By Reem Pandapatan
MSU Intern
WALKING around Cagayan de Oro has become a challenge due to broken pavements and sidewalks often used as parking or vendor spaces.
Residents and visitors alike are expressing frustration over the city’s poor pedestrian pathways.
In several areas, including Divisoria, Cogon, Agora, and Gaisano-Ayala, pedestrians are forced to walk in the streets because of damaged sidewalks or obstructions like parked motorcycles, illegal vendors and construction debris.
“Grabe kaayo. Delikado ba. Sa kalsada nami maglakaw kay walay klarong sidewalk. Naa pa gyud uban nga gi-parkingan or gibaligyaan,” said Princess Ameerah D. Gasanara, a student from USTP.
Visitors and reviewers from other cities have also voiced their disappointment.
“Lisod kaayo diri. Unsaon man paglakaw kung ang sidewalk puno og motor, tindahan, og mga yutang na-ukab? Maka-stress kay pirmi kang magbantay sa sakyanan,” shared Johara Pandapatan, a reviewer at Merec.
Beyond safety risks, the lack of accessible pathways impacts persons with disabilities, senior citizens and parents with strollers.
“Ingon sila modern city na daw ta, pero tan-awa ra gud nang sidewalk — pikas gisi, pikas gi-himo og parking. Kinsay makalakaw ana?” added Erlinda ‘Linda’ Neri, an elderly vendor in Carmen.
The City Government of Cagayan de Oro, through the Roads and Traffic Administration and the City Engineering Office, previously announced clearing operations and sidewalk rehabilitation projects.
However, many residents believe implementation remains inconsistent.
“Pirmi lang sila’g ingon nga limpyo-limpyo, pero pila lang ka adlaw, balik na pud. Wala gyud klarong solusyon,” said Edwin Cabusas, a motorela driver near Cogon Market.
Citizens are calling for sustainable solutions, including proper enforcement and long-term sidewalk improvement plans, to ensure pathways are accessible, safe and walkable for everyone.
As Cagayan de Oro continues to grow, the question remains: Will the city finally prioritize its pedestrians?
