Discovering "The Upper Central": A Highland Haven in Northern Mindanao

COURTESY: Megaworld

Hey there, fellow wanderers and dreamers! Today, we're diving into a project that's about to shake up the real estate scene in Cagayan de Oro City, nestled in the lush landscapes of Northern Mindanao. Let's explore the magic of "The Upper Central" and why it’s the talk of the town—or should I say, the highlands!

Picture this: a sprawling 117-hectare wonderland perched in the highlands, offering a panoramic view of the Macajalar Bay and the Malasag Mountain Range. That’s The Upper Central for you! Developed by township giant Megaworld through its savvy subsidiary Global-Estate Resorts, Inc. (GERI), this integrated lifestyle community is set to be a game-changer.

The project is strategically located along J.R. Borja Road, amidst the scenic highlands of Barangays Gusa and Indahag. It promises not just another place to live, but a lifestyle destination with residential villages, a bustling commercial district, and a pedestrian-friendly shophouse area. Imagine sipping your morning coffee while taking in those breathtaking views—pure bliss!

One of the coolest things about The Upper Central is its commitment to green living. Around 40% of this township is dedicated to open and green spaces. Yep, you heard it right! We're talking about a central park, landscaped open spaces, and viewing decks that invite you to soak in the natural beauty of the highlands.

But wait, there's more! For the adventure seekers, there are mountain and bike trails, along with an adventure park. It’s like having a playground right in your backyard. With elevations reaching up to 245 meters above sea level, this place is sure to offer some of the best scenic spots in Cagayan de Oro.

Location, location, location! The Upper Central isn't just about views and greenery; it's strategically placed just a stone's throw away from the city’s vibrant downtown area. Need to catch a flight? No worries! Laguindingan International Airport is less than an hour away, making it super convenient for those spontaneous getaways.

As noted by Kevin L. Tan, president and CEO of Alliance Global Group, Cagayan de Oro is the gateway to Northern Mindanao. With its booming economy, now is the perfect time to dive into the real estate market in this bustling city. The Upper Central is set to be a milestone, marking Megaworld's 35th township in its 35-year legacy of transforming landscapes and communities.

Beyond building structures, Megaworld and GERI have a grander vision: to uplift the lives of the local community and boost the regional economy. With an initial investment of P5 billion, this township is expected to create numerous jobs and opportunities for the residents of Cagayan de Oro and beyond.

Lourdes T. Gutierrez-Alfonso, president of Megaworld, emphasizes the lasting impact they hope to impart on Kagay-anons, contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Mindanao's growth. With Cagayan de Oro ranked as the second richest city outside of Metro Manila, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority, and third in terms of urban economy by UK-based Oxford Economics, the timing couldn't be more perfect.

So there you have it, folks! The Upper Central is not just a development; it's a vision of a better, brighter future for everyone in the highlands of Northern Mindanao. Whether you're looking to invest, live, or simply explore, this township is one to watch out for. Who's ready to pack their bags and head to the hills?

A Seat for Everyone: How Cong. Rufus Rodriguez Transformed City Central School

COURTESY: Cong. Rufus Rodriguez

Imagine this: a bustling school environment where parents and guardians hover around the entrance, waiting for their children. It’s a scenario many are all too familiar with, especially at City Central School in Cagayan de Oro City. But, thanks to Cong. Rufus Rodriguez, this scene is transforming into something more community-friendly and comfortable. With the recent construction of a dedicated parents’ waiting lounge and comfort rooms, the once-crowded corners near the school entrance are now spacious and welcoming.

The vision was simple but impactful. Cong. Rufus Rodriguez, alongside Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, Abamin Party-list former Cong. Maxie Rodriguez, and former Kap. Jonjon Rodriguez, spearheaded this thoughtful initiative. They listened to the community, understood their needs, and took concrete action. The result? A waiting lounge with proper seating and roofing, catering to the parents and guardians who spend a significant part of their day at the school. This project cost around P160,000 and included the construction of essential comfort rooms, making sure that those waiting don’t have to wander off the school premises for this basic necessity.

The newly constructed waiting lounge isn’t just a space with seats and a roof—it’s a game-changer. For many parents who juggle multiple responsibilities, finding a comfortable place to wait for their children is a relief. No longer do they have to stand awkwardly under the sun or get drenched in the rain. This lounge provides a safe haven where they can relax and wait with peace of mind.

Moreover, the addition of a comfort room within the school premises is a significant improvement. Previously, parents and guardians had to step out of the school to find facilities. Now, they have easy access to clean and well-maintained restrooms, enhancing their overall experience. This small change speaks volumes about the commitment of Cong. Rufus Rodriguez to the well-being of the school community. 

The grand turnover of these facilities was a momentous occasion. Present were CCS Principal Ms. Annabel Lariba and Parents-Teacher Association (SPTA) President Mr. Wendel Relevo, who expressed their deep gratitude to the Rodriguez family for their timely intervention. Their acknowledgment underscores the importance of these facilities in improving daily school life.

