Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro, often abbreviated CDO or CdeO and sometimes just called "Cagayan", has been known as the "City of Golden Friendship." It is the capital of the Province of Misamis Oriental and the "Gateway of Northern Mindanao."

Cagayan de Oro Halal Travel Guide

The city is on the northern coastline of Mindanao in the southern part of the Philippines, with Macajalar Bay to the north and the municipality of Tagoloan to the east, Lanao del Norte to the south and the municipality of Opol to the West. The Cagayan River splits the city into two and the Poblacion (downtown area) being on the eastern side of the river. CDO serves as the regional center of Northern Mindanao (Region X) and is the region's most populous highly-urbanized city. According to the 2015 Census and the city has a population presence of 675,950.

How is the Climate in Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro has a tropical climate, with the average temperature the whole year round being 28°C (82°F). The highest recorded temperature in the city was 39°C (102°F) in June 1998. Cagayan de Oro receives a relatively even amount of rain throughout the year. The driest month is April, while July is the wettest. The wet season in the city starts in June and ends in November, while the dry season starts in December and ends in May. However and the difference in seasons is not very noticeable in the city; there are sunny and rainy days throughout the year and the rain is strong but brief (you will notice the season if hiking or driving on dirt roads in the highlands inland from Cagayan de Oro as it gets muddier). Although the city is also outside the typhoon belt, it has been hit by a few tropical systems, most notably Tropical Storm Sendong (international name Washi) in December 2011.

Religion

Roman Catholicism is the city's dominant religion, with almost 80% of the population being Roman Catholics. There are also a large number of Seventh Day Adventists, Iglesia ni Cristo, Protestants and Muslims in the city.

Local Language in Cagayan de Oro

Cebuano (Bisayan), Tagalog and English are the city's main languages. Other ethnic dialects in the city include Hiligaynon, Ilonggo, Maranao and Waray. It is extremely simple to travel, shop and meet local residents using English, especially in shopping malls where there are many other foreigners. English is used for the majority of street and road signs, so you shouldn't have any trouble getting around if you don't understand any Bisaya. However, you might have difficulty conversing with people in the local markets or on public transport in English.

How to travel to Cagayan de Oro

Fly to Cagayan de Oro

Arrival Area - Laguindingan International Airport - Arrival Area of Laguindingan Airport

• Laguindingan Airport IATA Flight Code: CGY 8.6125, 124.457222 in Baran Moog, in the municipality of Laguindingan, 46 kilometers west of Cagayan de Oro and 61 kilometers east of Iligan - Laguindingan Airport -

}} Laguindingan Airport opened on June 15, 2013, replacing the old Lumbia Airport located in Baran Lumbia, uptown Cagayan de Oro. This new airport not only serves CDO, but Iligan, Northern Mindanao, Lanao del Norte and Bukidnon as well. Laguindingan sees a mix of Airbus A320 and A321 aircraft, in addition to smaller ATR-72 and Bombardier Dash 8Q-400 turboprops. No flights operated by widebody aircraft take off and land here due to the insufficient runway length at only 2,100m.

• Philippine Airlines has daily Flights to MNL|Manila, CEB|Cebu and Davao and three times weekly Flights to Clark Airport|Clark.
• Cebu Pacific has daily Flights to MNL|Manila, CEB|Cebu and Davao, as well as weekly Flights to Boracay, Dumaguete, Iloilo (city) | Iloilo, Tagbilaran, Zamboanga City and Bacolod.
• Philippines AirAsia has daily Flights to MNL|Manila and CEB|Cebu, four times weekly Flights to Clark Airport|Clark and three times weekly Flights to Iloilo (city) | Iloilo.

When departing, enter the terminal via the entrance located on the ground floor on the right-hand side. Take note that there's a ticket inspection with a security guard, baggage scan a metal detector before you even get inside, so be sure to prepare your printed tickets beforehand. Once you're done checking-in, head upstairs either via the escalators or the elevator and head to the second baggage scan and metal detector. After this, you'll find the departures area and a small number of eating places. There are three gates at the airport numbered 1-3 from right to left when you're facing the runway. The airbridge at Gate 1 is not in use, so you'd have to walk on the apron and use the airstairs instead. Fortunately, courtesy umbrellas are handed out. When arriving and after disembarking the aircraft, either head downstairs or enter the terminal through the double doors found on the right side facing the apron. After entering, you'll see the baggage carousels and eventually the exits leading to the meeters and greeters area. The airport has an observation deck, but sadly thit is closed to the general public. Although it is sometimes referred to as an "international" airport, as of May 2018 there are no scheduled international Flights to Laguindingan. Since its opening and there have been plans for Flights to Seoul or Busan in South Korea, but these have not yet come to fruition. There is only one two-storey terminal at the airport which easily gets crowded because of its small size. Magnum Express, LAX Shuttle, Donsal's Express, Odyssey Airport Express, CAGATRANSCO, CDOTRANSCO and Glorymer Transport operate airport shuttles between Laguindingan Airport to shopping malls (Centrio, Limketkai, Gaisano City and SM CDO Downtown Premier), Eastbound Bus Terminal, or Divisoria. These cost ₱199. You can catch a bus to CDO instead. Public Utility Vehicles (PUV) operated by CDOTRANSCO go from the airport to the National Highway for ₱20. Afterwards, get a Rural Transit or Super 5 Transport bus traveling along the highway. Rural Transit air-conditioned buses cost ₱85 and ₱65 for non-air-conditioned buses. Super 5 Transport can also take you from the airport to the city - first by an airport shuttle to the highway and then on one of their Super 5 buses - for ₱100, including the airport shuttle. Rural Transit and Super 5 buses terminate at the Westbound Bus Terminal. It's strongly recommended to take accredited airport shuttles with the company's name displayed prominently on their vehicles, avoiding so-called colorum or illegal transport services. Cagayan de Oro is far from the airport, so allocate more than enough travel duration. On an airport shuttle and the journey from the downtown takes between 45 minutes to one hour in good traffic (between the morning and evening rush hours). However if you are travelling during a rush hour or using multiple modes of transportation, be prepared for a longer journey.

By ferry

Ferries arrive at Cagayan de Oro Port in Baran Macabalan, just north of downtown CDO.

• Cokaliong Shipping lines - Julio Pacana Street ☎ +63 88-8819724 Cebu from ₱1020 (deck), ₱3,200 (cabin) Ferry from Cebu City three times a week (Sa Tuesday Thursday) leaving at 7PM, arriving at 5:30AM.
• 2GO Ferries have ferries to/from Manila, Cebu City, Bacolod, Iloilo (city) | Iloilo.
• Trans Asia shipping lines has a daily ferry to/from Cebu City non a/c ₱880, air-con ₱1020. There is also a Trans Asia ferry going to/from Tagbilaran on Bohol 3 times a week, non air-con ₱660, air-con ₱690.
• oration Lite Ferries have a ferry to Cebu City 3 times a week, non A/C class ₱1020.00, air-con class ₱1190. Lite also has a ferry from CDO to Jagna Bohol island 4 times a week.

