Bringing the Heart of the City to the Heart of the Barangay: KSB Goes to Puerto

DYM/CIO/Photo courtesy to Kim Zaldivar/CIO

A Vibrant Day in Puerto

The morning sun cast a golden glow over Barangay Puerto as the community buzzed with anticipation. It was no ordinary day. *KSB goes to Puerto*, a meaningful outreach led by Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy, had arrived to make a difference. Through the beloved **‘Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo’ (KSB)** program, City Hall’s departments converged in the barangay, offering essential services with warm smiles and open hands.  

The air was infused with a sense of unity. Residents came not just to avail themselves of free government services, but to personally connect with the people working behind the scenes for the city’s progress. The **Klarex administration**’s commitment was clear: government is not a distant institution—it’s here, in the streets and barangays, standing alongside the people it serves.  

Services That Touch Lives

From medical check-ups to legal consultations, the offerings reflected the city’s dedication to improving everyday lives. The initiative aims to provide free government services and strengthen the city’s commitment to bringing the government closer to the people. Transitioning between different service booths, residents discovered how accessibility transforms necessity into empowerment.  

Moreover, the program reinforced trust. By showing up consistently each week, the **KSB program** nurtures a relationship between the government and the community that goes beyond policy—it builds connection and mutual respect. For Barangay Puerto, that Saturday morning became more than a calendar event; it turned into a story of service, compassion, and hope.  

The KSB initiative is proof that when leaders step into the neighborhoods, they bridge gaps that statistics and speeches can’t. Puerto experienced not just service delivery, but a heartfelt reminder: the city belongs to its people, and together, they can flourish. 

Empowering Coastal Communities: CAPOO's Commitment to the Fisherfolk of Agusan

COURTESY: LRM/CIO photos by Jhoanne Abejo/CIO

In recent years, the importance of supporting local economies and preserving aquatic resources has gained significant attention. One notable initiative in this regard is the recent turnover of fishery equipment by the City Agricultural Productivity Operations Office (CAPOO) to the fisherfolk of Barangay Agusan. This event took place during the ‘Klarex Nga Serbisyo Sa Baryo (KSB)’ program, which emphasizes the need for sustainable development in Cagayan de Oro City.

A Pivotal Partnership for Progress

Engr. Bernie A. Daba Jr., who heads CAPOO, exemplifies leadership in community engagement. In partnership with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-10) regional office, CAPOO facilitated the distribution of assorted fishing equipment. The handover took place on September 27 and included 15 complete sets of hook and line, as well as four marine engine units with underwater fittings and accessories. This significant contribution highlights the collaborative effort to enhance the livelihoods of local fisherfolk, enriching both their professional capabilities and their economic well-being.

Moreover, this initiative reflects a broader vision of sustainable resource management. By providing essential tools, CAPOO not only aids in the immediate enhancement of fishing activities but also promotes responsible fishing practices among the community. The strategic rollout of these resources is expected to bolster the economic resilience of Cagayan de Oro City’s coastal communities.

Enhancing Livelihoods Through Sustainable Practices

The distribution of fishery equipment serves as a catalyst for improving living standards among Barangay Agusan's fisherfolk. Enhanced fishing capabilities will ultimately allow these individuals to access larger fish stocks, thereby increasing their income potential. Furthermore, this initiative encourages the adoption of modern fishing methods that align with environmental sustainability.

Transitioning from traditional to more efficient techniques, the fishers are now equipped to contribute significantly to local fish supply while practicing conservation. This initiative demonstrates a compelling model of how local governments can effectively empower communities through targeted support. As Cagayan de Oro City moves forward, the continuing partnership between CAPOO and BFAR-10 lays a strong foundation for future initiatives aimed at improving the overall agricultural and fishery productivity of the region.

The recent turnover of fishery equipment to the fisherfolk of Barangay Agusan marks a commendable step towards economic empowerment and sustainable fishing practices. The collaboration between local government agencies not only addresses immediate needs but also fosters long-term resilience in coastal communities. By prioritizing such initiatives, Cagayan de Oro City continues to pave the way for a prosperous future built on the strength of its local resources.

