Empowering Communities: The City Council's Bold Steps for Progress

COURTESY: CIO

In a decisive move towards community enhancement, the 21st City Council convened for its last regular session on January 26, 2026. During this pivotal meeting, several significant decisions unfolded, focusing on the annual budgets of various barangays, the accreditation of transport groups, and the allocation of P33 million for essential farm-to-market road projects in Barangays Bugo and Cugman. Such financial support not only signifies a commitment to local governance but also reflects the council’s dedication to uplifting the lives of its constituents.

The approved resolutions and ordinances reveal the council's strategic priorities. For instance, the financial plans for Barangays Baikingon and Puntod have been established, with projected incomes of over P37 million combined. Moreover, the Sangguniang Kabataan resolutions further demonstrate the council's investment in the youth, allocating funds for developmental projects in Barangays Pigsag-an, Dansolihon, Nazareth, and Macabalan. Such allocations signal a bright future, fostering local development and empowering the younger generation.

Enhancing Infrastructure and Cultural Life

In addition to budget approvals, the city council also addressed cultural and infrastructural advancements. Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-185 plays a vital role in promoting the arts by granting an exemption from amusement tax to The Xavier Stage of Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan for their theatrical play, “Agatha Christie’s 10 Little Indians.” Scheduled for performance from February 23-28, 2026, this initiative not only encourages artistic expression but also enriches the local cultural landscape.

Furthermore, the council prioritized healthcare and infrastructure improvements through various ordinances. Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-186 authorizes the City Mayor to enter into a Memorandum of Agreement with the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines for the clinical training of Doctor of Medicine students at JR Borja General Hospital. This partnership promises to enhance the quality of medical education and healthcare services in the region. Similarly, the council’s authorization of a Deed of Donation for essential medical equipment exemplifies a proactive approach to improving community health resources.

The recent actions taken by the 21st City Council of Cagayan de Oro reflect a comprehensive strategy aimed at fostering development, enhancing cultural life, and improving public services. As these initiatives unfold, the community stands on the brink of transformation, poised to reap the benefits of thoughtful governance and dedicated leadership.

Hidden Gems & Sulit Finds: Your Next Koronadal City Stop Awaits

Koronadal City—ready for your next sulit stop? This vibrant city in South Cotabato has long been known for its bustling streets, warm people, and dynamic urban charm. Now, it just got even more exciting with a new go-to destination for smart shoppers and home lovers.  

MR.DIY’s 936th store is now open! Shop up to 18,000 affordable finds for your home, hobbies, and daily needs. Nestled at the **4th Floor Mall of Ace Centerpoint, Osmeña Street, Zone II, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato**, this branch brings convenience, style, and practicality together under one brightly lit roof. Open from **9:00AM–7:00PM**, it’s perfectly timed for both early errand-runners and after-work shoppers.  

A New Kind of Shopping Day in Koronadal City  

As you step into Mall of Ace Centerpoint, the energy gradually shifts—from the familiar hum of the mall to the inviting glow of a store filled with possibilities. MR.DIY’s latest branch feels like a treasure trove waiting to be explored. Every aisle invites you to slow down, look closer, and imagine how each item could make your daily life easier, prettier, or simply more fun.  

From the moment you walk through the entrance, the layout guides you naturally. The organized sections transform shopping into discovery. Instead of rushing, you find yourself browsing, comparing colors, textures, and clever designs. Consequently, a quick errand seamlessly becomes a relaxing mini-adventure inside Koronadal City’s newest sulit destination.  

18,000 Ways to Upgrade Your Everyday  

Inside this MR.DIY store, practicality meets creativity. With up to **18,000 affordable finds** available, it’s easy to uncover items you didn’t know you needed—but now can’t live without. From storage boxes that tame clutter to tools that help you fix things on your own, every shelf speaks to different lifestyles and priorities.  

