Another large photo of Manolo Fortich in Bukidnon this time showing the famed pineapple fields is featured in one of the walls of Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3.

As shown below, what makes this photo stand out is the fact that at the edge of the vast pineapple field is the famed silhouette of Kitanglad Mountain Range, the home of the Philippine Eagle. The caption states “Within your reach MANOLO FORTICH, Bukidnon, Philippines”.

Basically, its the same author of another photo also featured at NAIA T3 showing Tagoloan River Canyon. Read related post below.

RANDOM SHOTS: Tagoloan River Canyon in Manolo Fortich featured at NAIA Terminal 3

Several uniquely designed Christmas symbols presentations are now on display at Gaston Park in Cagayan de Oro City as part of the government-initiated Pasko de Oro Icons, a contest among the city’s barangays.

More than ten city barangays have so far completed their displays and residents can now visit the park and appreciate the different well-crafted designs.

This one below shows a large gift with several smaller gifts inside.

Students take time for photographs at Brgy. Pagatpat’s entry.

Here is a Christmas ‘belen’ shaped like a star from Brgy. Gusa.

Here’s another display with several LED lights.

Entry from Barangay 17 shows an arch with a fireplace and chimney setup inside.

Barangay Bayabas is presenting a cartoon-themed Christmas presentation.

This entry below is still partially completed and will have another feature on top.

This one below features a fireplace. Many are still checking the lighting.

Do you see a church?

Here is another beautiful creation featuring candy canes, a manger and star resembling a Christmas tree.

Iponan is going for indigenous materials.

Recycling is this display’s feature with ‘snowmen’ made of plastic cups.

Here’s a giant snowflake.

This is perhaps the tallest display onsite as of last night.

This one is still in the works.

More entries from the barangays are expected to be put up within the week. Come and visit Gaston Park now.

Check out VIKINGS LAKE, the latest attraction at RR FAMILY SPRING RESORT, one of the more popular and larger resorts located in Tubigon, Maramag, Bukidnon.

Located right beside Pulangui Lake, VIKINGS LAKE boasts of several kiddie slides and playground on a shallow pool with water fountains and showers. Now gaining more popularity since its opening last October, the Vikings Lake is just a perfect venue for family and group outings this December. Here are the updated rates:

RR Family Spring Resort Entrance Fee – P70/person (3 yrs. old & above) (Starting December 2018)
Vikings Lake – P150/person (Starting 2 feet above) – includes usage of the semi-Olympic pool and free usage of the cottages within the Viking Lake area. Splashing schedule is from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM to 3:00 PM.
Open Cottage – P300, P500, P1,000, P1,500
Tables – P350.00
Note: Day Admission – 7:00AM – 5:00PM

Browse some aerial photos below courtesy of Project LUPAD.

More photos in the link below.

PHOTOS: The New Vikings Lake at RR Family Spring Resort

Read our previous post below.

VIDEO WATCH: RR Family Spring Resort to open Vikings Lake on October 18

Dahilayan Boot Camp, the largest inflatable obstacle course in the Philippine, has just released its rates and important house rules when it opens to the public tomorrow, December 15, 2018.

Rates are P250 (adults) and P150 (kids below 4 ft) for a 3-hour play pass. There are only two time slots: 9AM-12NN and 1PM-4PM.

Accordingly, the average person can finish the obstacle course in 30 minutes but you can still stay around the course during the time slot. Small kids (3.5-4 feet) need to be accompanied by an adult. Also, socks must be worn at all times. If you don’t have one, socks are available at P50. Check the rules below.

By the way, here are more rules.

So, you’ve read the rules…bring the squad. Dahilayan Boot Camp is at Dahilayan Adventure Park in Barangay Dahilayan, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon.

Three popular archaeological sites in Camiguin have been declared as National Cultural Treasures (NCT) by the National Museum of the Philippines. Meanwhile, fourteen (14) ancestral houses also in Camiguin were also declared as Important Cultural Properties (ICP).

According to an article at Inquirer.net, declared as national treasures are as follows: .

1. Sunken Cemetery in Catarman

2. Old Church Ruins in Catarman

3. Spanish-era Moro Watchtower in Guinsiliban

Meanwhile, the 14 ICP ancestral houses are those owned by the Borromeo, Bacut, Luspo, Neri, Nery, Nerio-Chan, Corrales, Corrales y Gamali, Francisco, Juni and Lim families, as well as those by Catalino Chan and Eleuterio Chan. Details in the link below.

