Bright Lights, Loud Love: CDO’s Pride Month Extravaganza

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

IMAGE CREDITS: Kim Zaldivar

Hey there, fabulous readers! June 30th was a day to remember in CDO as the city wrapped up Pride Month with a bang! The Amphitheatre was the place to be, bursting with energy, love, and a dazzling display of unity. Over 2,000 members of the LGBTQIA+ community, along with their allies, advocates, and supporters from various barangays, offices, organizations, and the private sector, came together to celebrate love in all its forms.

First off, let’s talk about the Pride March. Picture this: a sea of rainbow flags, glitter, and smiles parading down the streets. The march wasn't just a walk; it was a statement – a loud, proud declaration of identity and acceptance. It was heartwarming to see such a diverse crowd, each person contributing to the vibrant tapestry of the LGBTQIA+ community.

After the march, the celebration didn’t slow down one bit. Next up was the “Celebration of Love” ceremony, where ten LGBTQIA+ couples shared their beautiful love stories. Each tale was a testament to resilience, acceptance, and, of course, love. The highlight? The couples were treated to free lechon and wine, making the event even more special and intimate.

The night continued with the Lakip Pride Night, a platform where LGBTQIA+ individuals got to showcase their talents. From breathtaking performances to jaw-dropping acts, the talent on display was nothing short of bewildering. The crowd was in awe, cheering and applauding, creating a supportive and encouraging atmosphere for every performer.

But wait, there's more! The local government unit of CDO went all out by providing a range of free services. These included free HIV Screening, distribution of condoms and lubricants, and even a mini job fair at City College. It was fantastic to see such practical support being offered, ensuring the community’s well-being and future opportunities.

The City Health Insurance Office didn't miss out on the action, offering free vitamins to keep everyone in tip-top shape. Meanwhile, the City College’s Social Welfare and Development Department Psychosocial Division was on hand, providing much-needed psychosocial services. It was a holistic approach, covering both physical and mental health needs, showing that the city cares deeply about every aspect of its citizens' lives.

And who were the shining stars behind this amazing event? City GAD Focal Person Sheila Lumbatan, Committee on Women and Family Relations Chairperson City Councilor Girlie Balaba, and Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President Kenneth John Sacala were some of the key figures who attended and supported the activity. Their presence underscored the city's commitment to gender equality and the well-being of the LGBTQIA+ community.

Mayor Klarex Uy’s strong support was evident throughout the event. His backing of the City Gender and Development Focal Point System was pivotal in making the celebration a grand success. It’s not every day you see such wholehearted support from city leaders, and it made a world of difference.

As the night drew to a close, the sky lit up with a stunning fireworks display. The bursts of color were a visual representation of pride, unity, and the affirmation of identity. It was a perfect ending to a day filled with love, laughter, and heartfelt moments. The fireworks were not just a spectacle; they symbolized the contributions of the LGBTQIA+ community to the broader society and their unwavering spirit.

In conclusion, CDO’s Pride Month celebration on June 30th was more than just an event; it was a powerful reminder of the strength and beauty of the LGBTQIA+ community. From the lively march to the heartfelt love stories, the free services, and the spectacular fireworks, every moment was a testament to love, acceptance, and unity. Here’s to many more celebrations of pride and love in the years to come! 

Building Dreams: Breaking Grounds for a Lasting and Multi-Generational Cooperative Education

COURTESY: Co-operative College of the Philippines 

So, picture this: a sunny day in Barangay Hinigdaan, El Salvador City. The Co-operative College of the Philippines just had a big day. They conducted a ceremonial groundbreaking and well-drilling at what will be their future campus. Exciting, right? This is not just any ordinary ceremony; it’s the start of something monumental, driven by their “Build With Us” campaign and the generous donors who believe in this vision.

The ceremony wasn't just about turning over some soil. They also kicked off deep well-drilling to make potable water accessible in the area. Imagine that - a college that isn't just thinking about education but also the basic needs of its community. It's like they're saying, "Hey, we're here to make a difference, and we're starting from the ground up – literally!"

The “Build With Us” campaign is more than just constructing buildings; it’s about constructing dreams and futures. This initiative is a call to action for everyone who believes in the power of cooperative education. The campaign has pulled in donors from all walks of life, showing that when people come together, incredible things can happen.

Lieven Keppens of the Belgian Raiffeisen Foundation, one of CLIMBS Life and General Insurance Cooperative’s International Partners, said it best during the ceremony: “The best gift you can give to young people is education, and from what I’ve seen, you not only have dreams, but you make your dreams come true.” It was a heartwarming moment that underscored the college’s commitment to the 5th cooperative principle: Education, Training, and Information.

Now, let's talk about that well-drilling. Water is life, right? The Co-operative College of the Philippines understands this fundamental truth. By spearheading the deep well-drilling ceremony, they’re ensuring that the future campus will have a reliable source of potable water. It's a game-changer for the community. Access to clean water isn't just a necessity; it's a stepping stone to better health, education, and overall quality of life.

This initiative doesn't just stop at providing water. It's a statement. It's the college saying, "We care about you. We care about your health, your education, and your future." It's about creating a holistic environment where students can thrive, knowing that their basic needs are met.

Education is at the core of this groundbreaking venture. The Co-operative College of the Philippines is all about providing a lasting and multi-generational cooperative education. They’re not just building a campus; they’re building a legacy. A place where young minds can grow, learn, and become the cooperative leaders of tomorrow.

The dedication to uphold the 5th cooperative principle is evident in every brick laid and every well drilled. The college is committed to providing top-notch education, training, and information to its students. This isn't just about getting a degree; it's about becoming a well-rounded individual equipped to make a real difference in the world.

Yesterday's groundbreaking marks a significant step by the Co-operative College of the Philippines. It symbolizes their unwavering dedication to education and community development in cooperatives. The future campus in Barangay Hinigdaan, El Salvador City, is set to be a beacon of hope, opportunity, and growth.

Together, with the support of donors, international partners, and the community, the college is building a future filled with endless possibilities. The “Build With Us” campaign is a testament to what can be achieved when we come together for a common goal. It's about creating a world where education is accessible to all, where dreams are nurtured, and where communities thrive.

So, here’s to breaking grounds, drilling wells, and building dreams. The Co-operative College of the Philippines is paving the way for a brighter, more cooperative future. And we’re all invited to be a part of this incredible journey. Let's build together, grow together, and make dreams come true together!