves that climb on tall trees and are commonly found along river banks, creeks and natural springs. Anopol was a former sitio of Barrio Lanigay. It became an independent barrio pursuant to RA 3590 or the Revised Barrio Charter enacted during the term of President Carlos P. Garcia on June 22, 1963. Its first administrator was Bienvenido Cellona.
Apad 455.7606 1,323 Rural RADC A sitio of Barrio Lanigay during the early years of Spanish rule, it was the center of convergence of several upland sitios namely: Kinuartelan, La Medalla, Upper Santicon, San Roque and several other sitios. During that time, the only means of transportation was the "RailBoss" of the Ferrocarril de Manila-Dagupan (predececcor of the Philippine National Railways). The "railbos" had its terminal located in Apad, thus becoming known as "Parada". As years passed by, the word was corrupted until it became Apad. A sitio of Barrio Lanigay during the early years of Spanish rule, it was the center of convergence of several upland sitios namely: Kinuartelan, La Medalla, Upper Santicon, San Roque and several other sitios.
Balaba 510.3960 1,355 Rural UADC Old folks traces the name Balaba from the word "balabag na dalan", or the crookedness of its road due to the steepness of its slope leading to the settlement. Formerly a sitio of Barangay Balinad, it became an independent barrio in 1967. The late Councilwoman Benigna Calpe was the sponsor of the resolution creating Balaba. First appointed Teniente del Barrio was Carlos Sangat, serving from 1948 to 1951.
Balangibang 269.9548 1,600 Urban Poblacion Unknown As with other present barangays of Polangui, Balangibang was a sitio of Lanigay (the mother barangay in the early years of Spanish rule). It was a vast agricultural land owned by the Alsua/Buenviaje and Catalina vda. de Gloria families. With the implementation of the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Law (CARL) during the term of President Diosdado Macapagal, these ricelands were distributed to the tenants tilling the lands.

With the enactment of the Revised Barrio Charter in 1963, Balangibang became an independent barrio. Among those who served as Teniente del Barrio were: Juan Redomag, Leocadio Baylon, Ventura Abarquez (first Barangay Captain), Serafin Arbo and Romeo Abarquez (who was first elected in 1982 and served until 2004).

Balinad 727.6543 3,032 Rural UADC The name Balinad originated from the name of a certain tree called "sorsogon" (locally known as "balinad"), which grew abundantly in the said place. This tree belongs to the second group of industrial trees. It has a sturdy trunk and branches that were easily recognized due to its white bark, oblong, smooth and shiny. It grows tall and straight and thrive for years like other species of trees. Barangay Balinad is one of the original mother barangays that was established when Polangui was founded.
Basud 116.3428 3,408 Urban Poblacion As old folks narrated the story, Basud got its name when the earlier farmer settlers backfilled the lower portion of the fields with "basud" (sand). This was the area between the boundary of Polangui and Oas. Large tract of lands were filled with sand in the desire of the farmers to make the area productive. And due to that development, the place was known as Basud. It used to be a part of Sitio Ubaliw that belongs to the mother barangay of Lanigay in the early settlement years of Spanish rule. When the center of Pueblo was transferred from Lanigay to the present poblacion, these two (Basud and Ubaliw) became independent barangays.

Prominent personalities that held the position of Teniente del Barrio were the likes of a certain Samonte (first to be appointed Teniente del Barrio), Vicente Saminal, the late Augusto Mella (who was elected Municipal Councilor), Narding Saminal, Eddie Orbe, Evelyn Encisa and Leonides Sabaybay.

Buyo 220.1116 990 Rural UADC The place derived its name from "buyo", a native name of a vine which is an ingredient for making "ikmo" or "nganga", which thrives abundantly in the place. It was a sitio of mother barangay Lanigay in the early years. It was established as an independent barangay in the year 1946, under the administration of Mayor Manuel Samson, Sr.
Centro Occidental (seat of church and government) 191.8234 3,384 Urban Poblacion Due to increased development in the area, this former sitio of Lanigay became a barangay of its own and was called Centro Occidental, as it is in the western portion of the Poblacion (centro). It is also popularly called "Ilaod". This is because when people go to the market, they would call it "Iraya" (meaning upstream) and when they go home, they would say "Ilaod" (meaning downstream). Barangay Centro Occidental used to be a sitio of Barangay Lanigay. When the latter's settlement was hit by a conflagration in 1654 including the church, the encargado decided to transfer the church to the present site where it stands (now in present-day Centro Occidental). The church, municipal building and the market site were all eventually situated here, so the place was considered the centro of the Pueblo (divided into Centro Oriental or the eastern portion and Centro Occidental or the western portion). It was the center of commerce, seat of government and the center of religious activities.

When the Revised Barrio Charter was enacted in 1963, Centro Oriental and Centro Occidental both became independent barangays. Years later, the Philippine National Railways (PNR) station was constructed at Barangay Basud. It was decided that the public market be transferred near the station. But because the seat of government and the parish church were still in place, Centro Occidental remains the de facto centro of the Municipality of Polangui. As population grew fast, development in the area grew fast too. More residential houses were constructed on the vast track of talahib. Elementary and secondary schools were also established.

Centro Oriental 29.1172 2,264 Urban Poblacion Due to increased development in the area, this former sitio of Lanigay became a barangay of its own and was called Centro Oriental, as it is in the eastern portion of the Poblacion (centro). When the settlement of Lanigay was hit by a conflagration in 1654 including the church, the encargado decided to transfer the church to the present site where it stands (now in present-day Centro Occidental). The church, municipal building and the market site were all eventually situated here, so the place was considered the centro of the Pueblo (divided into Centro Oriental or the eastern portion and Centro Occidental or the western portion). It was the center of commerce, seat of government and the center of religious activities.

