Cagayan de Oro City...the City of Golden Friendship. The first time I went there was 20 years ago when my bestfriend requested me to visit him (may his soul rest in peace).
This year, I was lucky enough to do the Centrio Mall Style Origin fashion show of Ayala Malls. My 5-day stay in the city courtesy of Seda Hotel was really an awakening. Awakening in the sense that I never thought that progress will be that fast for this northern gateway to Mindanao. It is an amazing development.
Cagayan de Oro is home to the largest Asia Brewery plant in the country. The past 20 years saw rapid development to what is now one of the most progressive cities in the country. Malls, hotels and other establishments have mushroomed left and right for the benefit of tourists and to the delight of its citizens.
But, despite progress, the city has maintained its own charm and character. Kudos to the local government officials, then and now, for loving the Cagayan de Oro City. Despite the calamities of the past, its people was able to rise up and move forward.
Commercial establishments are up and about in this city of not only golden but genuine friendship as well. There is this chill place called Lifestyle District where people can relax and while the evening away until wee hours in the morning.
There are locally-owned restaurants where you can taste the freshest of seafood available. Panagatan Seafood Restaurant is one of them. Fresh sea produce is served everyday.
High Ridge is another must-see place in Cagayan de Oro City. Its big restaurant, warm weather, sumptuous food and a good vantage view of the city from the mountain are reasons enough for one to traverse the rugged mountain streets. Thank you to my friends Gil Macaibay and Roger Lactao for bringing us around during free time.
Cagayan de Oro City is easily accessible by plane from Manila, Cebu and Davao. There are daily flights by Philippine Airlines, PAL Express, Cebu Pacific Air and CebGo. Its new airport, the Laguindingan Airport, is an hour away from city proper but has good facilities in place.
Once you get to visit this city, it's not easy to fall in love with it. Not only is it known for its version of Divisoria and other interesting places, Cagayan de Oro City is truly a city of gold!
