Plaza Divisoria Unveils Dancing Fountain

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — Plaza Divisoria has gained a vibrant new attraction with the launch of its colorful Dancing Fountain, adding a fresh and exciting feature to one of the city's most iconic public spaces.

The newly installed fountain showcases synchronized water displays illuminated by colorful lights, creating a relaxing and visually appealing experience for residents and visitors alike. Located at the heart of the city, the attraction has quickly become a favorite spot for evening strolls, family bonding, and photo opportunities.

Aside from the colorful Dancing Fountain, an air-conditioned public restroom has also been added within the park for public use. Unlike before, visitors can now use the facility free of charge, eliminating the need to pay the usual ₱5 restroom fee. The addition provides greater convenience and comfort for both residents and tourists enjoying the area.

The improvements are part of the city's continuing efforts to enhance public spaces and make Plaza Divisoria a more welcoming destination for everyone.

Meanwhile, Mayor Rolando "Klarex" Uy has also shared plans to revive a portion of the popular Night Café concept along El Pueblo A Sus Heroes. Unlike the previous setup that featured various food stalls and vendors, the proposed concept will focus primarily on coffee shops operating every Friday and Saturday.

The initiative aims to create a relaxing weekend atmosphere where residents and visitors can enjoy coffee, socialize, and spend quality time in the city center. The planned coffee strip is expected to complement the newly launched Dancing Fountain and further boost nighttime activities in downtown Cagayan de Oro.

With these developments, the city continues to invest in projects that enhance public spaces, encourage tourism, and provide enjoyable experiences for Kagay-anons and visitors alike.

MISAMIS ORIENTAL, Philippines — Summer adventures in Northern Mindanao begin the moment travelers arrive at Laguindingan International Airport, the region’s primary gateway connecting visitors to breathtaking landscapes, outdoor adventures, cultural landmarks, and unforgettable experiences across Misamis Oriental.

As part of its commitment to connecting travelers to meaningful journeys across the country, Aboitiz InfraCapital through Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC), the operator of Laguindingan International Airport, continues to strengthen connectivity and promote destinations that highlight the beauty, culture, and tourism potential of Misamis Oriental.

Whether you're seeking cool mountain escapes, spiritual destinations, thrilling marine adventures, or hidden natural wonders, Misamis Oriental offers something for every type of traveler. Here are some destinations worth adding to your summer itinerary:

Claveria View Deck: A Refreshing Highland Escape

Nestled in the cool highlands of Claveria, the Claveria View Deck offers spectacular panoramic views of rolling hills, mountain ranges, and lush landscapes. Known for its refreshing climate and picturesque scenery, the destination has become a favorite stop for road-trippers, photographers, and travelers looking to escape the summer heat.

Visitors can enjoy breathtaking sunrise views, local delicacies, and the peaceful atmosphere that makes Claveria one of Northern Mindanao’s most charming upland destinations.

Divine Mercy Shrine: A Place of Faith and Reflection

Standing majestically in El Salvador, the Divine Mercy Shrine remains one of the province’s most iconic pilgrimage and cultural destinations.

The shrine is home to the towering image of the Divine Mercy that overlooks the scenic waters of Macajalar Bay. Beyond its religious significance, the site offers visitors a serene environment for reflection, prayer, and appreciation of the surrounding coastal landscape.

Its combination of spirituality, history, and scenic beauty continues to attract pilgrims and tourists from across the country.

LOHAS Aqua Resort: Explore Misamis Oriental’s Underwater Wonders

Adventure takes a deeper turn at LOHAS Aqua Resort, where travelers can experience the excitement of helmet diving and discover the vibrant marine ecosystem beneath the sea.

Perfect for beginners and non-divers, helmet diving allows visitors to walk comfortably along the ocean floor while interacting with colorful tropical fish and exploring the underwater world without requiring scuba certification.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, the resort also offers scuba diving activities that showcase the rich marine biodiversity found along Misamis Oriental’s coastline. From crystal-clear waters to unforgettable encounters with marine life, LOHAS Aqua Resort provides an exciting way to experience the province’s coastal treasures.

Sagpulon Falls: A Hidden Gem in Nature

For travelers looking to venture off the beaten path, Sagpulon Falls offers a rewarding nature escape tucked within the municipality of Jasaan.

Surrounded by lush vegetation and tranquil scenery, the waterfall features cool natural pools ideal for swimming and relaxation. Its peaceful environment and unspoiled beauty make it a favorite destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers eager to discover lesser-known attractions in the province.

Connecting Travelers to More Misamis Oriental Experiences

As the gateway to Northern Mindanao, Laguindingan International Airport continues to play a vital role in connecting travelers to destinations that showcase the natural beauty, cultural heritage, and tourism potential of Misamis Oriental.

