3 – 5 February 2026 | 4th Floor Event Center | SM CDO DOWNTOWN
The Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur, through the Provincial Tourism, Culture, and the Arts Office (PTCAO), will be staging the second edition of its OKIR Art Exhibit on 3-5 February 2026 at the Event Hall of SM CDO Downtown, Cagayan de Oro City.
According to the official invitation from the office of Lanao del Sur Provincial Governor DR. MAMINTAL ALONTO ADIONG, JR., the Okir Art Exhibit reflects the Provincial Government of Lanao del Sur’s commitment to cultural preservation, artistic expression, and community resilience. This exhibit provides a unique opportunity to showcase and celebrate the rich heritage of the Meranaw people through the intricate and culturally significant Okir art form.
By supporting this initiative, the program seeks to promote cultural diversity, strengthen community connections, and provide a platform for local artists to express their creativity in the mainstream market.
The three day event will feature the following events and activities: Art Exhibition, Cultural Performances, Artists/Artisans’ Demonstrations, Lectures, Partnership Building / Networking and a press conference.
Among the A-List Exhibitors from Lanao del Sur to be featured are Edris Tamano, an Okir artist and cultural advocate whose works highlights the significance and intricacies of Meranaw Okir design; Omelcair G. Domangcag, a traditional Lakub (a Meranaw traditional cylindrical bamboo container primarily used to store tobacco leaves or betel quid (nganga) master maker and member of the Bakayawan Lakub Producers; Danny Arumpac, master miniature wood carver of Meranaw forms such as torogans, panolong (house beams), boor, gador and debakan; and Walad Serad Solaiman, a freelance visual artist whose works are informed by Meranaw culture and incorporate Okir inspired elements, reflecting themes of identity, tradition, and community.
Second Batch of Okir Art Exhibitors (Lanao del Sur Tourism Public Information)
Other featured master artisans include the following:
Hanifah Lalia Amelo, a weaver and member of the Raheemah Peace Weavers Cooperative, masterfully skilled in weaving langkit with traditional okir patterns that is fast gaining popularity with modern ethnic fashion designs. Langkit is a traditional Meranaw, intricately handwoven/embroidered multi-colored fabric strip, primarily used to adorn and connect panels on the malong landap (tube skirt), it features traditional okir (geometric/floral) designs, created using a backstrap loom, representing deep cultural significance.
Master Artisan Lantong Pangcoga from Tugaya, Lanao del Sur masterfully skilled in the carving of traditional Meranaw Okir art forms such as the Baur, Gador, Okir, and Panulong. He has been nominated for the prestigious Gawad sa Manlilikha ng Bayan (GAMABA) or National Living Treasures Award, the highest state honor given to a Filipino in recognition of their outstanding work as a traditional folk artist.
Pendocina Omar, a Meranaw traditional beader masterfully skilled in hand-sewing beads and sequins such as Mamandiyang, Ampas, and Payong o Diyakatan. She is also a member of the Raheemah Peace Weavers Cooperative.
Asnaida Amelo, also a Meranaw traditional weaver and member of the Raheemah Peace Weavers Cooperative who specializes in Landap Weaving, a prestigious type of malong tradionally worn by Sultans and the elite.
The Okir Art Exhibit presents itself as a platform to showcase the rich cultural heritage of Lanao del Sur, featuring the intricate and traditional Okir art form; empower local artists by providing them with a prominent venue to display their Okir artworks, foster a sense of pride and recognition within the community; facilitate community engagement through the Okir Art Exhibit, encourage dialogue, appreciation, and understanding of the cultural significance of Okir art among residents and visitors; promote Lanao del Sur as a cultural tourism destination by leveraging the Okir Art Exhibit to attract visitors and raise awareness of the unique artistic traditions embedded in Okir; and not the least, contribute to the holistic growth of Lanao del Sur by integrating cultural expressions like the Okir Art Exhibit, fostering resilience, unity, and a renewed sense of identity among the Meranaw community.
The Okir Art Exhibit is designed as a strategic cultural and economic initiative to showcase the profound artistic heritage of the Lanao del Sur province. Beyond its cultural significance, the exhibit serves as a vital component of the post-conflict recovery efforts for Marawi City, providing a platform for local artisans to access broader markets. By positioning Okir as a premier cultural product, we aim to align traditional craftsmanship with modern trade, tourism, and MSME development goals. The event is open free to the public during SM CDO Downtown’s Mall Hours from 10AM to 8PM for the duration of the 3-day exhibit.
Islamic City of Marawi, Lanao del Sur- The Meranaws of Lanao should consider themselves lucky their cultural heritage would not be lost to the all-pervasive pressure of acculturation thanks to the efforts of the official government body protecting and promoting the rich history, culture, arts, and traditions of the Bangsamoro people in the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM).
The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) consists of five provinces: Basilan (excluding Isabela City), Lanao del Sur, Maguindanao del Norte, Maguindanao del Sur, and Tawi-Tawi, plus the independent Cotabato City and a Special Geographic Area (SGA) consisting of 63 barangays of North Cotabato.
The Bangsamoro Commission for the Preservation of Cultural Heritage (BCPCH-BARMM) was established in 2019 as focusing on inclusive representation, preserving identity through documenting history and collaborating with institutions like MSU to safeguard their unique heritage for future generations. It supersedes older regional cultural bodies (like the BCH-ARMM from the 1990s), and functions under the mandate of the Bangsamoro Organic Law to preserve and write Bangsamoro history from a local perspective, and integrate it into the nation’s mainstream culture and historical narrative.
Since its inception, the BCPCH-Lanao del Sur in particular, has conducted nine seminar-workshops and trainings through its School of Living Traditions (SLT) designed to promote, preserve and popularize the Meranaw culture and arts, specifically the music, songs, chants, rituals and dances, and develop the art skills of the learners. For its latest endeavor, the SLT introduced the fundamentals of the Sagayan war dance to 25 learners from all over Lanao.
“This is our first SLT Skills Training for 2026 and our first venture into the realm of traditional performing arts, in this case the Meranaw Sagayan ‘War Dance,” said Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Commissioner, during the launch of the 3-day program at the Sapadan Garden Resort in Heaven Diversion Road, Upper Lancaf, Brgy. Lomidong, this city.
“The Sagayan is not just a performing art per se. It has a story behind it, which is rendered in animated movements gracefully choreographed and executed that feature traditional martial skills enacted and performed artistically by Moro male performers acting as swordsmen engaged in dramatic swordplay. In the past, it was performed during special occasions like weddings, community celebrations, even spiritual cleansing rituals and the like,” Alonto noted.
Sagayan being performed publicly in a town square during a wedding in Tamparan in early 1920s. This was among the many photos taken by Ifor Ball Powell, the British photo-journalist who visited Ranao in the early 1920s, the American colonial period. From these photo and other such documentary records, it is clear that the Sagayan was essentially a part of community celebrations in the not-too-distant past in Ranao as well as in Maguindanao. (The photo is from the School of Oriental and African Studies (SOAS) of the University of London courtesy of Ruh Javier Alonto, enhanced by Ladysoda PH.)