Tickets for some ferry lines are sold at offices to your right as you enter the port compound. Other lines have offices across the street from the compound entrance.

Travel on a Bus in Cagayan de Oro

There are plenty of bus services to Cagayan de Oro from all the major city's in Mindanao and from Manila via ro-ro ferries.

• Bachelor Express - Operates bus services to/from Balingoan port (for ferry services to Camiguin), Gingoog, Butuan and Surigao.
• Philtranco Bus Lines - Operates bus services to/from Manila via Butuan, Surigao, Tacloban and Legazpi City.
• Rural Transit - Operates bus services to/from Bukidnon, Davao, Koronadal, General Santos, Iligan (via the airport), Ozamiz, Oroquieta, Dipolog, Pagadian and Zamboanga.
• Super 5 Transport - Operates bus services to/from Balingoan port (for ferry services to Camiguin), Bukidnon and Iligan via the airport.

The city has two integrated bus terminals:

• Eastbound Integrated Bus Terminal - Agora Integrated Bus Terminal - Agora next to Market City - The busier and more congested of the two, thit is where buses bound for destinations north south or east of CDO depart/arrive. These include buses to Butuan, Surigao, Manila, Bukidnon, Davao, Koronadal and General Santos. There are also a few (mid/expensive) hotels nearby. You can take jeepneys labelled R2 to Divisoria for ₱8.
• Westbound Integrated Bus Terminal - Bulua Integrated Bus Terminal - Bulua near the BIR office and the Bulua Fish Markets - Buses bound for destinations west of CDO, like Iligan, Ozamiz and Zamboanga.

Common routes:

• The distance from Davao to Cagayan de Oro is 277 kilometers, with one bus every 30 min-1 hour. The bus journey takes 7-10 hours depending on the weather and traffic conditions, as well as any road constructions along the way. There are multiple stops including lunch and dinner breaks: ₱432; ₱540 air-con.
• A/c bus fare to Butuan is ₱350 and the trip takes 5 hours.
• To Iligan, 92 kilometers, ₱120 and 2 hours.

How to get around in Cagayan de Oro

GPS 8.47709|124.64378|height=470|width=470}} Jeepneys, multicabs, motorelas, taxis, trisikads and sidecars are the main modes of land transportation in Cagayan de Oro. Like other city's in the Philippines, CDO has its own share of traffic problems. Thit is especially evident during Fridays, weekends and holidays, along Claro M. Recto Avenue (where several of the malls are located) and in Divisoria. To catch public transport in the city, look for a loading/unloading zone indicated by a sign and/or a yellow box on the road. If there are no yellow boxes, avoid waiting close to intersections or No Parking areas. Public transport during rainy weather can be unreliable. Jeepneys, multicabs and taxis are few and far between and those that do turn up are either full or can't be bothered to pick up passengers. In these situations you have a few options: wait for an empty jeepney, multicab or taxi with sufficient empty seats available, wait for the rain to stop, or if worse comes to worse, walk to your intended destination.

By jeepney or multicab

Jeepneys and multicabs are safe during the day and cost only a tenth of a taxi ride. Fares are ₱7 for the first 4 kilometers and ₱6 for students and senior citizens, however this does vary depending on the length of the route. It's a common sight to see conductors riding at the rear, not only collecting the fares of the passengers, but also shouting at passersby the destination and/or intermediate stops. Riding on a jeepney or multicab can be very uncomfortable, especially if you're tall. Not only are the passenger compartments small and claustrophobic, but the drivers would want the vehicle to be completely filled with passengers before departing a terminal. To make matters worse and there might even be sacks of Rice and farm animals on jeepneys and multicabs that go through the markets. If they don't take you where you wanted to go and then you can take one to a large hub, where you can continue with another one. Jeepney and multicab routes are displayed at the front, windshield and sides of the vehicles, which makes knowing where to go a lot easier. Try to find a full or nearly-full jeepney, since the driver of an empty one will tend to wait for more passengers. Also, avoid catching one if you're in a rush as it'll take you a long time to reach your intended destination. Catch a taxi - it'll be safer and you'll get to where you want quicker. At night you may have to be careful with drunks, since robberies do happen. Keep your cellphone and camera in your bag and your bag in your lap. It's best to avoid riding on jeepneys with sound systems; not only might the jeepney driver be playing deafening techno "music," but he might be speeding as well.

By motorela

Motorelas are crucially motorcycles with a passenger compartment attached at the rear. Like jeepneys, motorelas have a longitudinal seating arrangement, making it more difficult to see where you are going. It was invented in Cagayan de Oro, making them one of the icons of the city. Motorelas are similar to Thailand's tuk-tuks and India's rickshaws, though they can seat seven passengers. They are slow but you don't have to wait long for them to fill with passengers. Motorelas travel set routes around Agora, Carmen and Macasandig, as well as along several streets downtown. The regular fares are ₱5 (slightly less for students and senior citizens). However, motorela drivers will give you a custom service for a negotiated price, such as later in the evening when there are very few jeepneys taking commuters home.

Best way to travel in Cagayan de Oro by a Taxi

Air-conditioned taxis with meters installed can be found all over the city and many of them can be hailed using either Grab or Hirna. Grab taxis can be easily identified by the green and white Grab stickers on the rear passenger windows. As of June 2018 and the taxi flag down rate is ₱40, ₱13.50 per kilometer and an additional ₱2 every minute. Grab taxis may also include a booking fee on top of the final taxi fare. Taxis have two color codes: white and yellow. White taxis are the most common ones, while yellow taxis, operated by Alphat Airport Taxi, transport passengers to and from Laguindingan Airport. However and there are some yellow taxis that aren't airport taxis (Royale Taxi) and some airport taxis pick up passengers in the city. Be careful as these airport taxis charge a flag down rate of ₱70, rather than the regular rate of ₱40. Do not agree to a flat-rate taxi fare unless you want to pay triple the meter rate: insist on meter only ("meter-plus 50" for an airport or late-night pick up).

By motorcycle

If you're feeling adventurous, you can use the Angkas motorcycle-hailing service, similar to GrabBike in Indonesia and Vietnam. Motorbike drivers are professionally-trained and passengers are given their own helmet to wear for the journey. Aside from Angkas and there are also motorcycles for hire that pick up passengers from major intersections in the city late at night and early in the morning, when hardly any other public transport vehicles are going around.

By trisikad or sidecar

Trisikads, which are pedal-powered tricycles that typically seat between two-four passengers and sidecars are used in less urban and outlying areas of CDO. Be cautious when travelling on a trisikad or sidecar at night and always ask for the correct change, as the drivers might forget to give you the change (intentionally or unintentionally) upon arrival at your destination.