Through improved accessibility and strengthened connectivity, the airport supports tourism growth, empowers local enterprises, and creates opportunities for communities across the province.

Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC) remains committed to helping more travelers discover the diverse experiences waiting in Misamis Oriental—from scenic mountain landscapes and spiritual landmarks to thrilling marine adventures and hidden natural wonders.

For visitors planning their next summer getaway, Misamis Oriental offers countless reasons to explore, experience, and create lasting memories in Northern Mindanao.

Photo Credits: Aboitiz InfraCapital Laguindingan Airport Corporation (ALAC)

Tags: Misamis Oriental, Laguindingan International Airport, Claveria View Deck, Divine Mercy Shrine, LOHAS Aqua Resort, Sagpulon Falls, Northern Mindanao Tourism, Summer Destinations Philippines, Travel Misamis Oriental, Cagayan de Oro Gateway

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – Kagay-anons and music fans across Northern Mindanao are in for a spectacular night as IV Of Spades officially includes Cagayan de Oro City in its highly anticipated Andalucia Tour 2026, set for June 27, 2026, at the Aquilino Q. Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center.

The concert is part of the band's first-ever nationwide headline tour following their historic two-night sold-out comeback shows at the SM Mall of Asia Arena, which marked a triumphant return for one of the Philippines’ most beloved modern rock bands.

IV OF SPADES Returns Bigger Than Ever

Following overwhelming demand from fans across the country, IV OF SPADES and concert producer KARPOS are bringing the full Andalucia concert experience to key cities nationwide, with Cagayan de Oro selected as the Northern Mindanao stop of the tour.

Fans can expect a massive live production featuring a more than two-hour performance and a setlist of approximately 30 songs, including every track from the band's latest album, Andalucia, along with the fan-favorite hits that helped define a generation of Filipino music lovers.

The tour follows widespread praise for the band's comeback concerts, which showcased their signature sound, musical evolution, and undeniable chemistry on stage.

A Major Concert Event for Northern Mindanao

The Cagayan de Oro leg is expected to draw thousands of fans not only from the city but also from neighboring areas including Bukidnon, Iligan, Misamis Oriental, Camiguin, Lanao del Norte, and other parts of Mindanao.

Known for hosting major concerts and national events, the Aquilino Q. Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center will serve as the backdrop for what could become one of the biggest live music events in Northern Mindanao in 2026.

For local fans who missed the sold-out Manila shows, this is a rare opportunity to experience the band's celebrated live performance without traveling to the capital.

Andalucia Tour 2026 Schedule

The nationwide tour includes five major stops:

• May 31, 2026 – USeP Gymnasium, Davao City
• June 6, 2026 – Sta. Rosa Multi-Purpose Complex, Santa Rosa
• June 27, 2026 – Aquilino Q. Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center, Cagayan de Oro City
• July 18, 2026 – SM Seaside Cebu Arena, Cebu City
• August 16, 2026 – John Hay Convention Center, Baguio

Tickets Now Available

Tickets for the Andalucia Tour 2026 are now on sale through the official KARPOS website.

For ticket details and updates, visit:

KARPOS Official Website

Don't Miss IV OF SPADES Live in CDO

With a full album performance, fan-favorite hits, and a production inspired by their acclaimed arena comeback, the Andalucia Tour promises to deliver an unforgettable concert experience for Kagay-anons and music enthusiasts throughout Northern Mindanao.

Mark your calendars for June 27, 2026, and get ready to witness IV OF SPADES live in Cagayan de Oro City as they bring the magic of Andalucia to the City of Golden Friendship.

Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan and Cebu Landmasters, Inc. (CLI) have released a Joint Institutional Statement affirming the legal standing of the land title covering the proposed XU Masterson Campus development.

In the statement, both institutions emphasized that Xavier University has held title to the property for nearly 70 years and maintained that the project is protected under the Philippine Torrens system of land registration. They also stated that all administrative restrictions on the property had already expired in 1968.

According to XU and CLI, the planned development involves utilizing 14.6 hectares of land to help fund the construction of a 21-hectare “Campus of the Future” and preserve a 28-hectare forest reserve. The institutions described the initiative as part of Xavier University's long-term vision for modernizing Jesuit education in Mindanao.

The statement further noted that a Counter-Position Paper has been submitted to the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) in response to issues raised regarding the project.

XU and CLI reiterated their commitment to move forward with the Masterson Campus development, expressing confidence in the project's legal and institutional foundation.

📍 The proposed Masterson Campus is envisioned to become Xavier University's future flagship campus in Cagayan de Oro City.

A major transformation is underway for Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan, one of the most respected institutions in Northern Mindanao. Known for its strong academic tradition and Jesuit values, the university is now stepping into a new era through its ambitious Manresa “Campus of the Future.”

