Following the vibrant celebrations of the 155th Annual Patronal Fiesta, we step away from the noise to enter a space of profound stillness. This interview takes us into the heart of the newly restored Our Lady’s Garden at Our Lady of Peace Parish, the sacred home of the parish grotto.

Join Reverend Father Nitodel Soriano as he reveals the vision behind this site—a faithful replica of the original grotto in Lourdes, France. From the intricate mosaic artistry of the walkable rosary to the spiritual healing found in nature, discover how this garden serves as a spiritual anchor for a community journeying toward its 150th anniversary as a parish.

In an era of constant distraction, Father Nitz shares a timely invitation for seekers of peace and advocates for mental health to find a sanctuary for reflection in the heart of our community.

(Videos by Derek Mariño, Joel Plesario, and John Michael De La Cruz; Supervision by: Noynoy Amar; Interview and Postprod by: Richard D. Meriveles)

Meet Chelsea Hope Maguad, a proud daughter of San Agustin Street, Barangay 1 Poblacion. From starting her journey in Grade 6 to becoming a scholar-athlete for the UP Fighting Maroons, Chelsea proves that no dream is too big when fueled by grit and "time management".

"Never stop dreaming," she says to every young Mangkasanon athlete. Watch her share how she turned her "sacrifices" into a scholarship of a lifetime.

"I turned weeping into becoming. I turned my perseverance into power."

The universe didn't just align; it spoke. On the very day her late mother would have celebrated a birthday, Alexandria Margarette Colmenares received the call that would change everything.

On Jan. 9, 2026, we sat down with our city's Miss Universe Philippines Negros Occidental for an exclusive look at the heart behind the crown. From the Masskara stage in 2022 to sweeping the awards at the Pasalamat Festival, Alex has proven that her journey is fueled by more than just beauty—it is powered by the unwavering spirit of the Mangkasanons.

As she prepares to face the "giants" of Manila, Cebu, and Davao on the national stage, she carries the pride of La Carlota City in every step. Join us as she shares her emotional journey of grief, gratitude, and the relentless drive to represent the province we love. (Interview by Kei Lopez)