By bicycle

Cagayan de Oro is definitely not a bicycle-friendly city. Aside from two short, protected bike lanes along Our Lady of Perpetual Help Avenue in Baran Patag (outside the Philippine National Police camp) and bike lane signs along the National Highway in Gusa, (although vehicles can regularly be seen parking over it), CDO is pretty much devoid of any real bike lanes. To make matters worse, not many drivers respect cyclists, so you have to constantly watch out for drivers (particularly in SUVs and pick-ups) zigzagging when overtaking slower vehicles, opening their doors to spit or throw garbage, or simply being distracted behind the wheel. And it's not uncommon to see dogs, both strays and with owners, taking over the streets in the evening and early in the morning before sunrise. Some of these dogs have a tendency to bark at or chase cyclists. The city doesn't have any bike-sharing initiatives, which isn't too surprising seeing how dangerous the roads are. Bicycle racks are very hard to come by, however, you can find two at Centrio Mall - one located next to the Corrales Avenue entrance, with the other one near the LAX Shuttle terminal on Vicente Roa Street. If you're still keen on cycling and the best time is between sunrise and before the morning rush hour when there aren't many drivers on the road. Try to avoid the main thoroughfares, though secondary roads can also become quite busy. Needless to say, a helmet, lights and reflectors on your bicycle are an absolute must.

By foot

Like cycling, walking around most parts of the city is not for the faint of heart. Because of the hot and humid climate throughout the year, even traveling a short distance by foot is difficult and is one of the reasons why local residents prefer to catch public transport instead. Extra precaution should be taken when crossing roads in Cagayan de Oro, as many drivers fail to give way to pedestrians, even if they're crossing at a designated pedestrian crossing. Exploring the city by foot is also risky due to the lack of nice sidewalks and the presence of vendors occupying them (especially in the markets), not to mention the danger of being sideswiped by reckless drivers. That being said, Don Apolinar Velez St. is one of the walkable roads with adequate sidewalks on both sides, plus it can take you from Vicente de Lara Park to Rodelsa Circle, two popular spots for exercising in the morning. Walking along the city's bridges is also risky because many motorcyclists tend to use the sidewalks as an extra lane during rush hour. This often happens on the four-lane Maharlika Bridge as the footpaths here are lower than on the other bridges. Many streets are poorly-lit, including downtown. Take extra precautions when walking in these areas, especially by yourself. Navigating one's way through the city can be challenging at times due to the lack of clear and legible street signs. Case in point Barangays Nazareth and Macasandig, where the layout of the streets make the problem even worse. If you do walk around, having lots of water handy, a good hat and excellent situational awareness are a must. Pedestrian overpasses are very few and far between, although Limketkai Center does have a skywalk which you can use to access almost any point of the complex. Jaywalking is a definite no-no, especially in Divisoria as offenders can be fined ₱1,500. However in the rest of CDO, it is very to common to see people crossing anywhere and everywhere, without even checking for any oncoming traffic.

What to see in Cagayan de Oro

Religious sites

San Agustin Church in Cagayan De Oro - Saint Augustine Metropolitan Gothic Church

• Saint Augustine Metropolitan Gothic Church - San Agustin Metropolitan Gothic Church - 8.474795, 124.641475 across from Gaston Park - Saint Augustine Metropolitan Gothic Church - A Gothic-inspired cathedral and is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro, since it houses the cathedra (seat) of the Archbishop of Cagayan de Oro. The present-day cathedral was constructed in 1946, after being destroyed during World War II. Inside the cathedral are centuries-old stained glass windows, while outside its main entrance is a wooden cross from 1888, erected by Augustinian Recollect missionaries.
• Archdiocesan Shrine of the Black Nazarene - Nazare no Parish Church - Claro M. Recto Avenue 8.48601, 124.65177 next to Gaisano City Mall and across from Centrio Mall - A shrine dedicated to the Black Nazarene located in the heart of the city. The Minor Basilica of the Black Nazarene in Quiapo Church decided to move the replica statue of the Black Nazarene to Nazare no Parish Church, so that Nazarene devotees from Mindanao do not have to travel to Manila for their annual pilgrimage.
• Santuario Eucaristico - Sacred Heart Church | R.N. Pelaez Boulevard, Kauswagan 8.48833, 124.63922 near the National Highway intersection ☎ +63 88 880 2969 - Formerly the Archdiocesan Shrine of the Holy Eucharist, Santuario Eucaristico is a shrine dedicated to St. Peter Julian Eymard, Apostle of the Eucharist. Along the rear, semi-circular wall of the shrine are intricately-designed Mosaic Stations of the Cross, while above the secondary entrances/exits are stained glass windows depicting the Stations of the Eucharist. These stained glass windows are based on the Stations of the Holy Eucharist at the Shrine of the Most Blessed Sacrament in Hanceville, Alabama. They are the only one of their kind in the Philippines.
• Carmelite Church Seminary Hill, Camaman-an 8.47222, 124.66269 next to Carmelite Monastery - The area surrounding the monastery is also the residence of several religious orders, including the Discalced Carmelites, as well as the St. John Vianney Theological Seminary. Carmelite Church contains an image of the Santo Niño, or Holy Child which is said to be miraculous.

Parks

Sendong Memorial Tombstone at Gaston Park, Cagayan de Oro City - Sendong Memorial, Gaston Park Sadly Cagayan de Oro doesn't have any large parks like those found in other countries. However and the parks CDO does have to offer are still worth visiting nonetheless, especially for those wanting to take a break from the noise and chaos of the rest of the city.

• Gaston Park 8.47545, 124.64203 across from St. Augustine Metropolitan Gothic Church and the Archbishop's Palace - A circular park named after Segundo Gaston, a former pre-war Municipal Mayor of Cagayan de Oro and is a favorite place to unwind for many Kagay-anons, especially during Sundays. This was the site of the first Spanish settlement established in 1622 and was the main plaza during the era, even becoming an execution ground for Spanish criminals. During the Philippine-American War, Gaston Park was a training ground for local soldiers and on April 7, 1900, became the site of the Battle of Cagayan de Misamis. After World War II, cherry blossoms were planted in the park as a gift from the Japanese Government. In 2000, a National Historial Institute marker, now commonly referred to as the Siete de Abril marker commemorating the battle in 1900, was placed at the park and this can now be found at its northwest section facing City Hall. There is also another marker donated by the Cagayanons of America, Southern California Chapter, located in front of the Archbishop's Palace. At the southwest corner of Gaston Park across from St. Augustine Metropolitan Gothic Church is the Sendong Memorial, dedicated to the victims of Tropical Storm Sendong. The park was renovated in 2015, its worn-out grass being replaced by concrete and pavers. A musical fountain that lights up with different colors was also installed at the park's center.
• Du-aw Kagay-an Park - Duaw Cagayan Park - 8.47598, 124.64086 underneath the Ysalina Bridge (more commonly known as the Carmen Bridge), on the east bank of the Cagayan River - The park was proposed by Mayor Pablo Magtajas after 120 Kagay-anons returned home from the United States and Canada in August 1987, a year following the end of Martial Law. It is also the place where the Birhen sa Kota sa Cagayan de Oro (Our Blessed Lady of the Holy Rosary) was said to have appeared, saving the early settlement from invaders. Every August during the City Fiesta and the park serves as the endpoint of the fluvial parade, which begins from Macabalan Pier.
• Plaza Divisoria - Golden Frienship Park - 8.47764, 124.64372 - It was built in the early 1900s as a town divider (hence the name Divisoria) or fire breaker after a great fire that almost burned down the entire town. The park is dedicated to local and national heroes.
• Vicente de Lara Park - Capitol Park - 8.48512, 124.64791 - Situated in front of the Provincial Capitol of Misamis Oriental with age-old mahogany trees that provide a therapeutic canopy for the promenades. The park is a popular jogging area during the morning. Thit is also the site of the Press Freedom Monument and a Sculpture of the Province of Misamis Oriental.