When the Revised Barrio Charter was enacted in 1963, Centro Oriental and Centro Occidental both became independent barangays. Among the personalities who served Centro Oriental as Teniente del Barrio were the following: Mario Salting Sr., Jose Sabaybay and Romeo Benisano.

Cepres 263.3539 1,414 Rural UADC
Cotmon 485.3046 529 Rural UADC As the people of this barangay, the name was derived from the name of the tree that once thrived the place. That tree was called 'kutmon' in the locality. Later, the form was changed and Hispanicized, thus the form being used today, as was with the naming of most places. The kutmon is 'katmon' in the Filipino language's orthography.
Cotnogan 231.1284 1,405 Rural RADC
Danao 383.5032 879 Rural UADC
Gabon 88.6686 3,223 Urban Poblacion
Gamot 345.1717 1,395 Rural UADC
Itaran 312.0854 1,740 Rural UADC
Kinale 176.3907 2,204 Urban Poblacion
Kinuartelan 341.2733 587 Rural UADC
La Medalla 368.2747 841 Rural RADC
Lanigay 313.0602 3,592 Rural RADC
La Purisima 493.0158 613 Rural RADC
Lidong 121.2557 1,355 Rural UADC Lidong was the center of commerce back then. The 'saūd' or market, where the 'agtâs' bartered their goods with rice from the vast 'uma' or rice farms of 'Langtad' and 'Lidong', as well as with fresh-catched fish from Lake Buhi, was near where the two tributary rivers that meet to form one river. The water in the area where the rivers meet swirls so that when the traders from one side crosses with their 'balsa' gets 'nauseated' or in local term 'libūng'. Soon the corruption and Hispanicization of the word arrived to its present form.
Lourdes 348.7119 594 Rural UADC
Magpanambo 251.8729 1,361 Rural RADC
Magurang 115.2231 3,846 Urban Poblacion
Matacon 317.6426 4,148 Urban Poblacion
Maynaga 262.3906 1,361 Rural UADC
Maysua 430.1545 891 Rural UADC
Mendez 165.8987 991 Rural UADC
Napo 361.8530 3,113 Rural UADC
Pinagdapugan 190.9056 888 Rural UADC
Pintor (Binangbangan) 182.9405 918 Rural UADC
Ponso 317.9140 4,927 Urban Poblacion
Salvacion 175.9903 1,088 Rural RADC
San Roque 301.3161 1,533 Rural RADC
Santicon 393.3786 2,744 Rural RADC
Sta. Cruz 280.5097 652 Rural UADC
Sta. Teresita 285.1347 927 Rural RADC
Sugcad 372.8545 3,637 Urban Poblacion
Ubaliw 221.4372 3,235 Urban Poblacion

Demographics

Population census of Polangui
YearPop.±% p.a.
1995 67,314—    
2000 70,451+0.98%
2007 77,122+1.26%
2010 82,307+2.40%
Source: National Statistics Office[3]

Polangui has a total population of 82,307 (as of May 1, 2010). It has a projected population density of 570 per km2, a labor force of 37,247 and 46,586 voting population (as of 2010).[4]

Language / Dialect

Bikol Polangueño[5] is the main dialect in Polangui. The majority of the population speak/can speak Tagalog and English. Other languages/dialects spoken are Bicolano Viejo and Bikol Rinconada (Agos-Matacon Area)

Religion

Christianity is the predominant religion with Roman Catholicism with the biggest practitioners. There are four (4) Catholic parishes in the municipality: Sts. Peter and Paul Parish at Barangay Centro Occidental (main parish), St. Dominic Guzman Parish at Barangay Matacon, St. Anthony of Padua Parish at Barangay Ponso and Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish at Barangay Lidong.

Other Christian denominations are also present in the municipality like Protestants, Baptist, United Pentecostal Church, and Iglesia ni Cristo. Islam and Buddhism also have followers in the municipality.

All of the barangays have their respective patron saints and barangay chapels.

Barangays Patron Saint Feast Day
Agos
Alnay May 2–3
Alomon May 4–5
Amoguis San Isidro Labrador May 5–6
Anopol
Apad Jan 4
Balaba San Isidro Labrador
Balangibang
Balinad
Basud May 5–6
Buyo San Jose
Centro Occidental (Poblacion) San Jose May 19–20
Centro Oriental (Poblacion) May 9–10
Cepres October 28–29
Cotmon
Cotnogan San Isidro Labrador
Danao Sagrada Familia
Gabon May 2–3
Gamot San Jose October 18–19
Itaran
Kinale May 14–15
Kinuartelan San Jose
La Medalla
Lanigay May 1–2
La Purisima
Lidong San Francisco de Asis October 4–5
Lourdes
Magpanambo
Magurang San Diego May 4–5
Matacon Sto. Domingo
Maynaga Nuestra Señora del Rosario October 15–16
Maysua
Mendez San Jose
Napo San Jose May 18–19
Pinagdapugan June 12–13
Pintor (Binangbangan) La Medalla Milagrosa
Ponso
Salvacion
San Roque
Santicon San Isidro June 13
Sta. Cruz
Sta. Teresita
Sugcad San Jose
Ubaliw Sto. Domingo and Our Lady of Lourdes Feb 11

May 10–11

August 8

Places of Interest

Polangui provides a good view of Mount Mayon. The town hosts various historical and cultural tourism spots and other tourism-oriented recreation centers. Among these are:

Spring Resorts

Public Parks

Nature Parks

Leisure and sports parks

Religious landmarks

Monuments

Convention facilities

Accommodation facilities

Festivals and events

Polangui Town Fiesta

The Polangui Town Fiesta, started as "Oyangui Festival" in 2003 and later became "Pulang Angui Festival", is an annual celebration of Polangueños during the whole month of June. During this time, a flood of tourists visit the town as Polangueños optimistically await and generously prepare for the month-long celebration as the festivities feature various religious, cultural, social and sports activities that captures the delight, excitement and imagination of the people and visitors during the occasion.