The Sagayan originates from the Meranaw epic poem Darangen, mimicking warriors preparing for battle, featuring vigorous stomping, shield (klung) and sword (kampilan) movements, and representing the epic adventures of Prince Bantugan. It symbolizes strength, spiritual protection against evil, and is performed at celebrations like weddings to bring good fortune, accompanied by gongs and drums, and features colorful, elaborate warrior attire.
The Darangen is an ancient, oral epic poem of the Meranaw known for its 72,000 lines across 17 cycles, narrating heroic tales, societal values, and history, notably featuring Prince Bantugan.
A central episode in the epic known as Kiyaprawa’a ko Arkat Lawanen (The Abduction of Princess Lawanen). Princess Arkat a Lawanen (Lawanen), the beloved princess of Bumbaran, daughter of Queen Lalawanen and sister to the Ayonan (ruler) is bethrothed to Prince Mabaning Ndaw Rogong (Mabaning), the brave and noble prince of Gadongan.
However, Lawanen is abducted by Ayonan Dimasangkay of the kingdom of Sagorongan-a-Ragat, prompting Mabaning and his warriors to sail off to rescue his bethrothed, who is eventually returned to Bumbaran after an intense battle.
Sagayan, the war dance, recalls the battle to rescue Lawanen. Despite the clash, the rift ultimately ends in peace between the two kingdoms, making it a living heritage for protecting communities, reconciliation, and promoting peace among people.
The Madale Group of SLT Sagayan Learners demonstrate their prowess during the closing program competition. (RMB)
Having originated from the Darangen, Alonto stressed the Sagayan is part of this ‘living memory’ of ancient history of the Meranaw people of the Bangsamoro that has to be preserved, promoted and popularized as a cultural heritage on which their identity as Meranaw in particular, and as Bangsamoro in general, is anchored.
“To put it in perspective, the Sagayan encapsulates both elements of Ranao history and culture. And one that has history and culture is a civilization,” he added.
Traditionally, the dancers of the sagayan are dressed in atypical costumes based on mythological descriptions of Bantugan’s equipment in the epic Darangen. He was described as wearing the kapasti (a headdress in bright colors, like golden yellow, orange, and red interspersed with earthy tones such as dark green and brown, and adorned with brass bells with embedded mirrors), a long-sleeved top with the colors of the rainbow paired with a three-tiered skirt of red, green, and yellow, a klong (shield) made of the hardwood and with small bells, a kampilan (a large double-tipped war sword) tied to the wrist with five or seven holes decorated with animal hair, and a magerag (a shorter secondary sword).
The Mabaning Group of Learners in traditional Sagayan attire and colors. (RMB)
As they dance to the rhythmic beats of the tagunggo (gong ensemble), the pulsing cadence of the music is showcased in the dance steps characterized by fast stomping, jumping, rolling, kicking, and a sweeping of the arms punctuated by the elegant curving movements of the hands. The dance is a vivid and powerful representation of the warriors’ preparation for battle, embodying strength, bravery, and spiritual protection. The movements of the Sagayan are dynamic and vigorous, mimicking the actions of a warrior preparing for battle.
To ensure the Sagayan learners were properly mentored not just in the elements of dance, but also in its cultural and historical origins, the SLT tapped Mohammad Ali T. Hadji Usman, Artistic Director of the Sining PananademCultural Troupe, the official and only all-Meranaw cultural dance troupe of Mindanao State University Main Campus, in this city.
Sagayan Master Mohammad Ali T. Hadji Usman, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Commissioner Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto & Asst. Cultural Master Junaid Manamparan.
A visual artist, stage performer, choreographer, and theatrical director, Usman been an active member of since his first year in MSU-Marawi and has performed in various local, regional, national, and international stages showcasing Meranaw culture. Few of his remarkable stints were his performances in Lamama, New York and in Malaysia particularly in Kuala Lumpur, Kota Belud and Kota Kinabalu. He is also one of the scriptwriters of Maharadja Lawana– a stage production sponsored by NCCA. In addition, he serves as the Head Pressman of the Office of Information, Press and Publication aside from being designated as the Artistic Director of MSU Sining Pananadem.
Usman demonstrated some moves of the Sagayan during the closing program of the training, starting with the Kaganap sa Sagayan which is a traditional chant performed before the Sagayan calling on the marinaw (spirits) of the warriors’ ancestors for protection, and victory in battle.
Sagayan Master Ali invokes the spirits of his ancestors for protection and victory in battle prior to doing the Sagayan. (RMB)Sagayan Masters Ali and Junaid render a brief demo of the Sagayan.
Since he joined the group in 1994, Usman said he was encouraged by the former Artistic Director Guimbo “Guy” Datu, to delve into the history and heritage of the Sagayan but even before that, he was immersed and influenced by his musically inclined family in Mulondo, Lanao del Sur, where he later found out that his grandfather was a master of the Sagayan.
“I am happy and thankful that the BCPCH and especially the SLT has included the preservation of our cultural treasures like the Sagayan to our younger generations,” Usman said.
Vanishing Art?
Asked if the Sagayan today is a vanishing art, Alonto replied ‘yes’ and ‘no’. “Yes’ because its absence from community-level events and festivities today is a conspicuous reality; and ‘no’ because it is still being performed by professional cultural dance troupes before exclusive audiences in a formal theatrical stage.
He stressed how its absence from the community is the yardstick that indicates the Sagayan has become detached from the community grassroots populace, and has transitioned to theatrical optics for entertaining foreign and local tourists as well as the wealthy classes in exclusive events. It is now very seldom performed in community events nowadays.
The Bantugan Group of Sagayan Learners were adjuded the best performers during the friendly competition among the graduates. (RMB)
“The point is, absent its place in the community, the Sagayan is at risk of gradually vanishing from the collective memory of our young generations fixated on computer games, Facebook, TikTok, the latest IPhone, Hollywood Netflix, and the latest hip-hop dance style. I’m not saying we discard modern technology and Western art forms and entertainment altogether; what I mean is that these should not be the reason for forgetting our history, culture and traditions that made us who we are as a people and nation,” Alonto rued.
Despite this, Alonto remains thankful for Moro cultural dance troupes like Sining Pananadem for preserving indigenous Moro performing art forms from disappearing altogether in the face of aggressive Western acculturation.
Culture Bearers
During the closing program of the event, the 25 learners were divided into three groups named Bantugan, Mabaning and Madale (after main characters of the Darangen) and competed in a friendly competition to showcase through a live performance the basic skills they’ve learned in the SLT, impressing the judges with their admirable skills gained after only three days of basic training.
The graduates proudly display their certificates with BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Robert Maulana M. Alonto, Sagayan Master Ali, and Community Affairs Officer Salahudin M. Alonto. (RMB)
As cultural workers, this School of Living Tradition is more than a program – it is the heartbeat of our mandate. It reflects our resolve to serve with purpose and persevere through challenges, knowing that our heritage deserves to endure,” said Salahudin M. Alonto, BCPCH-Lanao del Sur Community Affairs Officer in closing the event.
“Every step taken in this journey strengthens the Meranaw story. Through this SLT, the BCPCH continues to stand not just as an institution, but as a faithful steward of cultural memory and a gateway for the generations to come.”
