by Gerry Lee Gorit
Misamis Oriental recently concluded its vibrant celebration of the 2024 National Tourism Week, held from September 30 to October 3, 2024.
The event successfully showcased the province’s best, featuring a wide array of cultural performances, culinary exhibitions, and displays of local products that drew both locals and visitors alike.
During the Closing and Awarding Ceremony On October 3, 2024, held at Ayala Mall Centrio in Cagayan de Oro City, top officials delivered their culmination messages.
In a speech delivered by Provincial Tourism Officer Maryden “Lilay” Ocot, she said that the celebration was a testament of the beauty, heritage and tourism potentials of the province.
Ocot gave her deep appreciation to the great leadership of Misamis Oriental Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro” M. Unabia which made the province now one of the exciting tourist destinations in the country.
For his part, Board Member Wayne T. Militante, who also delivered his speech in behalf of the governor, he said that the leadership of Governor Unabia promises to have a more vibrant and biggest tourism celebration next year.
“Siya man gihapon ang modaug kay naay kontra sa umalabot nga election pero murag wala man lang gihapon,” he jokingly said. “Busa gipasalig ni Governor Unabia nga sunod tuig mas dako pa nga celebration ang mahitabo to celebrate tourism success in the province”
Militante also added that the governor is so focused on developing tourism in th province in order to create more jobs and opportunities for the locals in Misamis Oriental.
The weeklong celebration and activities
The celebration kicked off with an opening ceremony in Cagayan de Oro City, where Governor Peter “Sr. Pedro” M. Unabia, along with provincial tourism officials, welcomed attendees to the festivities.
With the theme “Exploring Culture, Celebrating Progress,” the event highlighted the province’s cultural richness and its role in promoting sustainable tourism and economic growth.
The governor’s opening speech emphasized the importance of fostering tourism as a vital sector for the province’s development.
One of the major highlights of the week was the series of cultural performances held across different municipalities.
These performances showcased the traditional dances and music of the province’s indigenous communities, including the Lumad and Higaonon tribes. Spectators were treated to captivating displays of native costumes, rhythmic drumbeats, and graceful choreography, all celebrating the unique cultural identity of Misamis Oriental.
The performances were not only a form of entertainment but also a tribute to the preservation of the province’s heritage.
Equally impressive were the culinary showcases that drew food enthusiasts from around the region. Several towns participated in the food festival, offering traditional delicacies such as fresh seafood from Medina and Talisayan, the popular “Kipol” (cassava cake) from Claveria, and other local favorites.
The festival also featured modern takes on local cuisine, as top chefs from the area prepared dishes that blended traditional ingredients with contemporary techniques.
The culinary segment was a feast for the senses, allowing visitors to experience the diverse flavors of the province.
The week also featured an exciting display of local products, with a trade fair held in Gingoog City.
Local artisans showcased intricately crafted souvenirs, while agricultural producers displayed organic goods such as coffee, cacao, and coconuts.
Visitors had the opportunity to purchase handmade crafts and locally grown produce, supporting the province’s local economy and sustainable industries.
The celebration culminated in a grand float parade in Cagayan de Oro City, with vibrant floats and street dancers representing each municipality.
The colorful displays highlighted the province’s natural wonders, cultural heritage, and historical landmarks, making for a spectacular conclusion to the festivities.
The 2024 National Tourism Week in Misamis Oriental was a resounding success, bringing together the community and showcasing the province’s beauty, culture, and progress.
The culmination was also graced by Ms. Erlinda S. Unabia, co-chairperson of the Provincial Tourism Council; Maryden “Lilay” Ocot-Provincial Tourism Officer; Fe Benitez Taray; Arlene Tingabngab-Palcis, Tourism Officer; Board members Wayne T. Militante and Gerardo “Boboy” Sabal III.