Camiguin church ruins, Sunken Cemetery declared National Cultural Treasures

Just like many cities and towns across the country, thousands of lights also illuminate the Municipality of Balingasag in Misamis Oriental in the spirit of the Christmas season. Now enjoying a boom in investments, the town is now aglow at night with a variety of Christmas decorations installed around the public plaza.

Shown below is its Municipal Hall or more commonly known as the People’s Palace.

Right at the back of the People’s Palace is the Jose Pelaez Roa Park or more commonly referred to as People’s Park.

A popular hangout spot in the town, the Christmas decors make it even more appealing to the public especially at night.

Of course, what’s the holiday season without the giant Christmas Tree?

Christmas is really in the air in Balingasag.

Around 4.7 hectares of coastal area in the Municipality of Salay in Misamis Oriental is being eyed to be declared as a Marine Protected Area (MPA).

The DENR-10 Coastal Resources and Foreshore Management Section (CDD-CRFMS) in coordination with the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources (BFAR-10) have already conducted a series of studies and surveys since 2015 in response to the municipal government’s request to protect its marine resources.

In a recent presentation by DENR-10, a 4.7-hectare area off Barangay Inobulan in Salay has the potential to be declared as a Marine Protected Area (MPA). Of the 4.7 hectares, around 2 hectares compose the core zone and the remaining 2.7 hectares comprise the buffer zone. Accordingly, the said area has a wide coral reef cover where several specie of fish can be found. Here’s the GPS Mapping result.

The points indicate the coral reef areas.

Here are some of the fish species seen in the coral reef area in Brgy. Inobulan.

Here are the coral species identified.

See below some photos of the subject area.

The next step calls for the development of the comprehensive coastal management plan which will focus on eco-tourism and implementation of livelihood activities.

Looking for a new place to cool off your heels and away from the hustle and bustle of city life? VILLA TERESA FARM AND RESORT located in Gango, Libona, Bukidnon is now open.

Located just 20 minutes from Cagayan de Oro City via Indahag-Libona Road, the resort boasts of a large newly-built beautifully designed swimming pool with landscaped areas (all photos courtesy of Engr. Gino Macapayag).

A small section of the pool is perhaps good for kids with some water spouts as added feature.

Rates are as follows:
Adult – P150
Kids – P100
Standard Room Rates – P1,000 + inclusive pool use for 2 heads
Dorm Type good for 10 pax – P3,000 + inclusive pool use for 10 heads
Cottage – P500

At golden hour, one can have a great view of the sunset.

The place is a perfect spot for an out-of-town group trip….or event a group meeting or religious gathering.

How to get there? See the map below. Note the landmarks indicated especially the ‘quarantine’ area. Villa Teresa would be at the right side if you’re going south before reaching Gango proper.

By the way, the venue is also open for overnight stay. Browse over more photos below.

By the way, Villa Teresa Farm and Resort is still on soft opening. Keep posted.

This is an original article and content by CDODev.com

Travelers visiting Iligan can now look forward to staying at a Go Hotels brand property in the city. Go Hotels Iligan recently had its soft opening last December 20, 2018 — a new value essential hotel for business and leisure tourist alike.

Specifically built with business travellers in mind, Go Hotels Iligan has two meeting rooms that can accommodate up to 30 guests each — ensuring a comfortable and stimulating space for business meetings, corporate lunches, and small office gatherings. The hotel also has a large function hall 0that can accommodate up to 200 guests for birthday parties, family reunion, or corporate events.

In celebration of the soft opening, guests can enjoy a special introductory rate of Php 1,588++ / night, inclusive of breakfast for two and valid for stays from December 20, 2018 to February 28, 2019.

Travellers visiting Iligan City for business and leisure will enjoy the new value-essential hotel with its 100 modern-comfort guest rooms along with in-room amenities that include windsor bed that ensures a good night sleep, hypoallergenic pillows, and newly improved WIFI connection that will surely give the guests a “juanderful”stay! The hotel also has PWD-inclusive facilities, with wider room and bathroom floor areas to ensure that guests with special needs are comfortable in their stay. The hotel lobby and foyer are also equipped with ramps for guests with wheelchairs.

