CAGAYAN de Oro City is gearing up for a grand celebration of the 125th Philippine Independence Day with Mayor Rolando 'Klarex' Uy set to lead the city's observance at the Kiosko Kagawasan in Divisoria tomorrow, June 12.
According to city administrator lawyer Roy Hilario Raagas, Mayor Uy will be attending the event for the first time since his election as the city's local chief executive.
Last year, the mayor was unable to attend the observance as he was invited to receive an award from the Misamis Occidental provincial government.
“The public is invited to attend the event, which is expected to be a fitting tribute to the country's independence heroes,” Raagas said.
Mayor Uy is expected to deliver a keynote address, highlighting the city's commitment to upholding the values of freedom and democracy.
According to Raagas, the event, which is part of the 'Rise Agenda: In Focus' program, will feature a flag-raising ceremony, a wreath-laying ceremony, and a cultural presentation showcasing the city's rich heritage and traditions.
RISE is an acronym that stands for (R) Regional leadership, (I) Institutional Development, (S) Safety and security, and (E) Economic recovery.
To improve RISE, or Regional Leadership, Accessibility and Connectivity, Inclusivity and Participatory Governance, Safety, Security and Human Development, and Economic Recovery, would be beneficial.
In an earlier statement, Mayor Uy expressed that the challenge persists for them to address the needs of the people and further decrease poverty in the city.
Uy has also announced that the city's development programs will be aligned with the RISE agenda, which prioritizes the welfare of the people.
The RISE agenda will be integrated into the city's annual investment program, peace and order and public safety plan, and City Development Investment Plan.
Mayor Uy emphasized that Cagayan de Oro City serves as the center of commerce, education, and health services in northern Mindanao and that the approved programs are just the beginning of the initiatives that they will implement under the RISE development agenda.
"We want to ensure that our programs are people-centered and will improve the quality of life of the Kagay-anons," Mayor Uy said.
The RISE agenda aims to promote resilience by enhancing the city's disaster preparedness and response capabilities, he said.
It also seeks to promote inclusivity by ensuring that all sectors of society have access to basic services and opportunities for growth and development.
Furthermore, the RISE agenda prioritizes sustainability by promoting environmentally-friendly practices and preserving the city's natural resources, he said.
“It advocates for equity by ensuring that all citizens have equal access to opportunities and services regardless of their social status,” said Uy.
Uy also urged the residents including stakeholders to support the city's development programs under the RISE agenda, as it will benefit everyone and promote a better future for the city.
Uy even encourages people to show respect to traffic enforcers, police officers, and soldiers, as it contributes to the growth and development of the city and maintains a positive image of the other nearby cities and towns in the region.
Mayor Uy in a simple way urges citizens to dispose of their garbage properly and in designated collection areas to protect the environment and prevent harm to public health and safety.
He said proper waste segregation protocols must be followed to ensure the success of this initiative.
He mentioned that his agenda has gone through thorough consultations with stakeholders to guarantee that they are focused on enhancing the Kagay-anons' quality of life.
Mayor Uy stated that Cagayan de Oro City serves as the hub for commerce, education, and health services in northern Mindanao.
The approved programs according to Uy are only a fraction of the initiatives that they will execute under the RISE development agenda, which prioritizes the welfare of the people.
Meanwhile, Raagas emphasized the importance of commemorating the country's independence day, saying, "It is a time for us to reflect on the sacrifices of our forefathers and to renew our commitment to the ideals of freedom, democracy, and nation-building."
"We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of our nation's independence, and to stand with us as we work towards a brighter future for Cagayan de Oro City and the Philippines,” said Raagas.