But while the vision promises innovation and growth, it has also sparked an ongoing discussion among alumni, stakeholders, and the wider community—raising questions not just about development, but about legality, purpose, and long-term direction.

The Vision: A Campus Built for the Future

The Manresa campus is more than just an expansion—it represents a complete rethinking of how education spaces are designed and experienced.

Planned across a 21-hectare property in Uptown Cagayan de Oro, the new campus is envisioned as a modern, sustainable, and technology-driven academic hub. It aims to support hybrid learning environments, combining physical classrooms with digital integration to meet the demands of today’s learners.

Key features of the project include:

• Eco-friendly and sustainable design with green spaces
• Interconnected buildings and open learning environments
• Campus-wide high-speed connectivity
• Smart mobility features such as bike lanes
• A new university church and upgraded academic facilities
• Proximity to a 25-hectare forest reserve

In partnership with Cebu Landmasters Inc., the development also includes an integrated township concept—Manresa Town—where residential, commercial, and lifestyle spaces will coexist alongside the academic campus.

This vision reflects global trends in education, where universities evolve into ecosystems that blend learning, living, and community engagement.

Why Expansion Is Necessary

For years, Xavier University’s main campus along Corrales Street has served generations of students. However, like many urban campuses, it now faces physical limitations.

Space constraints, traffic congestion, and the inability to expand further have made it challenging to accommodate future growth. In this context, moving to a larger and more flexible location like Manresa is seen as a strategic step toward long-term sustainability.

If XU aims to remain competitive—not just locally but regionally—expansion is no longer optional. It is essential.

The Concerns: Legal and Institutional Questions

Despite the strong vision, concerns have been raised by members of the alumni community regarding the legal and ethical foundations of the project.

According to reports citing alumni legal counsel, there is an ongoing review by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR) Region 10 exploring the possibility of reversion proceedings—a legal process that may allow the government to reclaim the land under certain conditions.

The issue has been described as “imprescriptible,” meaning the government’s right to act does not expire. If pursued and upheld, this could potentially affect the development depending on legal findings.

Another key concern centers on the original condition of the land grant. The Manresa property was reportedly awarded in 1956 under a “grant and concession,” with a perpetual condition that it must be used strictly for educational purposes.

From this perspective, questions have been raised about whether introducing commercial elements—such as condominiums, retail spaces, and other for-profit developments—aligns with the original intent of the land.

Some stakeholders argue that such developments may go beyond the educational purpose of the property and could raise compliance issues.

Voices of Opposition

Among those who have publicly expressed concern is XU alumnus Dr. Ed Montalvan, a director of the Concerned Parents, Teachers, Alumni, and Community (COPTAC).

Dr. Montalvan has emphasized the importance of protecting the university’s legacy and ensuring that decisions made today will genuinely benefit the institution in the future. His stance reflects a broader sentiment among some alumni who are not necessarily against development—but are cautious about how it is being pursued.

This highlights a key point: the opposition is not purely emotional—it is also rooted in concerns about governance, accountability, and long-term impact.

A Matter of Balance

At its core, the issue presents two equally important realities.

On one hand, Xavier University must evolve. The demands of modern education require better facilities, larger spaces, and more advanced infrastructure. The Manresa campus offers a clear pathway toward achieving these goals.

On the other hand, growth must be grounded in responsibility. Questions about legal clarity, land use conditions, and alignment with institutional values cannot be ignored.

The challenge now lies in finding a balance—where progress does not come at the cost of trust, and innovation does not overshadow accountability.

The Road Ahead

As discussions continue, it is important to recognize that these concerns are part of an ongoing process. No final legal conclusions have been made, and perspectives from all sides—including Xavier University and its development partners—will play a crucial role in shaping the outcome.

Transparency, open dialogue, and clear communication will be essential in moving forward.

Because in the end, the future of Xavier University is not just about infrastructure—it is about identity.

Conclusion

The Manresa “Campus of the Future” represents both an opportunity and a challenge.

It is an opportunity to elevate Xavier University into a more competitive, future-ready institution. But it is also a challenge to ensure that growth remains aligned with the university’s mission, values, and legal foundations.

Perhaps the real question is not whether Xavier University should move forward—but how it can do so in a way that brings its entire community along.

Because true progress is not just about building something new—it’s about building something that lasts.

MANILA, PHILIPPINES — Meralco PowerGen Corporation (MGEN) affirms its continued commitment to strengthening the country’s energy security through a diverse and forward-looking capacity strategy that aligns with evolving national policy directions amid rising global fuel costs and supply uncertainties.

As the Philippine government reassesses the country’s energy mix in response to current global situation, MGEN’s diversified portfolio and long-term planning remain firmly aligned with the broader direction of ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable power.