Go Hotels Iligan is strategically located just beside Robinsons Place Iligan, the city’s largest shopping mall, where guests can enjoy their retail therapy with ease. Also, no need to worry about exploring Iligan. Known for the City of Majestic Waterfalls, the hotel has additional transport services covering terminals, seaports, and arranged direct transfers from Laguindingan Airport to the hotel (vice-versa).

The Go Hotels national chain is currently located in Lanang-Davao, Butuan, Bacolod, Dumaguete, Iloilo, Tacloban, Cubao, Ermita, Mandaluyong, Manila Airport Road, North-EDSA, Puerto Princesa, Ortigas Center, Otis-Manila, and Timog, QC.

For booking and reservations, call Ms. Anne Therese Berenquel at 0917 624 2553 and Mr. Alvin Sajulga at 0999 0226 09315 or visit www.gohotels.ph or call 0917 888 7788 / (02) 398 8778.

Check out more photos during the soft opening.

Panimahawa Ridge located in Impalutao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon is an increasing outdoor destination particularly among adventurers, hikers and nature-lovers. Camping at night also allows a magnificent view of the night skies with the moon and stars which serve as the only source of natural light in the area.

Check out a few latest photos below during a recent camping trip.

How to get there? Read our previous post below.

VIDEO WATCH: Breathtaking Panimahawa Ridge

Sapong Cold Spring Resort, a popular picnic and swimming resort located in Barangay Tabok, Lagonglong town has been reacquired by the Municipal Government of Lagonglong, Misamis Oriental thru a compromise agreement.

The compromise agreement was signed at the resort last December 18, 2018 between the Abonitalla Family which owns the property where the resort is located and Lagonglong Mayor Jay Albert Puertas with Governor Yevgeny Emano witnessing the event.

With the signed agreement, the Capitol can now proceed with the planned resort improvement project. Read our old post below.

Capitol to upgrade Sapong Spring in Lagonglong

How was 2018 for Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental and the whole of Northern Mindanao? Here is our PROGRESS WATCH: 2018 YEARENDER – a compilation of major developments and in and around the City of Golden Friendship and the region during the year which we have posted and shared in social media.

PROJECT WATCH: Major Project Completions and Openings (in no particular order)

New Toyota Showroom – Kauswagan Highway, Cagayan de Oro – largest Toyota dealership opens its new home in September

All Home (Vista Mall) Cagayan de Oro – Limketkai Center – Villar’s largest retail store opened in July

Gaisano Camiguin – Mambajao, Camiguin – The retail giant has finally set foot in Northern Mindana’s island province.

Northern Mindanao Wellness and Reintegration Center – Casisang, Malaybalay City – The 5-hectare facility is the first of its kind in the country and conforms to international standards of treatment and management of drug dependents. It is also considered the largest in Mindanao and will provide holistic approach in treating drug-dependent patients with proper medical, therapeutic, and social interventions.

Madonna & Child Hospital Medical Arts Building – Serina St., Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City – the medical facility’s expansion wing was inaugurated in September

Prince Hypermart Manolo Fortich – Poblacion, Manolo Fortich – the town’s largest retail store opened in September

New Ororama Carmen Expansion Wing – Carmen, Cagayan de Oro – completed in October

Gothong Shipping Container Yard – Tablon, Cagayan de Oro City – large container yard and berthing area inaugurated in October

CityMall Iponan – National Highway, Iponan, Cagayan de Oro – 1st CityMall in CDO opened in October

SM Downtown Tower – Osmena St., Cagayan de Oro – SM’s first office building was inaugurate in October

Prince Hypermart Balingasag – Poblacion, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental – the town’s first big retail store opened in October

Amaya View Azul Swimming Pool –  Indahag, Cagayan de Oro – infinity pool opened in October

CityMall Bulua – fronting Westbound Terminal Complex, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro – 2nd CityMall in CDO

Noah’s Ark at Amaya View – Indahag, Cagayan de Oro – a new attraction in CDO’s premier hilltop tourist destination

Robinsons Place Valencia – Sayre Highway, Bagontaas, Valencia City – first world-class upscale mall in Bukidnon opened in December

Go Hotels Iligan – beside Robinsons Place Iligan – soft opening in December

Dahilayan Boot Camp – Dahilayan Adventure Park, Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon – largest inflatable obstacle course

PROJECT WATCH: Other completions and new openings

Villa Teresa Farm and Resort – Gango, Libona, Bukidnon – new farm resort 15 minutes away from CDO

