Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental, Philippines

Misamis Oriental is within Region X – Northern Mindanao, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Cagayan de Oro City

• As of the 2020 Census, Cagayan de Oro City had a population of 728,402.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 675,950, reflecting robust urban growth over five years.
• Cagayan de Oro is historically home to the Higaonon people, an indigenous group known for their forest stewardship and ancestral domains in the highlands of Northern Mindanao. The city also has Subanen roots and later became a melting pot of Visayan migrants, especially Cebuanos and Ilonggos.
• The major dialect spoken is Cebuano, though Higaonon and Tagalog are also present. While these dialects reflect local heritage, English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Cagayan de Oro City

• Cagayan de Oro City is located in Northern Mindanao (Region X), on the northern coast of Mindanao Island, facing Macajalar Bay. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 8.4811°N latitude and 124.6452°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 412.80 square kilometers, with terrain that includes coastal plains, river valleys, and upland plateaus. The Cagayan de Oro River bisects the city and is central to its geography and tourism. The climate is tropical, with a wet season from June to November and a dry season from December to May.
• Cagayan de Oro is the capital of Misamis Oriental, although it is administratively independent as a highly urbanized city. The City Hall is located in Barangay 1, adjacent to Gaston Park and the Provincial Capitol.
• Most people reach Cagayan de Oro via land, sea, and air. The Laguindingan Airport serves flights to Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The Port of Cagayan de Oro is a major gateway for cargo and passenger vessels. Bus terminals connect the city to Iligan, Bukidnon, and Caraga regions.

Tourist Attractions of Cagayan de Oro City

• Cagayan de Oro River: Famous for whitewater rafting and kayaking, drawing adventure seekers from across the country.
• Gaston Park: A historic plaza with fountains and landscaped gardens, located near the Cathedral and City Hall.
• Mapawa Nature Park: A forest reserve offering waterfalls, horseback riding, and eco-tours.
• Divine Mercy Shrine: Located in nearby El Salvador, this pilgrimage site features a 50-foot statue of Jesus Christ.
• Kagay-an Festival: Celebrated every August in honor of St. Augustine, the city’s patron saint. Events include street dancing, culinary showcases, and cultural parades.

Economy of Cagayan de Oro City

• Cagayan de Oro is the economic center of Northern Mindanao. Its economy is driven by:
  • Trade and commerce: The city hosts major malls, markets, and logistics hubs.
  • Industry: The PHIVIDEC Industrial Estate in nearby Tagoloan supports manufacturing and export activities.
  • Education and services: Universities, hospitals, and government offices contribute to employment and innovation.
  • Tourism: Adventure sports, festivals, and cultural sites attract both domestic and international visitors.
• In 2024, Cagayan de Oro’s estimated GDP exceeded ₱180 billion, ranking among the top highly urbanized cities outside Metro Manila.

Educational Institutions of Cagayan de Oro City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Xavier University – Ateneo de Cagayan: A Jesuit institution offering programs in liberal arts, law, medicine, and business.
  • University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP): A state university specializing in engineering, science, and technology.
  • Capitol University: Offers programs in maritime studies, nursing, and criminology.
  • Liceo de Cagayan University: Offers law, health sciences, and graduate programs.
  • Mindanao University of Science and Technology (MUST): Now integrated into USTP, known for its technical and engineering programs.

History of Cagayan de Oro City

• Cagayan de Oro traces its origins to the pre-colonial settlement of Himologan, located along the banks of the Cagayan River. It was inhabited by the Higaonon people and later became a Spanish mission center in the 17th century.
• In 1871, the settlement was renamed “Cagayan de Misamis” and became a town under Spanish rule. It served as a strategic port and administrative center during the American period.
• Cagayan de Oro was officially chartered as a city on June 15, 1950 through Republic Act No. 521. It was declared a highly urbanized city in 1983, making it administratively independent from Misamis Oriental.
• Today, Cagayan de Oro is known as the “City of Golden Friendship,” reflecting its warm hospitality, dynamic economy, and cultural diversity. It continues to lead Northern Mindanao in governance, education, and infrastructure development.

Elected Officials of Cagayan de Oro City

• As of the 2025 elections, Cagayan de Oro City is led by:
  • Mayor: Rolando “Klarex” Uy
  • Vice Mayor: Jocelyn B. Rodriguez
  • Representative – 1st District: Lordan Suan
  • Representative – 2nd District: Rufus Rodriguez
  • City Councilors: Desiree Ann M. Dahino, Roger G. Abaday, Juancho R. Pascual, Agapito Eriberto G. Suan, George Christopher Q. Goking, Moreno Y. Daba IV, Al P. Legaspi Sr., Imee Rose P. Moreno, Yevonna Yacine B. Emano, Maximo T. Rodriguez III, Paolo Nicolo Gaane, Joyleen Mercedes L. Balaba, Yan Lam S. Lim, Enrico D. Salcedo, Gilda O. Go, Edgar S. Cabanlas, Datu Roberto P. Cabaring (IPMR), Marlo L. Tabac (Liga ng mga Barangay), Kenneth John D. Sacala (SK Federation)
• For full election results and updates, visit: Cagayan de Oro City Election Results.

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