Museums

CDO Ciy Museum - Ciy Museum of Cagayan de Oro

• Museo de Oro Xavier University-Ateneo de Cagayan, Corrales Avenue 8.47593, 124.64619 - Exhibits artifacts dug from Huluga Cave and a repertoire of Bukidnon and Maranao cultures that have survived the ravages of time.
• Museum of Three Cultures Capitol University - It houses a gallery of Maranao antiquities from Tugaya, Lanao del Sur; a gallery of ethnohistory which shall display Cagayan de Oro history, Butuan archaeological artifacts, lumad arts and crafts from the Hiligaynon and Manobo cultures and a treasure of Christian lowland artefacts of Northern Mindanao; and an art gallery and coffee shop promoting the local visual arts of Mindanao.
• City Museum of Cagayan de Oro Fernandez Street 8.47474, 124.64214 across from Gaston Park and near the Archbishop's Palace - The museum was opened in 2008, but the water tower was completed in 1922 and survived World War II. It houses photos of people who contributed to Cagayan de Oro over the years and life and events from yesteryear.
• La Castilla Liceo de Cagayan University, R.N. Pelaez Boulevard 8.48835, 124.63979 - A museum of Philippine household heirlooms and antiques. Thit is the Rodolfo and Elsa Pelaez family memorabilia administered by Liceo de Cagayan University.

Other sights

• Cagayan de Oro Tourism Showhouse - Showcases the products from Cagayan de Oro and the province.
• MacArthur Memorial Marker Baran Macabalan near Cagayan de Oro Port - The monument commemorates two historical events.
• Plaza de Los Heroes Masterson Avenue, Upper Carmen - A memorial park dedicated to the heroes of the Three Battles of Cagayan de Oro during the Philippine-American War.
• Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village Malasag Hill off the National Highway, near the Marco Hotel - Thit is in a reforested area in Malasag Hill. This 7-hectare village has replicas of tribal houses in the region and a panoramic view of Macajalar Bay. It is owned by the government and managed by the Philippine Tourism Authority. The views are well worth the short trip up the hill.
• Macahambus Hill, Cave and Gorge - An underground cave with a ft 130 circular gorge. The ravine is thick with various species of plants and huge trees. and is the site of the historical battle between Kagay-anons and American soldiers during the Philippine-American War (1900).
• Catanico Falls Baran F.S. Catanico - The falls contain huge boulders, rapids, cascading falls and a natural pool.
• Kagay-an Resort Baran Taguanao - Previously called Lawndale Spring, it is packed with families and groups on weekends lounging in the cold springs.
• High Ridge Aluba - It is open to the public for outdoor picnics and known for its commanding view of downtown Cagayan de Oro.
• Monigue Cave Baran Mambuaya - The cave entrance is flowing water from an underground stream.
• Macahambus Adventure Park Baran Lumbia

Top Muslim Travel Tips for Cagayan de Oro

Local events in Cagayan de Oro

Higalaay Kagayan Festival 2014 - Higalaay Kagayan Festival 2014

June

Himugso (Cebuano for birth) is a week-long event in June commemorating Philippine Independence Day on June 12, Cagayan de Oro's Charter Day on June 15 and the birth of national hero Jose Rizal on June 19. The celebration, which started in 2015, is a time when Kagay-anons show civic and national pride, with a number of activities being held such as a Freedom Run, Flag Raising Ceremony on the three aforementioned dates and a tour of the city.

August

The Higalaay Festival (formerly the Kagay-an Festival) is held every August in honor of Cagayan de Oro's patron saint, Saint Augustine of Hippo. The highlights of the festival include the Agro-Trade Fair, Miss Cagayan de Oro, Higaonon Street Dancing, Civic-Military Parade, Fluvial Parade along the Cagayan River and Halad sa Lambagohan. There are also cultural shows, competitions, celebrity concerts and sales in the city's malls.

• Whitewater Rafting a 14 rapids along Cagayan de Oro River. The rainy months of September and October are good for intermediate and professional levels (rapids range from class 3 to 4). The rest of the year especially during the dry season is good for novice or amateur rafters.
• Macahambus Adventure Park rappel and zip-line across trees a hundred feet above ground.
• Mapawa Nature Park ideal for horseback riding, biking, zipline and nature trekking.
• Cock-Fighting look for the arena along the National Highway in Gusa. The steep-walled concrete arena thunders with hundreds of shouting fans placing bets, as carefully bred and trained roosters in beautiful fighting form do what they're born to do. Warning: seeing these magnificent and spirited creatures transformed into a limp piece of Chicken by the flash of a steel blade may make you become a Vegetarian. If not and the losing birds are for sale by the kilo and are rumored to have a distinctive flavor.
• Videoke coin-operated video karaoke machines found in virtually every roadside bar in and around the town. Don't even come to the Philippines unless you know the words to at least one song you're willing to get up and sing like it's your one big shot at fame. The playlist is extensive (from Beatles to Nirvana with plenty of Bon Jovi and Gloria nor in between) so no excuses.

Shopping in Cagayan de Oro

Centrio Mall - Centrio Mall

Shopping malls & supermarkets

Like other Philippine city's, Cagayan de Oro has a plethora of shopping malls and supermarkets catering to all types of shoppers, from affordable and cheerful to upscale and everything in between. They are a hive of activity during Friday nights, weekends and holidays as family and friends spend quality time together at restaurants or just malling (window shopping and wondering around aimlessly in malls). Shopaholics should feel right at home with many international brand names present in CDO. Most of the malls are located one after the other along Claro M. Recto Avenue, though there's no single pedestrian overpass linking all of them together.

