LANDMARKS – There are too many Bicol stars for just one column. And so Highspeed names “pa more”.
But, before doing so, here are some Bicol landmarks, starting with the Our Lady of Peñafrancia Basilica. Bicolanos’ devotion to the Blessed Mother or “Ina” is akin to the love of Mexicans to Our Lady of Guadalupe.
More landmarks: Mt. Mayon, said to be with the perfect cone; Cagsawa church ruins; Tiwi hot springs.
As regards Bicolano food, think sweet pili nuts and hot and spicy laing.
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MORE BICOL STARS – Now the Bicol stars.
Two of the prettiest actresses are Bicolanas. Kristine Hermosa (Mrs. Oyo Sotto) and Marianne de la Riva (now US-based, married to a doctor).
Marianne used to be the leading lady of FPJ and Rudy Fernandez; was introduced in “Love Song” opposite Cocoy Laurel.
Another beauty is Meg Imperial, who comes from a prominent family in Bicol.
Jericho Rosales, Gary Valenciano, Joross Gamboa, Liz Alindogan, Pia Moran, Aya Medel, Pepe and Lito Pimentel, Atoy Co, Jaime Garchitorena, Roderick Paulate, Mura, Bentong, Bugoy Drilon, Rafael Rosell, Edna Diaz, Raymond Keannu, Sofia Moran, Eddie Gutierrez have Bicolano blood.
Ditto Paquito Diaz, Bob Soler, Zaldy Zshornack, Eddie Ilarde, Snooky Serna, Bea Saw, Celia Fuentes, Aurora Salve, Jovit Moya, Mae Rivera, Rez Cortez.
The mother of Randy, Rowell, and Raymart Santiago, Cielito Legaspi, was from Bicol.
Former choreographer Maribeth Bicharra belongs to a powerful political family in Bicol.
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BEAUTY QUEENS – Bicol’s contribution to the world of beauty pageant includes Miss Earth Karla Henry; Misses International Bea Rose Santiago and Precious Lara Quigaman; Miss Universe 1st runner-up Miriam Quiambao, current Bb. Pilipinas-Universe Rachel Peters.