CAGAYAN DE ORO, Philippines — August 20, 2025. The City of Golden Friendship is about to glow even brighter as Cagayan de Oro gears up for one of the most anticipated cultural events of the year—the Korea Festival 2025! Happening this September 20–21, 2025 at SM CDO Downtown Premier, the two-day celebration promises to bring the sights, sounds, and spirit of Korea straight to Northern Mindanao.

A Fusion of Culture and Friendship

Organized by the Korean Cultural Center (KCC) in the Philippines, the festival will transform the city into a vibrant hub of tradition, creativity, and cultural exchange. Festival-goers will get the chance to immerse themselves in all things Korean—from the elegance of the Hanbok (traditional clothing) and the artistry of Hangeul (Korean alphabet), to the excitement of K-pop music, K-drama-inspired booths, and live stage performances.

Joining the event are the Korea Tourism Organization (KTO) Manila and the Korea Copyright Protection Agency (KCOPA) Manila, giving visitors the opportunity to learn more about Korea’s unique destinations, content, and cultural treasures.

Performances to Remember

One of the festival’s biggest highlights will be the much-awaited performance of the Korea Taekwondo Association (KTA) Demonstration Team. Known worldwide for their electrifying routines, the team will showcase the power, grace, and discipline of Taekwondo—a martial art deeply rooted in Korean tradition.

But that’s not all. Audiences will also be treated to a colorful lineup of traditional music and dance, blending the rich heritage of both Korean and Filipino performance arts in one unforgettable showcase.

The Spotlight on K-pop Talent

For Kagay-anon K-pop fans and aspiring performers, this year’s festival will host “Everyone’s KPOP”, a talent competition that gives both solo acts and groups the chance to shine. From energetic dance covers to powerful vocal performances, participants will battle it out for a chance to perform on the festival stage itself.

📌 Deadline for entries is September 5, 2025, so those who dream of their K-pop moment should not miss this opportunity. Full contest mechanics and submission guidelines are available on the official KCC Philippines channels.

A Free Festival for Everyone

Best of all, the Korea Festival 2025 is free to the public, making it an accessible and inclusive cultural experience for all ages. Whether you’re a lifelong fan of K-culture or simply curious about what makes Korea so globally beloved, this festival is your chance to experience it all—right here in Cagayan de Oro.

As the Korean wave continues to sweep across the globe, CDO is proud to be a stage where cultures meet, connect, and celebrate. Mark your calendars and get ready for two days of fun, friendship, and unforgettable memories at Korea Festival 2025!

Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus Rodriguez has once again brought a critical issue to the national spotlight—Mindanao’s diminishing share of the national budget. In the latest round of budget hearings, Rodriguez questioned Budget Secretary Amenah Pangandaman over what he described as a “Manila-centric” allocation that sidelines Mindanao and the Visayas in favor of Luzon and the National Capital Region.

According to Department of Budget and Management (DBM) figures, Mindanao is set to receive only 15.4% of the proposed 2026 national budget, while the Visayas gets 11.1%. In contrast, Luzon will receive 24.4%, with NCR getting an additional 13.3%. Rodriguez pointed out that this is not only disproportionate but also a step backward—Mindanao once enjoyed 16.6% of the budget in 2022, and even up to 17% during the 14th and 15th Congresses.

“Mindanao has a population of 26 million, that’s 22.3% of the country’s 116 million people. Why is Mindanao getting smaller in terms of the budget?” Rodriguez asked.

For a region that contributes significantly through agriculture, energy, natural resources, and trade, the figures are discouraging. The congressman argued that such allocations contradict the government’s rhetoric of inclusive growth. Fewer resources mean less funding for infrastructure, education, livelihood, and agricultural programs that Mindanao sorely needs to catch up with more developed regions.

Another point of concern is the bulk of funds still classified as “nationwide” or “centralized” projects—programs often implemented by agencies based in Metro Manila. While some benefits may eventually reach the provinces, the arrangement lacks transparency and, in practice, leaves Mindanaoans questioning whether their communities will truly benefit.

From the perspective of regional equity, Rodriguez’s frustration resonates. Why should 22% of the population receive only 15% of the pie? Why are regions that produce the country’s food and resources persistently underfunded compared to Metro Manila’s urban priorities?

To be clear, Rodriguez stressed that this is not about pitting Luzon against Mindanao. Instead, it is about ensuring fair distribution:

“We are not going against Luzon. But we will ask that we improve the figures and percentages for Mindanao and the Visayas by having the central offices give that to the regions where the projects are needed,” he said.

