Theme: SYNERGY

SYNERGY comes from the Greek word synergos which means “working together.” It refers to the combined power of a group of things when they are working together that is greater than the total power achieved by each working separately.

The last three years of living in a global health crisis has highlighted the need for synergy and interdependence. Even in governance, we have seen how working together is indispensable, for public service cannot be done in isolation. From our leaders to our citizens, we each have crucial roles we must step up to if we wish not just to survive but to thrive.

TEDxBIR Bicol: SYNERGY aims to be the stage where we answer the important question: What is my role in nation-building and how do I step up for the greater good? It is hoped that the stories of speakers from different walks of life will inspire action and synergy within the Bureau as we pursue our agency mission of nation-building and the upliftment of the lives of Filipinos.

The Marison Hotel
Corner Imelda Roces Avenue, Barangay 38, Gogon
Legazpi City, Albay, Bicol (Region V), 4500
Philippines

Cedric Daep

Department Head, Albay Public Safety and Energy Management Office (APSEMO)

Dr. Cedric D. Daep is the current Head of the Albay Public Safety and Emergency Management Office (APSEMO). He was also the former Head of the Provincial Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office of the Provincial Government of Albay. He was awarded the 2019 Dangal ng Bayan award for making the Province of Albay a frontrunner in disaster risk reduction, and for engaging and empowering people to be ready and resilient amid calamities. As a public servant who has tirelessly advocated for disaster preparedness, he will share his story about how passion for one’s work is a key ingredient to transformative public service.

Gregy "Conyo Bicolano" Nillo

Digital Content Creator

Conyo Bicolano is a Bicol-based content creator visible in Facebook, Tiktok, Instagram and YouTube known for his funny and relatable skits. He is one of the fastest growing content creators in the region who advocates for Bicolano culture, local business, arts, representation, and body positivity. His quest to be a “positive influencer” will aim to show how social media and influencer culture can be a tool to drive positive change.

Joey Salceda

Representative, 2nd District Albay

Representative Joey Sarte Salceda is now serving his 3rd term as Congressman of the Second Congressional District of the Province of Albay. He is currently the Chairperson of the House Committee on Ways and Means and the Vice Chairperson of the House Committee on Appropriations and Committee on Economic Affairs this 18th Congress. He is also the Co-Chairperson of the Economic Stimulus Response Package (ESRP) Cluster of the Defeat COVID-19 Special Committee. As a noted economist, he will share his ideas on reform and the role of the legislature in shaping economy and development.

John Angelo Ortiz

Cross-stitch Enthusiast / Digital Artist

John Angelo D. Ortiz is a 35-year old cross-stitch enthusiast from Tabaco City, Albay. He captured the hearts of the Filipino people after his encounter with Pope Francis when he personally handed his cross-stitch of the Madonna Dolorosa, painstakingly made by feet, to the Pontiff. His story is that of faith and persistence in overcoming adversity.

Joshua Carl Barcelon

Executive Director, Albay Young Farmers Organization

Mr. Joshua Carl B. Barcelon is the Executive Director of Albay Young Farmers Organization, a youth organization based in Albay, Bicol. Through their Albay Young Farmers program, they encourage their community, especially the youth, to actively participate in farming technology by introducing innovative approaches to organic farming and edible landscaping. Their story will highlight how the youth can step up and take the helm in an industry as vital as agriculture.

Mary Mediatrix Villanueva

Founder, Dios Mabalos Po Foundation

Tita Med, as she is fondly called, is the owner and matriarch of the 50-year old Shelmed Cottage Treasures, a homegrown brand of export-quality abaca products. In 2010, she received the Gawad Geny Lopez Jr. Bayaning Pilipino Award and the most Inspiring Bicolano Entrepreneur Award. After typhoon Reming devastated Albay in 2006, she founded Dios Mabalos Po Foundation whose mission is to feed, to heal, and to teach. Now in her seventies, she continues to be relentless in her social and charitable advocacies. It is hoped that her story becomes an inspiration on how a senior citizen can remain to be an active shaper of her community through the work she does.

Melvin Vargas

House Parent, Camarines Sur Treatment and Rehabilitation Center

Mr. Melvin M. Vargas is a recovering drug dependent previously confined at the Camarines Sur Treatment and Rehabilitation Center for his methamphetamine addiction. His desire to change his life and start anew eventually led him to working as a House Parent in the same facility, helping residents towards sobriety. His journey is a testament to the old adage that recovery is real and that any challenge can be overcome by taking it one day at a time.

Richard Hayag

President, GentleMen Bicol for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Inc.

Mr. Richard B. Hayag is the President of GentleMen Bicol for Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights, Inc., a non-stock, non-profit organization working with allies in the public and private sectors, through training and education, community organizing and mobilization, and policy advocacy.