But as the dates June 28 and 29 comes, Polangueños temporarily change the happy to a more serious mood to commemorate the solemnity of the parish patrons, Sts. Peter and Paul through a concelebrated mass. Some elders often prefer to gather at the chapels to lead Novena Masses.

Editions

Year (Edition) Official Name Festival Theme Parochial Theme Remarks
Beyond 2003 Polangui Town Fiesta
2003 (419th) Oyangui Festival 2003 Introduced as Oyangui Festival
2004 (420th) Oyangui Kaugman 2004
2005 (421st) Oyangui Kaogman '05 "Giving Children a Chance" "The Eucharist: Light & Life of the Church"
2006 (422nd) Oyangui Kaogman '06 "Polangui in the Threshold of Progressive Change" "Building a Civilization of Love"
2007 (423rd) Oyangui Kaogman 2007
2008 (424th) Pulang Angui Festival 2008 "Polangui: Apple's Eye of Bicol Regional Growth" "Pagsunod ki Jesus sa Tabang ni San Pedro asin San Pablo"

("Following Jesus with Peter and Paul")
2009 (425th) Pulang-Angui 2009 "Growth for Service" "An Tataramon nin Dios, Buhay asin Misyon kan Simbahan...Sosog sa mga Katokdoan asin Paarog ni San Pedro asin San Pablo" Excluded "Festival" in the title
2010 (426th) Pulang Angui Festival 2010 "Working Together, Next Level...Progress" "Kapadean asin Layko: Sarabay sa Pagbabago kan Simbahan"
2011 (427th) Pulang Angui Festival 2011 "Polangui: Bicol's New Cradle of Sustainable Development"
2012 (428th) Pulang Angui Festival 2012 "Building our Legacy through Service, Next Level...Progress"
2013 (429th) Pulang Angui Festival 2013

Events

Event 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
A Festival Night with Mr. and Mrs. ●
Acrobatic Show ●
Agro-Industrial Fair ● ● ●
Airsoft Competition ● ●
Amateur Singing Contest
  • "Minus One Singing Contest" in 2004
● ● ●
Animayugo Cosplay Competition ● ●
Barangay Night ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Battle of the Bands ● ● ● ● ● ●
Beer Plaza ● ● ● ●
Bikini Open ●
Body Building Competition ●
Boxing Tournament
  • "Boxing Thrilla" in 2009
  • "Bakbakan" in 2010
  • "Burulyada sa Parada" in 2012
 ● ● ● ● ● ●
Cherrylympics ●
Civic and Military Parade ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Clean and Green Drive ●
Cultural Night ● ● ●
Dance Showdown
  • Modern Dance Showdown" in 2004
  • "Kakasa ka ba sa Dance Floor?" in 2009
● ● ●
Dancesport Competition ●
Float Presentation ●
Fun Run ● ●
Gabi ng Kundiman
  • "One Kabataan Kundiman Competition" in 2010
● ●
Gala Night (Senior Citizens' Night) ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Ginang ng Polangui
  • "Ginang Oyangui" in 2006
● ● ●
Group Dance Competition ●
Guardians' Night (Philippine Guardians Brotherhood, Inc.) ●
Independence Day Program ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Job Fair ●
Juan Musical Night ● ● ● ●
Laking Polangui ● ● ●
Lawn Tennis Tournament ● ● ●
LGU Night ● ●
Little Prince and Princess
  • "Little Miss Polangui" in 2004
  • "Prince and Princess Oyangui" in 2005
  • "Little Mr. and Miss Pulang Angui" in 2009
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Marathon ● ● ●
Mayor's Cup ● ● ● ●
Media Tour at Danao Lake ●
Missed Pulang Angui
  • "Missed Polangui" from 2005-2006
● ● ● ● ● ●
Miss Pulang AnGay
  • "Miss Gay" in 2004
  • "Miss Gay Oyangui" in 2005
  • "Miss OyanGay" in 2006
  • "Miss Pulang Gay" in 2011
● ● ● ● ●
Motocross Competition ● ●
Motorcycle Drag Race ● ●
Motor Show ●
Mountain Bike Challenge
  • "Cycling Competition" in 2004 and 2005
● ● ● ● ●
Mural Competition ●
Musical, Literary and Art Contest ● ●
Mutya ng Polangui Senior Citizens ●
Mutya ng Pulang Angui
  • "Mutya ng Polangui" from 2003-2005
  • "Mutya ng Oyangui" in 2006
● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Palaro ng Bayan ● ● ●
Photography Workshop
  • "Digital Imaging for Dummies " in 2012
●
Pintakasi sa Polangui ●
Reyna Elena ng Bayan ● ● ● ●
Shoot Fest ●
SK Night ●
Song Festival ●
St. John Festivity ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ● ●
Street Presentation ● ● ● ● ● ●
Talentadong Polangueño ●
Tanduay Rhum Rockfest ● ●
Tree Planting ● ●
Turumbukan (Billiard Tournament) ● ●
Total events 6 23 19 18 6 8 18 20 34 34

Pulang Angui Festival: Albay's Best Street Dancing Contingent

Tourism and cultural related programs and projects is marked with colors and distinction as the town's "Pulang Angui Festival" garnered 2nd place in Street Dancing and 2nd place in Festival Legend Showdown during the 2008 Magayon Festival of Festivals Showdown. Even though adjudged as the 2nd-place winner, the "Pulang Angui Festival" Street Dance contingent was endorsed by the Department of Tourism Regional Office V and the Provincial Government of Albay as one of the official delegates of the Bicol Region to the "Aliwan Fiesta 2009" in Manila where it participated to 3 events namely: Street Dance Parade, Float Parade and Reyna ng Aliwan.