“Our priority is to help ensure a reliable and secure power supply while supporting the country’s evolving energy mix. As more renewable energy comes into the system, maintaining adequate and dependable capacity remains essential to meet demand and support grid stability,” said MGEN President and CEO Emmanuel V. Rubio.

An Integrated Energy Portfolio

MGEN continues to advance a deliberate and integrated approach to portfolio development. This involves investing across renewable energy, battery storage, and firm dispatchable capacity to support the country’s energy security priorities.

Rather than developing these technologies in isolation, MGEN is building a coordinated system — designed to deliver reliable, affordable, and sustainable power amid a rapidly evolving energy landscape. This approach enables the company to manage variability, respond to fuel market volatility, and meet growing demand while strengthening the role of domestic and renewable energy sources.

MGEN, through its affiliate Terra Solar Philippines Inc. (MTerra Solar), successfully energized the first 250 megawatts (MW) of its solar capacity, marking the start of its contribution as a generator to the national grid in March 2026. At the same time, MTerra Solar energized the first tranche of its battery energy storage system (BESS), enabling the delivery of up to 450 megawatt-hours (MWh) of electricity during nighttime hours using stored solar energy. This tranche already represents the largest operational BESS in the Philippines to date, strengthening grid reliability and supporting greater renewable energy integration. MGEN is targeting continued capacity ramp-up as the MTerra Solar project progresses toward full delivery.

Complementing this development, MGEN Renewables currently maintains over 400 MWac of net sellable capacity across seven solar sites in Bulacan, Ilocos Norte, Rizal, Nueva Ecija, Isabela, Batangas, and Tarlac—supporting a geographically diverse renewable energy footprint across Luzon.

In addition to its renewable energy developments, MGEN’s natural gas portfolio includes investments in LNGPH in the Philippines and PacificLight Power Pte. Ltd. in Singapore. These assets form part of its lower-carbon transition technologies, providing dependable capacity that supports system flexibility alongside variable renewable energy sources. Together, they contribute to a more balanced generation mix, supporting reductions in emissionsintensity while maintaining reliable power supply across the region.

MGEN President and CEO Emmanuel Rubio further adds: “It is about building a portfolio that works as a system—one that can reliably meet demand, adapt to changing conditions, and support the country’s long-term energy security.”

Baseload Capacity for Grid Stability

As part of its diversified portfolio, MGEN continues to invest in baseload capacity to support overall system reliability. Through MGEN Thermal, it maintains a combination of baseload and dispatchable power plants across Luzon, Visayas, and Mindanao, contributing to the provision of stable power supply amid growing electricity demand.

In Visayas, MGEN Thermal's key assets include facilities in Panay and Cebu.

Panay Energy Development Corporation (PEDC) owns and operates coal-fired power plants in Iloilo. Established to address the need for reliable and cost-efficient power in Panay Island, PEDC has provided baseload capacity since commencing operations in 2011. Its output supplies major load centers, including Iloilo International Airport and Boracay Island, and supports the power requirements of the four provinces in Panay.

In Cebu, MGEN is present through its Cebu Energy Development Corporation (CEDC) and Toledo Power Co. (TPC). CEDC owns and operates a thermal power plant that utilizes Circulating Fluidized Bed (CFB) boiler technology, serving as the first commercial clean coal-fired facility in the country to adopt this technology and supporting more efficient operations with lowered emissions. Together, these plant sites reliably supply more than half of Cebu Island and help boost economic activities. 

MGEN continues to optimize its thermal portfolio and undertakes capacity additions as needed to support system requirements. These include the development of the MGEN Toledo BESS, with Phase 1 targeted for completion in 2026; ongoing expansions of its thermal facility in Toledo, Cebu; and the development of a 1,200 MW ultra-supercritical (USC) coal-fired power plant in Atimonan, Quezon Province. The Atimonan facility will utilize High-Efficiency, Low-Emissions (HELE) technology to improve fuel efficiency and is expected to be operational by 2030, with projected output equivalent to around 7% of Luzon’s total demand. 

Together, these investments contribute to energy security and grid stability, while ongoing improvements in technology and operations aim to reduce emissions intensity over time.

Powering Through an Evolving Energy Landscape

As electricity demand in the Philippines is projected to significantly increase by 2040, MGEN continues to align its strategy with the country’s long-term energy requirements.

While renewable capacity is expanding, firm and dispatchable power remains essential to ensure reliability. MGEN’s approach brings together renewables, storage, and baseload capacity to deliver stable, affordable energy and support a more resilient power system.

Guided by its mission of powering a better tomorrow, MGEN adopts an approach that brings together baseload capacity, renewables, and energy storage to deliver stable, affordable energy, as well as support the country’s transition toward a more resilient and sustainable energy future.