Hobbit House – Mt. Kitanglad Agro-Eco Farm, Imbayao, Malaybalay City – the enchanting hobbit-inspired houses went viral

Hidden Valley Agri-Resort – Pualas, Baungon, Bukidnon – hidden resort beside Rio Verde

Coffee Project – All Home, Limketkai Center – Villar-owned Instagram-worthy coffee shop is now in CDO

Casa de Canitoan – Canitoan, Cagayan de Oro – new venue for functions

Chowking Kauswagan Drive-Thru – Kauswagan Highway, Cagayan de Oro – first ever drive-thru branch of Chowking in CDO

New Jollibee Puerto – National Highway, Puerto, Cagayan de Oro – whole new construction

Jollibee Masterson – Masterson Avenue, Upper Balulang, Cagayan de Oro – first drive-thru store in Uptown area

McDonald’s El Salvador City – the largest McDonald’s in Visayas and Mindanao

New Jollibee Bulua – National Highway, Bulua, Cagayan de Oro

Mang Inasal Gingoog City – the famed grilled chicken fast food opens its first branch in the City of Good Luck

New Jollibee Georgetown Cybermall – RN Pelaez Blvd. – a fully renovated branch opened in June

Jollibee Balingasag – National Highway, Poblacion, Balingasag, Misamis Oriental

Cabalen Restaurant – 2nd floor, Centrio Mall – the famed buffet restaurant opened in September

Tong Yang Plus – 3nd Floor, SM CDO Downtown Premier – part of the Vikings Group opened in August

Blugre Coffee (Uptown and Limketkai) – Davao’s homegrown coffee chain has finally arrived opening two branches in the city

Kuya J Restaurant – New Dawn Hotel Plus, Don A. Velez St., Cagayan de Oro – 2nd branch opened in May

Burger King Divisoria – Tirso Neri St., Divisoria, Cagayan de Oro

New McDonald’s Xavier – Corrales Ave., Cagayan de Oro

Top View Restobar – New Dawn Hotel Plus

C Resort – Gimaylan, Libertad, Misamis Oriental

Bridge Hotel – Pabayo-Cruz Taal Sts., Cagayan de Oro – the former Casa Isabella is now fully renovated

Lapas Sun Pension House – Lambago, Lapasan, Cagayan de Oro – new accommodation in Lapasan

Arlkea Suites – Mahogany St., Carmen – new budget accommodation facility

Arkedda Inn – Agusan, Cagayan de Oro – a motorcycle drive-in motel

Camiguin Volcano Houses – new vacation houses along the slopes of Mt. Hibok-Hibok

The Hive Food Park – Limketkai Center – open air dining and night scene is back in Limketkai

Cafe Garaje – Dongallo Hilltop Compound, Camaman-an – new Instagram-worthy cafe in CDO

Merry Time Hotpot – Cagayan Town Center – the first and only moving buffet table in CDO

Superstar KTV Lounge & Club – Cagayan Town Center – high-end bar opened in July

Vikings Lake – latest attraction in RR Family Spring Resort opened in October

Other diners, restaurants and bars which opened this year include Fat Chef, 24 Spices, Sharmaine’s Cakes & Pastries, Silver Rain, Lamp Lighter Cafe, Cinnabon, Prawn House-Limketkai, Uncle Brew Coffee, Double Bubble Café Limketkai, Mang Inasal-SM Downtown, Terrazzo Uptown, Mykarelli’s Grill-Uptown, Ñor Pedro Unltd, Studio Art Café, Sakayan Restaurant-Libertad, Bojacks, Resto Freeno, Sports Café Tea, SUTU Dining, Nine High Sports Bar, Eats Good Pares, September Blooms, Infinitea-Bravehearts, Ben & Nelly, D&T Coffee Shop, Café Tribu, Basha Marmar, Panagatan-SM City, By Clarkie-Alae, Sky Bar Resto and KTV, Bizdak Restobar, Club Desire, Archie’s Party Venue, Happy Siomai & Then Some, Lights Bar, Harmony Zone Bar., Busaw Bar & Restaurant-Alubijid, Tea O’clock-Tagoloan, House of Fries, Sweet Leaf Bubble Tea Café-Carmen, Wander Cup, Chingkeetea-Velez, Moonleaf Tea Shop, The Taki, Maxi Mango-SM Downtown, Maxi Mango-SM City, Heal Thy Self, Uptown Bee Food Park, Zordz-El Salvador, Felicita’s Cafe, Sentral Cafe-Jasaan, Ben’s Coffee Shop, Barney’s Burger-Uptown, Madok’s Lechon and Kambingan, Shakey Chick Co., Tiny Bubbles, Pares Ni Papi, Cenyu Probio Chicken Food Store, Alas Unlimitados, Micenzo Bistro, The Sergeant Steak, Dahon Asian Cuisine, George’s Kitchen, Cucina Grill-Naawan, Harley’s Food Hub, Sarge Coffee Station, The Spot-Balingasag, Archie’s Chicken & Fries, Dear Manok-SM Downtown, Tuna Republik-Gusa, Turks-Ororama, Brew Haa, Dexter’s Pizza, Zark’s Burgers, Infinitea-Uptown, Romana Cafe, Boodlelicious Grill, Izzy’s Cafe, Chix n’ Booze, New Sunburst Centrio, Tent Avenue reopening, Ah Fong-Ororama

