Navigating the Future of Real Property: Insights from Cagayan de Oro's Valuation Reforms

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDIT: BY SC

The city of Cagayan de Oro is currently at the forefront of a pivotal transformation in real property valuation, an initiative set to redefine urban development and economic growth. The kickoff of public hearings on the "Prescribed Revised Schedule of Fair Market Values of Real Property in Cagayan de Oro City and other purposes" ordinance marks a critical juncture for stakeholders across the spectrum. This series of hearings, initiated by the 20th City Council's committee on ways and means, spearheaded by Councilor George Goking, is a testament to the city's commitment to transparent and inclusive governance.

The inaugural session, which concluded on a note of optimistic negotiation among City Hall officials, business leaders, and city administrator Roy Hilario Raagas, underscores the potential for a balanced approach to urban planning and development. The collective willingness to negotiate on real property valuation for residential, commercial, industrial, and agricultural areas reflects a shared vision for Cagayan de Oro's future. Such collaboration is crucial, as it ensures that the revised valuation not only fosters a conducive business environment but also aligns with the city's broader development goals under Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy's administration.

City Assessor Atinodoro Asequia's presentation highlighted the comprehensive benefits that the proposed ordinance aims to deliver. By adjusting the fair market values of real property, the initiative seeks to lay the groundwork for a more equitable and dynamic urban economy. This revised valuation is more than a fiscal adjustment; it's a strategic move to fuel development projects, enhance public services, and stimulate economic growth. The upcoming hearings, scheduled for May 31, June 7, and June 21, represent critical milestones in refining and implementing these changes.

The engagement of the city's top business leaders in these hearings is a promising sign of the cooperative spirit driving this initiative. Their active participation ensures that the revised schedule of fair market values is grounded in real-world economic dynamics and business needs. This collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential for crafting policies that are both realistic and forward-thinking, ensuring that Cagayan de Oro's development trajectory benefits from a broad spectrum of insights and expertise.

As Cagayan de Oro City moves forward with these public hearings, the implications of the proposed real property valuation reforms extend far beyond immediate fiscal considerations. This initiative represents a strategic pivot towards sustainable urban development, one that balances economic vitality with social equity. By fostering an environment that encourages investment and innovation, while also ensuring that development projects align with the city's long-term goals, Cagayan de Oro is setting a precedent for cities nationwide.

In conclusion, the public hearings on real property valuation in Cagayan de Oro City are more than just statutory requirements; they are a forum for shaping the future of urban development in the Philippines. As stakeholders continue to engage in constructive dialogue, the potential for a revised valuation scheme to catalyze comprehensive economic and social benefits is immense. The outcome of these negotiations and the eventual implementation of the ordinance will undoubtedly serve as a benchmark for other localities aiming to harmonize economic growth with sustainable urban planning.

Ensuring Serenity in Paradise: The Role of Law Enforcement in Brgy. Manla’s Tourist Haven

COURTESY: Sapang Dalaga Municipal Police Station 

Nestled on the serene shores of Sapang Dalaga, Misamis Occidental, Brgy. Manla emerges not just as a picturesque destination but as a testament to community safety and peace, thanks to the vigilant presence of the Philippine National Police (PNP). This tranquil locale, boasting the pristine Seabreeze at Casa Antonio, has become a sanctuary for tourists seeking both adventure and solace by the sea. The concerted efforts of the PNP personnel of Sapang Dalaga Municipal Police Station, under the astute leadership of PSMS Rodney P. Limpot and the supervision of PCPT Mustapha Maconda Umpar, underscore a commitment to ensuring the safety and security of every visitor.

The initiative to maintain a palpable police presence at Brgy. Manla is not merely a procedural gesture but a proactive strategy to safeguard the peace and order that this tourist destination rightfully deserves. The deployment of the Quick Response Team (QRT) reflects a nuanced understanding of the unique needs of the community and its visitors, ensuring that the beauty of Brgy. Manla is matched by an unwavering sense of security.

The symbiotic relationship between the thriving tourism sector in Brgy. Manla and the dedicated law enforcement efforts cannot be overstated. The allure of Seabreeze at Casa Antonio, with its enchanting coastal views and unparalleled hospitality, draws visitors from far and wide. Yet, it is the assurance of safety, provided by the diligent PNP personnel, that transforms mere visits into lasting memories. The seamless integration of police presence within the community fabric exemplifies a model of tourism safeguarding that other destinations can aspire to.

Tourists and locals alike can find solace in the knowledge that help is always within reach, thanks to the establishment of a direct hotline (09985986936) for immediate assistance. This initiative not only fosters a sense of community but also reinforces the commitment of the Brgy. Manla police to be ever-present guardians of peace.