A short video featuring highlights of the closing program can be viewed by clicking this link.
NABUNTURAN, DAVAO DE ORO- When Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez (2nd District, Palawan) visited this capital town of this fast rising province, it wasn’t just a mere nostalgia which brought him back to the place where he spent many happy days of his childhood.
January 7, 2026 meeting at Davao de Oro Provincial Capitol at Nabunturan. (Left to right): JE Hydro Chairman & CEO Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan, World’s First Water Ventures Pres. Mary Hazel Abasolo, Rep. Maricar Zamora, Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez, Gov. Raul Mabanglo, Rep. Jhong Ceniza, Nabunturan Mayor My-My Balili, Vice Mayor Cyrian Reterba, and SB Member Rodel Balili.
In his meeting last January 7 with top government executives, Rep. Alvarez brought welcome tidings to the Davao de Oro Provincial Capitol at Nabunturan where he was warmly welcomed by Davao de Oro Governor Raul Mabanglo, Rep. Maria Carmen “Maricar” S. Zamora-Mabanglo (1st District), Leonel “Jhong” D. Ceniza (2nd District) and Nabunturan Mayor Mayrocel “My-My” C. Balili. Mabanglo, Zamora, and Ceniza are part of Davao de Oro’s Trifecta leadership, prioritizing public service and transparency.
During the informal meeting, Rep. Alvarez informed the group he has personally requested JE Hydro & Bio-Energy Corporation to set up water treatment plants for the towns of Nabunturan, Monkayo, and Pantukan within the next six months, and eventually to provide ready-to-drink safe and affordable potable water to the entire province of Davao de Oro.
Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan with Rep. Jose Ch. Alvarez.
Cagayan de Oro-based JE Hydro has already started its pioneering work in the Municipality of Compostela with the development of the JE Hydro Level-3 potable water supply project for 10,000 households in Compostela. Barely six months after it broke ground, the residents of Compostela are now enjoying safe, clean and affordable drinking water to three of its 16 barangays.
“The pioneering Level-3 water supply projects JE Hydro offers all over the country supplies ready-to-drink potable water 24/7 directly delivered to the faucet of every household at a cost of five centavos per liter or one peso (P1.00) per container against the twenty peso (P20.00) per container coming from the water refilling stations prevalent in the market,” stressed Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan, JE Hydro Chairman & CEO. “After our Compostela Water Treatment Plant (WTP) is completed, we shall next undertake pipelaying and continue processing water connection applications to serve the remaining barangays.”
Compostela Mayor Levi S. Ebdao speaks during the commissioning of the water system at Compostela, Davao de Oro.Potable water spurts from the Compostela water system during its commissioning last May 8, 2025
The water treatment facility under construction, a joint venture with World’s First Water Ventures, Inc., will have a daily production output of 5,000 million liters per day, sufficient to serve 10,000 connections with safe, affordable drinking water that’s been Certified Potable with Certificate of Potability (COP).
Compostela Mayor Levi S Ebdao (cemter in white cap) shares happy moments with residents during the commissioning of the Compostela water system.
The Department of Health (DOH), through its local health offices at the City/Municipal level and accredited laboratories, issues COPs for drinking water in the Philippines, certifying it meets the Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSDW).
Monkayo is the most populous municipality of Davao de Oro, known as the Gold Ore Hub for its rich gold deposits, especially around the famous Diwalwal area, with extensive agriculture and natural landscapes, serving as a key economic and cultural center in Mindanao.
Pantukan, a vibrant municipality in Davao de Oro, is best known for its gold-rich mountains, picturesque coastlines, and thriving fishing industry. Positioned along the Davao Gulf, the town offers a unique combination of mining, agriculture, and marine resources, making it a key economic player in the province.
According to the 2024 census, these three towns have a combined population of 273,666. Added to the 2024 population of Compostela, the four towns together would constitute a combined service area of 362,890 people comprising 87,621 households.
Proven Track Record
“My dream is to bring safe drinking water to millions of households in the Philippines,” said Engr. Hapitan. “ And my mission is to bring down the cost of drinking water from its current price of One Peso per Liter (P1.00) to Five Centavos per Liter (P0.05). I am committed to pursue my mission of providing access to safe drinking water to our countrymen, which I believe is a fundamental human right.”
Gifted with impeccable business acumen, charisma, and boundless knowledge and technical expertise, Hapitan disrupted the landscape of the Philippine water industry in a span of just 13 years, with JE Hydro’s 20 completed water treatment facilities producing a total volume of 206.5 million liters per day.
With the desire to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos as his north star, and believing that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, Hapitan established JE Hydro in 2011 in Cagayan de Oro City to provide a holistic approach to solving the water crisis in the country. These include the design, build, operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, pipe laying, and water distribution operations supported by proprietary home-grown technologies.
Engr Joffrey E. Hapitan (center, in black with hard hat) leads the ribbon cutting for the Lusaran 30MLD Water Treatment Plant.
In 2022, he completed his P1.2 billion legacy project, the 30 MLD (million liters per day) Water Treatment Facility in Barangay Lusaran in Cebu City, commissioned after just 150 days which supplies much needed bulk water to the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD).
“Our methodology employs the latest state-of-the-art technology in water resources engineering and hydrological studies, pipeline and ortho-mapping surveys, pipe network hydraulic modelling & analyses, detailed engineering design, and proven home-grown water treatment process that meets the standards of the 2017 Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSW),” Hapitan noted.
The JE Hydro facility in Brgy. Lusaran boasts an impressive capacity of 30,000 cubic meters per day, enough to serve 60,000 households. This game-changer brings an end to years of hardship and dependence to the 330 households under the Busay Heights Home Owners Association (BHOA), most of who previously relied on daily water deliveries from the Department of Public Services (DPS).
Residents of Sitio NHA and nearby areas in Barangay Busay, Cebu City, have been celebrating a major milestone – access to reliable potable water, thanks to JE Hydro & Bio- Energy Corporation! After over 30 years of living without a steady water source, the community can now breathe a sigh of relief.
The Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD) started supplying safe and potable water since December 23, 2025 with the commissioning of the distribution system made possible by JE Hydro’s long-term Bulk Water Supply Agreement signed in March 2021.
Cebu City Mayor Nestor D. Archival Sr. turns on the water supply for Sitio NHA during its commissioning on December 23, 2025. (source: FB page of Mayor Archival)
“My dream is to bring safe drinking water to millions of households in the Philippines,” said Engr. Joffrey E. Hapitan, Chairman and CEO of the trail blazing company. “ And my mission is to bring down the cost of drinking water from its current price of One Peso per Liter (P1.00) to Five Centavos per Liter (P0.05). I am committed to pursue my mission of providing access to safe drinking water to our countrymen which I believe is a fundamental human right.”
Gifted with impeccable business acumen, charisma, and boundless knowledge and technical expertise, Hapitan disrupted the landscape of the Philippine water industry in a span of just 13 years, with JE Hydro’s 20 completed water treatment facilities producing a total volume of 206.5 million liters per day.
With the desire to improve the lives of millions of Filipinos as his north star, and believing that access to safe drinking water is a fundamental human right, Hapitan established JE Hydro in 2011 to provide a holistic approach to solving the water crisis in the country. These include the design, build, operation and maintenance of water treatment facilities, pipe laying, and water distribution operations supported by proprietary home-grown technologies.
