Navigating New Horizons: AFNI Explores Opportunities in Cagayan de Oro

CREDIT: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDITS: Roel Felicitas

In an emblematic meeting that could herald a new era of economic prosperity for Cagayan de Oro City, executives from AFNI, a leading business process outsourcing (BPO) company, made a courtesy visit to Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy. This assembly was not just a formal visit but a pivotal moment, highlighting the company's eagerness to tap into the rich potential of the city.

The day was marked by a significant encounter as the executives from AFNI expressed their intention to explore investment possibilities within Cagayan de Oro City. Their discussions with Mayor Klarex were not just mere exchanges but a glimpse into the ambitious plans that AFNI harbors for expanding its BPO services. It's a venture that could significantly bolster the local employment scene, with projections pointing towards the creation of 2,000 to 3,000 job opportunities.

Mayor Klarex’s response was equally promising, as he assured the AFNI delegation of the city’s safe and conducive environment for investments. Cagayan de Oro, with its status as a prime investment destination and the region’s nucleus of trade and commerce, presents an ideal landscape for AFNI's potential operations. The mayor’s assurances come at a crucial time, reinforcing the city’s readiness to welcome and support such significant investments.

The visiting team from AFNI was not alone in their mission, as they were accompanied by officials from ORO-TIPC, led by Mr. John W. Asuncion. This strategic accompaniment signifies the collaborative efforts at play, ensuring that the initiatives and proposals discussed are well-supported and aligned with the local development agendas set by both the corporate and public sectors.

This meeting was not merely incidental but indicative of a convergence of goals between a city on the rise and a company looking to expand its global footprint. For Cagayan de Oro, attracting a company like AFNI is congruent with its objectives to stimulate economic growth and create job opportunities for its citizens.

The discussions between Mayor Klarex and the AFNI executives underline a potential synergy. On one hand, AFNI is seeking a location with the right mix of stability, infrastructure, and workforce. On the other, Cagayan de Oro aims to diversify its economy and provide sustainable employment opportunities to its growing population.

While the meeting itself signifies an initial step, it paves the way for more substantive discussions and planning. Both parties are keenly aware that the road ahead requires detailed feasibility studies, alignment of incentives, and a solid framework for collaboration that aligns with the city's developmental priorities.

The prospect of AFNI’s investment in Cagayan de Oro isn’t just about job creation; it's about the broader impact on the local community. With increased employment opportunities, there's a direct effect on livelihoods, education, and overall quality of life, catalyzing a positive transformation across the city.

For AFNI, entering Cagayan de Oro offers a fresh pool of talent and a strategic location in the heart of Mindanao’s commercial activities. For Cagayan de Oro, this move could mark a significant milestone in its journey towards becoming a hub for high-value service sectors, including information technology and BPO operations.

The initial discussions set the foundation for more detailed negotiations and planning. Both parties will need to delve into the specifics of investment size, location, incentives, and the framework for cooperation to ensure that the expansion brings mutually beneficial outcomes.

This exploratory visit by AFNI's executives to Mayor Klarex signifies more than just a potential business expansion; it represents the forging of new partnerships and the strengthening of Cagayan de Oro’s position in the global market. With continued dialogue and strategic planning, this collaboration has the potential to usher in a new era of growth and prosperity for both AFNI and the city.

In conclusion, the courtesy visit by AFNI’s executives to Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy is a promising first step towards a dynamic alliance that could transform the economic landscape of Cagayan de Oro. As both parties navigate the intricacies of this potential investment, the optimism is palpable, setting the stage for a future where both the city and the company can thrive together in mutual prosperity.

Golden Symphony: Summer's Echo in Bukidnon

CREDIT: Mindanao Development Authority

PHOTO CREDITS: Gelbert Cabunoc

Nestled in the heart of the Philippines, Bukidnon emerges from the verdant canvas of Mindanao, inviting travelers and nature enthusiasts to witness a spectacle rarely spoken of beyond its borders. While the world turns its gaze towards Japan's delicate Cherry Blossoms, a unique and vibrant phenomenon unfolds in Bukidnon—the blooming of the Golden Trumpet Tree. This natural event, occurring in the full blaze of summer, transforms the landscape into a breathtaking view, compelling enough to make one spend days in its embrace. The Golden Trumpet Tree, with its radiant yellow blossoms, sketches a picturesque view along the Sayre Highway, marking the season with a spectacle of color and life.