The following year, in 2010, the "Pulang Angui Festival" remained victorious in the Magayon Festival Legend Showdown as they brought home the Championship. The same contingent competed in 2010 Tinagba 8th Gayon Bicol Festival of Festivals Showdown at Iriga City, Camarines Sur, where it bagged the 3rd place after competing with other 9 contingents from various places in the entire Bicolandia. The Polangui contingent was composed of students from the Polangui General Comprehensive High School, trained by some talented and experienced faculty members of the school.

In 2011, "Pulang Angui Festival" emerged again as the Champion in the Magayon Festival Legend Showdown, composed of students from the Bicol University Polangui Campus.

The same feat was done in the 2012 Magayon Festival Legend Showdown, as the "Pulang Angui Festival" bagged the Championship for the third consecutive year. They were also adjudged as the Best in Moving Choreography and Best Festival Queens. This time, it was composed of students from Bicol University Polangui Campus and Polangui General Comprehensive High School.

And in 2013, for the fourth consecutive year, "Pulang Angui Festival" still emerged as the Champion in the Daragang Magayon Festival Legend Showdown. The contingent was composed of students from Bicol University Polangui Campus and Polangui General Comprehensive High School.

Summary of Accomplishments

Competing Year Rank and/or Awards Festival/Event Delegates Trainers Remarks
2008 2nd Best in Street Dancing, 2nd Best in Festival Legend Showdown Magayon Festival of Festivals Showdown Polangui General Comprehensive High School Lalaine Reodique, Cherissa Rosa Sampal, Mary Grace Sabareza, Minviluz Sampal The competition was held on April 26 and showcased different festivals in the Bicol Region. The Street Dancing Competition and the Festival Legend Showdown was judged and awarded separately. Masbate City's Lapay Bantigue Festival was declared Champion, with Pulang Angui Festival close behind at Second Place.
2009 (Did not place) Aliwan Fiesta 2009 / Street Dance Parade, Float Parade and Reyna ng Aliwan. Bicol University Polangui Campus / Ashley Ann Himor for Reyna ng Aliwan Carina Sales, Mary Joy Catangui, Dexter Sarte Did not compete in the Magayon Festival of Festivals Showdown
2010 3rd Place 2010 Tinagba 8th Gayon Bicol Festival of Festivals Showdown Polangui General Comprehensive High School Lalaine Reodique, Cherissa Rosa Sampal, Mary Grace Sabareza, Marites Saberola, Rosa de los Angeles, Marilou Vega The competition was held on February 11 at Iriga City, Camarines Sur and was open to all Bicol festivals. Of all 10 competing contingents, Masbate City's Lapay Bantigue Festival emerged as the Champion and Sorsogon City's Sosogon Festival in Second Place.
2010 Champion Magayon Festival Legend Showdown Polangui General Comprehensive High School Lalaine Reodique, Cherissa Rosa Sampal, Mary Grace Sabareza, Marites Saberola The competition was held on April 29 and was limited to Albay festivals only.
2011 Champion, Best in Moving Choreography Magayon Festival Legend Showdown Bicol University Polangui Campus Mary Joy Catangui et al. Albay festivals competed in the Legend Showdown on April 1, while festivals outside Albay competed in the 9th Gayon Bicol Festival of Festivals sa Magayon on April 29.
2011 (Did not place) 9th Gayon Bicol Festival of Festivals sa Magayon Polangui General Comprehensive High School Lalaine Reodique, Cherissa Rosa Sampal, Mary Grace Sabareza, Marites Saberola, Rosa de los Angeles, Marilou Vega The competition was held on April 29 and was open to all Bicol festivals, including Pulang Angui Festival. Of all 11 competing contingents, the Tribu Himag-Ulaw of Placer, Masbate emerged as the Champion.
2012 Champion, Best in Moving Choreography, Best Festival Queens Magayon Festival Legend Showdown Bicol University Polangui Campus and Polangui General Comprehensive High School Mary Joy Catangui, Christian Ante et al. The competition was held on April 29 and is limited to Albay festivals only. This year, all 11 contingents are required to enact the Sayaw kan Tulong Bulod (Dance of the Three Mountains).
2013 Champion Daragang Magayon Festival Legend Showdown Bicol University Polangui Campus and Polangui General Comprehensive High School Christian Ante et al. Magayon Festival was changed to Daragang Magayon Festival. The competition was held on April 28 and was limited to Albay festivals only. Again, all 5 contingents are required to enact the Sayaw kan Tulong Bulod (Dance of the Three Mountains).

Semana Santa (Holy Week)

It is one of the most awaited religious celebrations in Polangui because of its deep religious fervor. The procession of pasos (Holy images) during Viernes Santo (Good Friday) has attracted devotees and local tourist alike because of the colorful and grandiose life-sized rebultos (statues) depicting the Passion of Christ and His resurrection installed on top of ornately decorated and lighter carrozas or cars. Many of the images and sculpture are of great antiquity and of magnificent artistry. Some of them are even centuries-old, like the image of St. Peter which dates back to 1857 as an heirloom piece. Undoubtedly, this is one of Tabaco's most sought after and attended tradition whether to continue a family tradition or as an intense personal devotion.[6][7]

Karangahan sa Polangui

It is Polangui's adaptation of the month-long celebration of the province's Karangahan sa Pasko: Albay Green Christmas, usually starting during the last week of November throughout December. Karangahan originated from the Bicolano term, ranga, which pertains to a higher level of joy and contentment; a term of endearment.

The festival is aimed at the safety of both families and environment by means of an environment-friendly celebration which can be achieved through continued propagation and adherence to its original campaign which is the "plastic-free, smoke-free and zero casualty" advocacy and objectives of the province.

The "zero casualty" goal is a campaign for "Iwas Paputok" (firecrackers-free) which take effect until the end of New Year while the "plastic-free" goal is a way of encouraging people to use organic and indigenous materials instead for decorations, Christmas trees and all instances of food serving.