The collaborative approach adopted by the PNP personnel of Sapang Dalaga Municipal Police Station in Brgy. Manla serves as a shining example of community policing. The active engagement with the community and stakeholders in the tourism sector illustrates a holistic approach to law enforcement that extends beyond the confines of traditional duties. It is this partnership between the police, the community, and the tourism operators that has cultivated an environment where safety and leisure coexist, ensuring that Brgy. Manla remains a coveted destination for those in pursuit of tranquility and adventure.

This model of policing, centered on visibility, responsiveness, and community engagement, has significantly contributed to the positive perception of Brgy. Manla as a safe tourist destination. The dedication of the PNP personnel, under the direct supervision of their officers, to the well-being of the community and its visitors, is a testament to their commitment to serve and protect.

The ongoing efforts to ensure police presence at Brgy. Manla, specifically in the vicinity of Seabreeze at Casa Antonio, not only enhance the immediate safety of the area but also contribute to the long-term vision of fostering a tourist destination that is synonymous with peace and order. The proactive measures taken by the PNP personnel of Sapang Dalaga Municipal Police Station are integral to building a resilient community that can thrive amidst the challenges of maintaining a safe and welcoming environment for all.

The future of Brgy. Manla, as a premier tourist destination in Misamis Occidental, is bright, bolstered by the unwavering support and dedication of its law enforcement officers. Their presence is a constant reminder that the beauty of this locale is protected, allowing its visitors to fully immerse themselves in the natural splendor and warmth of the local community. As Brgy. Manla continues to welcome guests from around the globe, it stands as a beacon of how safety, community, and tourism can flourish together, creating a haven of peace in the bustling world.

In this idyllic corner of Misamis Occidental, the promise of a tranquil escape is matched only by the commitment to safety and security, making Brgy. Manla a true paradise for those who seek the harmony of nature and the assurance of a peaceful stay.

Empowering Cagayan de Oro: A Leap Towards Sustainable Energy

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

PHOTO CREDITS: BY SC

In a transformative collaboration, Cagayan de Oro (CDO) proudly stands as a partner with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) in the Local Energy Plan (LEP) initiative. This partnership was vividly showcased during a two-day training and workshop event titled "Developing the Local Energy Plan," held in a premier hotel in Cagayan de Oro City last Thursday. The event was not just a gathering but a testament to CDO's commitment to sustainable development and energy efficiency.

The workshop brought together a diverse group of participants, primarily from various departments of City Hall, led by the City Local Environment and Natural Resources Office (CLENRO). This assembly of minds was aimed at one crucial objective: to prioritize the use and development of indigenous renewable energy sources within City Hall’s programs, including those geared toward emergency response. The initiative signifies a pivotal shift in how energy resources are viewed and utilized at the municipal level, marking a step towards resilience and sustainability.

One of the workshop's key outcomes was the development of a strategic communication plan. This plan is designed to not only promote the use of renewable energy among stakeholders but also to educate them on its benefits and the imperative of energy conservation. Additionally, participants engaged in proposing amendments to the Local Energy Code, emphasizing the necessity to integrate renewable energy sources more comprehensively. These efforts underscore a proactive approach to environmental stewardship and community engagement in CDO.

Cagayan de Oro City, alongside the provinces of Romblon and Batangas, has been recognized as one of the three City Development Initiative (CDI) recipients to receive specialized training from USAID for developing a local energy plan. This training, sponsored by USAID under its Energy Secure Philippines (ESP) initiative in partnership with the Department of Energy (DOE), serves as a cornerstone for the participating cities and provinces in crafting their energy futures. It is a clear indication of the international community's support for the Philippines' journey towards energy security and sustainability.

The successful completion of the "Developing the Local Energy Plan" workshop in Cagayan de Oro is more than an event; it's a beacon of progress. It represents a collective aspiration towards a future where energy is not only consumed but is also conserved and sustainably sourced. As Cagayan de Oro City continues to lead by example, the impact of this training and the subsequent initiatives will undoubtedly resonate far beyond its borders, inspiring others to follow in its footsteps towards a greener, more sustainable future.

In conclusion, the partnership between CDO and USAID in developing a Local Energy Plan is a landmark initiative. It not only underscores the commitment of both entities to environmental preservation and sustainable development but also paves the way for a future where energy efficiency and renewable resources power the growth and resilience of communities. The journey of Cagayan de Oro City, from participating in this workshop to implementing its learnings, will be a story to watch and emulate in the quest for a sustainable world.