In 2022, he completed his P1.2 billion legacy project, the 30 MLD (million liters per day) Water Treatment Facility in Barangay Lusaran in Cebu City, commissioned after just 150 days which supplies much needed bulk water to the Metropolitan Cebu Water District (MCWD).
Engr Joffrey E. Hapitan (center, in black with hard hat) leads the ribbon cutting for the Lusaran 30MLD Water Treatment Plant. (JEHBEC)
“Our methodology employs the latest state-of-the-art technology in water resources engineering and hydrological studies, pipeline and ortho-mapping surveys, pipe network hydraulic modelling & analyses, detailed engineering design, and proven home-grown water treatment process that meets the standards of the 2017 Philippine National Standards for Drinking Water (PNSW),” Hapitan said.
The JE Hydro facility in Brgy. Lusaran boasts an impressive capacity of 30,000 cubic meters per day, enough to serve 60,000 households! This game-changer brings an end to years of hardship and dependence to the 330 households under the Busay Heights Home Owners Association (BHOA), most of who previously relied on daily water deliveries from the Department of Public Services (DPS)
Mayor Nestor Archival highlighted the impact of MCWD – JE Hydro project: “This brings immediate relief to families who’ve long suffered from limited access to water.”
Mayor Nestor D. Archival Sr, JE Hydro Vice Chairwoman Gina Hapitan and Mira Miscala during the groundbreaking for the Sitio NHA expansion last September. (source: FB page of Mayor Archival)
Archival personally inspected the newly installed MCWD stub-out connections which are now serving at least 240 residents in the area.
The inspection highlighted the City Government’s efforts to bring basic services to upland barangays that have long been underserved.
The project officially began with a groundbreaking ceremony last September attended by Archival and MCWD officials led by general manager Edgar Donoso.
Gina Hapitan, Mira Miscala, Mayor Nestor Archival, MCWD GM Edgar Donoso and Ivy Hapitan during the groundbreaking last September. (Source : FB Page of Mayor Archival)
The ceremony signaled the City Government’s commitment to address the long-standing water supply problem of residents living in elevated and hard-to-reach communities such as Sitio NHA.
According to the MCWD, a total of 12 stub-out connections have already been installed in Sitio NHA and its adjacent areas supplying residents with water after decades of relying on limited and unreliable sources. Another six stub-outs are also targeted for installation by this month.
Once completed, these additional connections aim to reach120 more residents, including families residing in a nearby relocation site.
Mayor Nestor D. Archival chats with a happy resident of Sitio NHA as he waters his plants for the first time with water from MCWD. (Source: FB Page of Mayor Archival)
For the residents of Sitio NHA and surrounding areas, the availability of a stable water supply marks the end of years of hardship caused by the absence of dependable access to water.
Donoso said the MCWD will extend water service to surrounding sitios to even the most remote areas, once the initial connections are in place.
Residents expressed relief and gratitude as water finally flowed into their community after decades of waiting, describing the development as a long-overdue improvement that will significantly ease daily life and improve overall living conditions in the upland barangay.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan’s boutique sized XU Press has attained another milestone in its publication journey.
In an announcement posted in its social media page, the National Book Development Board (NBDB) announced the recipients of its 2025 Publication Grant.
From 238 applications, the NBDB selected 20 submissions that will be its Publication Grant recipients for 2025. The genres of this year’s awardees range from fiction and poetry to children’s literature and non-fiction.
What is remarkable about the latest selection is no less than 5 of the 20 recipients were submitted by XU Press. XU Press submitted 13 manuscripts for the NBDP’s consideration.
*A Collection of Preliminary Materials on the Lumad Belief System of Mindanao by Rudy Buhay Rodil
*Touching Our Roots: A Convergence of Tri-Peoples of Mindanaw and Sulu In Question and Answerby Rudy Buhay Rodil
*The Churning of the Sea Milk and Other Essaysby Elio Garcia
*Marawi in the Heartby Elin Anisha Guro
*Pagsantop han Warayby Voltaire Oyzon and Tom Payne
“Our deep gratitude to NBDB for this recognition and support! This means so much for Xavier University’s small publishing outfit that provides a voice to narratives from the regions, preserves cultural heritage, exploring unexplored themes or research areas, and countering the centralizing influence of the bigger national publishing industry,” said Arlene J. Yandug, XU Press Manager and Editor.
Another grant recipient, AND NOT TO YIELD (World War II Stories from Mindanao) will also be published by XU Press but was submitted individually to the NBDB by author Rene Michael D. Baños.
Previously, XU Press won four of the 22 grants awarded to publishing houses chosen by the NMDB as recipients for its 2023 publication grants, selected from 118 applications from publishers all over the Philippines.
The winning titles from XU Press include Bride Price and Other Stories, a short story collection by Dr. Calbi Asain; Sikwateng Uwan, a multi-genre collection of post-Sendong literary works by Dr. Maria Elena Paulma and Dr. Jeena Rani Marquez-Manaois; Lasang sa mga Pasumbingay: Sixteen Southern Writers, an anthology of works and poetics of Southern writers edited by Merlie Alunan, Aivee Badulid, and Lemuel Zalradarriaga; Lanao Boy: A Life: The Writings of Manuel E. Buenafe (1916-1963), a collection of literary works and memoirs edited by Dr. Maria Corazon Buenafe.
Due to its conservative three-person staff and limited budget, XU Press could only take a maximum of two to three publications a year, inclusive of the Kinaadman Journal.
Former XU Press Manager Elio Garcia, who is one of this year’s grant recipients, acknowledged the constraints posed by its personnel, relative youth, and budget limits, noting how it takes time to cultivate a relationship with the reading public and the wherewithal to publish emerging and established writers. He believes Xavier Ateneo can meet these challenges by investing in human and technical resources “so we can meet the writers exactly where they are, and accelerate the production of vetted knowledge.”
Yandug reiterated the importance of the University’s name in giving the press credibility and power, hence attracting authors who trust the press’s vision, its peer review and editorial mechanism.
She further stated that XU Press is not a commercial publisher, and that its most important role is in its ability to nurture new authors, and amplify local voices that do not easily find their way into the national publishing houses.”
“In this way, regional presses have the power to diversify the national narratives and enrich the literary landscape and knowledge production of the country,” she added.
Tapping grant-giving institutions such as NBDB can help offset publication costs and provide support for writers who want to develop their manuscript.
“We hope that XU Press can provide guidance and conversations for writers who need to incubate their work, especially the emerging ones, by organizing workshops, forums, demystifying the publication process, and linking writers to those who can mentor and provide support,” Elio noted.
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) is an attached agency of the Department of Education that develops and promotes the Philippine book publishing industry. As the book authority of the Philippines, the NBDB leads the formulation and implementation of policies that support the growth of the book publishing industry in the Philippines.
Among its operational plans include capacity-building initiatives, investment and trade promotion activities, grants and incentives, readership development campaigns, and industry research and data gathering
The NBDB co-organizes the National Book Awards with the Manila Critics Circle, the National Children’s Book Awards (with the Philippine Board on Books for Young People), and the Filipino Readers’ Choice Awards.
