July 30-31, 2024 — Vinzons, a charming town in Camarines Norte, recently shone brightly on the cultural and tourism stage, thanks to an inspiring initiative by the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE). This landmark event showcased the town’s vibrant dedication to heritage and education.

Vinzons: A Cultural and Historical Gem

Vinzons, formerly Talisay, is rich with cultural and historical significance. Founded in 1948 and named after the esteemed Filipino nationalist Wenceslao Q. Vinzons, the town has been a key player in the Philippines’ journey to independence. Celebrated for its historic contributions and dedication to preserving its legacy, Vinzons boasts numerous landmarks reflecting its deep cultural roots.

Despite its historical and natural allure, Vinzons has struggled with limited resources and infrastructure, affecting its tourism potential. Enter the Philippine Global Explorers (PGE) with their Adopt-an-LGU initiative, designed to boost cultural appreciation and tourism development in Vinzons.

Group photo on the first day of the two-day seminar taken in front of the Wenceslao Q. Vinzons National Historical Landmark, 
Vinzons, Camarines Norte
Group photo on the first day of the two-day seminar taken in front of the Wenceslao Q. Vinzons National Historical Landmark,
Vinzons, Camarines Norte

Map of Vinzons, Camarines Norte:

HOW TO USE THIS MAP TO BOOK YOUR RESERVATIONS:
CLICK the SHOW LIST (BLUE MARKER) or the FILTERS next to the title to see the various things to do and point of interest in this guide and CHOOSE your desired preview of the map, whether HOTELS & RENTALS, EXPERIENCES, RESTAURANTS OR OTHERS. Feel free to use the filters, number of guests, and your preferred dates. You can see more information about the different attractions when you click the icons, as well as finding your perfect accommodation that will suit your budget and location. You could also book your guided tours and restaurants using the map.


Adopt-an-LGU Project by Philippine Global Explorers

PGE’s Adopt-an-LGU project, spearheaded by members Alvidon F. Asis, and Rambi O. Francisco, in participation of Gerald V. Paragas, Ana O. Francisco and Lowela C. Ramos, aimed to tackle Vinzons’ challenges and enhance local cultural and tourism development with a dynamic approach. This project, which celebrates PGE’s fifth founding anniversary, included a municipality wide two-day seminar with contributions from many speakers across different tourism, cultural and historical, education as well as government offices.

The events were energized by the presence of Municipal Mayor Hon. Eleanor Ferrer-Segundo, MD, and Municipal Councilor and Cahir of the Committee on Education and Committee on Environment, Hon. Manuel D. Obusan, who were instrumental in supporting the initiative.

The event wrapped up with a turnover ceremony and the unveiling of the Vinzons Heritage Education Museum Marker, dedicated to PGE. This event also featured a book donation, through the auspices of PGE Vice-Chairman, Atty. Dominador D. Buhain & Rex Group of Companies, to the Vinzons Heritage Education Museum Library, further supporting the local community’s access to educational resources and underscoring Vinzons’ commitment to cultural preservation.

PGE Co-Founder Rambi O. Francisco, Vinzons Municipal Tourism and Heritage Office Head Florence G. Mago and Vinzons Pilot Elementary School Principal Esperanza A. Badong, unveiled the Philippine Global Explorers marker installed on the occasion of its 5th Founding Anniversary. Provincial Tourism Office assistant head Engr. Joel F. Segundo witnessed the unveiling inside the Vinzons Heritage and Education Museum, Gabaldon Building, this school.
PGE Co-Founder Rambi O. Francisco, Vinzons Municipal Tourism and Heritage Office Head Florence G. Mago and Vinzons Pilot Elementary School Principal Esperanza A. Badong, unveiled the Philippine Global Explorers marker installed on the occasion of its 5th Founding Anniversary. Provincial Tourism Office assistant head Engr. Joel F. Segundo witnessed the unveiling inside the Vinzons Heritage and Education Museum, Gabaldon Building, this school.

This initiative highlights Vinzons’ energetic approach to celebrating and preserving its cultural heritage, demonstrating the powerful role of legislative support, expert knowledge, and community involvement in honoring the Philippines’ rich historical legacy.

The Philippine Global Explorers would like to express their gratitude to all who donated in any form or manner to this project. Special thanks to the below for the wonderful speeches given and educational demonstrations exhibited during the two-day learning sessions:

Mr. Abel C. Icatlo
Chief, Museum Archives and Shrine Curation Division, Museo Bulawan, Daet, Camarines Norte
“Heritage Legislation and Policies in the Philippines: Impacts on Local Tourism Development”

Gerald V. Paragas, EnP
Environmental Planner/Cultural Mapping Facilitator-Trainor, Municipality of Sta. Barbara, Pangasinan
“Introduction to Cultural Mapping: Updates, Practices and Strategies”
“Barangays as Partners of Effective Implementation and Management of Local Tourism Development Plans”

Engr. Joel F. Segundo
Executive Assistant, Office of the Mayor, and Assistant Provincial Tourism Officer, Camarines Norte Provincial Tourism Office, Daet, Camarines Norte
“Natural and Eco-tourism Tour Guiding”
Mainstreaming Eco-Tourism and Heritage into Local Plans: Focus on Conservation and Management

Mark Anthony Jacob Glorioso
Shrine Curator II, National Historical Commission of the Philippines,
Museo ni Jesse Robredo, Naga City
“Cultural and Built Environment Tour GuidingHeritage Tourism: Protecting Built Heritage for Local Tourism Development

Ms. Agnes M. Salvino
Development Management Officer V/ Provincial Officer, NCIP V-Camarines Norte, Provincial Office, Daet, Camarines Norte
“The Indigenization of Local Tourism Development: Roles of Indigenous Peoples in Cultural and Creative Enterprise”

Dr. Jesusa B. Taumatorgo
Director, Regional Center for Indigenous Peoples and Ladawan Center, Central Bicol State University of Agriculture, Pili, Camarines Sur
“Higher Education Institutions as Drivers in the Conservation of Indigenous Peoples’ Cultural Identity: The Case of Ladawan Center

Ms. Florence G. Mago
Tourism Officer II, Municipal Tourism and Heritage Office, Vinzons, Camarines Norte
“Vinzons Poblacion Heritage Tour: Updates and Highlights”

Ms. Alyssa Genelyn Asis-Belen
Negosyo Center Business Councilor, Department of Trade and Industry, Camarines Norte Provincial Office, Daet, Camarines Norte
“Culinary Tourism: Rebranding the Flavors of Delicacies and Kakanins of Vinzons”

Mr. Lowell Ibis Obrero, LPT
Head Teacher, St. Francis Caracciolo Culinary Academy, Sto. Domingo, Vinzons
“Strategic Partnership for Sustainable Tourism: Role of Business Sector Engagement”

Dr. Ramchand “Rambi” O. Francisco
PGE Co-Funder and Board of Director
“PGE Perspectives and Approaches of Private Sector Engagement in Sustainable Tourism and Heritage”

Ms, Shirly J Balane and Ms. Rosanna J. Saradat
Kakanin making, “Angko and Hinalo” Demonstration