Cagayan de Oro, the “City of Golden Friendship,” offers some of the most delightful accommodations in Northern Mindanao. Whether you're traveling for leisure, business, or adventure, these hotels and resorts provide the perfect mix of comfort, charm, and unique experiences.

Here’s a list of must-visit hotels and resorts in the city and its nearby destinations:

1. Limketkai Luxe Hotel

Why visit?

• Proximity to Limketkai Mall
• Eco-friendly facilities
• Chic and modern interiors

2. Seda Centrio Hotel

Why visit?

• Rooftop pool with stunning views
• Seamless connection to Centrio Mall
• Family-friendly amenities

3. Chali Beach Resort

Why visit?

• Beachfront cottages with traditional Filipino design
• Relaxing ambiance perfect for family getaways
• Close proximity to water sports activities

4. Apple Tree Resort & Hotel

Why visit?

• Unbeatable sunset views
• Relaxing beachfront vibe
• Wide range of recreational facilities

5. Ultra Winds Mountain Resort

Why visit?

• Infinity pool with panoramic views
• Cozy cabins perfect for couples or families
• Scenic photo spots everywhere you look

6. Dahilayan Forest Park Resort

Why visit?

• Thrilling activities like ziplining and ATV rides
• Family-friendly amenities
• Cooler weather thanks to its high-altitude location

7. Amaya View

Why visit?

• Unique and themed accommodations
• Spectacular city and mountain views
• Access to attractions like Noah’s Ark, Skywalk, and Infinity Pool

8. New Dawn Hotel Plus

Why visit?

• Affordable and spacious accommodations
• Rooftop lounge with breathtaking city views
• Central location near shopping and dining areas

9. N Hotel

Why visit?

• Family-friendly pool area
• Spacious and modern accommodations
• Convenient location near the city center

10. 1A Express Hotel

Why visit?

• Stylish and comfortable accommodations
• Walking distance to shopping malls and restaurants
• Exceptional customer service

Cagayan de Oro offers a diverse range of accommodations, from luxurious hotels to serene resorts. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a convenient city escape, these hotels and resorts provide unforgettable experiences.

Which of these accommodations would you like to visit? Let us know in the comments below and start planning your next adventure in Northern Mindanao!

Photo by: Project LUPAD

The event featured a wide range of categories, allowing participants of various skill levels to showcase their talents. Riders from different parts of the country, including top competitors from Malaybalay City, South Cotabato, and Davao del Sur, went head-to-head in races that tested their endurance, skill, and determination. With a lineup of rising stars and seasoned riders, the event brought together the best of both worlds in the motocross community.

Highlight Performances and Champions

The day was packed with intense races, with each category delivering its share of excitement. In the Underbone Class 125cc 8th Leg, Junpadon Sulinay from Malaybalay City clinched the top spot, while his fellow Malaybalay rider Arnel Sulinay secured the overall series championship in the same category.

For the 125cc Enduro Class, John Almerino, another Malaybalay rider, emerged victorious in the 8th leg and maintained his dominance as the series champion. Meanwhile, the KLX Challenge saw John Paul Aranges from T’boli, South Cotabato, taking first place, while Vlady Bagayna from Claveria, Misamis Oriental, claimed the series title.

In the Ladies Class Open, Sharlet Gallarde from Sagay City, Negros Occidental, showcased her prowess by winning the 8th leg, while Valencia City’s Lyla Guro maintained her lead in the series. The younger generation also displayed impressive skills in the PW 50, 50cc, and 65cc classes, with riders like Rhion Epanag and Zian dela Cruz making their mark.

The event's Veterans Category was one of the most anticipated, with motocross icons Glenn Aguilar and Jovie Saulog battling it out. Aguilar took the top spot in the 8th leg, while Saulog secured the overall series title. These legends proved that experience and skill continue to be a winning combination in the sport.

A Day of Camaraderie and Celebration

The MotorAce Motocross National Series, branded as the Higalaay Festival Motocross for this leg, was more than just a competition. It brought together riders, fans, and local enthusiasts in a shared passion for motocross. The atmosphere was electric, with the roar of engines, the thrill of jumps, and the camaraderie among participants and supporters.

The event also served as a showcase of local talent, with riders from Cagayan de Oro and nearby regions making their presence felt. Whether they were competing in the novice, intermediate, or expert classes, each rider brought their A-game, contributing to the event's success.

Full List of Winners

Below is the complete list of winners across different classes for the 8th leg and the overall series:

The 8th leg of the MotorAce Motocross National Series was an adrenaline-packed spectacle that highlighted both the competitive spirit and unity of the motocross community. As a key part of the Higalaay Festival, it reinforced the festival’s reputation as a celebration not only of Cagayan de Oro’s culture but also of sportsmanship and community. With local and national talents taking center stage, the event was a perfect blend of excitement, tradition, and fun—truly embodying the spirit of the Higalaay Festival.