• Centrio Mall - Centrio | Claro M. Recto Avenue at Corrales Avenue 8.4849, 124.6510 across the street from Gaisano Mall - Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily Centrio One of Centrio Mall's notable features is a garden with two old acacia trees divided in half by a three-level bridge and a large curving staircase (also called the Cinderella staircase). The garden is also surrounded by an alfresco dining area and has a small playground in its Western half. An H&M occupying two levels can be found near the Claro M. Recto Avenue entrance, along with several other upscale clothing stores. The LAX Shuttle terminal for vans going to/from Laguindingan Airport is at the Vicente Roa entrance. From early November to early January, Centrio holds the Magical Nights of Lights, a music and light show located in the garden where thousands of strobe lights are synchronized to well-known Christmas songs.
• Gaisano City Mall - Gaisano Recto Claro M. Recto Avenue at Corrales Extension 8.4864, 124.6514 across from Centrio Mall - Thit is actually two malls; Gaisano City on the Western side of Corrales Extension and Gaisano Mall on the eastern side. While Centrio caters to those with lots of disposable income, Gaisano City Mall is geared to the average Joe, those on a budget and want to make the most out of every peso.
• Limketkai Mall - Ketkai - Limketkai Drive 8.48155, 124.65573 across from the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) - Opening Hours: Sunday - Thursday 10:00–20:00, Friday Saturday 10:00–20:00 Limketkai Mall - Limketkai is the largest mall in Cayagan de Oro, as well as being homegrown. At the center of the mall is the Atrium, where events such as concerts, conventions and job fairs are held. It is also the former location of the Sunday Masses in the mall, which have since been moved to a purpose-built chapel dedicated to Our Lady of Manaoag on the second level of the East Annex.
• SM Cagayan de Oro Downtown Premier - SM Premier - Claro M. Recto Avenue at Osmeña Street 8.484383, 124.654322 former Coca-Cola plant - Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily SM CDO Downtown Premier - Opened in May 2017, SM CDO Downtown Premier has a large-screen format theater, a wide variety of restaurants, shops, an SM Supermarket with selected Halal food and a Sky Garden on the 5th floor. A
• SM City Cagayan de Oro - SM Uptown - Masterson Avenue at Gran Via Street 8.45617, 124.62368 uptown CDO, before Primavera Residences - SM City Cagayan de Oro - Every August and December, SM City Cagayan de Oro holds two Pyro Musical Fireworks shows; the one in August for the city fiesta, while the one in December for Christmas and the New Year.
• Robinsons Cagayan de Oro - Robinsons | Rosario Crescent at Florentino Street, Limketkai Center 8.48179, 124.65430 west side of Limketkai Center, near Malberry Suites - Robinsons Malls 53125
• Savemore Market - Savemore |

• Savemore Market Kauswagan - Savemore Kauswagan - Butuan-Cagayan-Iligan Road 8.48948, 124.63899 across from McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant) and near the Rodolfo N. Pelaez Boulevard intersection - Opening Hours: 08:00–20:00 daily
• Savemore Market Capistrano - Savemore Capistrano - Capistrano Street 8.48024, 124.64324
• Shopwise Hypermarket 2nd Level New Expansion Wing, East Concourse, Limketkai Center 8.48148, 124.65689 - Opening Hours: 09:00–20:00 daily
• Puregold Hypermarket Claro M. Recto Avenue 8.48331, 124.65749 site of the old Ororama Megacenter - Opening Hours: 09:00–21:00 daily
• Ororama - A homegrown shopping mall chain, both of Ororama's branches are undergoing renovation and expansion projects to cater to the growing number of shoppers in the city.
• Ororama Supercenter Mayor J.R. Borja Street at Mortola Street 8.47689, 124.64918 near Cogon Public Market and Xavier University ☎ +63 88-8574481 Opening Hours: 08:00–21:00 daily
• Ororama Carmen Ipil Street, Carmen 8.47975, 124.63781 across from Carmen Public Market -

Markets

If you're looking to buy fruits, vegetables, Meat and fish at prices cheaper than those in the supermarkets, check out CDO's public markets. Although they're noisy, crowded and chaotic, you do get a real taste, literally and figuratively, of everyday life in a Philippine marketplace.

• Cogon Public Market - Cogon Market - 8.47743, 124.65125 The largest of the city's markets covering a number of blocks. Cogon Market is also the terminal for jeepneys going to far-flung barangays to the south of the city and those going to Bukidnon.
• Carmen Public Market - Carmen Market - 8.48017, 124.63719

Laundry

• Mrs Labada Laundry station. 68 Toribio Chave-Pabayo streets ☎ +63 8822 71-2969 Opening Hours: 08:00-20:00 ₱25 per kg Minimum 2 kg of washing.
• YouLaba Coin-Op Laundry Station Chaves St. corner Pabayo St. ☎ +63925-700-5842 Opening Hours: 08:00-20:30 "Do it yourself" coin-operated laundry station.

Banks & ATMs

• Bank of the Philippine Islands. Opening Hours: 24 hour Has a Master Card/Visa Card ATM.
• BDO has a 24-hour Master Card/Visa Card ATM.
• Metrobank has a 24-hour Master Card/Visa Card ATM.
• PNB has a 24-hour Master Card/Visa Card ATM.

What to buy

Cagayan De Oro's native delicacies:

• Jamon Cagayan de Oro (Pork ham) sold by Slers, Oroham and Pines.
• Chicharon (Pork rind or skin) sold by Slers.
• Fely's Homemade Cheese Sticks
• Fely's Homemade Assorted Flavored Peanuts
• Cashew Nuts from Lumbia neighborhood.
• Lechon Manok a rotisserie Chicken sold roadside, salty but delicious. They're everywhere, quality varies, buy from the one with the most clients in line.
• Lechon Baboy a whole pig roasted over coals on a bamboo spit, stuffed with lemongrass. Ask a local friend how to arrange one day in advance. Much cheaper in Cagayan de Oro than in Manila.
• Malung Pastel Bread.
• Turrones de Mani

Halal Restaurants & Food in Cagayan de Oro

• Bigby's Café & Restaurant - A restaurant chain that has its roots in Cagayan de Oro, Bigby's specializes in international cuisines, with each of its branches displaying memorabilia from around the world.

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G/F Centrio Mall 8.48459, 124.65114 Centrio Garden ☎ +63 88 880-0822 Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily

4/F SM CDO Downtown Premier 8.48428, 124.65407 ☎ +63 88 859-1204 Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily

G/F SM City Cagayan de Oro 8.45590, 124.62341 ☎ +63 88 859-1358 Opening Hours: 10:00–21:00 daily

• Café Laguna- Robinsons Cagayan de Oro. Fine dining and Filipino cuisine.
• Country Side Steakhouse, Limketkai Center. Grilled beef or steak.
• Dadang's Seafoods Restaurant 3 National Highway ☎ +63 88 858-6670 Km. Kauswagan. Filipino seafood cuisine.
• Kagay-anon Restaurant Limketkai Center 8.48277, 124.65622 across from the entrance to Limketkai Center's north concourse - Filipino cuisine and ostrich Meat.
• La Tegola, Archbishop Hayes St. Italian restaurant, quiet and comfortable. A favorite of foreign visitors wanting a great Italian meal and a good bottle of soft drinks.
• Vienna Kaffehaus Don A. Velez St. European and Middle Eastern style dishes.
• Sentro 1850 - Don Apolinar Velez Street 8.47652, 124.64393 near Divisoria ☎ +63 8822 731-850 Opening Hours: 11:00–22:00 daily mid-price - Great foods ranging from Asian to Asian-style dishes.
• 99 Ranch Eat all you can Tomas Saco 8th Street ☎ +63 88-856-1356 Opening Hours: 11:00-23:00 only ₱99 peso per person For ₱99 you get Beef hamonada, roast beef kilawin, sisig, chop suey, Chicken nuggets, tapioca, Chocolates cake, soup and iced tea.
• Lugawan Bulaluhan Restaurant Capistrano Street - Opening Hours: 08;30-05:00 low cost - Batchoy, Gato, Lugaw, Zeki, sort drinks.
• Yakimix G/F Cagayan Town Center, Captain Vicente Roa Street at Antonio Luna Street 8.48325, 124.65089 near Centrio Mall ☎ +63 88 859-1159 A Japanese, Korean and Chinese buffet restaurant with all you can eat promos.