This issue cuts deeper than numbers—it reflects how policymaking often overlooks the regions in favor of the capital. For Mindanaoans, the budget is not just about statistics; it is about roads unbuilt, schools unfunded, and opportunities missed.

As Congress deliberates on the 2026 budget, the challenge is clear: if the administration is serious about inclusive growth, it must correct the imbalance. After all, how can we talk about national progress if Mindanao and the Visayas remain perpetually shortchanged?

Cagayan de Oro is once again set to host one of the most anticipated OPM concerts of the year! As part of the grand celebration of Higalaay Festival 2025, the iconic voice of Philippine rock, BAMBOO, will be performing live with special guest band CUESHE for an electrifying night of music and nostalgia.

This highly awaited concert will take place on August 27, 2025 at the Limketkai Center Atrium, kicking off at 4:00 PM. Fans can expect nothing less than a powerful showcase of OPM hits, timeless anthems, and unforgettable performances that will bring Kagay-anons together for a night of pure rock energy.

Concert Details:

📅 Date: August 27, 2025
📍 Venue: Limketkai Center Atrium, Cagayan de Oro City
🕓 Time: 4:00 PM

🎟️ Ticket Prices:

🔰 BRONZE UPPER – ₱600

👉 Tickets available online here: https://bambooliveincdo.veent.co/?ref=JUANDERFUL

Why You Shouldn’t Miss This Concert

Bamboo’s live performances have always been known for their raw intensity and soulful delivery, making every show a unique experience for fans. Paired with the heartfelt and nostalgic hits of Cueshe, this concert promises to be one of the biggest highlights of this year’s Higalaay Festival.

Whether you’re a long-time OPM fan or someone looking to enjoy world-class Filipino music live on stage, this event is definitely one for the books.

So gather your friends, secure your tickets, and get ready for an explosive evening of music, passion, and Kagay-anon pride!

Get ready, Kagay-anons! The spotlight is on as the Miss Cagayan de Oro 2025 Coronation Night promises to be one of the grandest highlights of this year’s Higalaay Festival. The much-awaited pageant will bring beauty, grace, and glamour to the stage, and this year, it gets even more exciting with the presence of national beauty queens as part of the judging panel.

Meet the Esteemed Judges

The coronation night will not only showcase the dazzling candidates of Miss Cagayan de Oro 2025 but also the elegance and influence of renowned Filipina queens:

Their presence adds prestige to the event, making it a truly unforgettable celebration of beauty and empowerment.

Event Details

📅 Date: August 23, 2025 – 7:00 PM
📍 Venue: The Atrium, Limketkai Center

As the candidates take the stage, they will not only compete in beauty and poise but also showcase their wit, confidence, and passion for representing the City of Golden Friendship.

A Celebration of Beauty and Friendship

Miss Cagayan de Oro has always been more than just a pageant—it is a platform that celebrates Kagay-anon women who embody intelligence, talent, and compassion. This year’s coronation night promises to be brighter and grander, inspiring the next generation of women to dream bigger and shine bolder.

Who Will Be Crowned?

The question on everyone’s mind: Who will take home the crown as Miss Cagayan de Oro 2025? With the city’s finest candidates competing for the prestigious title, the night is sure to be filled with excitement, elegance, and unforgettable moments.

Stay tuned here at Cagayan de Oro Today for full coverage and updates from the Miss Cagayan de Oro 2025 Coronation Night!

The sound of roaring engines and the cheers of the crowd filled the air during the 2nd Higalaay National Motocross Competition 2025, held on Sunday, August 17. Even though the skies poured heavy rain, the event went on as planned near the Cagayan de Oro River, proving once again that passion for motocross and the spirit of the Higalaay Festival cannot be stopped by the weather.

More than 200 riders from different parts of the country joined the competition, bringing excitement and energy to the muddy track. Thousands of Kagay-anons and visitors lined up along the sidelines to witness the thrilling races, cheering loudly as riders sped, jumped, and maneuvered through the slippery terrain. The rain actually made the race more intense, testing the skills and determination of every participant.

Champions of the Motorace 2025 Series

The competition featured several categories, giving chances for both professional and beginner riders to showcase their talents. At the end of the day, champions were awarded with plaques of recognition, cash prizes, motor kits, and a brand-new TVS XL100 motorcycle courtesy of Motorace.