Other resort openings include MV Beach and Pool Resort in Tubajon, Laguindingan, Noah’s Beach Resort in Sinaloc, El Salvador City, Villa Paraiso Water Splash & Slides in Camiguin, Sea Breeze in Initao, Tugas Spring Resort at FS Catanico

More continuing development progress updates below.

ACE Medical Center – vertical works of the 10-storey private medical facility was in full blast this year

The Loop North Tower – completion next year is seen

Mesaverte Residences – the 3-tower condo complex will likely be completed next year.

Primavera City – Phase 1 now in the final construction stage; Phase 2 in the works

Aspira Tower 1 – the tallest building in the city is now nearly completed

Gaisano Capital Balingasag – continuing construction

Limketkai Module-2 BPO & Cyberpark Building – continuing vertical works

City Hospital Lumbia – city-owned medical facility is rising steadily

Cagayan de Oro Port Passenger Terminal Building and other developments – the soon-to-be largest passenger terminal in the country is nearing completion

New Opol Port Development – alternative port now almost done

Andrew L. Gotianun Sr. Center for Integrated Technologies – continuing construction in uptown area

Gaisano Carmen Mall – Vamenta Blvd-Serina St., Carmen – rendering of the ongoing mall project was finally revealed

Ongoing Major Road and Drainage Projects – simultaneous major road projects include new Gaabucayan Bridge (below), Agora Bridge, Puntod Section of Coastal Road, Carmen Drainage Project, RER Drainage Outfall, Westbound Terminal Drainage, Kolambog Drainage among others

PROJECT WATCH: Major New Project Developments and Launches

Habini Bay – Ayala Land’s 526-hectare master-planned estate straddling the municipalities of Alubijid and Laguindingan in Misamis Oriental held its groundbreaking last November 7

Panguil Bay Bridge – the 3.7-kilometer bridge linking Tangub City in Misamis Occidental and Tubod in Lanao del Norte finally broke ground in November

Casa Mira Towers – RN Pelaez Blvd., Kauswagan, Cagayan de Oro – Cebu Landmasters’s 2nd high-rise condominium project will have a 26-storey and 22-storey tower.

Gaisano Grand Mall Gingoog – construction of the first full-service mall in Gingoog was announced in August

Gaisano Valencia Mall – ground works underway for Gaisano’s 2nd mall in Valencia City

Gaisano Tubod – Gaisano Group will be expanding soon in Tubod, Lanao del Norte

Puerto Public Market – Puerto, Cagayan de Oro – the long overdue construction project finally broke ground last November 21

City Hospital Tablon – the first city-owned medical facility in the eastern part broke ground in February

Laguindingan Technopark – prior to the launching of Habini Bay, the industrial park component of the master planned estate was already announced

Mindanao Technopark – 50-hectare Regional Government Center and 12-hectare Provincial Government Center in Lourdes, Alubijid broke ground in August

Xavier Ateneo Senior High School Campus – Pueblo de Oro – construction is now in full blast.

McDonald’s Gusa – will probably open early 2019

Mormon Temple in Cagayan de Oro – the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints (LDS) will build a temple in Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines as announced during its 188th annual general conference held at Salt Lake City, Utah, USA

New government offices: New BIR Regional Office (construction), New Marina 10 Office in El Salvador (construction), New Department of Agriculture Regional Office in El Salvador City (construction), New Bureau of Customs Office inside Phividec (construction), Bureau of Immigration at Limketkai Gateway Tower, PAG-BIG Fund at Puregold, Philhealth at Limketkai Gateway Tower, Department of Labor and Employment at Trinidad Bldg., Department of Tourism at Limketkai Center, New City- Provincial and Regional Prosecutor Offices at Pueblo de Oro, COWD Building Facelift, LTO Satellite Office-SM City.

