CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The much-anticipated World Travel Expo Year 10 officially opened at Ayala Malls Centrio, bringing together travel enthusiasts, tourism stakeholders, airlines, hotels, and tour operators for a three-day celebration of travel, discovery, and opportunity.

Now celebrating its tenth year, the World Travel Expo has become one of the region’s most recognized travel events, helping connect travelers with destinations and travel providers while encouraging more people to turn their travel dreams into reality.

The opening ceremony gathered exhibitors and visitors eager to explore a wide range of domestic and international travel opportunities, from affordable vacation packages and airline deals to hotel promotions and curated tour experiences.

A Decade of Connecting People to Destinations

During the opening program, Event Organizer Miles Caballero reflected on how the expo has evolved over the past decade.

According to Caballero, the original vision of the event was simple: create a space where people could discover destinations and directly connect with travel providers. While that purpose remains unchanged, the motivations of attendees have evolved over time.

Many visitors now arrive not only to gather information but to finally move forward with travel plans that have long been delayed.

“People do not stop wanting to travel. They delay it,” Caballero shared, noting that work commitments, family responsibilities, financial priorities, and daily routines often push travel plans further into the future.

The expo serves as a reminder that travel remains an important aspiration for many individuals and families, even when life gets busy.

More Than Just Travel Deals

This year’s expo showcases a diverse lineup of tourism offerings, including local destinations, international getaways, airline promotions, hotel accommodations, and customized travel packages designed for solo travelers, families, and groups.

Visitors are encouraged to look beyond the destination itself and consider factors such as timing, preparedness, and personal goals when planning their next journey.

Whether it's a long-awaited family vacation, a dream international trip, a business-related journey, or a quick weekend getaway, the event provides practical opportunities to make travel plans more accessible and achievable.

Tourism's Continuing Impact

Beyond the travel packages and promotional offers, the expo also highlights the broader value of tourism.

Travel continues to play a significant role in supporting local communities, generating employment, strengthening destination economies, and fostering cultural exchange between people from different regions and countries.

As the tourism industry continues to recover and expand, events like the World Travel Expo help strengthen partnerships between travelers and tourism providers while encouraging more people to explore new experiences.

Visit the Expo

Residents of Cagayan de Oro and travelers from neighboring provinces are invited to visit the expo and discover opportunities for their next adventure.

The World Travel Expo Year 10 runs from July 3 to July 5, 2026, at Ayala Malls Centrio in Cagayan de Oro City.

For many, the next destination may already be decided. The only thing left is choosing the date and finally making the trip happen.

Travel plans often begin as an idea. World Travel Expo Year 10 aims to help turn those ideas into actual journeys.

photo by IVY MARIE MANGADLAO

With 95 riders from the Philippines, Japan, Korea, Singapore, Malaysia, and Australia, the event showcased the thrill of downhill skateboarding—a sport that combines speed, skill, and pure adrenaline.

Winners
1st - Zak Goodwind (Australia) – ₱100,000
2nd - Eryan Abarico (Philippines) – ₱30,000
3rd - Ealoy Maquirato (Philippines) – ₱20,000
4th - Warren Arnais (Philippines) – ₱10,000

Event director Joseph Falcone said Nasipit’s unique terrain gives it the edge to become a hub for extreme sports and adventure tourism. Plans are already underway to make it an annual international event that could eventually be part of the World Downhill Skateboarding Championship tour. 

Japanese rider Hiroki Endo praised the track, calling it “fast, straight, no braking—very good!” and said he looks forward to returning.

Alongside the skateboarding action, Nasipit also hosted the Mountain Bike Downhill Mayhem, proving that Camagong is ready to be a playground for thrill-seekers. 

With warm hospitality, challenging terrains, and big dreams, Nasipit is carving its name into the adventure tourism map of Mindanao.

Misamis Oriental once again opened its doors to discovery through the Suroy MisOr: A Media Familiarization Tour, bringing together media personalities, bloggers, and vloggers to explore the stunning landscapes and rich culture along Route 955 (Villanueva–Claveria–Gingoog City).

This carefully curated journey showcased the province’s natural wonders, local flavors, and sustainable tourism efforts that truly make Misamis Oriental a one-of-a-kind destination in Northern Mindanao.

Highlights of the Tour

🌿 Municipal Hall of Villanueva – The gateway stop where participants were welcomed and briefed about the town’s growing role in tourism and industry.

🔬 Philippine Textile Research Institute (PTRI) – A hub of innovation, featuring local weaves and textile technologies that reflect the creativity and craftsmanship of Misamisnon artisans.

🌄 Claveria View Deck – A breathtaking stop where rolling hills and panoramic landscapes offer an unforgettable experience for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

💦 Villa Cascada – A hidden gem where refreshing waters meet lush greenery, perfect for relaxation and eco-tourism.

☕ Julio’s Café – A cozy stopover serving freshly brewed coffee and local delicacies, giving a true taste of Misamis Oriental’s hospitality.

🌺 Illuminada Garden Resort – A tranquil spot that highlights the province’s dedication to sustainable and family-friendly leisure spaces.

🍃 Oolong Tea Processing Center – A unique experience of learning how locally grown tea is processed, reflecting both agricultural sustainability and community livelihood opportunities.

More Than Just a Tour

The Suroy MisOr Media Familiarization Tour goes beyond sightseeing—it’s about storytelling. Each stop allowed participants to immerse themselves in the Misamisnon way of life, from discovering authentic flavors to experiencing how tourism supports local communities.