The onset of summer in Bukidnon is announced not by the calendar, but by the flourishing of the Golden Trumpet Tree. These trees, standing majestically along roadsides and in fields, begin to adorn themselves in vibrant yellow flowers, signaling the warmth and abundance of the season. The breathtaking view of this tree, with flowers in full bloom, creates a visual symphony that resonates with the beauty and vitality of Bukidnon itself. This display is not merely a feast for the eyes but a summon for the soul, urging onlookers to pause and immerse themselves in the moment.

The Golden Trumpet Tree, scientifically known as *Tabebuia chrysantha*, flourishes in the tropical climate of Bukidnon, reaching its peak beauty during the summer months. The attractive color of its flowers, ranging from a soft yellow to a vivid gold, stands in stark contrast to the lush green backdrop of the province, creating a picturesque scene that captivates photographers, artists, and nature lovers alike. This spectacle along Sayre Highway is not just a testament to the region's biodiversity but also a symbol of its unique ecological identity.

The allure of the Golden Trumpet Tree might be what draws visitors to Bukidnon, but the province boasts a wealth of natural and cultural treasures waiting to be explored. Bukidnon, known as the food basket of Mindanao, offers a journey through sprawling plantations, organic farms, and indigenous heritage sites that tell the story of a land rich in resources and traditions. The invitation to explore Bukidnon is an opportunity to delve into the heart of Mindanao’s hidden gem, where the vibrancy of the Golden Trumpet Tree is matched only by the diversity of experiences available to those who wander its paths.

Adventurers and eco-tourists will find Bukidnon a haven of outdoor activities, from trekking and zip-lining in Dahilayan Adventure Park to the tranquil retreats offered by the natural springs and lakes scattered across the province. Cultural enthusiasts can immerse themselves in the rich tapestry of indigenous cultures, visiting the Talaandig Soil Painting community or participating in the Kaamulan Festival, a celebration of the province’s seven ethnic tribes. In every corner of Bukidnon, there is a story to be discovered, a landscape to be admired, and a memory to be made.

The visual impact of the Golden Trumpet Tree in full bloom is a phenomenon that transcends mere aesthetics. It is a reminder of the intricate connections between nature and culture, between the land and its people. The vibrant yellow blossoms against the verdant landscape of Bukidnon serve not only as a backdrop for photographs but as a canvas that captures the essence of summer in the province. This colorful display creates an atmosphere of warmth and welcome, inviting visitors to connect with the environment and the community in a meaningful way.

Photographers and artists, drawn to the unique beauty of the Golden Trumpet Tree, find in its blossoms a muse for their creative explorations. Each flower, each tree tells a story of resilience, growth, and renewal—themes that resonate deeply in the human experience. As the flowers bloom, so too does the spirit of Bukidnon, manifesting in the smiles of its people, the richness of its culture, and the natural splendor of its landscapes.

To witness the Golden Trumpet Tree in its full glory, timing is everything. The peak blooming season occurs during the summer months, from late March to early May, when the weather conditions are most favorable for the flowers to unveil their brilliance. This period also coincides with many of Bukidnon's cultural and agricultural festivals, offering visitors a holistic experience of the province's natural beauty and cultural vibrancy.

Planning a visit to Bukidnon during this time requires some preparation, as the spectacle of the Golden Trumpet Tree attracts both local and international tourists. Accommodations ranging from cozy homestays to luxurious resorts offer a variety of options for every traveler. Engaging with local tour operators or community guides not only enriches the travel experience but also supports the sustainable development of Bukidnon's tourism industry.

The summer bloom of the Golden Trumpet Tree in Bukidnon is more than a seasonal attraction; it is a call to explore the depth and breadth of what the province has to offer. Beyond the captivating view along Sayre Highway lies a world of adventure, culture, and natural beauty waiting to be discovered. This phenomenon also serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of preserving the natural and cultural heritage of Bukidnon for future generations to enjoy.

