The Colors of Naga ‘Yon!
By Hon. Jose Perez
Chairman, Committee on Culture and the Arts
Naga’s rich history and heritage began some 400 years ago. A native settlement by the river became one of the four original Spanish royal cities throughout the country. With its present landscape, the city has grown into a modern urban center. Since then everyone wants to be in, to be part of its amazing transformation, embrace its colorful past, and celebrate with its many triumphs here and now. But Naga is more than just a place. It embodies the spirit of the people with its unique cuisine, literature, colorful festivals, music and religious rites, lush forests and other natural bounties. Its brand of hospitality has made it one large heart that is home to anyone who seeks rest, recreation and progress. And with its ambivalent sounds and sights, colors, and the warmth of its people, one is wont to ask: “Pray tell me, what is that terrific place that people are talking here about?” and “Why am I so in love with it, with its people, with its food?”
The answer my dear friend: It’s because “Naga ‘yon!” (That’s Naga!)
Indeed, Naga in the heart of Bicol is an admixture of the colors red, orange, yellow, green and blue that solidify into one unique character. His persona, the Nagueno, is full of love, energy and passion only a caring heart can give. His youth and sense of hope are as pronounced as the color yellow. The color orange speaks of his strong drive for creativity, innovation and change. He always strives to face the challenges and pave the way for more growth, prosperity and wealth. As a child of the Green Earth, he cares for the environment and takes each day as a new leaf to create more opportunities. His dreams and ambitions, his compassion, wisdom and search for truth are as boundless as the blue sky. While he is looked up to as a person of honor, piety and courage, the Nagueno is also known to be calm and responsible, proud of his heritage and respectful of his elders. The color white provides a neutral backdrop to allow the other colors to speak with a louder voice in the collective discourse for what is best for the city.
Naga ‘yon! A place that is beautiful. A place where one should be.
Read More About Naga ‘Yon!
Last updated on August 15th, 2024 at 12:28 pm
