A lot of partygoers in Legazpi City (in the Province of Albay, over 471 kilometers south of Metro Manila) are said to drive over two hours to go to Naga City. Because it may already be a first class component city and the capital of the province, but Legazpi remains… provincial in so many ways.
But this is how we were led to this party venue called Quento, which is – supposedly – frequented by those who choose to stay and party in Legazpi City.
Here are some observations regarding Quento.
Una, this place is NOT an LGBTQIA+ venue; instead, it is but a business that recognizes the power of the pink peso, and is therefore open to LGBTQIA+ party people.
Ikalawa, if you want to cruise while here, you’re more likely to find hetero-identifying men who have sex with men instead of other gay and bisexual men. This is actually true in most party venues in Legazpi City… at least so I was told.
Ikatlo, this place is open every day from 5 PM until the last customer leaves… so we were told, though in truth, they start making you feel unwelcome at around midnight.
Ika-apat, this fits approximately 100 pax, so it’s actually spacious. Looking at Quento from outside, you’d think its but a small place. But inside, you’d see a properly laid-out venue that has two seating areas, with the main area housing the stage where performances happen.
Ika-lima, the staff’s nice naman, even staying past their supposed closing time to accommodate us tourists.
Ika-anim, most nights, there’s a band performing… and, if you dare, you can sing with them. This is why it’s popular among groups with members who want to belt out a song or two.
Ika-pito, the food sufficed. For instance, we ordered Chili Cheese Nachos (₱276), and – while it was not even memorable – it was okay enough as pulutan.
And ika-walo, the alak, the alcoholic offerings were priced almost the same as in Metro Manila. A liter of Fundador Light, for instance, costs ₱850.
Apparently, heavy partygoers head to Naga City to party. That’s including LGBTQIA+ people who, I was told, consider the party scene in Legazpi City as backward, too provincial. But if Naga City isn’t an option, or if you want to see how those who choose to stay in Legazpi City actually party, then Quento may provide some glimpses. Yes, it won’t be for everyone… but you’d really only know after you checked.
But off we go for more rampa…
Quento is located at 5P3V+W8C, 219 Lakandula Dr., Legazpi City, 4500 Albay.