PROJECT WATCH: Ongoing Major Diversion Road Projects

Alae-Phividec Bypass Road

Opol Diversion Road (Opol-Canitoan)

CDO New East Diversion Road (Mandumol-Nazareth-Camaman-an)

CDO New West Diversion Road (Canitoan-Bulua-Opol Coastal Road)

Lumbia-Pagatpat Diversion Road

PROJECT WATCH: Major Infrastructure Proposals

Cagayan-Iligan Expressway

Villanueva-CDO-Opol-Laguindingan-Naawan Expressway

Bulua, Lapasan and Gusa Flyover Projects

PROJECT WATCH: Major Industrial Progress Updates

San Miguel Corporation Misamis Oriental Brewery – Sta. Ana, Tagoloan, Phividec – continuing construction of the multi-billion industrial complex

Nutrimax Fresh Baked Inc. (Gardenia) – Sta. Cruz, Tagoloan, Phividec – nearing completion

Integrated Steel Mill Complex at Phividec Industrial Estate – there have been several investors planning to put up an integrated steel mill complex at Phividec including the latest involving HBIS Group and Steel Asia

TRAVEL WATCH

Fast Cat – the fast ferry serving Opol-Balbagon-Jagna was launched in March this year with on-and-off operations

Pabama Double Decker Bus started serving CDO-Kibawe route in June

Lite Ferry 18 – the biggest, youngest and fastest ship serving Cebu-Cagayan de Oro-Cebu route had its soft launch in October with its grand launch in November

Trans-Asia Shipping Lines Inc. inaugurated M/V Trans-Asia 1 last August. It’s the shipping company’s largest passenger vessel serving the Cebu-Cagayan de Oro-Cebu route.

Air Asia back serving Cagayan de Oro with flights to Manila, Cebu and Clark

Odyssey Airport Express – new airport shuttle service began operations in May

TOURISM WATCH

Silver Discoverer – the yacht-type cruise ship operated by Silversea Cruises made a stopover in Cagayan de Oro in May

Camiguin’s Sunken Cemetery, Old Church Ruins, Moro Watchtower declared National Cultural Treasures – three popular archaeological sites in Camiguin have been declared as National Cultural Treasures (NCT) by the National Museum of the Philippines

Adventures on Ice: Ice Rink Experience – first ever Mobile Ice Skating Rink Experience in Cagayan de Oro opened in July

Belvedere – Gardens of the World – Tangub City’s promising tourist attraction

Claveria View Deck – ongoing construction

VMW Pool and Beach Resort – Salay, Misamis Oriental – unique large clover-shaped pool with slides

Vinapor Blue Waters – enchanting cave pool in Carmen, Agusan del Norte

Manticao’s Stations of the Cross – Dunque Hill’s religious event has drawn interest

Bagyangon Falls – Malitbog’s hidden natural wonder

Panimahawa Ridge – increasingly popular outdoor destination in Impalutao, Impasug-ong, Bukidnon

Jamisolamin Farm and Resort – Talisayan, Misamis Oriental – more commonly known as Red Sand Beach Resort due to its red sands

Mt. Anggas – G. Pelaez, Gitagum, Misamis Oriental – new trekking site

Mt. Pinulutan Range – a sea of clouds in Mapulo, Malaybalay City

Alibuag Beach Resort – Sugbongcogon, Misamis Oriental – crystal clear waters off volcanic and sandy beach

ACHIEVEMENTS

Maymay Entrata – became first Filipina to walk the runway at Arab Fashion Show

Police Senior Inspector Dennis S. Ebsolo, Ph.D. – the current Chief of Police of Villanueva, Misamis Oriental is among the 2018 Metrobank Foundation Outstanding Filipinos for his Mounted Horse Patrol when he was station commander of Lumbia Police Station

Jio Jalalon and JP Erram – the basketball duo is proudly representing the city in the national scene. Jalalon’s colorful collegiate career ended and earned a title in his first year in the PBA. Meanwhile, Erram is enjoying the best year in his career and became part of Gilas Pilipinas