Along with the promotion of "zero casualty campaign" is the low-carbon way of celebrating the festival and the proper disposal of solid waste management through total elimination of plastic materials.

A lot of exciting activities usually happen during its celebration and one of the highlights is the presentation and lighting of the giant tree made at the Polangui Social Pavilion which adheres to the goal of "No Plastics-Less Garbage."

Before it was even called Karangahan sa Polangui, Polangueños are already celebrating it as Tia Angui Festival, a concoction of the name of the town's maiden, Angui (Tiya Angui), from which the town derived its name. Likewise, it may be interpreted as tiangge, a local term for "bazaar", which flood the town's public market during Christmas season. Usually, it is a tight gridwork of crowded stalls peddling Christmas decorations, fireworks, fresh fruits, assorted toys, discounted clothes, jewelry, accessories, electronics, and handicrafts, in the hallways and other empty spaces.

Local Products and Delicacies

Calamay (Sankaka)

Kalamay, also spelled Calamay which means "sugar", is a sticky sweet delicacy that is popular in many regions of the Philippines. It is locally known in Polangui as sankaka and is made of coconut milk, brown sugar, and ground glutinous rice. Kalamay can be eaten alone but is usually used as a sweetener for a number of Filipino desserts and beverages.

The town's largest natural producer of sankaka is the Sarilla's Muscovado Milling Facility at Barangay Balaba.

Rice Cakes

Sinapot

Sinapot is a local term for maruya. These are sliced bananas dipped in batter, deep fried and dredged in sugar. All are popular street food and is best eaten during merienda.

Biniribid

It is made from grated lukadon (young coconut)/coconut milk, and flour, topped with a mixture of kalamay and brown sugar. Its name is a Bikol term for twisted, as it is usually curled to form an eight much like twisted bread. Like the sinapot, it is also best eaten during merienda.

Pili

Of the family Burseracea, pili (Canarium ovatum) is native to the Philippines and can be found in especially in the Bicol region where it is an important crop and source of income of many families. Pili is a versatile nut being used for a variety of products. The nut kernel is the most important product. It can be eaten raw or roasted where its mild, nutty taste and tender-crispy texture can compare with and even found better than an almond.

Pili kernel is also used in chocolate, ice cream, and baked goods. The young shoots and the fruit pulp are edible. The shoots are used in salads, and the pulp is eaten after it is boiled and seasoned. Boiled pili pulp resembles the sweet potato in texture, it is oily (about 12%) and is considered to have food value similar to that of avocado.

Pulp oil can be extracted and used for cooking or as a substitute for cottonseed oil in the manufacture of soap and edible products. The stony shells are excellent fuel or growth medium for orchids and ornamental plants.

Economy

Polangui is classified as a first class municipality, having an annual income of at least 55 million.[9]

Agriculture

Its economy is still heavily dependent on agriculture. Major crops include rice, corn, cacao, pili, root crops, vegetables, coconuts and abacá. Poultry and livestock raising are also very much alive.

Banking

Banks in Polangui started to grow like mushrooms, same as internet cafes and variety stores. The Philippine National Bank and Legazpi Savings Bank (has a new bank office in front of LCC Mall Polangui), which are the only banks in the town before which are still existing, suddenly found competitors. New banks include the Producers Bank, Banco de Oro (BDO), Land Bank of the Philippines (LBP) and Banco Santiago de Libon (BSDL).

Shopping Centers

The town's economic activity is further given boost by the opening and existence of major business commercial establishments like a mall- the Liberty Commercial Center (LCC)- Bicol's largest mall chain; and the Novo Asia Jeans and Shirts. Other establishments include Tri-Star Commercial and V5 General Merchandise.

Infrastructure Development

Viably, infrastructure development projects continuously bring livelihood, education and agriculture support mechanism such as the new Polangui Water System (inaugurated by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo herself and Governor Joey Salceda), Farm-to-Market Roads (InfRES Projects), school buildings and facilities (e.g. dormitories, a hospital for nursing students and classroom buildings at BU Polangui Campus), the construction of a new public market building and resettlement projects which just add up to the present local government efforts in promoting and sustaining dynamic delivery of major government to the constituents.

Transportation

With the progressive development in the area of transportation and communication, the municipality is the crossroad of major land road transportation routes and almost all areas.

Roads

Roads are good in Polangui and they are classified as follows:

Airport

The nearest airport is in Legazpi City - Legazpi Airport - about 39.1 kilometres (24.3 mi) from Polangui. Four commercial airline companies (Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific, Air Philippines, Zest Air) operate in the airport. The construction of the soon Polangui Domestic Airport at Barangay Balangibang is still under negotiation.

Seaport

The nearest ports available are the Tabaco International Seaport, Legazpi Seaport and Pantao Port in Libon.

Buses

There are regular transportation to and from Manila and to the other main cities in the Bicol Region. Some bus companies with stations in Polangui are:

  • Cagsawa Travel & Tours
  • Gold Line Tours, Inc.
  • Philtranco
  • Raymond Transportation
  • RSL Bus Transport Corporation
  • Alps
  • DLTB Co.
  • Peñafrancia Tours
  • Antonina Lines
  • Executive Carriers

Other forms of transportation

Mode of Access

By air
The construction of the soon Polangui Domestic Airport at Barangay Balangibang is still under negotiation.
By land
Polangui can be reached through land transport (by bus) from Manila in about 10 hours, two hours less if the new Andaya Highway route is taken. Main routes can be reached through by aircon buses, Garage to Terminal (GT) Vans and FX (location and access to is underway with the new Polangui Terminal), private cars, trimobiles, padyak and motorcycles.
By train
As of March 2012, The 10 1/2-hour Mayon Limited started traveling between Manila and Ligao, about 28 kilometres (17 mi) from Legazpi. The Mayon Limited serves this place.
By water
Polangui is a landlocked municipality, entirely enclosed by land. The nearest ports available are the Tabaco International Seaport, Legazpi Seaport and Pantao Port in Libon.

