The question on everyone’s mind: Why hasn’t it happened yet?

The Hard Truth Behind the “International” Label

The simple answer is that international routes require more than just an airport that looks ready — it needs a market that’s ready. Airlines don’t launch international flights just because an airport has the facilities. They study passenger demand, tourism strength, economic activity, and the profitability of routes.

At the moment, Cagayan de Oro and Iligan — while growing rapidly — have yet to reach that level of consistent international demand. To put it bluntly, if airlines were to open international routes today, they would likely be flying half-empty planes. And that’s simply not sustainable business.

What Makes an Airport Internationally Viable

Airlines look for three major things before opening routes abroad:

1. A strong economy – A region that attracts investors and frequent business travel.

2. Tourism appeal – Destinations that make travelers want to visit, stay, and spend.

3. Passenger volume – Enough travelers to fill planes regularly, ensuring profitability.

While Northern Mindanao has promising growth in agriculture, industry, and tourism, it’s still catching up in all three areas. Cagayan de Oro is known as a “gateway city,” but it hasn’t yet evolved into a “must-visit city” like Cebu or Davao. The tourism potential is massive — from Camiguin to Bukidnon’s scenic routes — but it needs better packaging, promotion, and accessibility to attract a steady stream of foreign visitors.

The Role of Aboitiz InfraCapital and the 2024 PPP

The 30-year partnership between the Department of Transportation, CAAP, and Aboitiz InfraCapital (AIC) was supposed to be the turning point. The plan was to expand Laguindingan’s capacity from 1.6 million to 3.9 million passengers in Phase 1 and up to 6.3 million in Phase 2.

However, AIC recently confirmed that there are no concrete plans for international flights until at least 2026 — unless airlines themselves decide to launch them earlier. Understandably, this sparked frustration among business groups and local leaders who were expecting faster developments after the turnover.

Why Davao Flies Ahead

Davao City’s success didn’t happen overnight. It took years of economic expansion, international marketing, and airline partnerships. Its connections to Singapore, Hong Kong, Bangkok, and even Doha grew from consistent demand driven by tourism, trade, and foreign investments.

Laguindingan can follow that path — but only if Northern Mindanao strengthens its economy and tourism image first. The region must become more than a gateway; it has to be the destination.

The Way Forward

If Cagayan de Oro, Iligan, and the rest of Northern Mindanao want to see international flights soon, the region must work together to:

• Boost tourism by promoting must-visit attractions like Dahilayan, Camiguin, and Iligan’s waterfalls as world-class experiences.
• Grow local industries to attract international investors and trade connections.
• Build consistent demand for both inbound and outbound flights through business, leisure, and cultural exchange.

Until then, international airlines will continue to see Laguindingan as a beautiful airport with great potential — but not yet a profitable route.

For now, calling it “Laguindingan International Airport” might sound impressive, but until regular international routes actually take off, the title remains more aspirational than real.

Northern Mindanao’s dream of having true international connectivity isn’t impossible — it just needs time, stronger economic foundations, and a shared vision that turns potential into progress.

If you’ve ever heard travelers talking about Siargao, chances are you’ve come across the phrase “Siargao Curse.” Some say that once you visit this island paradise, you’ll find it hard to leave—or that you’ll always feel the urge to come back. But is it really a curse, or is it simply the magic of Siargao?

Falling in Love with Siargao

It’s no secret why foreigners and locals alike fall in love with Siargao. Known as the surfing capital of the Philippines, the island offers some of the best surf spots in Asia. But beyond surfing, Siargao is breathtakingly beautiful—filled with white sandy beaches, turquoise waters, palm-lined roads, and island vibes that instantly make you feel at home.

One thing you’ll notice right away is how foreigners seem to blend seamlessly into the island lifestyle. You’ll see them walking barefoot, shirtless, or in simple beach attire, embracing the same carefree culture as the locals. Businesses also adapt to this island way of life—many shops and restaurants encourage you to leave your footwear outside before entering. It’s a small gesture, but one that reflects the laid-back, welcoming nature of Siargao.

The Island’s Pet-Friendly Charm

Another reason Siargao captures so many hearts? It’s incredibly pet-friendly. Dogs wander freely, and most establishments are welcoming to furry friends. Since many foreigners are pet lovers, this aspect makes Siargao feel even more like home for them. Imagine enjoying a sunset session on the beach while dogs run around happily—it’s a simple joy that makes the island atmosphere even warmer.

Explore More: The Famous Tri-Island Tour

Of course, no trip to Siargao is complete without experiencing the Tri-Island Tour. This popular island-hopping adventure takes you to three breathtaking spots:

The tour usually includes a hearty lunch, boat rides, and the company of friendly local tour guides who make the trip seamless and unforgettable.

To make your island-hopping experience hassle-free, you can book with Elcrest Travel and Tours. They arrange tours around top tourist destinations in the Philippines, and Siargao is one of their specialties. For bookings and inquiries, you can reach them at 0961 877 1387 or follow their Facebook page at Elcrest Travel and Tours. They are conveniently located in Cagayan de Oro – Lane 101 Uptown, Upper Carmen.

Beyond Tourism: A Place to Live

Siargao isn’t just for short vacations; it’s also becoming a haven for digital nomads and long-term travelers. With its chill vibe and growing community of online workers, the island is perfect for those who want to work while enjoying a slower pace of life.

Even if you’re not an online worker, opportunities still abound. Resorts, hotels, restaurants, and bars are always looking for people to join their teams. This makes Siargao more than just a tourist destination—it’s also a place where you can build a life if you choose to.

So, Is the Siargao Curse Real?

After my recent trip to Siargao, I can confidently say: there’s no curse. What people call the “Siargao Curse” is nothing more than the natural pull of a truly beautiful island. It’s not that Siargao traps you—it’s that it welcomes you, embraces you, and makes you long to return the moment you leave.

For me, I’ll surely be going back—not because of a curse, but because I genuinely fell in love with the island, the people, and the lifestyle that Siargao offers.

If you really want to understand why so many people feel this way, don’t just visit Siargao for a few days. Stay for a month or more. Live like a local, work remotely, or simply embrace the slow island life. And don’t miss the Tri-Island Tour—a must-do that perfectly captures the magic of Siargao.

So, is the Siargao Curse real? Maybe not. But the island’s charm is so strong, it might just feel like one.

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.

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.

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!