A number of grants and subsidies including The National Book Development Trust Fund, Publication Grants, the NBDB Translation Subsidy Program, and the Creative Nation Grant are also available from the organization.
The National Book Development Board (NBDB) Publication Grant is a Philippine program that provides financial assistance to publishers, enterprises, institutions, authors, and editors who intend to publish a Filipino book. Deserving manuscripts are set to receive grants for as much as PHP 200,000.00, covering publication costs such as editing, layout, and printing. Applicants must be registered with the NBDB and submit an application along with the complete manuscript.
Bringing in the written word from the peripheries
In pursuit of the Jesuit mission “to reach out to people beyond their frontiers” in Mindanao, Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan’s (Xavier Ateneo) XU PRESS presents itself as an “alternative press” for the Mindanao-focused writings, research and literature, which would otherwise would not have been published by the country’s “Manila-centered” publishing industry.
XU Press was conceptualized in 2007 as a publishing arm of Xavier Ateneo by then University President Fr Jose Ramon Villarin SJ to systematize its academic and scholarly publications.
As a University-based publisher, XU Press plays a role in publishing instructional materials pertinent to the academic curricula and books that address the knowledge gaps in the region. This latter role, in view of the scarcity of publishing outfits in the region, has made XU Press vital in promoting awareness of Mindanao to the bigger world.
Set up by Hilly Ann Quiaoit, PhD, under the Kinaadman Research Center (now Kinaadman: University Research Office) during her term as Director, XU Press was formally established in 2008 with the launching of The Immortal Sea, a collection of lectures, addresses and homilies by the late Fr Miguel Bernad, SJ.
Since then the Press has evolved through time, producing textbooks as a staple product, on top of Kinaadman Journal which is its flagship publication, notes Yandug.
Currently, XU Press publishes literature, literary studies, and social science books that advance Mindanaoan identity, history, and culture (alongside the usual instructional materials used by XU students).
Noting the growth of this mission-driven publishing outfit through the years, Yandug says that XU Press has “slowly, but steadily ventured to publish books that cover a wider range of topics and cultural expressions, including poetry, interviews, and anthologies.”
One of its books, Songs Sprung from Natives Soils (2019) edited by Ricardo M. de Ungria, won the 39th National Book Award for Best Book of Literary History in English this year, a recognition not only of the author, but also of what the Press and the University stand for.
“This is the first time that XU Press won an award such as this, and the timing could not have been more propitious, as the office with its new manager is gearing up for the future with strategic plans,” Yandug stressed.
More recently, Yandug’s Coming Home to the Island: Poems won the 41st Philippine Literary Arts Council Prize for Best Book of Poetry in English.
Dr. Arlene J. Yandug, XU Press Manager
The author expressed her delight with the citation, but likewise some trepidation moving forward to her next book, given her duties as Kinaadman Journal, and concurrently as manager of the XU Press, on top of a teaching load.
The 41st National Book Award’s Best Book of Poetry in English is a significant literary award in the Philippines, specifically aimed at recognizing and celebrating outstanding poetry written in the English language. It is organized by the National Book Development Board (NBDB) and the Manila Critics Circle, and it is one of the most prestigious accolades for poets and writers in the country.
“We are aware that there are a lot of writers in the region, whose works need to be showcased, and by publishing with XU Press, we are balancing the ecosystem of publishing since we are among the few university-based presses outside Manila. In a sense, we participate in the decentering of knowledge production,” Garcia noted.
Alongside local presses, XU Press hopes to gain leverage in drawing attention to the distinctiveness of local cultures through publication of works on Mindanao, and thus contribute to the local publication industry and flourishing of the knowledge ecosystem that is reflective of the country’s diversity.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC), one of the largest private medical facilities in Mindanao, is the first hospital in Northern Mindanao to be fully powered by renewable energy (RE).
Under the agreement signed by CUMC and First Gen Corporation (First Gen) officials last month, the latter would supply 900 kilowatts (kW) of geothermal power to support the electricity needs of the 200-bed hospital, including its Kidney Institute, and other specialty care facilities.
The company will source the renewable energy supply from the Mt Apo Geothermal Plant in Cotabato, owned and operated by First Gen subsidiary Energy Development Corporation.
“We are pleased to be the first medical center in Mindanao to be powered directly by geothermal energy that is also harnessed from Mindanao. We look forward to reaping the benefits of using renewable energy not just for helping the environment, but for doing our part to improve the health and well-being of Kagay-anons,” said Dr Rosalinda Deleste, CUMC President.
CUMC was able to connect directly to geothermal energy, through the government’s Green Energy Option Program (GEOP). GEOP enables eligible power users with average peak demand of at least 100 kilowatts over the past 12 months to source 100% of their electricity requirements from RE suppliers.
Capitol University Medical Center (CUMC) marks milestone as the first medical facility in Mindanao to be fully powered by renewable energy. CUMC partnered with First Gen Corporation (First Gen) for direct supply of geothermal energy sourced from the Mt Apo Geothermal Plant in Cotabato, through an agreement signed by First Gen Chief Customer Engagement Officer Carlo Vega and Head of Mindanao Sales Mary Grace Butil (2nd and 1st from right, respectively); with (from left) CUMC ENT-HNS Department Head Dr Monique Lucia Jardin-Quing, Capitol University Executive Vice President Dr Fe Juarez, and CUMC President/CEO Rosalinda R. Deleste, DM.
“Geothermal energy is ideal for hospitals, industries and other businesses that need reliable RE supply It’s an honor to support CUMC as they begin their journey towards decarbonization,” said First Gen Chief Customer Engagement Officer Carlo Vega.
Mindanao clean energy champion Assistant Secretary Romeo Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) stresses the urgent need to create more demand for renewable energy (RE) to attain the 50:50 RE to fossil fuel energy mix in Mindanao in 2030. Photo handout: CREAM Project/Gibson Bacas
“CUMC’s shift to geothermal power is more than an energy decision—it is a bold declaration of support to Mindanao’s energy transition and in securing a cleaner, more resilient future for our people. These decisions echo far beyond their boardrooms and clearly shows what is possible when vision meets resolve—bringing us closer to our 50/50 energy mix by 2030,” said Asst. Secretary Romeo Montenegro, Deputy Executive Director of the Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA), which is leading the advocacy to attain energy parity between thermal and RE in the Mindanao Grid by 2030.
With over 1,700 megawatts (MW) of RE capacity from over 22 geothermal, wind, solar and hydro facilities, First Gen is the largest RE provider in the Philippines.
Aside from the Mt Apo geothermal facility, First Gen owns and operates a 1.6 MW run-of-river mini-hydro facility in Manolo Fortich, Bukidnon that uses water flowing from the Agusan River. The company is also expanding its portfolio in Mindanao with two other planned hydro projects—the 32-MW Bubunawan Hydro project in Libona, Bukidnon; and the 40-MW San Isidro Hydroelectric Power Project, along the Cagayan River. Both proposed projects plan to utilize run-of-river design, which means electricity is generated by using a river’s natural flow without building a large dam or reservoir.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY- A new arts and culture initiative created by three of Mindanao’s Best and Brightest Creatives aims to rocket the island’s rich tradition to the mainstream consciousness.
