Reconnecting with Roots: The Very Important Pinoy Tour in Cagayan de Oro City

COURTESY: CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (PIA) 

Cagayan de Oro City recently opened its arms to 223 delegates from various states across the United States of America for the "Very Important Pinoy Tour—USA Leg." The city was buzzing with excitement and pride as it welcomed Filipino families from New York, New Jersey, San Francisco, Los Angeles, Texas, Washington, DC, Chicago, Florida, Hawaii, and even Guam. The special welcome night at City Hall was a grand affair, jointly organized by Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental Province.

The evening was graced by noteworthy officials, including Misamis Oriental Governor Peter M. Unabia and Cagayan de Oro Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez. The air was filled with a sense of unity and celebration, as city and provincial officials, DOT-10 Regional Director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan, media personnel, and other distinguished guests joined in the festivities.

DOT-10 Regional Director Marie Elaine S. Unchuan struck a chord with many when she warmly welcomed the delegates, saying, "To our Kababayans from the Philippines, especially those from Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, and Gingoog City, welcome home. To our foreign guests and fellow Filipinos, we embrace you as our new family members. Welcome to your new home." Her words resonated deeply, as they highlighted the unique opportunity to showcase the breathtaking destinations and rich culture of Cagayan de Oro, Misamis Oriental, Bukidnon, and Iligan.

Unchuan's enthusiasm was contagious as she expressed hope that visitors would enjoy every moment, from the scenic landscapes to vibrant local traditions, and, of course, the local products and delicacies available at the booths. She emphasized the famous Filipino and Mindanao hospitality that made the experience even more special.

Vice Mayor Jocelyn Rodriguez, representing Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Orlando Rolando Uy and Rep. Rufus Rodriguez, took the stage with sheer delight. She highlighted Cagayan de Oro’s status as an investment hub and adventure capital, emphasizing the city's achievements and attractions. "Cagayan de Oro City is a city brimming with millions of opportunities and adventures. Our city is a dynamic blend of progress and natural beauty, making it the perfect destination for both business and leisure," she said.

Rodriguez's words painted a vivid picture of a city that is not only growing but also preserving its natural charm. The delegates were left in awe as they learned about the city's potential for investment and the numerous adventures that awaited them.

Board Member Gerardo Sabal III of Misamis Oriental shared his pride in the province’s natural beauty and tourism potential. "Misamis Oriental is honored to be part of this tour. We are committed to offering an engaging cultural experience that fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of Filipino heritage, traditions, and modern lifestyle," he added. His sentiments echoed the overarching theme of the event—reconnecting with roots and celebrating the rich heritage of the Philippines.

Participant Hydra Mendoza from San Francisco, California, summed up the experience perfectly. "It’s been great so far. It’s wonderful to see all the infrastructure here that I don’t think we’ve really realized because we’ve never been able to visit Mindanao. The restaurant by the water was very lovely," she shared. Mendoza's excitement for the upcoming days, particularly cultural performances and activities like zip-lining at the Dahilayan Adventure Park, was palpable.

The "Very Important Pinoy Tour—USA Leg" was more than just a tour. It was a heartfelt initiative aimed at strengthening the connection between Filipino expatriates and their homeland. It promoted cultural exchange and showcased the rich heritage, natural beauty, and tourism potential of the Philippines. The tour was a reminder of the importance of staying connected to one’s roots and the joy of rediscovering the beauty of one’s homeland.

In conclusion, the tour was a grand success, filled with moments of joy, pride, and a deep sense of belonging. Cagayan de Oro City, with its dynamic blend of progress and natural beauty, proved to be the perfect host, leaving the delegates with memories that would last a lifetime. It was a celebration of heritage, culture, and the unbreakable bond that ties Filipinos to their motherland.

The Quest for Heritage: KLAREX ADMIN SUPPORT SOUGHT FOR ORO RIVER DECLARATION AS HERITAGE SITE

COURTESY: Cagayan de Oro City Information Office 

IMAGE CREDITS: Kim Zaldivar

Did you hear the buzz? There's something brewing in Cagayan de Oro, and it's not just another fiesta. We’re talking about the Cagayan de Oro River potentially becoming a cultural heritage site. Yep, you read that right! This isn’t just any river; it's a river with a rich tapestry of history and culture flowing through it.

Last Friday, July 19, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts Executive Director Eric B. Zerrudo paid a courtesy visit to Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ A. Uy. The topic on the table? The proposed Cagayan de Oro River Cultural Heritage Zone Act. Sounds like a mouthful, but it’s a game-changer for the city. Director Zerrudo emphasized the urgency of City Hall’s support for this campaign, highlighting how the river is intricately woven into the economic and cultural fabric of the city's early inhabitants.

But wait, there's more! It wasn’t just Zerrudo and Mayor Uy hashing out the details. The meeting was graced by Reverend Father Jonas Awayan, city museum officer-in-charge JC Salon, and Acting City Tourism Officer Mr. Mark Kenneth Jalapadan. Talk about a power-packed room!

Father Jonas Awayan, with his deep-rooted knowledge of the city’s history, added a spiritual and cultural perspective to the conversation. JC Salon, with his on-point museum expertise, painted a vivid picture of how this declaration could enhance the city’s cultural narrative. And let’s not forget Mr. Mark Kenneth Jalapadan, who brought in the tourism angle, showing how this move could boost the city’s appeal to both local and international tourists.

Now, you might be wondering, why all this fuss about a river? Well, the Cagayan de Oro River is not just any waterway. It’s a lifeline that has sustained and shaped the lives of countless generations. From the early settlers who relied on its waters for sustenance to the modern-day residents who find solace in its serene beauty, this river is a silent witness to the city’s evolving story.

Declaring it a cultural heritage site isn’t just about slapping a fancy title on it. It’s about recognizing and preserving a crucial part of the city’s identity. It’s about ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the rich history embedded in its banks. And let’s be real, it’s also about putting Cagayan de Oro on the map as a city that values and protects its cultural treasures.

Of course, like any grand plan, this one comes with its own set of challenges. For starters, there’s the need for comprehensive documentation and research to support the declaration. This means digging into historical records, gathering oral histories, and possibly even conducting archaeological investigations. It’s a massive undertaking, but one that could yield invaluable insights into the city’s past.

Then there’s the need for community involvement. After all, what’s a heritage site without the people who call it home? Engaging local communities in the preservation efforts will be crucial. This could involve educational campaigns, community workshops, and collaborative projects aimed at fostering a sense of ownership and pride in the cultural heritage of the river.

But it’s not all uphill. The potential rewards are immense. Imagine a bustling cultural hub along the riverbanks, attracting tourists and historians alike. Picture vibrant festivals celebrating the river’s significance, drawing crowds and boosting the local economy. Envision educational programs that inspire young minds to appreciate and protect their cultural heritage. The possibilities are endless!

So, what’s next? Well, the ball is now in City Hall’s court. The support of Mayor Klarex Uy and his administration is crucial in turning this vision into reality. With their backing, the dream of declaring the Cagayan de Oro River a cultural heritage site could soon become a reality.

In the end, it’s all about preserving the past to enrich the future. By recognizing the cultural and historical significance of the Cagayan de Oro River, we’re not just honoring our ancestors; we’re also paving the way for a more culturally aware and enriched society. So here’s to hoping that the KLAREX ADMIN SUPPORT SOUGHT FOR ORO RIVER DECLARATION AS HERITAGE SITE turns from a proposal into a monumental achievement. Cheers to heritage, history, and a brighter future for Cagayan de Oro!