OTS Dumaguete
By Emman Araullo

May 23-26, 2024 – Zone V Camera Club held it’s 2^nd OTS for the year during the month of May.  This time, the club invaded Dumaguete – also known as the city of gentle people. Aside from exploring the locale, members were also shooting for the monthly contest and the theme they were shooting for was “long exposure in motion” when expounded means “images that denote motion using intentional blur or long exposure”.

The OTS officially spanned 4 days. There were no official scheduled events for the first, second days, and final day, but with the official boundaries for the contest already established, members were free to explore Dumaguete at their own convenience.  On these days, members were able to visit Mag-aso Sulfur Fumes, Balinsasayaw Twin Lakes, and Pulang Bato falls among other sites.

The third day was jam packed with activities as members had an early call time and gathered at Rizal Boulevard at 6am for a photowalk led by local photographer Hersley Van Casero who also brought along another local photographer, Seigfred Vince Teves, to join the walk. Members were in luck as there was a local fishing (birik-birik) festival going on along the boulevard during the time of the meetup which provided more opportunities to shoot for the theme.

The walk saw members visiting sites such as Dumaguete Cathedral which is known for its belfry which was used as a lookout during Japanese occupation and the chimes from its bell as a signal for incoming pirates during earlier times.  The group then made its way to Dumaguete public market where members, aside from taking action shots, also got to try the local suman known as bodbod which was even more delicious when paired with the local chocolate.  The group then made its way to Silliman University, which has the distinction of as the first American and Protestant founded institution of higher learning in the Country.  The walk ended with the group having lunch at Sans Rival Café. Of course, the club had to get its fix of the dessert where the restaurant got its name.

That evening saw club members gathering for an unforgettable night as the club celebrated with a fellowship night at Bethel Hotel which was organized by the current cast of probees.  There were food, games and presentations which were allegedly the brain child of the self proclaimed head of the probees, Dru Magturo.  It was definitely an affair to remember (or forget) as members transferred to “El amigo” for the after party where members (or 1 member) was able to sing to their hearts content! Nonetheless, it was all in good fun and everyone who was there enjoyed the opportunity to bond with fellow club members.

Our thanks go out to OTS head Billy Palatino and the OTS committee for another well organized event. We also recognize the efforts of the probees for an entertaining fellowship night. Our gratitude also goes out the locals who welcomed ZVCC into their hometown.

See you in October for the next OTS – Hong Kong!