Dubbed FORMA, Vibrant Mindanao Design Commune, it is the brain child of Jerome de la Fuente with Chris Gomez and Shine J. Casiño.
Jerome de la Fuente being interviewed by this author at FORMA (photo by Shine J. Casiño)
Concept
“For centuries, Mindanao has been celebrated for its vibrant tradition of craftmanship rooted in its rich cultural heritage. Skilled artisans from across the island have passionately handcrafted unique products utilizing endemic materials, telling a captivating story of the region’s artistic mastery and its people’s creativity and resourcefulness,” said De La Fuente, President of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Cagayan de Oro (COHARA) and the General Manager of Limketkai Luxe Hotel where FORMA is located.
“The FORMA Design Commune presents a curated showcase featuring Art, homestyle and fashion pieces from esteemed artists and designers from the island of Mindanao.”
Dela Fuente is recognized for his leadership in promoting the city to the rest of the Philippines and abroad. His previous exposure as Managing Partner at 360 Hospitality & Lifestyle Solutions and Divisional Director of Sales & Marketing for Hilton International allows him to leverage his global perspective in tourism marketing and business promotion and development.
His partners in FORMA are both two-time winners of Habi Kadayawan, a fashion design competition that’s one of the major events of the Kadayawan Festival of Davao City. It celebrates the cultural heritage of Mindanao by highlighting the fusion of tradition with contemporary design.
Chris Gomez (rightmost) and Shine J. Casiño (3rd from right) with FORMA designers Kiko Domo, Topeng Zamora, Kay Fanlo, Mark Christopher Yaranon, Gil Macaibay, & Joshua Guibone. Not in photo is Melvin Lachica. (photo by Jennifer Lim/Limketkai Luxe)
Chris Gomez was adjudged the Habi Kadayawan 2023 Grand Prize winner in the Commercial Fashion Accessories Category with his “Panolong Clutch Bag”, while ShineJ. Casiño’s “Higalaay Splendor” finished as Second Runner up in the Luxe Apparel category. Casiño was previously a runner-up in the Luxe Apparel Category, while Gomez was a finalist in the Fashion Accessories Professional Category in the 3rd Habi Kadayawan Design Competition.
Chris Gomez’s award winning PANULONG clutch bag.Bea-Zobel-Jrs-exclusive-minaudiere-collection-by-Chris-Gomez This Lanao Handbag is made from denim, wood, shell, cocoon balls, silk tassels, acrylic gold and beads. The gold aquatic images are inspired by the Lake that symbolizes royalty and prestige, a homage to the artisanal skills of the Meranaw by bringing their craft to the world.Chris-Gomez-is-the-Grand-Prize-Winner-for-Habi-Kadayawan-2023-Fashion-Accessories-Commercial-Category.
Gomez is an award-winning Filipino artist known for winning the grand prize in the water based media category of the 2012 Metrobank Art & Design Excellence (MADE) Awards. He is also recognized for his work in product development and as a mentor to designers and artisans all over Mindanao. He is actively involved in the local design community, advocating for creative development and helping designers navigate career challenges.
In addition to his MADE award, he is a recipient of the 2024 ACES (Award for Continuing Excellence in Service) and is known for being featured by Metrobank Foundation for his contributions to art and design.
A self-taught fashion designer, stylist, eventologist and society PR, Shine J. Casiño wants to bring to bring the Mindanao Look to the World following another breakthrough milestone in her journey which includes stops with mentors Melvin Lachica, the late Cesar Gaupo and Avel Bacudio.
Top Row: Shine Casiño’s Filipiniana Moderne Collection bespoke for FORMA. Bottom row: Shine Casiño’s winning Mindanaw Look in Habi Kadayawan 2019 showcased the Maranao Okir and Langkit motifs in the Mindanao Silk of Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental. (Photo courtesy of Alniah A T Decampong-Magoyag)
This entails modernizing the Mindanaw Look focusing on the colorful tapestry of Mindanao’s history and culture; fusing and matching various elements of Mindanao’s various cultures not only for materials, colors, but also fashion accessories.
For instance for her Habi Kadayawan 2019 entry, Casiño drew inspiration from the Maranao Okir and Langkit motifs and made liberal use of the Mindanao Silk being produced in Laguindingan, Misamis Oriental.
Vibrant Mindanaw
“This has long been a dream of mine. I met Chris Gomez at a 2016 exhibit uptown and asked if he as interested to do a project together to spotlight creative people from Mindanao and showcase their talent,” De la Fuente revealed. “This is part of a campaign for Vibrant Mindanaw: to showcase the artistic side of the people from Mindanao which has always been sidelined by Luzon and the Visayas in the mainstream, to encourage people to come and visit Mindanao, do business with the people of Mindanao, and establish their companies here.”
FORMA brings together the best and brightest of Mindanao’s Creatives in one space . (Photos courtesy of Chris Gomez)
He asked Gomez to invite the artists and designers interested to join the project and he provided the space for the exhibit.
One of the initiatives De la Fuente is eyeing is to showcase the Malong because it signifies what Mindanao is all about.
A malong is a traditional, tubular-style wraparound garment from the Philippines, traditionally worn by many ethnic groups in mainland Mindanao and the Sulu Archipelago, such as the Meranaw, Maguindanao, and T’boli.
It is a versatile piece of cloth that can be worn in many ways, such as a skirt, dress, headscarf, blanket, or for carrying a baby, and is also used in traditional ceremonies from birth to death. The fabric is often handwoven with intricate geometric designs known as okirand langkit, the colorful strip of tapestry commonly used to join pieces of fabric to create a single, broader section of malong landap, the traditional tubular garment of the Meranaw.
The use of wraparound skirts is a common feature across Southeast Asia. Similar garments are worn in other parts of the Philippines (where they may have different names like tapis) and in countries like Malaysia and Thailand.
Hindu-Buddhist cultural influences introduced concepts like the sarong (which malong and similar skirts are related to) to the Philippines, but these were heavily modified after the Spanish arrival in the 16th century.
While machine-made versions inspired by the malong can be found in other regions, the traditional, hand-woven malong with its distinct patterns remains a symbol of the cultures in Mindanao.
“I want to design a collection for men, like a barong tagalog in Malong. To start I am going to Marawi to invite the School of Living Traditions under Princess Alonto Pacasum Lucman to get this going,” De la Fuente said.
The Marawi City School of Living Traditions is a dedicated facility and program aimed at preserving the rich Meranaw cultural identity. It operates as a community-managed learning center where master artisans impart traditional knowledge and skills through non-formal, hands-on workshops in traditional crafts like langkit weaving (a vital part of Meranaw heritage), okir making (intricate designs), tiyatag (native delicacies), and brass making.
The initiative aligns with the national School of Living Traditions program established by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), which is recognized by UNESCO for its efforts in safeguarding intangible cultural heritage. The Bangsamoro Commission on the Promotion of Culture Heritage (BCPCH-Lanao del Sur) under Commissioner Robert Maulana Marohombsar Alonto collaborates with local government units to facilitate these activities.