Here's a detailed list highlighting the results of each race category from the 8th Leg of the MotorAce Motocross National Series held in Carmen, Cagayan de Oro City, which is also part of the Higalaay Festival:

Underbone Class 125cc 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Junpadon Sulinay (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Angelo Deguma
3. 3rd Place: Ted Suico
4. 4th Place: Clifford John Lunaan
5. 5th Place: McChad Sabellina

Underbone Class 125cc Series:

1. 1st Place: Arnel Sulinay (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Clifford John Lunaan
3. 3rd Place: Chatty Agbo

125cc Enduro Class 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: John Almerino (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Vlady Bagayna
3. 3rd Place: Carl Cenan Hinulos
4. 4th Place: Sunshine Nogoy
5. 5th Place: Frintz Cheralfa Dision

125cc Enduro Class Series:

1. 1st Place: John Almerino (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Vlady Bagayna
3. 3rd Place: Sunshine Nogoy

KLX Challenge 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: John Paul Aranges (T’boli, South Cotabato)
2. 2nd Place: Vlady Bagayna
3. 3rd Place: Akbar Sali
4. 4th Place: Sunshine Nogoy
5. 5th Place: Cedoy Malificiar

KLX Challenge Series:

1. 1st Place: Vlady Bagayna (Claveria, MisOr)
2. 2nd Place: John Paul Aranges
3. 3rd Place: Sunshine Nogoy

Ladies Class Open 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Sharlet Gallarde (Sagay City, Negros Occidental)
2. 2nd Place: Kakay dela Piedra
3. 3rd Place: Lyla Guro
4. 4th Place: Janelle Saulog
5. 5th Place: Kathleen Quitos

Ladies Class Open Series:

1. 1st Place: Lyla Guro (Valencia City)
2. 2nd Place: Aliahna Bartiana
3. 3rd Place: Kakay dela Piedra

PW 50 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Rhion Epanag (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Ren-ren Guiapal
3. 3rd Place: Matthew Abada
4. 4th Place: Karl Anthony Robleza
5. 5th Place: Zoey dela Cruz

BW 50 Series:

1. 1st Place: Rhion Epanag (Malaybalay City)
2. 2nd Place: Karl Anthony Robleza
3. 3rd Place: Ren-ren Guiapal

50cc Class 8th Leg:

1. 1st Champion: Zian dela Cruz (Tagoloan, MisOr)
2. 2nd Place: RJ Malayo
3. 3rd Place: Karl Anthony Robleza
4. 4th Place: Mohan Sali
5. 5th Class: Shek-shek Hamid

50cc Class Series:

1. 1st Place: RJ Malayo (Polomolok, South Cotabato)
2. 2nd Place: Mohan Sali
3. 3rd Place: Roczen Robleza

65cc Class 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Gentle Creer (Pantukan, Davao de Oro)
2. 2nd Place: Krinze Kyle Tapic
3. 3rd Place: Manong Abada
4. 4th Place: Lance Resgonia
5. 5th Place: Yeshna Gabriel Abesta

65cc Class Series:

1. 1st Place: Aldrei Cruz (Polomolok, South Cotabato)
2. 2nd Place: Manong Abada
3. 3rd Place: Yeshna Gabriel Abesta

85cc Class 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: John Anthony Cortez (Kiblawan, Davao del Sur)
2. 2nd Place: McGyver Emas
3. 3rd Place: Aldrei Cruz
4. 4th Place: Lance Resgonia
5. 5th Place: Bugoy Fernandez

85cc Class Series:

1. 1st Place: John Anthony Cortez (Kiblawan, Davao del Sur)
2. 2nd Place: McGyver Emas
3. 3rd Place: Kendrick Flores

Executive 50+ 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Dexter Bacabac (Iloilo City)
2. 2nd Place: Manny Ampoloquio
3. 3rd Place: Jerry Rosal
4. 4th Place: Charles Akiatan
5. 5th Place: Jerry Recones

Executive 50+ Series:

1. 1st Place: Jerry Recones (Surigao City)
2. 2nd Place: Jerry Rosal
3. 3rd Place: Charles Akiatan

Executive 45+ Class 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Danden Catipay (Manticao, MisOr)
2. 2nd Place: Jeffrey Mar
3. 3rd Place: Tristan Lou Galanto
4. 4th Place: Dexter Bacabac
5. 5th Place: Arturo Alegre

Executive 45+ Class Series:

1. 1st Place: Danden Catipay (Manticao, MisOr)
2. 2nd Place: Tristan Lou Galanto
3. 3rd Place: Jeffrey Mar

Veterans Category 8th Leg:

1. 1st Place: Glenn Aguilar (Manila)
2. 2nd Place: Jovie Saulog
3. 3rd Place: Yasuto Watanabe
4. 4th Place: Jeffrey Mar
5. 5th Place: Tristan Lou Galanto

Veterans Category Series:

1. 1st Place: Jovie Saulog (Manila)
2. 2nd Place: Yasuto Watanabe
3. 3rd Place: Rodel Cameros

Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Rep. Rufus Rodriguez has taken a commendable step to address this issue. By writing to Supreme Court Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo, Rep. Rodriguez is advocating for the designation of Regional Trial Courts (RTCs) in the 10th Judicial Region as Special Expropriation Courts for national railway projects, including the pivotal Mindanao Railway Project Phase 3. This move, if implemented, could significantly expedite the expropriation process, a critical bottleneck in infrastructure development.