Here are the official winners of the Motorace 2025 Series:

The highlight of the winners’ circle included well-known motocross legends like Bornok Mangosong and Glenn Aguilar, who proved their dominance once again. Meanwhile, young riders such as Krinz Kyle Tapic and RJ Malayo showed that the future of motocross in the Philippines is bright. It was also inspiring to see women riders like Sharlet Gallarde competing fiercely in the Ladies Category, showing that motocross is a sport for everyone.

Extra Excitement with Raffle Prizes

Aside from the races, Motorace also prepared a raffle draw for all registered participants. Riders had the chance to win special prizes, including two air-conditioning units and another brand-new motorcycle. This added more fun to the event, with lucky winners going home not only with memories of the race but also with amazing rewards.

A Festival Highlight

The motocross competition was one of the major events of the Higalaay Festival 2025, which is celebrated every August in Cagayan de Oro. Known as the “Festival of Friendship,” Higalaay brings together Kagay-anons and visitors through parades, cultural shows, concerts, sports, and other exciting activities.

For many, the motocross competition stood out as a thrilling highlight. The mix of adrenaline, competition, and camaraderie created an unforgettable experience for both riders and spectators.

A Growing Tradition

With its second year completed successfully, the Higalaay Motocross Competition is quickly becoming a tradition in the city. It has given riders a stage to show their skills, inspired young enthusiasts to take on the sport, and provided Kagay-anons with another reason to be proud of their festival.

As the engines quieted and the crowd dispersed, one thing was clear: motocross has found a strong home in Cagayan de Oro, and the Higalaay Festival will only continue to grow bigger and better in the years to come.

(MDS/CIO/Photos by: Jhoanne Abejo & Iren Fuentes/CIO)

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – The much-awaited Autoverse Expo 2025 officially kicked off on August 8, 2025, at 1:00 PM with a grand Ribbon Cutting Ceremony at the Centrio Ayala Mall Activity Center.

Running until August 10, 2025, this three-day event is the biggest automotive showcase in Northern Mindanao, bringing together car dealers, suppliers, industry experts, and car enthusiasts under one roof. It’s a one-stop destination for exclusive dealer discounts, new car technologies, and hands-on product experiences.

The opening ceremony was attended by local officials, top suppliers, and automotive professionals who joined together to mark the start of this milestone event. The ribbon cutting wasn’t just ceremonial—it highlighted the shared goal of growing the local automotive industry and strengthening business connections in the region.

One of the biggest reasons to attend? Event-only discounts for dealers on automotive essentials, including:

These deals are only available during the expo, making it the perfect time for car businesses to stock up and save. Dealers also have the chance to meet suppliers directly, opening doors for long-term partnerships.

Even if you’re not a dealer, there’s still plenty to enjoy at Autoverse Expo 2025. Visitors can:

• Explore interactive booths and test products.
• Watch live demonstrations of new car technology.
• Get expert advice on vehicle care and upgrades.

It’s the perfect spot to see what’s new in the car world and discover products that can improve your driving experience.

With its central location in downtown Cagayan de Oro, Centrio Ayala Mall Activity Center is the ideal venue for this major event. It’s easy to access, offers plenty of space for exhibits, and ensures high visibility for all participating brands.

Mark your calendars:

Whether you’re a dealer looking for unbeatable deals or a car enthusiast curious about the latest trends, Autoverse Expo 2025 is the place to be this weekend.

📅 When: August 8–10, 2025
📍 Where: Centrio Ayala Mall Activity Center, Cagayan de Oro City
⏰ Ribbon Cutting Ceremony: August 8, 2025 – 1:00 PM

A celebration of creativity, innovation, and opportunity. The Mindanao Hair Summit is a groundbreaking platform where talented hair artists breathe life into their craft, turning hair into a true centerpiece of art and lifestyle.

The Mindanao Hair Summit 2025 features a powerful lineup of speakers who are leaders in the barbering and beauty industry. Kicking off the morning session is Glenn Ford “Balong” Alana, owner of the four-branch Balong Barbershop in Digos City and president of the Digos Barber Advocacy. Known for his numerous awards in national and international barber competitions, Balong will speak on “The Importance of Education: A Personal Journey.” Joining him is Chunks Pude, co-founder of Barracks Barbers & Shaves and marketing head of Armory Supply Co., who will share his experience on “Building a Business from a Pair of Scissors.” Also taking the stage in the morning is Jeson “SJ Barber” Sampan, a multi-awarded barber and president of the Davao Barbers Advocacy. He will also discuss “The Importance of Education: A Personal Journey,” offering another inspiring perspective on how continuous learning shaped his path.