“If this works well, I will expand this in the Limketkai Mall,” De La Fuente disclosed. “We are also planning to do an Art Centre in the Garden in collaboration with the University of Science & Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) in collaboration with their Architecture and Engineering professors and students.”
As Cucina Higala, the only restaurant in Mindanao celebrating the island’s Heritage Dishes, celebrated its 9th Year Anniversary, the following greeting was posted on its social media page:
Celebrating 9 Years of Mindanao Heritage Cuisine and Memorable Dining Experiences
Today we celebrate 9 wonderful years of Mindanao Heritage Cuisine — nine years of stories, flavors, culture, and countless shared moments with you, our beloved higala.
Today, we honor the heart of Cucina Higala — our incredible Front of the House, Back of the House, and Support Services Team. Our success is because of them, and made possible by them.
To our dedicated team: thank you for sharing your talent, commitment, and heart every single day.
To our beloved guests: thank you for celebrating this journey with us and for continuing to make every day meaningful. Join us today as we jump for joy for this incredible milestone!
Here’s to more years of culture, heritage, and the warm Cucina Higala experience!
In an earlier series of socmed posts, Cucina Higala also shared its Significant Milestones for its First Nine Years (2016-2025):
November 28, 2016 Cucina Higala opens
2017 Launch of the Mindanao Heritage Dishes : Humba de Oro and Sizzling Binaki in Caramel Sauce
2017- 2018 The Cagayan de Oro City Health Office awarded the “best restaurants” based on food and sanitation standards, with the Best Overall Rating for two consecutive years.
2019 Cucina Receives its very first Certificate of Excellence from TripAdvisor
2020 Cucina Higala launches Rice Toppings, bringing Mindanao Heritage Dishes within reach of every Kagay-anon household
2021 Cucina Higala opens its Cucina Veranda, with an fresco dining experience
2022 Cucina Higala launches Lamb Kulma, its 11th Heritage Dish, continuing its advocacy to promote Mindanao Heritage Dishes
2023 Cucina Higala continues to be recognized by its international partner, Tripadvisor as Traveler’s Choice 2023, and local partner Maxim Client’s Choice 2023.
2024 Opening of the Capiz Room, a new venue created to host memorable family moments and private events.
Here’s More Cheers to 9+ More Years for Cagayan de Oro’s iconic Home of Mindanao Heritage Dishes! MABUHAY!
CMO Command will address Strategic Shift to Emerging Warfare Domains
“Leadership is not about you… its about the people you lead and about the people you serve.”
-LtGen Arvin R Lagamon
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY-Kagay-anon Lieutenant General Arvin R Lagamon been promoted to three star rank and appointed as the first ever commander of the new Civil-Military Operations Command, Armed Forces of the Philippines, in the formal donning of rites held Thursday, 17 November 2025 at Camp Aguinaldo with AFP Chief of Staff Gen Romeo S Brawner Jr. presiding as Guest of Honor and Speaker.
In a statement, the AFP said “The activation reflects the AFP’s strategic shift to prepare for the evolving landscape of Multi-Domain Operations, particularly in the information and cognitive domains. It underscores the military’s commitment to integrating civil-military efforts with modern information operations to enhance situational awareness, influence, and decision-making across the force.”
AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo S Brawner Jr leads the unfurling of the Civil-Military Operations Command during its Activation Ceremony on November 13. (AFP photo)
In line with this transformation, the AFP deactivated the Civil Relations Service (CRSAFP). Its Commander, Major General Oliver C Maquiling, was awarded the Distinguished Service Medal for his exemplary leadership and contributions to the organization.
AFP Chief of Staff Gen Romeo S Brawner Jr. formally hands over the command flag to LtGen Arvin R Lagamon, symbolizing the assumption of leadership of the newly established CMO Command. (AFP photo)
The AFP further revealed that the CMO Command will integrate civil-military operations with information and cognitive warfare, aligning communication, community engagement, and stakeholder coordination to enable the AFP to respond effectively to modern challenges while maintaining credibility and public trust in an increasingly complex multi-domain battle space.
LtGen Lagamon is the fourth of five sons of the late Justice and Con-Con Delegate Alfredo “Loloy” Lagamon of Patag, Cagayan de Oro City, and the late Maria Nieves Reyes, an accountant and teacher from Camiguin.
Due to his father’s profession as a judge, he and his siblings moved around when they were younger to Bukidnon, Davao and other places. His family split their time between Cagayan de Oro City and Camiguin, where the Reyes family has their ancestral home. He and his brothers played competitive tennis in their younger years.
The family settled in Cagayan de Oro City in the early 1980s and LtGen Lagamon finished his elementary and high school at Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan (Xavier Ateneo).
From the XUGS 1983 YearbookExcerpt from the 1987 XUHS Yearbook
Although his brothers all studied law and became lawyers (Alphon, Albert, Alfredo Jr aka Jong , and Archie) he chose not to burden his father further whose only income was his salary as judge (and later CA justice) with which he had to educate five sons one year apart in age (except Archie who was 5 years younger than him).
So he decided to pursue a military career and qualify as a Philippine Military Academy (PMA cadet). But since he was still under age to qualify for the PMA after graduating from high school, he first took up BS Civil Engineering at Xavier.
Finally, he was admitted as a cadet to the PMA on April 1, 1988 and became part of PMA Tanglaw Diwa class of 1992. Among his mistahs are current 4th Infantry “Diamond” Division Commander MGen Michele B. Anayron. Jr., AFP Eastern Mindanao Commander MGen Adonis Ariel Orio, and AFP Western Mindanao Commander MGen Donald Gumiran.
LtGen Lagamon was graduated with a Bachelor of Science in February 16, 1992, and after graduating from the Scout Rangers Training Center two months later, he assumed his first command as Platoon Leader of A Co, 6th Infantry Battalion, 6th Infantry Division at Maguindanao del Norte in June.
He eventually became company commander and two years later was assigned as Aide-de-Camp at the then Southern Command in Camp Basilio Navarro at Calarian, Zamboanga City, and later with then AFP Chief of Staff Gen Joselin Nazareno.
In 2003, he became chief of the PA’s Public Affairs Branch (Office of the G-7) at the National Capital Region. By 2012, he was back in the field as Assistant Chief of Staff for Civil-Military Operations (OG7) of the 8th Infantry Division at Camp General Vicente Lukban in Catbalogan City, Samar.
LtGen Arvin Lagamon takes a break in his hometown of Cagayan de Oro with his family and friend. (MRLL)
LtGen Lagamon met his wife, former ABS-CBN reporter Charo Logarta when he was still a captain and she was covering skirmishes in Mindanao in mid-2020. They married less than a year later in February 2021, and have two kids: Alexandra Clea, currently taking Law at the University of the Philippines (Diliman) and Arvin Miguel, a BS Psychology student at Ateneo de Manila University.
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The well-kept secret that is Cagayan de Oro City is a secret no longer.
The officially recognized alumni association in the Philippines of Harvard University in Cambridge, Massachusetts, recently completed their first ever travel event to this city to have an up-close-and-personal look at the Philippines’ emerging fourth metropolitan area.
