Cagayan de Oro, a city celebrated for its dynamic growth and development, recently showcased its collective achievements through a State of the City Address held at the Cagayan de Oro International Convention Center on June 15, 2024. Mayor Rolando \"Klarex\" Uy took the stage to outline the city's advancements under the RISE Agenda platform, emphasizing the critical roles of every government office within the city in these successes.
Mayor Uy's address was a testament to the collaborative efforts across various sectors, including metropolitan development, economic recovery, regional cooperation, and safety and security. Each of these areas contributed significantly to the city's overall progress, reflecting the Mayor's commitment to acknowledging the hard work and dedication of every individual involved in achieving the RISE Agenda goals.
One of the highlights of the address was the appreciation of the City College of Cagayan de Oro for its pivotal role in enhancing educational opportunities within the city. Mayor Uy thanked the college, led by Interim President Dr. Jestoni P. Babia, for its instrumental role in launching new academic programs and navigating the complex process of institutional recognition. This has played a crucial part in offering high-quality, locally relevant education to the Kagay-anons, aligning with the city's broader objectives of inclusivity and equitable development.
However, Mayor Uy's praise extended beyond the City College, encompassing the efforts of all government offices and departments. He acknowledged the contributions of key individuals and sectors, highlighting how their collective work has propelled the city to become the second richest outside Metro Manila and secure the 487th position in the Southeast Asia City Index 2024. These achievements underscore the city's robust economy and growing influence, reflecting its strong performance across various sectors.
Furthermore, Mayor Uy stressed the city's dedication to becoming one of the top smart cities in the region and Asia. He challenged the City College of Cagayan de Oro team to continue developing exceptional programs that cater to the needs of the local communities, with a particular focus on marginalized sectors lacking access to quality education. This commitment reflects the city's broader objectives of inclusivity and equitable development.
The event was well-attended, drawing in all city councilors, representatives from various government offices, department managers, and regular city hall employees. Their presence highlighted the broad support and engagement behind the city's initiatives and the shared vision for Cagayan de Oro's continued success.
As Cagayan de Oro moves forward, the insights and commitments outlined in the State of the City Address signal a promising future, marked by economic growth, educational excellence, and a steadfast dedication to serving the community.