The summit continues with Kim Ryan “Kimboii the Barber” Antiga, a Cagayan de Oro-based celebrity barber, who will speak about “Building an Edge in a Growing City,” aimed at encouraging innovation and local pride in the industry. Following him is Dansel “Dancel” Dearos, an award-winning barber who has earned top placements in multiple competitions, who will present his topic, “How Knowing the HOWS Made Me.” Wrapping up the speaker segment is Clloyd Luna Dayon, also known as “TheEMCEEBarber,” owner of Dayon Studios and a respected educator and host in the barbering community. He will deliver a talk titled “Growing in Your Niche Market: Know Who Your Customers Are,” drawing from his work with local athletes and personalities.

The summit will feature:

• Live Demos & Masterclasses from industry leaders and international stylists
• Hair Competitions showcasing creativity and technical mastery
• Panel Talks on salon business, branding, and client care
• Product Exhibits from top brands and suppliers
• Networking Opportunities with professionals across Mindanao

For Entrepreneurs: Explore New Business Opportunities: Learn how to turn your passion for beauty and hairstyling into a thriving business.

For Career Shifters: A Fresh Start: Whether you’re looking for a career overhaul or exploring a new passion, hairstyling could be your creative outlet and next big step.

For Side Hustlers: Flexible Income Potential: Learn how to turn hairstyling into a side hustle that fits your schedule while earning additional income. Be Your Own Boss: Discover how to take control of your time and income by offering hairstyling services in your community or online. This isn't just an event; it's a movement—a catalyst for opportunities, learning, and self-expression!

Join the revolution in hair artistry and lifestyle. Be part of the first—and history-making—Mindanao Hair Summit! Follow @TheMindanaoHairSummit on Facebook for more updates. REGISTER NOW: https://forms.gle/ZYZQPMnctpcNW1Ca8

[Cagayan de Oro, Philippines] – Mark your calendars! The highly anticipated Autoverse Expo 2025 is set to take center stage this August 8–10, at the Centrio Ayala Mall Activity Center. This groundbreaking event marks Cagayan de Oro’s first and largest automotive essentials expo, featuring a dynamic lineup of exhibitors, industry players, and automotive enthusiasts from across the region.

Autoverse Expo 2025 serves as a one-stop destination for automotive businesses to showcase their products and services to a targeted audience. There will be a wide variety of automotive essentials, from tires, batteries, lubricants, and auto parts and car care products—all under one roof. 

Why Join Autoverse Expo 2025 as an Exhibitor?

This three-day expo offers unmatched opportunities for exhibitors to:

• Boost brand visibility in one of the country's most rapidly growing automotive markets.
• Engage directly with customers and industry professionals.
• Forge valuable partnerships while exploring new business opportunities.
• Showcase your products to a diverse audience in the vibrant automotive scene of Cagayan de Oro.

With its strategic location in Centrio Ayala Mall, Autoverse Expo 2025 is perfectly positioned to attract attendees from varying demographics, ranging from professionals and hobbyists to car owners seeking the latest automotive innovations and solutions.

Booth Rates and Inclusions Take your business to the forefront with these exhibitor packages: 🧾 BOOTH RATES: ₱35,000 – One (1) 2m x 2m Booth ₱65,000 – Two (2) 2m x 2m Booths 💡 Reservation Fee: A non-refundable fee of ₱5,000 per booth is required within 7 days of reservation. Inclusions per booth: One (1) 2m x 2m booth space Fascia board featuring your brand name Fluorescent lampset (2) Chairs (1) Info table (1) Convenience outlet (electricity use not included) 4.5 sqm gray carpet 📌 Please note: All reservation fees are considered liquidated damages and are non-refundable. 📲 For inquiries on payment and complete booking details, message us directly on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61576779740530 Limited Slots Available! We invite you to be part of something big—join us and bring your brand to life at Autoverse Expo 2025!

CDO, Philippines – The countdown begins for the much-anticipated World Travel Expo @ Northern Mindanao, happening this July 25 to 27, 2025 at Ayala Malls Centrio—and to kick things off, a successful press conference was held on July 3, 2025 at New Dawn Plus Hotel, Cagayan de Oro City.

The event gathered members of the media, travel influencers, tourism stakeholders, and local bloggers as they got the first look at what’s in store for the first-ever World Travel Expo in Northern Mindanao. With the theme “Discover Beauty, Explore Freely,” this regional expo aims to connect travelers with exciting destinations, tour providers, and travel deals—all under one roof.

