CAGAYAN de Oro City Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy receives P10 million funding for assistance to validated affected farmers from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. at the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair at the Aquilino Pimentel Sr. International Convention Center in Taguanao, Barangay Indahag, on Thursday. (CIO photo)

IN his Thursday address, President Ferdinand 'Bong-bong' R. Marcos Jr. emphasized the government's commitment to developing infrastructure in Northern Mindanao, with a particular focus on Cagayan de Oro City.

Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy even warmly welcomed President Marcos Jr. and his party during the Bagong Pilipinas Serbisyo Fair at the Aquilino Pimentel Sr. International Convention Center at Taguanao, barangay Indahag.

"Northern Mindanao, with CDO at its heart, continues to be a primary focus for our infrastructure projects," President Marcos stated. 

He highlighted significant initiatives including the expansion of Laguindingan Airport, with a budget nearing P13 billion, and the upgrades to the CDO Coastal and Diversion Roads.

The President also discussed the acceleration of the P700-million Cagayan de Oro Port Expansion Project. 

"Once completed, this project will alleviate port congestion, expedite goods transportation, and boost regional economic growth," he explained.

During his speech, Marcos reiterated the ongoing infrastructure efforts in the region, particularly in Cagayan de Oro, under Mayor Uy’s leadership.

"Our ongoing infrastructure programs in your city and region, including airport construction, road development, and other projects, are steadfast," he said.

Marcos further announced the government's plans to build Trauma and Multi-Specialty Centers at the Northern Mindanao Medical Center. 

"These developments represent concrete steps towards enhancing transportation, health services, and infrastructure in the region," he noted.

Addressing other critical needs, the President acknowledged the support for irrigation and flood control initiatives aimed at tackling water shortages and flood risks in CDO.

He detailed the upcoming launch of the Flood Risk Improvement and Management Project for the Cagayan de Oro River, which is expected to significantly mitigate flooding issues in the area.

In efforts to stabilize CDO's water supply, Marcos revealed negotiations with Manuel Pangilinan’s CDO Bulk Water for a temporary solution while seeking a long-term resolution. 

"Mr. Pangilinan has agreed to our request and is ready to meet with your mayor to resolve this issue, ensuring over 60,000 residents here have the necessary water supply," he assured.

Finally, President Marcos tasked the Local Water Utilities Administration with exploring management solutions for the Cagayan de Oro Water District. 

"I have instructed them to study potential management strategies promptly to find a solution for the water supply situation in your area," he told the residents of CDO.

With these extensive initiatives, President Marcos’s administration demonstrates a strong commitment to enhancing the quality of life and economic prospects in Northern Mindanao, particularly in Cagayan de Oro, through strategic infrastructure and development projects.