Distance from large cities

Communication

Radio station

The municipality receives signal from all the major radio stations from Legazpi City and even Naga City in Camarines Sur. But there is one FM Station that originate from the municipality- the Hot FM Polangui DWJJ 97.9 MHz. It broadcasts live updates, news and entertainment.[10]

TV stations

There is one TV relay station operating in the municipality (ABS-CBN). However, local TVs get strong signals from nearby Legazpi City stations. Cable services are also offered in the area by two companies:

Telephone

There are two existing telephone lines in Polangui:

Cellular telephone sites

The municipality is served by the Philippines' three main mobile phone carriers:

Education

Presently, there are almost 20 Day Care Centers, 3 private pre-schools, 42 public elementary schools, 5 private elementary schools, 7 public high schools, 3 private high schools and 4 tertiary schools in the municipality. This education institutional setup at the present levels of standards is indicative of the literacy rate of the school- age population 10 years old and above- is as high as reflected in the NSO data for the schools in the entire municipality.

Tertiary / vocational / technical education

The municipality has four tertiary schools:

Secondary education

Public High Schools

Private High Schools

Primary education

Public Elementary Schools

  • Polangui South Central Elementary School at Barangay Centro Oriental, along the National Highway. It is the flagship school of the Polangui South District. Its satellite schools are the following:
  • Agos Elementary School
  • Alomon Elementary School
  • Apad Elementary School
  • Balangibang Elementary School
  • Cotnogan Elementary School
  • Kinale Elementary School
  • Lanigay Elementary School
  • La Medalla Elementary School
  • La Purisima Elementary School
  • Magpanambo Elementary School
  • Magurang Elementary School
  • Matacon Elementary School
  • Santicon Elementary School
  • Salvacion Elementary School
  • San Roque Elementary School
  • Sta. Teresita Elementary School
  • Polangui North Central Elementary School at Barangay Centro Oriental. It is the flagship school of the Polangui North District. Its satellite schools are the following:
  • Alnay Elementary School
  • Balaba Elementary School
  • Balinad Elementary School
  • Cepres Elementary School
  • Cotmon Elementary School
  • Dalogo Elementary School
  • Danao Elementary School
  • Itaran Elementary School
  • Jose S. Duran Elementary School
  • Kinuartelan Elementary School
  • Lidong Elementary School
  • Lourdes Elementary School
  • Maynaga Elementary School
  • Maysua Elementary School
  • Mendez Elementary School
  • Napo Elementary School
  • Pinagdapugan Elementary School
  • Pintor Elementary School
  • Ponso North Elementary School
  • Ponso South Elementary School
  • Sta. Cruz Elementary School
  • Sugcad Elementary School

Private Elementary Schools

Day care and pre-school

Private Pre-schools

Public services

Healthcare

The present health services of the municipality are administered by 2 Municipal Health Officers, 2 Public Health Nurses, 1 Medical Technologist, 1 Dentist, and 12 Midwives.

Aside from the Municipal Health Office and Barangay Health Stations, there are 2 Private Hospitals (Isip General Hospital in Gabon and Perillo General Hospital in Magurang), and 14 clinics that provide alternative health services to the population of the municipality. Polangui is equipped with 6 ambulances- 1 in the Rural Health Unit (RHU), 2 in the municipal hall, and 3 in the health station centers in Balinad, Itaran and Matacon.

The Basic Emergency Obstetric and Newborn Care (BEmONC) Birthing Facility at RHU-Polangui specializes in maternal healthcare, along with several lying-in and birthing clinics. Polangui's BEmONC Birthing Facility is a PhilHealth-accredited institution and offers free services to cardholders.

A new medical establishment recently opened its doors- the Our Lady of Perpetual Help Diagnostic and Dialysis Center at Barangay Centro Oriental, in front of the Polangui South Central Elementary School. Polangui and Legazpi City are the only ones in Albay who have a dialysis facility.

Waste disposal

In dealing with solid waste management, the Municipality of Polangui has adopted the usual means of dumping garbage in an open-pit dumpsite. Garbage is collected from each barangay in the poblacion every Tuesday and Friday. The municipality has four garbage trucks to ensure that the garbage is collected and disposed in the waste disposal site located at Sitio Barobo, about 4-kilometre (2.5 mi) distance from the central business district.

Fire protection

The Polangui Fire Station, Bureau of Fire Protection is located at Barangay Centro Occidental, between the Municipal Hall and the Polangui Police Station. The Polangui BFP is headed by Fire Marshal Insp. Noel N. Peñarubia.

Police and law enforcement

Polangui PNP is headed by PSI Jon R. Retumban.

Penology

The Polangui District Jail is manned by officers of the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), headed by Jail Warden Sr. Insp. Alfredo R. Ricaford, Jr.

Utilities

Power

The Albay Electric Cooperative (ALECO) Sub-Station 2 in Barangay Centro Occidental provides electricity to the majority of the town's barangays.

Water

Water supply is managed by the Polangui Water System (inaugurated by President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo herself and Governor Joey Salceda) located in Barangay Balinad. Its present service area encompasses the poblacion and some of the other barangays. The rest of the residents, most especially those in the upland and rural areas are still dependent on shallow wells, deep wells or spring-water.