✨ Panel of Tourism Champions

The press conference featured key panelists who are not only industry leaders but also proud participants of the upcoming expo:

🔹 Ms. Cynthia Ramilla and Ms. Danica Galamiton of Amaya View, one of CDO’s top leisure destinations, shared insights on how the expo can boost local tourism and promote hidden gems in the city.

🔹 Ms. Maria Chona Antimano, Operations Manager of New Dawn Hotel, emphasized the city’s readiness to host bigger tourism events and accommodate both local and international guests.

🔹 Mr. May Cris Bragat, owner of ElCrest Travel and Tours, highlighted the importance of collaboration among tour operators to create engaging travel packages not just around Northern Mindanao—but within Cagayan de Oro itself.

🔹 Ms. Mildred Caballero, Managing Director of Ad Asia Events Group OPC, the team behind the WTE, led the conversation on the expo’s mission to expand regional tourism and open more opportunities for both travelers and brands.

Each panelist answered questions from the media and content creators—touching on topics such as how to position CDO as a true tourist destination (not just a gateway), how travel expos empower local businesses, and what to expect during the 3-day event.

🛜 Stronger Connections with Official Event Partners

This year’s WTE @ Northern Mindanao also announced exciting partnerships:

✅ Converge ICT Solutions will serve as the official connectivity partner, ensuring smooth and reliable internet access for all exhibitors and attendees throughout the expo. This will support digital booking systems, content uploads, live engagements, and seamless transactions.

✅ GCash joins as the official digital finance partner, empowering cashless convenience for both exhibitors and guests. Expect a more efficient, safe, and modern way of paying and interacting with businesses on the expo floor.

With these partners on board, WTE is set to deliver a next-level experience—seamlessly blending tourism, technology, and convenience.

🗺️ What to Expect at WTE @ Northern Mindanao

Happening for the first time in Cagayan de Oro, the World Travel Expo @ Northern Mindanao will feature:

✅ Exclusive travel promos and discounts

It’s a great opportunity for tourists, travelers, creators, and entrepreneurs to connect, explore, and discover what makes Northern Mindanao a must-visit destination.

📍 Mark your calendars:
🗓️ Expo Dates: July 25–27, 2025
🏢 Venue: Ayala Malls Centrio, Cagayan de Oro City
📰 Presscon Venue: New Dawn Hotel Plus, July 3, 2025

Cagayan de Oro is ready to shine on the tourism map—and WTE @ Northern Mindanao is only the beginning.

The spotlight is back, and it’s brighter than ever!

SM Little Stars 2025 has officially launched its nationwide search for the next wave of talented and charming young performers — and the stakes are higher than ever with over ₱15 million worth of prizes waiting for this year’s brightest stars!

This much-awaited competition is open to kids aged 4 to 7 who love to sing, dance, act, or showcase any special talent that can wow an audience. But SM Little Stars isn’t just a talent show — it’s a celebration of confidence, creativity, and character, giving children the opportunity to shine on stage and beyond.

✨ What’s in store for this year’s winners?

Prepare to be amazed! The grand prize lineup includes:

This is not just a moment in the limelight — it’s a leap toward a future filled with opportunity and potential.

📍 Catch the CDO Screening!

The final preliminary screening in Cagayan de Oro will take place on:

🗓 July 5, 2025
🕙 10:00 AM to 6:00 PM
📍 Mall Atrium – Ground Level, SM City CDO Uptown

Parents, this is your moment to let your little ones shine and be part of a life-changing journey! Whether it’s their first time on stage or they’re born performers, SM Little Stars 2025 is the perfect platform to nurture their talents and boost their confidence.

🎤 Ready to Sign Up?

Register and learn more by visiting:
👉 https://smmalls.com/SMLittleStars 
Or sign up directly via:
👉 https://smmallsonline.page.link/EBqYZ1C7MZ3ZPAr69

Let your child sparkle in front of a live audience and esteemed judges — and who knows, they might just be the next SM Little Star!

Okay, let's be real. We all love Cagayan de Oro, right? The "City of Golden Friendship," the gateway, our home. But lately, walking around some parts of our beloved city, it’s hard not to notice something… smelly. Overflowing bins, plastic bags clinging to fences like unwelcome decorations, and that general feeling that we're losing the battle against our own garbage. It's frustrating, and frankly, a little heartbreaking.