Empowering Future Leaders: The Unstoppable Journey of City Scholars in Barangay Lapasan

COURTESY: CDO City Scholarships Office 

In the vibrant heart of Barangay Lapasan, a remarkable initiative unfolds, bringing together community service, education, and empowerment. The *Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo* (KSB), a program initiated by Mayor Rolando "Klarex" A. Uy, stands as a testament to the city's commitment to fostering community engagement and support. On January 18, 2025, at East City Central School, this initiative took center stage, involving City Scholars in a transformative experience that promises to shape the future of Cagayan de Oro.

A Visionary Initiative for Community Empowerment

The *Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo* (KSB) is more than just an event; it's a visionary initiative aimed at bridging the gap between essential services and the communities that need them most. Through KSB, Mayor Uy envisions a city where services are not confined to government offices but are delivered right to the barangays, fostering a sense of belonging and accessibility among the residents. This approach not only enhances community engagement but also ensures that residents, regardless of their location, have access to vital services.

At the heart of this initiative are the City Scholars, a group of promising individuals who represent the future of Barangay Lapasan. Their participation in the weekly KSB event signifies a commitment to not only their academic pursuits but also their responsibility to their community. By involving scholars in such events, the initiative nurtures a sense of civic duty and leadership, preparing them to be active contributors to society.

Celebrating Academic Excellence

The event on January 18, 2025, at East City Central School was particularly special as it celebrated the achievements of the City Scholars. Among them, 46 Dean's Listers, 20 Latin Honors awardees, and 85 graduates were highlighted, demonstrating the academic excellence that thrives within Barangay Lapasan. These achievements are not just numbers; they are a reflection of the dedication, resilience, and hard work of the scholars and the support system that surrounds them.

The recognition of these scholars serves as an inspiration to the younger generation, showing that with perseverance and determination, academic excellence is attainable. Moreover, it highlights the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and social mobility. The celebration of these achievements is a testament to the city's commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a culture of excellence.

Building Resilience Through Life-Saving Skills

In addition to celebrating academic success, the event also focused on equipping the scholars with essential life-saving skills. Facilitated by the CDRRMO, a workshop was conducted, involving 54 City Scholars who were trained in handling emergencies effectively. This hands-on experience provided them with critical skills that are invaluable in times of crisis, empowering them to be not just scholars but also capable and responsible citizens.

The integration of life-saving skills into the scholars' training underscores the importance of preparedness in building a resilient community. By equipping the youth with these skills, the initiative ensures that they are well-prepared to face challenges head-on, ultimately contributing to a safer and more resilient city. This proactive approach to community safety and preparedness is a cornerstone of the *Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo* initiative, highlighting its multifaceted impact on the community.

Paving the Way for a Strong and Unstoppable Future

Together, resilience and knowledge pave the way for a strong and unstoppable future for Barangay Lapasan. As the City Scholars continue to excel academically and are equipped with essential skills, they become the embodiment of the city's vision for progress and development. The *Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo* initiative serves as a catalyst for this transformation, bringing together education, community service, and empowerment in a seamless blend.

Looking ahead, the role of these scholars extends beyond their personal achievements; they are the future leaders, innovators, and change-makers of Cagayan de Oro. Their journey, supported by initiatives like KSB, is a testament to the power of education and community support in shaping a brighter future. As the city continues to thrive through preparedness and celebrates academic excellence, the impact of these initiatives will resonate for generations to come.

In conclusion, the *Klarex nga Serbisyo sa Baryo* initiative is a shining example of how community engagement, education, and empowerment can come together to create a transformative impact. By celebrating academic excellence and equipping scholars with life-saving skills, Barangay Lapasan is nurturing a generation of resilient and knowledgeable individuals ready to take on the challenges of tomorrow. Through this initiative, the city is not only building a strong and unstoppable future but also fostering a sense of community and belonging that will continue to thrive as Cagayan de Oro progresses.