Additionally, Barangay 29 Kap. Ben Autentico and Kag. Irish Aspacio were also present, further highlighting the community-wide support and appreciation for this project. Their presence and support underscore the collaborative effort between the school, local government, and the Rodriguez family to address the needs of the community effectively.

The construction of the waiting lounge and comfort rooms is not just a standalone project. It is part of a broader vision that Cong. Rufus Rodriguez has for the City Central School and its community. Previously, he funded the renovation of comfort rooms in one of the school buildings, which included facilities dedicated to Persons with Disabilities (PWDs). This project, which cost more than P130,000, was a testament to his commitment to inclusivity and accessibility.

Looking ahead, Cong. Rufus has allocated P5 million through the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) for the construction of concrete roads inside the school. This initiative, already turned over, is set to improve the infrastructure significantly, making the school environment safer and more conducive for learning. The Rodriguez family’s commitment to enhancing educational infrastructure is a beacon of hope, promising a brighter future for the students and the entire community.

In conclusion, the efforts of Cong. Rufus Rodriguez and his family are creating ripples of positive change at City Central School. Their initiatives are not just about constructing buildings; they are about building a community where education thrives, and every stakeholder feels valued and supported. With each project, they are laying the foundation for a more inclusive and supportive educational environment, ensuring that City Central School continues to be a place of learning, comfort, and growth for everyone involved.

Revving Up Safety: How New Patrol Vehicles Are Set to Transform Pagadian City

COURTESY: ASENSO PAGADIAN

Hey there, Pagadianons! If you’re like me, you’ve probably noticed how important safety and efficiency are in our bustling city. Whether it’s dodging traffic jams or ensuring your neighborhood is secure, it’s all about how well we manage our resources. Well, hold onto your hats, because I’ve got some exciting news that’s bound to rev up our city’s safety and efficiency. 

Yesterday, we officially turned over 4 bao-bao patrol vehicles to the City Traffic Division and 1 to the City Clearing Division. Can you believe it? These sleek additions are not just shiny new toys; they’re crucial for enhancing our traffic management and ensuring smoother operations across the entire city. Imagine the streets of Pagadian, bustling with activity, yet feeling like a breeze to navigate. Sounds like a dream, right? Well, it’s about to become a reality!

With these patrol vehicles on the roads, you can expect faster response times during emergencies. The City Traffic Division will be able to monitor traffic flow more effectively, which means fewer gridlocks and a more organized system for everyone. Plus, let’s not forget the aesthetic appeal! These vehicles add a modern touch to our city’s fleet, showcasing our commitment to progress.

Now, you might be wondering, “Why should I care about a few new patrol vehicles?” Well, let me break it down for you. First off, safety is a shared responsibility. When our traffic management is efficient, it means fewer accidents and a more secure environment for pedestrians and drivers alike. The bao-bao patrol vehicles are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. They’ll help our traffic enforcers keep an eye on the roads, ensuring that everyone follows the rules—because, let’s face it, we all want to arrive at our destinations in one piece!

Moreover, these vehicles aren’t just about enforcing the law; they’re also about building trust within the community. When residents see patrols actively monitoring their neighborhoods, it instills a sense of security. It’s like having a guardian looking out for you, making you feel safer as you stroll down the street or drive home after a long day at work. Pagadianons, here’s to true progress and public service!

Let’s talk about efficiency. You see, when our traffic management improves, it doesn’t just benefit drivers. It creates a ripple effect that touches every aspect of our city. For instance, businesses thrive when traffic flows smoothly. Deliveries are timely, customer visits increase, and overall productivity soars. Imagine how happy local shop owners will be when they can rely on consistent foot traffic, thanks to better-managed roadways!

But it doesn’t stop there. A well-organized traffic system also reduces emissions from idling vehicles. Fewer stop-and-go situations mean cleaner air for all of us. We’re not just strengthening our city’s safety; we’re also making strides toward a more sustainable future. It’s a win-win situation!

So, what’s next for Pagadian? With the introduction of these patrol vehicles, the future looks bright. There’s a palpable sense of progress in the air, and it’s exciting to think about what’s to come. The local government is committed to utilizing these vehicles to their fullest potential, ensuring that our city remains a safe haven for all its residents.

In the coming months, we can expect more initiatives aimed at strengthening our city’s infrastructure. Community engagement will be a key component, as city officials will seek input from residents on how to further enhance our safety and efficiency. So, don’t be shy! Get involved, share your ideas, and let’s work together to make Pagadian an even better place to live.

There you have it—an exciting update about our city’s new patrol vehicles. With these additions, we’re not just cruising; we’re driving into a future of safety, efficiency, and progress. Buckle up, Pagadianons, because we’re in for a thrilling ride!