By Eman D. Pangcatan
MSU Intern

AT the heart of this bustling city, tucked beside the stately Misamis Oriental Provincial Capitol Grounds, lies a place where stories, steps and silence converge — De Lara Park.

The park at the Capitol Grounds in Cagayan de Oro used to be named after WWII American General Douglas MacArthur. It was renamed De Lara Park in 1983

Once a quiet patch of greenery, De Lara Park has transformed over the years into a beloved community space. Whether you're a local resident seeking a moment of calm, a student rehearsing choreography under the open sky, or a tourist tracing history’s footsteps, this park welcomes you.

Each day, the park pulses with life. In the early mornings, joggers circle its perimeter, their rhythm matching the soft splash of the park’s central fountain.

By afternoon, school children and university students flock to the open space, often in groups, practicing dance routines or simply sitting on benches, sharing snacks and stories. Come evening, families arrive — toddlers chasing pigeons, parents sipping cold drinks, and elders catching up with old friends.

TRIBUTE IN STONE. The centerpiece of De Lara Park in Cagayan de Oro stands tall as a monument to local heroes and wartime history. Surrounded by Philippine flags and greenery, the park draws students, tourists, and locals daily for both recreation and reflection. Photo by Eman D. Pangcatan

“Mura na gyud ni’g ikaduhang balay. Kung makapoy na sa tungha, ari ko para makaginhawa. Luwas kaayo ug buhi ang paminaw,” says Alyssa, a college student who frequents the park.

Despite the modern rise of malls and commercial hubs, De Lara Park remains a center of gravity for the Kagay-anon spirit. It is both a historical landmark and a breathing space — a rare fusion of the past and present.

De Lara Park is more than just a park — it’s a patchwork of generations. Lovers stroll its walkways. Local vendors sell ice cream and street food on the corners. Religious gatherings, Zumba sessions and even student protests occasionally unfold here, all coexisting in one vibrant space.

For those visiting Cagayan de Oro, don’t skip this urban gem. Bring a book, your running shoes or simply your curiosity. De Lara Park may not have the height of a skyscraper or the buzz of a carnival — but in its calm, you’ll find a city beating quietly, proudly and warmly.