This initiative highlights Misamis Oriental not only as a province blessed with natural beauty but also as a gateway to Northern Mindanao’s tourism circuit, ready to welcome both local and international travelers.

Through this immersive experience, our media partners became ambassadors of Misamis Oriental’s treasures—sharing the warmth of the Misamisnon spirit, the richness of local products, and the exciting opportunities tourism creates for our people.

A Word of Thanks

Cagayan de Oro Today joins in thanking all the LGUs, tourism offices, and establishments along Route 955 for their warm hospitality and continued commitment to making Misamis Oriental a vibrant and sustainable destination.

Truly, Misamis Oriental is Uniquely MisOr—a place where nature, culture, and community come together to create unforgettable journeys.

Forget boring book shopping—National Book Store is transforming the hunt for your next read into an epic adventure. Welcome to The National Hunt, a nationwide search where prizes are hidden inside books and on bookshelves, waiting for lucky readers to find them.

This isn't your average book hunt. Leading the charge is the all-new National Book Squad, a dream team of your favorite Gen Z celebrities: Mika Salamanca, Josh Ford, Kira Balinger, Esnyr Ranollo, Will Ashley, and Ralph de Leon. Together, dropping clues across National Book Store branches and hiding special books for you to discover.

Your mission is simple: head to any participating National Book Store and keep an eye out for the exclusive books the National Book Squad has hidden. If you're lucky enough to find one, purchase it—you might just walk away with an incredible prize.

The rewards are anything but ordinary. We're talking major prizes like an Apple iPad, flight vouchers, a DJI Osmo 3, and so much more.

The hunt has already started online! Follow the National Book Squad on their socials for exclusive clues and behind-the-scenes content. Don't miss their videos—your first hint could be waiting there.

Are you ready to turn your next book shopping trip into a treasure hunt? Follow National Book Store on Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok for all the latest updates. Let the hunt begin!

Globe marks the 10th anniversary of its annual GDay celebration this September with a bold promise to bring joy, rewards, and meaningful experiences closer to customers. What started as a simple thank-you a decade ago has grown into a nationwide movement, bringing together digital innovation, real-world experiences, and heartfelt surprises that celebrate the Filipino spirit.


“At Globe, we believe the most meaningful rewards are the ones that feel personal, those that are made just for you,” said Bianca Wong, Vice President and Head of Feel Valued Tribe at Globe. “This GDay, we’re celebrating in a way that recognizes our customers’ diverse passions and everyday wins. Whether it’s a surprise gift or a chance to win larger than life prizes on the app, or a fan experience you’ve been wishing for, there’s something in store for everyone to enjoy, tailored to what matters most to them.”

This year, the spotlight turns to everyday moments that feel extraordinary. Across the country, Globe will activate GDay Pop-Up Booths in malls, stores, and neighborhood venues bringing the celebration closer to where customers live, work, and play. These on-ground activations in key cities like Cebu, Davao, Bacolod, Naga, Tuguegarao, and CDO, will transform familiar convergent spaces into joyful brand experiences filled with exclusive promos, partner rewards, and surprise giveaways.

Online, the GlobeOne app is the home of GDay. From daily surprise gifts to chances to unlock exciting rewards, customers can explore a seamless and rewarding journey with every tap. Whether it’s vouchers, lifestyle perks, or something bigger, the GDay Surprise Gift is designed to bring a moment of delight to every day.

For fans and music lovers, GDay 2025 adds a spark of excitement with the GDay BINI Fan Meet, happening on September 13 at the Samsung Performing Arts Theatre. Over 1,500 Globe customers will get to experience a special afternoon with their beloved P-pop group, complete with live performances, fun interactions, and memorable moments on stage. The chance to get tickets will be made available in the GlobeOne app Redeem Rewards section, keeping the spirit of surprise and accessibility alive.

The celebration continues with the biggest G Raffle Rush, running from September 1 to October 31. Every week, customers can look forward to exciting, larger-than-life prizes, starting with a ₱50,000 grocery shopping spree powered by ShareTreats and ₱100,000 in GCash. Globe is also giving away a dream Japan trip for four with business class seats via All Nippon Airways, a luxury staycation for two at NuStar Cebu complete with Philippine Airlines Mabuhay Miles, and flagship gadgets from HUAWEI, HONOR, ASUS ROG, and OPPO Philippines. One lucky winner will even take home a BYD Atto 3 Dynamic Battery Electric Vehicle with ₱75,000 worth of charging credits and freebies from ACMobility through their new EVRO app. To top it all off, customers will have the chance to win not just one but two major properties: a Deluxe Studio Condominium unit in Amaia Steps Pasig and a two-bedroom house and lot in Amaia Scapes Trece Martires.

Customers can rush their way to a free raffle entry via the GlobeOne app to join and also use their available Globe Rewards points to earn more raffle entries and look out for the exciting drops of prizes every week.

Globe celebrates you everyday with personalized rewards made just for you. You can count on Globe to make everyday a GDay!

Globe Vice President and Head of Feel Valued Tribe Bianca Wong opens the G Day 2025 Media Launch, marking the 10th year of Globe’s annual celebration of customer loyalty and connection.

Globe Integrated Program Management Manager Raymond Baritua presents the exciting lineup of activities for G Day 2025, including the G Raffle Rush, Provincial GDay Pop-Ups, G Day Surprise Gift, GFair, and the BINI Fan Meet.

Media partners, and content creators join Globe in celebrating 10 years of GDay.

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 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