As the Golden Trumpet Trees shed their flowers and the vibrant yellow fades into memory, the spirit of Bukidnon remains—an enduring invitation to explore, appreciate, and protect the natural wonders and cultural treasures of this remarkable province.

Empowering Tomorrow: The TESDA Enrollment Drive for Aspiring Learners

CREDIT: Official Page of LGU Baungon

In a world where the landscape of professional development and skill acquisition is ever-evolving, the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA) stands at the forefront of empowering individuals through comprehensive training programs. As we edge closer to a new era of innovation and technological advancement, the importance of equipping oneself with the necessary skills cannot be overstated. Attention Aspiring Learners, your opportunity to embark on this transformative journey begins tomorrow, April 11, 2024, with the ongoing enrollment for TESDA's Skills Training Programs for the year 2024.

The announcement of TESDA's upcoming enrollment is more than just an invitation; it's a clarion call for individuals across all walks of life who are eager to enhance their skills and contribute significantly to their communities. Whether you're a fresh graduate, an industry worker, or simply someone seeking to acquire new skills, TESDA's diverse range of programs offers something for everyone. This initiative reflects TESDA's unwavering commitment to building GREAT barangays through skilled and empowered individuals.

TESDA's Skills Training Programs for 2024 are meticulously designed to cater to the demands of various industries, ensuring that learners are well-prepared to meet the challenges of the modern workforce. Among the notable programs available are Heavy Equipment Operations, Hydraulic Excavator NCII, and Road Roller NCII. Each program is structured to provide learners with a comprehensive understanding and hands-on experience, equipping them with the skills necessary to excel in their chosen fields.

To ensure a seamless enrollment process, TESDA has outlined specific qualifications for training applicants. These include a PSA Birth Certificate, Barangay Clearance, Passport size picture (6pcs., white background with collar), ID Picture (1x1 – 4pcs.), Diploma from high school or Certificate, and a Fully Accomplished Application Form. Prospective learners are encouraged to prepare these requirements ahead of the enrollment date to facilitate a smooth application process.

The enrollment will take place at the Municipal Hall Building, Baungon, Bukidnon, on April 11, 2024, from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM. This strategic location ensures accessibility for applicants from various parts of the region, fostering a more inclusive and comprehensive outreach. It's a day-long event designed to accommodate and process as many applications as possible within the allotted time.

The urgency to act cannot be overstressed, as slots for TESDA's Skills Training Programs are limited. This is a golden opportunity for individuals to gain valuable skills that not only enhance personal development but also contribute to the societal and economic growth of their communities. Don't miss this chance to be part of TESDA's vision to empower individuals through education and training.

In conclusion, TESDA's ongoing enrollment for its 2024 Skills Training Programs is a pivotal moment for aspiring learners. It’s an opportunity to gain not just skills, but a pathway to empowerment and success. Hurry, enroll now, and be part of this transformative journey toward building a brighter future for yourself and your community.

𝗔𝘃𝗮𝗶𝗹𝗮𝗯𝗹𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗼𝗴𝗿𝗮𝗺𝘀

1. Heavy Equipment Operations

2. Hydraulic Excavator NCII

3. Road Roller NCII

𝗤𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗶𝗰𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗼𝗳 𝗧𝗿𝗮𝗶𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗔𝗽𝗽𝗹𝗶𝗰𝗮𝗻𝘁𝘀

• PSA Birth Certificate

• Barangay Clearance

• Passport size picture (6pcs., white background with collar)

• ID Picture (1x1 – 4pcs.)

• Diploma from High school or Certificate

• Fully Accomplished Application Form

𝗩𝗲𝗻𝘂𝗲: 𝗠𝘂𝗻𝗶𝗰𝗶𝗽𝗮𝗹 𝗛𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗕𝘂𝗶𝗹𝗱𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗕𝗮𝘂𝗻𝗴𝗼𝗻, 𝗕𝘂𝗸𝗶𝗱𝗻𝗼𝗻

𝗗𝗮𝘁𝗲: 𝗔𝗽𝗿𝗶𝗹 𝟭𝟭, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰 (𝟴:𝟬𝟬 𝗔𝗠 - 𝟰:𝟬𝟬 𝗣𝗠)