Coffee

• Brewberry Café - Don Apolinar Velez Street at Toribio Chavez Street 8.47669, 124.64396 beside Sentro 1850
• Bo's Coffee - Don A. Velez St. A Cebu-based coffee shop.
• Taza - Limketkai Center. Locally owned coffee shop.
• Kofitricks Café Yacapin-Velez Sts - A coffee shop and Pinoy and Indian cuisine (Wi-Fi zone).

Bars

• The Site - Rosario Strip, Limketkai Center. Popular among yuppies.
• Loreto's Grill and Restaurant - Tomas Saco St., Nazareth.
• Pulse Formerly Xcite, it is in front of the Dynasty Court Hotel.
• The Beat Club Adjacent to Pulse, it has several billiard pools.
• Club Mojo Disco bar back at Ralps.
• Backyard - Chaves St.
• Karumata - Dolores and Pabayo Sts. When you're sick of the DJs and the bands playing cover tunes and there are serious artists and original musicians in Cagayan de Oro and you might share them a organic juice that you won't see at the shopping malls and beach resorts.
• Zaks Retro Bar - Velez St.

eHalal Group Launches Halal Guide to Cagayan de Oro

Cagayan de Oro - eHalal Travel Group, a leading provider of innovative Halal travel solutions for Muslim travelers to Cagayan de Oro, is thrilled to announce the official launch of its comprehensive Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cagayan de Oro. This groundbreaking initiative aims to cater to the diverse needs of Muslim travelers, offering them a seamless and enriching travel experience in Cagayan de Oro and its surrounding regions. With the steady growth of Muslim tourism worldwide, eHalal Travel Group recognizes the importance of providing Muslim travelers with accessible, accurate, and up-to-date information to support their travel aspirations to Cagayan de Oro. The Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide is designed to be a one-stop resource, offering an array of invaluable information on various travel aspects, all carefully curated to align with Islamic principles and values. The Travel Guide encompasses a wide range of features that will undoubtedly enhance the travel experience for Muslim visitors to Cagayan de Oro. Key components include: Halal-Friendly Accommodations in Cagayan de Oro: A carefully selected list of hotels, lodges, and vacation rentals that cater to halal requirements, ensuring a comfortable and welcoming stay for Muslim travelers in Cagayan de Oro. Halal Food, Restaurants and Dining in Cagayan de Oro: A comprehensive directory of restaurants, eateries, and food outlets offering halal-certified or halal-friendly options in Cagayan de Oro, allowing Muslim travelers to savor local cuisines without compromising their dietary preferences in Cagayan de Oro. Prayer Facilities: Information on masjids, prayer rooms, and suitable locations for daily prayers in Cagayan de Oro, ensuring ease and convenience for Muslim visitors in fulfilling their religious obligations. Local Attractions: An engaging compilation of Muslim-friendly attractions, cultural sites such as Museums, and points of interest in Cagayan de Oro, enabling travelers to explore the city's rich heritage while adhering to their values. Transport and Logistics: Practical guidance on transportation options that accommodate Muslim travel needs, ensuring seamless movement within Cagayan de Oro and beyond. Speaking about the launch, Irwan Shah, Chief Technology Officer of eHalal Travel Group in Cagayan de Oro, stated, "We are thrilled to introduce our Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide in Cagayan de Oro, a Muslim friendly destination known for its cultural richness and historical significance. Our goal is to empower Muslim travelers with accurate information and resources, enabling them to experience the wonders of Cagayan de Oro without any concerns about their faith-based requirements. This initiative reaffirms our commitment to creating inclusive and memorable travel experiences for all our clients." The eHalal Travel Group's Halal and Muslim-Friendly Travel Guide for Cagayan de Oro is now accessible on this page. The guide will be regularly updated to ensure that Muslim travelers have access to the latest information, thus reinforcing its status as a reliable companion for Muslim travelers exploring Cagayan de Oro. About eHalal Travel Group: eHalal Travel Group Cagayan de Oro is a prominent name in the global Muslim travel industry, dedicated to providing innovative and all-inclusive travel solutions tailored to the needs of Muslim travelers worldwide. With a commitment to excellence and inclusivity, eHalal Travel Group aims to foster a seamless travel experience for its clients while respecting their religious and cultural values. For Halal business inquiries in Cagayan de Oro, please contact: eHalal Travel Group Cagayan de Oro Media: info@ehalal.io

Buy Muslim Friendly condos, Houses and Villas in Cagayan de Oro

eHalal Group Cagayan de Oro is a prominent real estate company specializing in providing Muslim-friendly properties in Cagayan de Oro. Our mission is to cater to the specific needs and preferences of the Muslim community by offering a wide range of halal-certified residential and commercial properties, including houses, condos, and factories. With our commitment to excellence, client satisfaction, and adherence to Islamic principles, eHalal Group has established itself as a trusted name in the real estate industry in Cagayan de Oro. At eHalal Group, we understand the importance of meeting the unique requirements of Muslim individuals and families seeking properties that align with their cultural and religious trainings. Our extensive portfolio of Muslim-friendly properties in Cagayan de Oro ensures that clients have access to a diverse selection of options tailored to their needs. Whether it's a luxurious villa, a modern condominium, or a fully equipped factory, our team is dedicated to assisting clients in finding their ideal property. For those seeking a comfortable and modern living space, our condos are an excellent choice. Starting at US$ 350,000 and these condominium units offer contemporary designs, state-of-the-art facilities, and convenient locations within Cagayan de Oro. Each condo is thoughtfully designed to incorporate halal-friendly features and amenities, ensuring a seamless integration of Islamic values into everyday living. If you are looking for a more spacious option, our houses are perfect for you. Starting at US$ 650,000, our houses provide ample living space, privacy, and a range of customizable features to meet your specific requirements. These houses are located in well-established neighborhoods in Cagayan de Oro, offering a harmonious balance between modern living and Islamic values. For those seeking luxury and exclusivity, our luxury villas in Cagayan de Oro are the epitome of sophistication and elegance. Starting at US$ 1.5 million and these villas offer a lavish lifestyle with private amenities, breathtaking views, and meticulous attention to detail. Each luxury villa is meticulously designed to provide a serene and halal environment, allowing you to enjoy the finest living experience while adhering to your Islamic principles. For further details please email us at info@ehalal.io

Ramadan 2024 Celebrations in Cagayan de Oro

Ramadan 2025 in Cagayan de Oro

Ramadan concludes with the festival of Eid al-Fitr, which may last several days, usually three in most countries.

