Scheduled power interruption in parts of Lanao del Norte and parts of Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur

COURTESY: NGCP

Scheduled power interruption in parts of Lanao del Norte and parts of Aurora, Zamboanga del Sur, on Sunday, 17 August 2025.

Affected: LANECO

Time: 8:30AM - 9:00AM 

Reason: transfer of load during maintenance of Power Transformer #1 associated high voltage equipment at Aurora Substation.

Time: 1:00PM - 1:30PM

Reason: normalization of load after completion of maintenance works at Aurora Substation. Aurora-Kapatagan 69kV line will be shut down.

Specific areas are determined by the affected electric cooperative. NGCP will exert all efforts to restore power earlier or as scheduled.

Big Macs and Bigger Dreams: McDonald's Store in Opol is Coming Soon!

IMAGE CREDITS: TRIP NI TONIO

Get ready, folks! The buzz around town is real: the McDonald's Store in Opol is now in full blast construction!

If you’ve driven through Opol recently, you can’t help but notice the flurry of activity at the site. This isn’t just any fast-food joint; it’s probably one of the biggest McDonald's stores in Misamis Oriental when it comes to land area. Exciting, right? With construction in full swing, it's only a matter of time before Opol welcomes its newest gem.

Now, let's talk about why this new McDonald's is a big deal. Firstly, imagine grabbing your favorite Big Mac or those world-famous fries  after a long day. And don’t forget the drive-thru! This feature makes it super convenient for all of us who are always on the go. Whether you're heading to work or just wanting a quick snack, you can swing by and fuel up without even leaving your car! It's like having a little slice of fast-food heaven right in your backyard.

Fries, Friends, and Fun: What to Expect When It Opens

But wait, there’s more! This McDonald’s isn’t just about the food. It’s set to become a hangout spot for all the coolest peeps in Opol. Planning a birthday party? A quick meetup with friends? Or maybe a family outing? With spacious seating and a lively atmosphere, this place will have it all. Plus, who doesn’t love a place that serves delicious meals while you kick back and unwind?

Think of it as a hub for community fun! After all, nothing brings people together like good food. The opening of this McDonald's offers fresh job opportunities, too. That’s right! Locals will get to join the team and serve delicious meals to their friends and neighbors. The excitement is palpable, and one can't help but smile at the thought of what’s to come! So, mark your calendars and prepare your taste buds because the McDonald's Store in Opol is gearing up to be the hot spot for food lovers in Misamis Oriental!

 #McDonaldsOpol #Opol #MisamisOriental #WonderfulOpol

A New Dawn for Migrants: The Opening of the CFO Extension Office in Cagayan de Oro City

COURTESY: (JAKA/PIA-10)

In a significant move towards enhancing public service accessibility, the Commission on Filipinos Overseas (CFO) inaugurated its extension office in Cagayan de Oro City on August 8. This development marks a pivotal shift for residents of Misamis Oriental and the surrounding provinces, who previously faced the daunting task of traveling to major cities like Manila, Cebu, or Davao to access essential migration-related services. By decentralizing these services, the CFO aims to improve geographic access for individuals seeking assistance, thus aligning with the government's vision for a more efficient public service delivery.

CFO Secretary Dante Francis Ang II emphasized the importance of this initiative, citing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s commitment to providing faster and better government services. With over 77,000 aspiring migrants from northern Mindanao, the Caraga Region, and the Zamboanga Peninsula having registered with the CFO between 1988 and 2021, the establishment of this office is not just timely but necessary. It caters to permanent migrants, spouses of foreign nationals, and participants in various exchange programs, making it an invaluable resource for the community.

Local Access to Essential Migration Services

The new CFO office offers several key services aimed at equipping individuals with the knowledge and resources necessary for their migration journey. Among these services are the Pre-Departure Orientation Seminar (PDOS), the Guidance and Counseling Program (GCP), and the Country Familiarization Seminar (CFS). The PDOS provides vital insights into migration realities, cultural differences, and the rights and responsibilities of migrants. Meanwhile, the GCP focuses on supporting individuals in cross-border marriages, addressing risks related to trafficking, and ensuring that they are well-prepared for their new lives abroad.

Furthermore, the CFS offers practical information regarding travel requirements, health and safety concerns, and cultural insights about destination countries. As Ang remarked, “All these services will now be available for the residents of Cagayan de Oro City and nearby provinces, keeping processing time short and the documentation process straightforward.” This localized access not only streamlines procedures but also respects the time and circumstances of applicants, ultimately enhancing their overall experience.

The opening of the CFO extension office in Cagayan de Oro City marks a significant milestone in the government’s efforts to support the Filipino diaspora. By providing essential services closer to home, the CFO fosters a sense of community and security for aspiring migrants. As Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez aptly stated, this initiative signals that the government is attentive to the needs of its people, particularly those who aspire to venture abroad for better opportunities. The new office not only serves as a processing center but also as a bastion of guidance and protection for future migrants, empowering them to make informed decisions about their journeys.