Moreover, the variety goes beyond basic essentials. Hobbyists can discover new materials for crafts, painting, or DIY projects. Families can find school supplies, decor, and everyday items that fit into a budget without sacrificing style. Because everything is thoughtfully categorized, you can smoothly move from home improvement to personal accessories in just a few steps.  

Why This Store Belongs on Your “Sulit Stop” List  

Koronadal City—ready for your next sulit stop? This new branch answers that question with a confident yes. The store’s accessible location at the **4th Floor Mall of Ace Centerpoint, Osmeña Street, Zone II, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato** makes it easy to add to your regular route, whether you’re commuting, running errands, or simply spending a day at the mall.  

In addition, the **9:00AM–7:00PM** schedule allows flexible visits. Early birds can start their day by ticking tasks off their list, while late-afternoon shoppers can drop by before heading home. Over time, MR.DIY’s 936th store may naturally become that familiar stop where you grab last-minute necessities, upgrade your home, or reward yourself with a small but meaningful find.  

Turn Ordinary Errands into Smart, Sulit Moments  

Ultimately, this new MR.DIY branch brings more than just merchandise to Koronadal City—it brings opportunity: to save more, to create more, and to enjoy more of the spaces you live and work in. Every visit offers a fresh chance to reimagine your home, your routines, and even your hobbies, one affordable item at a time.  

So the next time you’re in the city, remember: **MR.DIY’s 936th store is now open! Shop up to 18,000 affordable finds for your home, hobbies, and daily needs** at **Mall of Ace Centerpoint, Osmeña Street, Zone II, City of Koronadal, South Cotabato, 9:00AM–7:00PM**. Your next sulit stop might just become your new favorite habit. 

Bridging Progress: The Heartbeat of Cagayan de Oro’s Coastal Road Transformation

IMAGE CREDITS: MCNDB

Cagayan de Oro City is on the cusp of a remarkable milestone. The **Latest Update: 𝗣𝘂𝗻𝘁𝗼𝗱 𝗥𝗼𝘁𝘂𝗻𝗱𝗮 | Construction of By-Pass and Diversion Roads, Cagayan de Oro Coastal Road (Gusa–Igpit Section) Package 1, CDOC | Jan. 28, 2026** reveals a project designed not only to ease traffic but also to spark economic growth and redefine connectivity in the city.  

Nestled between bustling streets and scenic coastal views, this development is not just about concrete and asphalt—it’s about creating smoother journeys and stronger links between communities. Spearheaded under **Contract ID: 25KO0364**, the project has a vision that extends beyond immediate convenience. It is the promise of faster travel, greater safety, and a more vibrant urban pulse. From its inception on **August 4, 2025**, to the targeted **completion date of March 26, 2026**, the path ahead is paved with ambition.  

From Blueprint to Reality: The Journey Behind the Scenes

Behind this massive undertaking is **Triparco Development Corp.**, a contractor recognized for its commitment to quality and precision. Their role is pivotal; they turn intricate plans into tangible progress under the guidance of **DPWH-X**, the implementing office ensuring that every milestone is achieved. With a substantial **contract cost of ₱95,236,299.79**, sourced from **GAA 2025**, this investment speaks volumes about the city’s dedication to infrastructure development.  

As we transition from planning to execution, each stage of the construction echoes determination. Imagine the by-pass and diversion roads gradually taking shape—machines hard at work, teams collaborating seamlessly, and timelines being met with unwavering focus. This rhythm of progress will culminate in a coastal road section that connects Gusa to Igpit in a way that blends efficiency with a scenic driving experience.  

A Road to the Future

When the final stretch is completed, residents and travelers will experience more than just shorter driving times. They will witness the transformation of a city that continues to grow, adapt, and innovate. This project will not only redefine commutes but will also elevate Cagayan de Oro’s image as a hub of modern development in Mindanao.  

The journey from blueprint to reality is one of patience, planning, and purposeful execution. By March 2026, the vision will become a living, breathing part of the city’s landscape—a path that leads to progress.