We’ve got this law, Republic Act 9003, the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act. It's been around since 2000 – that’s 24 years, people! This law is actually pretty comprehensive. It talks about separating your biodegradables from your recyclables (you know, the whole "malata, di-malata" thing), setting up Material Recovery Facilities (MRFs) in every barangay so we can actually do something with the segregated waste, and proper disposal. It’s all there.

So, what’s the problem? Is it that we Kagay-anons don't know about it? I don't think so. We’ve seen the posters, heard the announcements. The problem, as the editorial rightly pointed out, isn't the law itself. It’s that it feels like nobody’s really making sure it's being followed. It's like having a really good recipe, but the cooks in the kitchen – in this case, it seems our local government unit (LGU) – aren't quite following all the steps, or maybe they're not ensuring everyone else in the kitchen is doing their part.

Think about it. How many of us diligently segregate our waste, only to see it all get chucked into the same garbage truck? Or how many barangays actually have a functioning MRF that makes a real difference? When rules aren't consistently enforced, when you see people openly dumping trash by the roadside or in empty lots without so much as a warning, what message does that send? It tells everyone else that it’s okay, that the rules are just suggestions. And the result? Well, we’re living in it.

It's not just about making our city look bad, though that’s part of it. This mess affects our health. Clogged canals because of garbage mean worse floods when the rains come – and boy, do they come. And where do you think a lot of this trash eventually ends up? Our rivers, the very same ones that are part of CDO’s pride, and then out into Macajalar Bay. It’s a cycle of neglect, and it's simply not sustainable for a city that’s booming and aiming to be a model for Mindanao.

Look, awareness campaigns are great, but they’re only half the battle. We need to see some real teeth behind RA 9003. The LGU needs to get serious about this. That means proper, visible enforcement. Penalties for those who just don't care. Support and incentives for barangays that are actually trying to make it work. Maybe even some training for our hardworking waste collectors so they're part of the solution too.

This isn’t just a call-out post. This is a plea from a fellow Kagay-anon who believes we can do better. We have to do better. It's time for our city officials, our barangay leaders, businesses, and yes, every single one of us, to get serious about implementing RA 9003. Let’s not wait for a health crisis or an even bigger environmental disaster to jolt us into action.

The law is there. The framework is sound. What we're missing is the consistent, unwavering will to make it happen. Let's demand it. Let's participate in it. Let’s clean up our act, Cagayan de Oro. Our home deserves it.

As of May 13, 2025, 5:02 AM, partial and unofficial results show that 80.26% of election returns have been transmitted nationwide. In Cagayan de Oro City, the senatorial voting results reveal a trend that once again puts voter awareness under the spotlight.

While the names leading the senatorial race might not surprise many, it does raise a critical question: Are we voting wisely, or are we simply voting for who we recognize?

The Influence of Familiar Names

In the current tally, most of the top-ranking senatorial candidates are either returning senators, celebrity figures, or part of prominent political dynasties. It’s not new. In fact, it has become a recurring theme in Philippine elections—fame often overshadows merit.

Voters across the country, including those in Cagayan de Oro, tend to gravitate toward names they have seen on TV, heard on the radio, or spotted frequently online. For some, it’s a vote based on nostalgia, for others, it’s a lack of access to information about other qualified candidates.

This cycle of voting based on popularity rather than policy hurts our democracy in the long run. It sidelines competent and lesser-known candidates who may have more progressive or practical platforms but simply don’t have the same exposure.

The Need for Informed Public Discourse

The root of this issue? A serious lack of voter education and exposure to unbiased candidate information. Without debates or public forums that allow voters to hear directly from the candidates about their platforms, visions, and values, voters are left with jingles, slogans, and surname recognition to base their decisions on.

This is why there is a critical need for informational debates and public forums—not just in Metro Manila, but especially in localities like Cagayan de Oro. Local debates can bring national issues into a local context, helping voters see which candidates truly align with their needs and advocacies.

More Than Just a Vote

Voting is a sacred right—and a powerful responsibility. Each shaded oval on that ballot represents a voice, a future, and a decision that affects not only us today, but generations to come.

We cannot afford to make choices based solely on what’s familiar. It’s time to start voting based on principles, platforms, and performance. As a city known for its heart, culture, and progressiveness, CDO must rise to the challenge of shaping a more informed electorate.

It's Time to Level Up Our Vote

CDO's senatorial results are not just numbers—they’re a reflection of how we engage with our democracy. If we want real change, it starts with us. Let’s encourage more dialogues, demand transparency, and most importantly, let’s never stop learning about the leaders we choose.

Let’s vote not just with memory, but with meaning.