Bridges Across Borders: How Cagayan de Oro Welcomed Europe with Open Arms

IMAGE CREDIT: Bebot Rodriguez

A Night That Sparkled with Possibilities

The Luxe Hotel at Limketkai Center became the beating heart of diplomacy when **Cagayan de Oro hosted EU ambassadors**, led by the European Union Ambassador, for an evening filled with warm conversations and ambitious visions. Mayor Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy and city officials extended heartfelt hospitality, marking the start of high-level engagements aimed at strengthening cooperation on **transport and social programs**. The room buzzed with optimism, as cultural exchanges intertwined with serious discussions about the city’s future.  

Transitioning from pleasantries to substance, the talks centered on mass transport, energy, education, and other priority projects. Councilor Balaba passionately underscored the need for EU support to improve the city’s transport system, citing the **Metro Cagayan de Oro mass transport network** as a transformative project. The evening was not merely ceremonial—it was a strategic step towards reshaping urban mobility and enhancing the quality of life for residents.  

Shared Goals, Stronger Futures

From the grandeur of a welcome dinner to the gravity of pressing issues, the dialogue expanded to address social challenges. Councilor Balaba raised the urgent need for strengthened measures against **Online Sexual Abuse and Exploitation of Children (OSAEC)** and the spread of **Child Sexual Abuse and Exploitation Materials (CSAEM)**. These concerns resonated deeply, reflecting the city’s determination to safeguard its youth while driving progress.  

In one particularly promising exchange, Councilor Balaba discussed mass transport innovations with Swedish Ambassador Anna Ferry, whose experience as a former Senior Advisor at the World Bank adds tremendous value to finding sustainable solutions. The two agreed to continue talks, reinforcing the spirit of mutual cooperation and shared responsibility.  

With the EU delegation’s visit, Cagayan de Oro’s prospects now extend far beyond its borders. Discussions on **climate action, renewable energy, trade, education, and sustainable agriculture** signal a long-term vision that aligns local aspirations with global priorities. As the city turns conversations into concrete collaborations, it builds not only roads and networks but pathways to a more inclusive and resilient future.

The story of Cagayan de Oro’s engagement with the European Union is a reminder that progress thrives when people, cities, and nations work hand in hand. What began as a warm welcome may well blossom into enduring partnerships that transform lives and shape the region for generations to come.  

Raising Skylines: How Megaworld is Redefining Office Spaces in the Philippines

A Vision That Touches the Clouds

When it comes to shaping the urban landscape, **property giant Megaworld** has always played a leading role. Today, that vision soars even higher with the creation of **Megaworld Global Offices**, a bold new move that strengthens the company’s footprint as the Philippines’ biggest office developer and lessor. This initiative will work seamlessly alongside **Megaworld Premier Offices**, empowering the company to reach its ambitious goal of **2 million square meters of leasable office space**.  

Furthermore, the expansion will not only be concentrated in Metro Manila—it will spread across key growth regions like the Ilocos Region, Pampanga, Cavite, Bacolod, and Cagayan de Oro. By doing so, Megaworld is positioning itself to offer world-class workspaces outside the capital, serving as catalysts for regional economic growth. This deliberate, strategic approach ensures that premium office facilities are more accessible than ever, fueling growth in both established and emerging business hubs.  

Building Legacies, Brick by Innovative Brick

Megaworld is not just creating office spaces—it is building corporate legacies. The company’s townships, now home to almost 200 companies, include some of the country’s most dynamic cyberparks such as Eastwood City, Uptown Bonifacio, McKinley Hill, McKinley West, and Iloilo Business Park. These hubs have attracted **Fortune 500 giants** like Google, Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo, IBM, and Accenture, along with a rising wave of innovative startups.  

Even as artificial intelligence, automation, and new digital technologies reshape business landscapes, Megaworld sees opportunity rather than disruption. “We continue to see strong demand for office spaces in the country,” says CEO **Lourdes T. Gutierrez-Alfonso**, highlighting how industries in finance, IT, and healthcare remain robust. With over **1.6 million square meters** across nearly 90 towers, and a track record that includes the country’s largest single office lease transaction—the **Philippine global service center of JPMorgan Chase & Co.**—Megaworld’s story is one of resilience, foresight, and unwavering leadership. And with **Francisco Roxas** at the helm of the new office leasing group, expertise meets innovation in the pursuit of shaping the future of work in the Philippines.  

Megaworld’s journey is more than just developing buildings—it’s about envisioning spaces where ideas grow, businesses thrive, and communities flourish. As **Megaworld Global Offices** embarks on this next chapter, it does so with an eye on the horizon, ready to elevate both skylines and opportunities for generations to come.  

A Bounty from the Waters: CASFA's Remarkable Bangus Harvest

COURTESY: LRM/CIO photos from CAPOO

In the heart of Barangay Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City, a celebration of community and hard work unfolded last Saturday, January 10. The members of the Cugman Active Small Fisherfolk Association (CASFA) achieved an impressive milestone by harvesting 3,182 kilograms of bangus, or milkfish. This substantial gathering symbolizes not only the fruits of labor but also the collaborative spirit fostered by local leaders and government organizations.

The success story of CASFA was made possible through the unwavering support of the Cagayan de Oro City Hall. City officials, particularly the CAPOO Agricultural and Productivity Operations Office (CAPOO), played a crucial role by providing essential resources. On September 10, 2025, they delivered 10,000 bangus fingerlings along with 259 sacks of bangus feeds to the association. This generous contribution highlights City Hall's commitment to enhancing local fisheries and empowering small fisherfolk, aligning with Mayor Rolando 'Klarex'’s Uy RISE development agenda.

Empowering Fisherfolk: The Growth of Cagayan de Oro’s Aquatic Resources

The assistance provided by the City Hall is a driving force behind the strengthened implementation of the Fisheries Production and Extension Program in Cagayan de Oro City. By prioritizing resources and support for local fisherfolk, the city encourages sustainable fishing practices and contributes to the economic vitality of the community. The dedication demonstrated by CASFA not only benefits its members but also enriches the local economy and promotes food security for residents.

As the fisherfolk of Barangay Cugman continue to thrive, it is evident that collaborative efforts yield remarkable results. The successful harvest of bangus serves as a testament to what can be achieved when communities work hand-in-hand with local government. With continued support and active participation, the future of fisheries in Cagayan de Oro City looks bright, promising further growth and sustainability.