Burial grounds

There are 7 cemeteries in the municipality:

Local government

Incumbent Municipal Officials (2013-2016)

Legend
  1. A + indicates that the official is a new entrant and previously never held any position.
  2. A ‹› indicates that the official is re-elected to the same position.
  3. A ♯ indicates that the official is re-elected to a new position. (Raul G. Lim was Councilor in his previous term while William H. Buendia, Sr. was ABC President)
  4. A ^ indicates that the official previously held a position and was re-elected into office. (May A. Silo was Councilor from 2004-2010 but lost for re-election in 2010)

Department heads and line agencies

Past municipal administrators

Spanish Regime (1750−1899)

Inclusive Years Capitan Municipal
1750-1752 Domingo dela Cruz
1752-1753 Diego Langcauon
1753-1754 Antonio Sta. Maria
1754-1755 Diego Bananakaw
1755-1756 Pantaleon dela Vinbria
1756-1757 Laureano Pangpaguon
1757-1758 Manuel Pimentel
1758-1760 Santiago Florencio
1760-1761 Jose Eusebio
1761-1762 Narciso delos Martines
1762-1763 Mariano Josorio
1763-1764 Diego San Agustin
1764-1765 Francisco Pasion
1765-1766 Narciso delos Martines
1766-1767 Agustin Dayauon
1767-1768 Pedro Magatas
1768-1769 Ignacio Duran
1769-1770 Miguel Josorio
1770-1771 Pedro Pasion
1771-1772 Agustin Dayauon
1772-1773 Pedro Magatas
1773-1775 Santiago Damas
1775-1802 None
1802-1803 Vicente Sto. Domingo
1803-1804 Agustin San Pascual
1804-1805 Antonio San Pascual
1805-1806 Bernabe S. Buenaventura
1806-1807 Tomas Eleazar
1807-1808 Damaso de Valencia
1808-1808 Agustin San Pascual
1809-1810 Fernando Almazan
1810-1811 Fernando dela Cruz
1811-1812 Agustin San Pascual
1812-1813 Francisco S. Agustin
1813-1814 Rosendo dela Cruz
1814-1815 Remegio San Agustin
1815-1816 Estanislao Perez
1816-1817 Antonio Duran
1817-1818 Nicolas Bibiano
1818-1819 Jose Duran
1819-1820 Estanislao Perez
1820-1821 Manuel San Antonio
1821-1822 Pablo delos Angeles
1822-1823 Nicolas Perez
1823-1824 Salvador dela Soledad
1824-1825 Antonio Duran
1825-1826 Margarito Buenaventura
1826-1827 Agustin San Pascual
1827-1828 Pascual Mariano
1828-1829 Jose Pasion
1829-1830 Antonio Marcelo
1830-1831 Margarito Buenaventura
1831-1832 Francisco S. Nicolas
1832-1833 Austero Tadio
1833-1834 Gregorio del Castillo
1834-1835 Manuel S. Agustin
1835-1836 Miguel San Mateo
1836-1837 Miguel Sta. Isabel
1837-1838 Miguel Sta. Ana
1838-1839 Martin Victoria
1839-1840 Manuel Acasio
1840-1841 Jose Torres
1841-1842 Margarito Buenaventura
1842-1843 Pedro Nolasco
1843-1844 Pascual Borromeo
1844-1845 Juan dela Cruz
1845-1846 Lorenzo Roque
1846-1847 Jose Espinas
1847-1848 Juan Eusebio
1848-1849 Felizardo Florin
1849-1850 Vicente dela Cruz
1850-1851 Camilo Mella Silva
1851-1852 Jose Sale Duran
1852-1853 Francisco Florin Padie
1853-1854 Antonio Sabido Abad
1854-1855 Vicente Perez Santanez
1855-1856 Juan Duran
1856-1857 Gregorio Imperial
1857-1858 Sacramento Salvo
1858-1859 Tranquilino Hernandez
1859-1860 Bartolome Sarte
1860-1861 Gabriel Salaber
1861-1862 Pedro Sadia
1862-1863 Pedro Sabater
1863-1865 Teodoro Salvo
1865-1866 Antonio Lluc
1866-1867 Anastacio Lluc
1867-1869 Abraham Isaac
1869-1871 Valeriano Sarte Duran
1871-1873 Pablo Santor
1873-1877 Policarpio Del Valle
1877-1879 Nicomedes Sale Duran
1879-1881 Austero Sapalicio
1881-1885 Luis Duran
1885-1887 Pascual Salegumba
1887-1890 Margarito Sadueste
1890-1892 Valentin Saba
1892-1895 Juan Sadueste
1895-1899 Agaton Saba
1899-1901 Macario Samson

American Rule (1901-1941)

Inclusive Years Municipal President
1901-1902 Clemente Sarte (Acting Chief Executive)

Lorenzo Duran (1st Municipal President)

1902-1904 Procopio Arbo
1904-1906 Clemente Sarte
1906-1908 Juan Florin
1908-1911 Ruperto Carreon
1911-1913 Juan Sarte
1913-1916 Rufina Tuanqui
1916-1919 Quirico Duran
1919-1928 Juan Florin
1928-1931 Ruperto Carreon
1931-1933 Gregorio Ante
1934-1935 Ruperto Carreon
1935-1941 Crisostomo Silo

Japanese Occupation (1941-1947)

Inclusive Years Municipal Mayor
1941-1944 Cipriano L. Saunar (Vice mayor of the defunct Commonwealth government. Was appointed mayor by the Japanese government)
1944-1947 Manuel A. Samson, Sr.