The next Ramadan shall be from Friday, 28 February 2025 to Saturday, 29 March 2025

The next Eid al-Adha shall be on Friday, 6 June 2025

The next day of Raʾs al-Sana shall be on Thursday, 26 June 2025

The next day for Mawlid al-Nabī shall be on Monday, 16 September 2024

Muslim Friendly Hotels in Cagayan de Oro

Tune Hotel Cagayan de Oro - Red Planet Hotel Cagayan de Oro (formerly Tune Hotel)

• D'Morvie Suites - Cnr of Capistrano and Yacapin St. also have a 2nd Branch at Lapasan highway and a 3rd/4th Branch at Yacapin street. - from ₱200 for 12 hours ₱500 for 24 hours.
• Mass Spec Hostel -Tiano Bros. St, Dorm Beds from ₱250 a night.
• Y.M.C.A. Hostel - Julio Pacana St, from ₱300 a night
• Hotel Ramon Tirso Neri, Burgos st from 12 hours ₱200 Aircon, wifi, laundry service.
• Park view Hotel. Tiro neri street over looks Golden friendship park. ☎ +63 8822-726656 or +63 88-8571197 ₱350/420 Fan double rooms with outside bathrooms. A/C double rooms with outside bathrooms. All rooms have cable TV, phone, free wifi. Can pay with Master Card or Visa Card.
• Willshire inn Yacapin street corner Aguinaldo street ☎ +63 8822-720531, +63 8822-720762, +63 9176320635 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱382/425/505/590 Economy A/C single room with own bathroom and cable TV. Economy A/C double rooms with own bathroom and cable TV. Standard A/C double rooms. deluxe A/C double room.
• Plaza Star Business hotel R North Abejuela street 3 floor divisoria arcade. ☎ +63 88-852-0148 ₱450/570 A/C single/double rooms with own hot water bathrooms and cable TV. Free wifi
• Wills Place Business Hotel Mabini don apolinar Velez street ☎ +63 8822-745-888 ₱450/500 Economy A/C single/double rooms with own hot water bathrooms and Cable TV. Free wifi.
• CDO tourist inn Tiano bros street ☎ +63 9-353629638 ₱190/240/480 Fan rooms or A/C rooms 12 hours. A/C rooms 24 hours. Common bathrooms, free wifi.
• D Santes place Business hotel Pres osmena corner luna streets ☎ +63 88-323-1164 ₱500/600 A/C single room with own hot water bathroom and cable TV. A/C economy double room with own hot water bathroom and cable TV.
• King Lawrence's Inn Mabini-capistrano street ☎ +63 88-857-3728 ₱225/450 A/C rooms with own bathroom 12/24 hours.
• G V Hotel Corrales ext ☎ +63 88-323-1547 ₱450/575/620/700 A/C single and double rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV. 102 rooms.
• Jerggys Appartelle Inn 31st Street Nazareth. ☎ +63 88 323-1033, +63 9351842333 (cell) ₱250/300/550 A/C double rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV. 7 hours, 12 hours, 24 hours.
• Beatrice Inn Capistrano street. ☎ +63 9177930706 ₱380/450 A/C single rooms with own bathroom and cable TV. A/C double rooms with own hot water bathroom and cable TV. All rooms have free wifi.
• Rosario's Place Business Hotel. Biacel bldg Corrales aveune ☎ +63 9177950116 ₱395/450/500/600 Single room, economy double, standard double, de luxe good for 3 persons. All rooms have A/C, LCD TV, hot water.
• King William Inn Cruz Taal street cor Burgos street ☎ +63 8822-712888 ₱330 A/C rooms with own bathrooms and cable TV.
• Mardale Pension House Pabayo corner Gaerlan streets downtown cdo ☎ +63 88-856-1990 From ₱600 A/C single/double rooms, with own hot water bathroom, cable TV, Wifi zone, standby generator. telephone in room.
• Budgetel Cagayan de Oro corrales extension beside Gaisano City Mall ☎ +63-88-856-4200 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱250 per person - 16/18 bed dorm with A/C.
• Dian Stay Inn Yacapin Street ☎ +63 9176320618 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱425/500 A/C economy double with own bathroom and cable TV. A/C standard double with own bathroom and cable TV.
• Olive Suites Mabini-Velez street ☎ +63 9431303008 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱500/600 A/C single/double rooms with own hot water bathroom. cable TV. and free wifi. 41 rooms
• Three Sisters Dorm and Transient Yacapin Street ☎ +63 88 8562612 Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱390/600 Dorm beds and A/C double rooms with own bathroom cable TV and free wifi.
• Princeton Inn Capistrano Street Check-in: 12:00 / Check-out: 12:00 ₱495 A/C double rooms with own bathroom and cable TV. Free WiFi in all rooms.
• Red Planet Cagayan de Oro - Red Planet | Claro M. Recto Avenue 8.48455, 124.65490 surrounded by SM CDO Downtown Premier Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 12:00 Free WiFi is available in all 159 rooms, as well as a computer station near the hotel's lobby. Circa 1850, a restaurant specializing in international cuisine and is located on the ground floor next to the main entrance.
• Ridgeview Chalets | Xavier Estates, Fr. Masterson Ave., Upper Balulang, 9000 Cagayan de Oro City, Philippines ☎ +63 88 8587946 Best rates on official website start from ₱1,850 - Located within the Xavier Estates complex, every room has air conditioning, pocket refrigerator, mini bar, cable TV and high-speed Internet access. Some of its amenities are fitness room, game room, restaurant/café/bar lounge and an outdoor swimming pool.
• Miami Inn - Vamenta Blvd., Carmen.
• Mountain Suite Business - Kimwa Compound, Tablon.
• Middleton Aparttelle - Lirio Ext., Carmen.
• Philtown Hotel
• Country Village Hotel - Villarin St., Carmen.
• Kingston Lodge ₱1,120 Mastersons Ave., Upper Carmen. 5 minutes from Lumbia Airport, it sits adjacent to Pueblo de Oro Golf Course and lies opposite Xavier Estates Sports and Country Club. Phone number: +63 88 858-5696.
• Gardens of Malasag Eco-Tourism Village - A unique and stunning location, please read description in the "See" section above.
• The Malasag House - European style Bed & Breakfast, relaxing with stunning view.
• De Luxe Hotel

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• Hotel Koresco - Pueblo de Oro Township, Masterson Ave., Lumbia.
• Mallberry Business Suites Hotel - Florentino St., Limketkai Center.
• Limketkai Luxe Hotel Limketkai Avenue, Limketkai Center 8.48373, 124.65663 ☎ +63 88 880 0000 Check-in: 14:00 / Check-out: 12:00 Limketkai Center#Limketkai Luxe Hotel - One of the tallest and most-recognizable buildings in Cagayan de Oro with its golden facade and the Limketkai Luxe Hotel is located at the northern end of the Limketkai Center complex. At the hotel's ground floor is the KaVe Restaurant and Bar, while an outdoor pool, private secluded sauna and fitness center are also available. All guests have free breakfast, along with free WiFi that can be visited anywhere (although wired high-speed internet is ₱100/hour).
• Seda Centrio | Corrales Avenue 8.48458, 124.65064 between Centrio Mall and Centrio Tower ☎ +63 88 323-8888 From ₱3450 - All rooms have executive work desk, Minibar with alcohol removed, coffee and tea making facilities, in-room safe. Restaurant, lounge, meeting rooms, gym, adult/children pool, in-room massage, currency exchange, parking, safety deposit boxes, airport and city transfers, laundry and dry cleaning.
• Dynasty Court Hotel Archbishop Hayes at Tiano Brothers Streets 8.47611, 124.64323
• VIP Hotel Don Apolinar Velez at P. Pacana Streets 8.47930, 124.64463
• Marco Hotel - Alwana Business Park, Cugman.
• Chali Beach Resort and Conference Center - Zone 3, Cugman.