Francis Casey Alcantara reached a career-high ATP world doubles ranking this year

Cagayan de Oro Amateur Boxing Team – cemented itself as a powerhouse in amateur boxing by ruling the PNG National Games and the PSC-Pacquiao Amateur Boxing Cup National Championships

Carlo Paalam – won the gold in Korotkov Memorial Boxing tourney in Russia

3 Kagayanons in Philippine National Climbing Team – Glenn Lominoque together with siblings Iman Mora and Liana Mora made it to the 2018 National Climbing Team

PRC Board Topnotchers – City and provincial schools produced topnotchers in several PRC board exams this year: September 2018 Teachers Board Exam, October 2018 Psychometrician Board Exam, September 2018 Physicians Board Exam, October 2018 Certified Public Accountants Board Exam, October 2018 Chemical Technician Board Exam, September 2018 Registered Electrical Engineer Board Exam, August 2018 Certified Plant Mechanic Board Exam, August 2018 Mining Engineer Board Exam, June 2018 Criminologist Board Exam, July 2018 RadTech Board Exam, June 2018 Nursing Board Exams, and June 2018 Environmental Planner Board Exam.

XU Glee Club – won the Gold Medal in the Folklore Category and the Silver in the Mixed Choir Category in the 2018 Soegijapranata Choral Festival in Semarang, Indonesia.

Paul ‘Popo’ Rosales Juarez – won a silver medal in the 2018 Asian IBJJF Jiu-Jitsu Championship held in Tokyo, Japan

Carina Dayondon – first Filipina to complete ‘Seven Summits’

Jem Robert Talaroc from Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon – conferred with the 2018 National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA) Composers’ Prize for his composition, Anima.

Michael Bacol – wins Award of Merit at Philippine Art Awards National Competition

6 Misamis Oriental Gir Scouts – awarded Chief Girl Scout Medals

Danna Rose Socaoco – 1st runner-up in Miss Millennial Philippines 2018

Cagayan de Oro’s PWD ID Online Application – bags 2nd place in Digital Cities PH Awards

Cagayan de Oro City – wins 2018 Galing Pook Award for “No Vote, Ibot” No More

Dr. Hilly Ann Roa Quiaoit – is among The Outstanding Filipino (TOFIL) 2018 awardee

Exin Castil Guingao – was crowned Our Little Miss World Official Princess 2018 during the Our Little Miss World 2018 event held at La Torretta Lake Resort in ​Montgomery, Texas, USA.

Last Knights – CDO hip-hop dance crew is 2nd runner-up in World Domination Championships

Loi Alian Cabaluna of Phinma-Cagayan de Oro College – 1st place in 2018 International Assembly of Youth for UNESCO essay writing contest

Cagayan de Oro – wins Seal of Good Education Governance

Hapsay Sapa – wins Asian Townscape Award

Hapsay Kable – more than 200 kilometers of unused wires and cables recovered as of December

Tatum Julia Bao and Clartrome Lounard Jacalan (Lourdes College Strings) – part of Manila Symphony Junior Orchestra (MSJO) which won First Prize in the String Orchestra competition category at the 12th Summa Cum Laude International Music Festival in Vienna, Austria

Brian Adam Anay – named one of the Ten Outstanding Students of the Philippines (TOSP) 

Laguindingan – Malinis at Masaganang Karagatan 2017 Outstanding Coastal Communities Grand Winner

Misamis Oriental – Gawad Saka 2017 Outstanding Provincial Agriculture and Fishery Council

Xavier Ateneo’s Cadet Colonel Elvin John M Baal – Reserve Officer Training Corps (ROTC) Cadet of the Year 2017

POLITICS WATCH

The two main political groups will square off in next year’s mid-term elections.

Winners of the May 2018 Barangay Elections were proclaimed – LIST OF WINNERS

We might have missed some….Happy New Year!

The House committee on tourism has just approved House Bill No. 7562, filed by Cagayan de Oro City 2nd Dist. Rep. Maximo B. Rodriguez Jr., declaring the more than 200-year-old Dao tree in Cugman, Cagayan de Oro City as heritage tree and a tourist attraction.

In a news article by the Manila Bulletin (Read LINK), the 49-meter high Dao tree which has a diameter of 222.8 centimeters, is said to be within the E. Pelaez Ranch in Bayombong, Barangay Cugman in Cagayan de Oro City. The bill calls for the tree’s long-term protection and as a major tourist destination. Below are some photos of the heritage tree.