Patricia-Ann T. Prodigalidad, ACCRALAW Managing Director, and Co-President of the Harvard Club of the Philippines Global (HCPG, the official alumni association of Harvard Alumni Foundation of the Philippines) said their Harvard Travel Series is the only alumni group activity outside of Cambridge that goes beyond mere travel and socials.
“A Harvard event has to have some form of information sharing, so we interspersed socials with learning about the country, particularly how certain cities have become more progressive than others. Every time you meet other people, other industries, other professions, that touch point is an opportunity.”
The biannual event preferably held at a location where a Harvard alumnus resides, chose Cagayan de Oro as its first destination, with Pueblo de Oro Chairman & CEO Guillermo D. Luchangco (Harvard ’67) hosting the event.
The Harvard Club of the Philippines Global chose Cagayan de Oro as the first destination for their Travel Series. The 3-day tour was hosted by Pueblo de Oro. (photo by Apple Barretto)
Maria Carolina V. Dominguez, President & CEO, John Clements Consultants, the group’s immediate past co-president, expressed her delight in their decision to hold their first travel series in Cagayan de Oro.
“We just started the Travel Series. We were blown away. Uptown was so beautiful, bustling with a vibe like Makati. And you have such wonderful restaurants, I don’t think you can find ones like these in other highly urbanized cities. It’s a very sophisticated city, and for someone like me I’ve seen a lot in my travels abroad. The culture, the food, the shopping, the golf course is beautiful.”
At a luncheon presentation held at a restaurant at SM CDO Uptown’s North Wing, Luchangco challenged the group: if Chicago is known as the Second City in the United States after New York, couldn’t Cagayan de Oro aspire to be the Philippines second city?
He related his experience as a First Mover to develop 360 hectares of barren land in the uptown area in 1995, encouraged by the city’s economic profile with one of the largest middle-class populations in the entire country (5% in the high-income class; 77% in the middle-income class; only 18% in the low-income class) that were good indicators for housing demand.
“Wow, it would be hard to find another Philippine city with those kinds of numbers,” he exclaimed. He further noted how it is the entrepot trading center for Northern Mindanao, with the Mindanao Container Terminal right beside it.
Equally encouraging was the emergence of Cagayan de Oro as the country’s fourth metropolitan area after Metro Manila, Cebu, and Davao. Cagayan de Oro is the only city in the Visayas and Mindanao which ranks among the Top 12 of the Philippines Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) with the Highest Gross Domestic Product per Capita in 2024. UK-based Oxford Economics ranks Cagayan de Oro as the sixth largest urban economy in the Philippines in the list of 1,000 world’s largest urban economies in 2025 for the second year in a row.
According to the Bureau of Local Government Finance, Cagayan de Oro City also ranks second to Davao City in terms of Locally Sourced Revenue in 2024 with P3.15 Billion. With only 40% of Davao City’s population and a mere 17% of its land area, Cagayan de Oro LGU generated 36% more revenues per capita, attesting to the productivity and regulatory compliance of Kagay-anons and their establishments.
Bangko Sentral ng Pilipinas (BSP) records further show that in 2024, Cagayan de Oro had total bank deposits of P163.39 billion, second to Davao City in Mindanao (which had P336.29 billion), but ahead of other Mindanao urban centers like Cotabato City (P117.78 billion), Zamboanga City (P88.95 billion), and General Santos City (P64.91 billion).
Metro Cagayan de Misamis Development Authority
Meantime, the House Committee on Ways and Means and Committee on Government Enterprises have already approved House Bill No. 1843 filed by Rep. Rufus B. Rodriguez (2nd District, Cagayan de Oro) creating the Metro Cagayan de Misamis Development Authority (MCMDA) as a unified development authority that would formulate policies for the efficient and most effective delivery of basic services in the area such as Development Planning, Transport & Traffic Management, Solid Waste Management, Flood Control & Sewerage Management, Urban Renewal, Zoning, Land Use Planning and Shelter Services, among others, without prejudice to the autonomy, powers and jurisdiction of the LGUs covered.
Flying below the radar
Haidee Enriquez, President, Contact Center Association of the Philippines and CEO of Microsourcing, the biggest outsourcing company in the Philippines with some 10,000 employees in Cebu, Cagayan de Oro and Davao, said she’s very bullish about Cagayan de Oro.
“One of the things that to me made a difference: the Cagayan de Oro ICT Business Council treated us very warmly. After the presentation, they helped us with our first job fair, coordinated with the LGU, investment house was very helpful (Oro-TIPC), which was at a different level from what we experienced elsewhere. The heads of the colleges and universities were present during the presentation. I will always go with the option where we can make the most impact.”
She also mentioned the reason that Cagayan de Oro was a “well-kept secret” was for the most part it was “flying below the radar”.
Whenever she visits the provinces as a member of the National ICT Confederation of the Philippines, she never fails to stress to the universities their need to be in a platform they where they can be seen because the reason why investors don’t seem to be coming, was because investors cannot see how robust their talent pools are.
Upgrading Cagayan de Oro
For his part, Luchangco presented Pueblo de Oro’s (PDO) two upcoming major projects which would further elevate the city’s prestige and attraction to investors.
Pueblo-de-Oro-Chairman-Guillermo-D.-Luchangco-presents-the-Masterson-Mile-North-Towers-project-during-the-CDO-Investment-Forum-at-EDSA-Shangri-La in October 2023 (Oro-TIPC)
Masterson Mile North, a five-tower complex would offer residents apartments of a higher standard and quality than any other residential condominiums in CDO today. Gensler and Associates, an international master planning and architectural firm based in San Francisco, ensures the Luxury Units would further upgrade the aura of the city as a hip, upcoming, and modern place in which to invest, locate, or do business.
Similarly, the 31-hectare Southridge (next to the Pueblo-Laguindingan Road which cuts by half travel time from the city to the Laguindingan International Airport) would be a Silicon Valley-type project with plenty of greenery between buildings, mid-rise buildings of 6-8 storeys at most, and a generally rolling landscape. The buildings may house residential apartments, offices and BPO buildings, retail areas, and leisure parks.
A World Trade Center is also being considered for the area. At present, there is only World Trade Center Metro Manila located in Pasay managed by PDO’s sister company, World Trade Center Management, Inc.
Masterson Mile North and Southridge are innovative and PDO hopes it contributes to the further growth of the city and its further upgrading and sophistication as a leading urban center of the country.
The Harvard Club of the Philippines Global were hosted to a sumptuous dinner of Mindanao Heritage Dishes at Cucina Higala by their host Pueblo de Oro led by Chairman & CEO Guillermo Luchangco (center in black) and President Prim Nolido (Left, 2nd row in light blue). (RMB)
Harvard University is a privateIvy Leagueresearch university in Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States. It is the oldest institution of higher learning in the United States. Its influence, wealth, and rankings have made it one of the most prestigious universities in the world
The Harvard Alumni Association (HAA) is the official association for more than 420,000 Harvard alumni around the world who have attended Harvard College or one of Harvard’s Graduate and Professional Schools. HAA maintains and enhances a highly engaged, vibrant community of alumni and friends worldwide. It helps connect alumni to the University and each other through a wealth of networking opportunities, professional development resources, online services, programs, volunteer opportunities, faculty-led trips and events around the world, among others.