The current system for handling expropriation cases is mired in inefficiency, leading to interminable delays. For a project as crucial as the Mindanao Railway, this inefficiency is not just an inconvenience; it is a roadblock to progress. The establishment of Special Expropriation Courts would streamline legal proceedings, allowing for a faster resolution of property acquisition issues and paving the way for swift construction.

Mindanao’s economic future hinges on improved transportation infrastructure. The Mindanao Railway is not merely a convenience; it is an economic catalyst. By facilitating the efficient movement of goods and people, the railway will reduce transportation costs, attract investments, and stimulate local economies. It will create jobs, boost tourism, and enhance the overall quality of life for Mindanaoans.

Rep. Rodriguez’s initiative is a pragmatic solution to a pervasive problem. It reflects a much-needed sense of urgency and a commitment to overcoming bureaucratic inertia. However, this proposal requires broad support from both the judiciary and the executive branches of government to succeed.

The establishment of the Mindanao Railway is a transformative project that cannot be relegated to the backburner any longer. The people of Mindanao deserve the economic opportunities and improved connectivity that this railway system will bring. It is high time to cut through the red tape and take decisive action.

We applaud Rep. Rodriguez for his foresight and dedication. Now, it is imperative that other leaders and stakeholders rally behind this initiative. The future of Mindanao’s development depends on our collective will to act swiftly and decisively.

Let us not wait another decade for what should already be a reality. The Mindanao Railway Project is a beacon of hope for a brighter, more connected future. It is time to turn that hope into reality.

Cagayan de Oro City, May 17, 2024 – The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair (BPSF) marked its successful launch in Cagayan de Oro City on May 16-17, 2024, at the University of Science & Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP). This significant event, the 17th installment of the nationwide serbisyo caravan, drew thousands of beneficiaries and showcased the government's commitment to bringing services directly to the people.

A Grand Opening with Dignitaries

The fair was hosted locally by Honorable Atty. Lordan G. Suan, Representative of the First District of Cagayan de Oro City. The Opening Program, held at the Dr. Ricardo E. Rotoras Memorial Hall, was graced by House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, representing President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. Speaker Romualdez, affectionately known as "Mr. Rice," underscored his commitment to food security by distributing 200,000 kilograms of rice to identified beneficiaries.

Wide-Ranging Services and Assistance

Over the two-day event, 38 national government agencies provided a staggering 213 services, benefitting an estimated 30,000 residents. The fair brought a total of Php286 million worth of programs and services to Cagayan de Oro, with Php180 million allocated as cash assistance. The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) facilitated continuous payouts, distributing Php168 million to 26,000 individual Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) beneficiaries.

Empowering Communities Through Education and Livelihood

TESDA and CHED offered various scholarship programs, while livelihood assistance was provided to various sectors. These initiatives aimed to empower the city's residents by enhancing their skills and providing them with the tools needed for sustainable development.

Cultural Unity and Celebration

The fair concluded with a grand Pagkakaisa Concert at the Pelaez Sports Complex on the evening of May 17, 2024. The concert, which offered free admission, was a vibrant celebration of unity and community spirit, drawing an audience of over 10,000 people.

Comprehensive Support Across Sectors

The BPSF CDO event highlighted a comprehensive approach to service delivery, encompassing social, health, agricultural, livelihood, educational, and regulatory services. Key figures included:

• Social Services: Php168 million
• Health Services: Php4.5 million
• Agricultural Services: Php388,915
• Livelihood Services: Php101 million
• Educational Services: Php10.5 million
• GOCCs & Other Government Services: Php1.56 million
• Regulatory Services: Php540,750

The Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair aims to cover all 82 provinces in the Philippines, demonstrating the government's dedication to inclusive and accessible public service. The Cagayan de Oro leg not only met but exceeded expectations, setting a high standard for future events.

Community Impact and Future Prospects

As the 17th installment of the serbisyo caravan, the BPSF in Cagayan de Oro City exemplifies the government's proactive approach in addressing the needs of its citizens. The overwhelming participation and the extensive range of services provided underscore the fair's significance in fostering community development and well-being.

In conclusion, the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair in Cagayan de Oro City was a resounding success, leaving a positive impact on thousands of residents and setting a precedent for the remaining provinces yet to host the fair. This event not only brought immediate relief and support but also laid the groundwork for sustainable growth and empowerment in the region.