Here’s a screenshot of the Explanatory Note by. Rep. Maxie Rodriguez Jr.

Read the first page of HB 7562 below.

Download full text HERE.

Read previous posts below.

Construction of the Christ The King Shrine in Samay, Gingoog City is now 60% complete.

As shown in the photos below (courtesy of RD Leisurefarm), the upper part of the 75-foot high statue is already done while the lower half which forms part of the robe is still under construction. In the background is Mt. Balatukan.

A growing religious site and being promoted as part of faith tourism, nearly 3,000 pilgrims have visited the site in December 2018 alone.

There is no timetable for the completion which depends on generous donations of the faithful.

Keep posted.

Camiguin Governor Maria Luisa Romualdo led local officials in yesterday’s ceremonial unveiling of the markers of three of the province’s famous tourist destinations which were recently declared as National Cultural Treasures – Guinsiliban Moro Watch Tower, Bonbon Church Ruins and Sunken Cemetery.

Shown below are photos during the marker unveiling ceremony of the Moro Watch Tower located at Barangay North Poblacion, Guinsiliban, which is believed to be what remains of a typical fortress where locals built to detect incoming pirate Muslims or ‘Moros’.

Meanwhile, the Old Church Ruins at Barangay Bonbon in Catarman town is what remains of a much larger church complex built in 1806 which includes a convent and a bell tower. The volcanic eruption which took place on May 1, 1871, destroyed everything leaving only the ruins that we see today.

Finally, the popular Sunken Cemetery off Catarman is one of the most visited spots in Camiguin. The large cross seen today was built in 1982 and marks the spot where the old town cemetery was located until the same volcanic eruption which destroyed Bonbon Church caused the ground to collapse sinking the cemetery underwater.

with photos by PIA Camiguin

Not doing anything? Try to visit the different booths and displays of the ongoing Kuyamis Festival 2019 at the Provincial Capitol grounds.

Check out Filipino ingenuity on display of the various booths of the different municipalities of Misamis Oriental showcasing indigenous materials made of coconuts. Aside from the unique booth designs, there are also a wide variety of products from each town. Browse over photos below courtesy of Kuku Rootsie.

Traveling soon? Budget airline Cebu Pacific will be implementing its new check-in baggage policy starting January 15.

In an advisory, passengers are allowed a maximum number of pieces of check-in baggage depending on the ticket/baggage allowance purchased. Accordingly, a standard 20 kg baggage allowance will only have 2 pieces allowed while a large 32 kg baggage allowance will have 3 pieces. An extra-large baggage allowance (40kg) provides for 4 pieces.

It also noted that in case you’ll be in excess of your baggage allowance, you’re allowed to purchase more baggage allowance at least 4 hours before your scheduled flight.

Maria Cristina Falls is arguably the most popular landmark and tourist destination in Iligan City.

With its 320-foot high waterfall, it powers Agus VI Hydroelectric Power Plant. Located along the mighty Agus River, it was the primary source of power in Mindanao for a long period of time. And with its viewing deck at Agus VI powerhouse, thousands of tourists visit to watch its majestic grandeur every year. Watch this old short video showing its high flows.

View related post below.

Rains did not stop the grandest and most colorful Kuyamis Festival Street Dancing and Tableau Competition held at the Don Gregorio Pelaez Sports Complex in Cagayan de Oro City.

Thirteen contingents braved the rain and danced through the streets and performed their much awaited tableau presentation before a huge crowd at the sports complex. The Municipality of Tagoloan bagged the overall title with a cash price of P100,000 and a trophy with the Municipality of Binuangan coming second (P75,000 and trophy) and Municipality of Sugbongcogon in 3rd place (P50,000 and trophy). Check out the photos below courtesy of Tom Udasco Photography.

More photos and details including winners of special awards in the link below.

More photos below by DOT-10.

Travelers will soon have a perfect stopover to take a snapshot of the panoramic view of the Balatukan Mountain Range with the View Deck at Lanise in Claveria, Misamis Oriental now nearing completion.

As shown below (photos by LGU Claveria), the 2-storey viewing deck provides for a panoramic view of the vast landscape of Misamis Oriental’s hinterland area.

Considering this is just along Route 955 or the Gingoog-Claveria-Villanueva Road, expect a lot of selfies and groufies when this is finally opened to the public.

Here’s our previous post below.