Telecommunications in Cagayan de Oro

Mobile

Cellular service in urban areas of Cagayan de Oro is generally fine by Philippine standards, as long as you have a 4G LTE smartphone/tablet or pocket WiFi that can take advantage of faster speeds. However the further you are from a cell tower and the weaker the signal will be, especially in mountainous areas. Globe, Smart and TM (Touch Mobile, an MVNO owned by Globe) prepaid LTE SIM cards can be purchased at carrier stores in shopping malls, 7-Eleven outlets, cellphone stores found throughout the city and even in local neighborhood sari-sari stores. The Globe and Smart prepaid LTE SIMs cost ₱40, while the TM ones are ₱30. More Kagay-anons use either Globe or TM over Smart and Globe has noticeably faster LTE speeds than Smart. It's another advantage if you have a device compatible with the 700MHz LTE band (which both Globe and Smart support), as it has a longer range and better indoor coverage compared to higher-band frequencies. ☎ calls can also get choppy or drop out at times and text messages sometimes take a while to send because of the lack of towers to cope with the large number of subscribers. One thing to remember is that Globe and Smart do switch off cellular signals - sometimes without prior notice - near areas where events are held due to "security reasons." These include the Nazare no procession in January and various events as part of the city fiesta in August. However, areas that aren't located close to these events regularly don't have cell signals as well. On numerous occasions and the signals only come back hours after the events have ended.

Internet Cafe's in Cagayan de Oro

Many public places in Cagayan de Oro offer free WiFi connectivity, including shopping malls, cafes, restaurants, as well as parks and government offices. For example, Centrio Mall offers free WiFi access for one hour, while Gaston Park has unlimited WiFi. Keep in mind that WiFi speeds are slower during peak times and weekends. There are also some establishments that charge you for using their WiFi, although at a reasonable rate.

Stay Safe

Flooding

Due to Cagayan de Oro's location in the tropics, sudden downpours are a regular occurrence; in the wet season, it rains almost every afternoon and evening. Unfortunately, most of CDO is low-lying and flood-prone, even in the uptown areas, plus the city lacks an adequate drainage system, making the problem even worse. Limketkai Center and Claro M. Recto Avenue between the University of Science and Technology of Southern Philippines (USTP) and SM CDO Downtown Premier are particularly vulnerable to flooding. On January 16, 2017 and the city was paralyzed after a low-pressure area combined with the tail-end of a cold front, triggering widespread flooding and stranding many commuters on their way home. Before going around during the wet season, pay close attention to the weather forecasts on the internet and television, as even a localized thunderstorm can grind the city to a halt.

Pollution

Like other city's worldwide, air pollution is a worsening problem in Cagayan de Oro. On most days, a thick layer of smog can be seen hanging over the city. Some of the contributing factors include the increasing number of private vehicles on the roads (especially diesel-powered SUVs and pickups) and the continuing use of black-belching jeepneys, open burning of garbage such as plastics and tyres and the use of charcoal or wood for cooking. If you have asthma or other respiratory problems, wearing a good facial mask (preferably an N95 mask) when outdoors is highly recommended.

Power outages

Blackouts (or brownouts as they're more commonly referred to in the Philippines) are an all-too-common occurrence in Cagayan de Oro, especially between March-June. Sometimes these may last just a few minutes; other times these can last for more than half a day. It always pays to have some flashlights and a powerbank handy to charge your devices in case the lights go out. Reliable flashlights can be purchased at hardware stores like ACE Hardware or Handyman, while powerbanks can be found at gadget shops in the malls. Check the website of the Cagayan Electric Power & Light Company (CEPALCO) for blackout schedules.

Tap water

According to the Cagayan de Oro City Water District (COWD), tap water in the city is "safe to drink." Most local residents, however, rely on either bottled water or water filtration systems for their drinking needs, as brown sediment can occasionally be seen in the tap water. Also, just like CEPALCO and the water neighborhood is regularly unreliable since many areas in the city experience low water pressure, especially in the mornings and water supply can be turned off, sometimes without prior notice, due to repairs or other incidents. It's a good idea to check COWD's website regularly for any water interruption announcements, as well as to stock up on water just in case.

Emergency

Since October 30, 2017 and the city has had an emergency hotline in place called Oro 911, similar to hotlines found in North America, Europe and Australia. In the event of an emergency, dial 911. As of November 2017, however, 911 calls are not free and are only available to Globe subscribers with at least ₱12 worth of credits.

Muslim Friendly Hospitals

• Northern Mindanao Medical Center - Provinical Hospital - Capitol Road 8.48530, 124.64982 across from Centrio and Gaisano City Malls
• JR Borja General Hospital - City Hospital - Carmen 8.48145, 124.62845 near Our Lady of Mount Carmel Church
• Polymedic General Hospital Don Apolinar Velez Street 8.48234, 124.64578 between Jollibee and New Dawn Pensionne
• Polymedic Medical Plaza National Highway, Kauswagan 8.49817, 124.63074 near McDonald's (Please do not support McDonald's as McDonald's supports Israel. Shun this restaurant group and go for altertative brands and if possible for a Muslim owned restaurant)
• Capitol University Medical City National Highway, Gusa 8.47894, 124.67241
• Maria Reyna–Xavier University Hospital - Maria Reyna Hospital - Hayes Street 8.47555, 124.65493
• Madonna and Child Hospital - Madonna Hospital - JV Serina Street, Carmen 8.47726, 124.63551
• Sabal Hospital Don Apolinar Velez Street 8.48590, 124.64799 next to 7-Eleven and across from Vicente de Lara Park
• Maternity-Children's Hospital and Puericulture Center - Oro Doctor's Hospital - Gaerlan Street 8.47608, 124.64205 across from Gaston Park -

Clinics

• Cagayan de Oro Social Hygiene clinic City Health street. ☎ +63-8822 721189 Monday to Friday 08:00-16:00 (free STD and HIV testing).

Pharmacies

• Generika Drug Store Pabayo-Chaves Street.

Cope in Cagayan de Oro

Immigration

• Bureau Of Immigration Cagayan de Oro office.Ground floor. Ymca Building. Julio Pacana Street.

Newspapers

Cagayan de Oro has two local English language newspapers: Sun.Star Cagayan de Oro and the Mindanao Gold Star Daily. National newspapers such as The Philippine Daily Inquirer, The Philippine Star', Manila Bulletin and Manila Times are also sold in the city. Newspapers can be purchased at convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Cham's and from newspaper sellers along the roads and sidewalks. However and the price of the newspapers can vary from one newspaper seller to another.

More Muslim friendly Destinations from Cagayan de Oro

• Camiguin|Camiguin Island
• Misamis Oriental
• Davao via Bukidnon
• Iligan

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