Post-War Period (1947-date)

Inclusive Years Municipal Mayor Municipal Vice Mayor SK Federation President ABC President Motto Remarks
1947-1960 Jesus S. Salalima
1960-1964 Conrado A. Sabater
1964-1968 Mariano Sapalicio
1968-1981 Conrado A. Sabater Conrado A. Sabater was only Presiding Officer from 1976 to 1981
1981-1986 Irineo T. Sales, Jr.
1986-1987 Romeo Gonzales Honesto S. Borja
1987-1988 Honesto S. Borja Honesto S. Borja took the place as Municipal Mayor after the death of then incumbent Mayor Romeo Gonzales.
1988-1998 Rafael A. Lo Jesus S. Salceda, Sr.
1998-2001 Brett Joseph B. Salalima Norberto S. Sabaybay
2001-2010 Jesus S. Salceda, Sr. Brando M. Sael (2001-2004)

Renato S. Borja (2004-2010)

 Shayne T. Samaniego (2002-2007)

Josue L. Del Villar (2007-2010)

 Jose A. Zamora (2004-2007)

Lito S. Ret (2007-2010)

 "One Polangui. One Town. One People."
2010–present Cherilie M. Sampal Jesus S. Salceda, Jr. (2010-2013)

Raul G. Lim (2013–present)

Patricia Anne R. Magistrado (2010–present)

 William H. Buendia, Sr. (2010–present) "Next Level...Progress" Cherilie M. Sampal was the first female municipal mayor and fifth in Albay (next to Agnes P. Dycoco of Libon, Cielo Krisel L. Luistro of Tabaco City, Linda P. Gonzales of Ligao City and Carmen Geraldine Rosal of Legazpi City)

Awards and recognition received

2013

National Agri-Pinoy Rice Achiever
[12][13][14] Awarded by the Department of Agriculture (DA) under its Agri-Pinoy Rice Program during the Awarding Ceremonies held at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City last March 15, recognizing the local government’s high-performance in rice production to help achieve rice self-sufficiency by 2013.

2012

LGU with the Highest TB Case Detection and Cure Rate in Albay
[15] Awarded by the Provincial Health Office under its Linking Initiatives and Networking to Control Tuberculosis (TB LINC) Project, in recognition of the municipality's top performance and exemplary achievements in pursuing campaigns and programs to prevent infection and control spread of tuberculosis (TB) in the province, as well as the "committed support to and staunch advocacy of TB control empowering the Municipality of Polangui to post above the rest". The citation, in accordance with the National TB Program (NTP), was conferred during the awarding ceremonies was held last August 29, 2012 at the Pepperland Hotel in Legazpi City.
Seal of Good Housekeeping for Local Governments
[16] Awarded by the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG) under its Local Governance Performance Management System (LGPMS), in recognition of the municipality's exemplary performance in internal housekeeping for CY 2011 in the areas of Good Planning, Sound Fiscal Management, Transparency and Accountability, and Valuing Performance Management. The municipality then received a cash incentive of P1 million. The awarding ceremonies held last June 1, 2012 at the La Piazza Convention Center in Legazpi City.

Notable Polangueños (or with Polangui roots)

Politics and government

Catholic leaders

Beauty and television personalities

Entertainment and the arts

Sports

Polangui anthem

Polangui's municipal anthem is "Polangui! Polangui!". Its lyrics is by Salvador "Buddy" M. Robrigado, Sr. and the music is by Oscar Reburiano.

Polangui! Polangui!

Polangui cheers all of us know

The life we dream here long ago

From break of dawn 'til evening glow

We live and work forever true.

Industrious all caring and pure

Polangui's heart never stall

Progress and business for one and all

That we may learn an ardent call.

A city of man as it is now

Our lively town has beckon by

Beautiful ladies, hardworking men

Polangui, Polangui, thy only one.

A place of beauty, commerce and song

She holds us dearly happy and strong

Never to falter amidst a storm

For that's Polangui, Polangui

Polangui serving all.

References

  1. ↑ "Municipalities". Quezon City, Philippines: Department of the Interior and Local Government. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
  2. ↑ "Province: Albay". PSGC Interactive. Makati City, Philippines: National Statistical Coordination Board. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
  3. 1 2 3 "Total Population by Province, City, Municipality and Barangay: as of May 1, 2010" (PDF). 2010 Census of Population and Housing. National Statistics Office. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
  4. 1 2 3 http://www.nscb.gov.ph/activestats/psgc/municipality.asp?muncode=050514000&regcode=05&provcode=05
  5. ↑ http://learnbicol.blogspot.com/
  6. ↑ http://joelsabio.wordpress.com/2013/03/28/holy-wednesday-procession-polangui-albay/
  7. ↑ http://joelsabio.wordpress.com/2013/03/30/good-friday-when-the-saints-go-marching-in-polangui-albay/
  8. ↑ http://memoinsights.blogspot.com/2011/09/i-miss-binutong-i-miss-my-lola-as-i.html
  9. ↑ http://www.nscb.gov.ph/activestats/psgc/articles/con_income.asp
  10. ↑ https://www.facebook.com/Dwjj979RadyoPolangui
  11. 1 2 http://www.courses.com.ph/bicol-university-polangui-campus/
  12. ↑ http://www.da.gov.ph/index.php/2012-03-27-12-04-15/2012-04-17-09-30-59/3672-10-provinces-48-cities-towns-lead-agri-pinoy-rice-achievers
  13. ↑ http://balita.ph/2013/04/11/national-agri-pinoy-rice-achievers-from-albay-vow-more-production-this-year/
  14. ↑ http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=771361779183
  15. ↑ http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?article=771346397664
  16. ↑ http://www.pia.gov.ph/news/index.php?searchID=polangui&article=771327651870
  17. 1 2 3 4 Legislative districts of Albay#3rd District
  18. 1 2 3 http://biklish.com/2008/06/17/20080616-01/
  19. ↑ Joey Salceda
  20. ↑ Chief of Staff (Philippines)
  21. ↑ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=m5-k9Vjcx34
  22. ↑ http://www.spot.ph/videos/47483/danica-magpantays-mother-lala-floress-1990-supermodel-of-the-world-international-finals-clip/
  23. ↑ http://matangshowbiz.wordpress.com/2011/12/18/u-s-acoustic-gem-plus-u-s-ambasadress-ms-jackie-chavez/

External links

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