By JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – It will be Oscar Moreno and Rolando Uy, who is set for election battle in the 2025 mayoral race!
This, as the camp of former mayor Oscar Moreno finally announced that he will be the standard bearer for mayor of Padayon Pilipino political party in the upcoming 2025 local and national elections.
Earlier in a media interview, Misamis Oriental Congressman Yevgeny “Bambi” Emano, son of the late Dongkoy Emano, founder of Padayon political party, said that he has given party president Lordan Suan a go-signal to form his own political line up in the city for the upcoming elections.
“I have already given a go-signal to Rep Lordan Suan to form his own political line up in the city,” said Misamis Oriental Congressman Bambi Emano in a media interview.
As of today, no one of the two biggest local political group – the camp of Mayor Uy and from Padayon Pilipino – who went to the Comelec office to file their certificate of candidacies (COCs).
Highly anticipated political contest
In what is shaping up to be a highly anticipated and closely watched political contest, former Cagayan de Oro Mayor Oscar Moreno and incumbent Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy are set for a toe to toe battle in the 2025 elections. Both men are seasoned politicians with strong support bases in the city, and the upcoming race is expected to reignite old rivalries and test the political landscape of one of Mindanao’s most progressive cities.
A Storied Political Background
Oscar Moreno, a veteran in the Philippine political scene, is no stranger to the challenges of the mayoral office. Having served as the mayor of Cagayan de Oro for three consecutive terms from 2013 to 2022, Moreno is credited for steering the city through a period of modernization and economic growth. His administration is remembered for infrastructure projects, the improvement of health services, and disaster preparedness efforts, particularly following the devastation of Typhoon Sendong in 2011.
After completing his term limits, Moreno stepped aside in 2022, leaving a legacy that continues to be a talking point in Cagayan de Oro’s political circles. His decision to return to the mayoral race in 2025 signals his desire to finish what he started, with a renewed focus on addressing the city’s evolving challenges, including traffic congestion, job creation, and further infrastructure development.
Rolando “Klarex” Uy, on the other hand, succeeded Moreno as mayor in 2022. Prior to his election, Uy served as the representative of Cagayan de Oro’s first congressional district, making a name for himself through grassroots-level programs and a focus on poverty alleviation. Uy’s administration has been marked by efforts to continue the city’s development while focusing on more inclusive governance, aiming to provide support to marginalized sectors and promote economic resilience. However, his term has also faced its share of controversies, including criticisms related to the speed of project implementation and bureaucratic inefficiencies.
A Battle of Contrasting Styles
The 2025 mayoral race is not just a contest between two individuals but also between two distinct approaches to governance. Moreno, known for his technocratic and policy-driven style, leans heavily on his expertise in public administration and his experience as a former governor of Misamis Oriental and a congressman. His leadership style is often described as hands-on, with a strong focus on building systems and processes to address the city’s long-term development needs.
Uy, on the other hand, is more of a populist leader. His leadership is rooted in his personal connections with the city’s working-class communities, where he draws significant support. He has emphasized the importance of inclusive governance and is seen as a more accessible leader, frequently visiting local communities and addressing immediate concerns.
Key Issues for 2025
Both candidates are expected to focus on pressing issues facing Cagayan de Oro. Infrastructure development remains a top concern, with both candidates likely to present different visions for addressing traffic congestion, road expansions, and public transportation improvements. Economic recovery, post-pandemic resilience, and job creation will also be high on the agenda, as the city seeks to attract more investments and create more employment opportunities.
Public safety and disaster preparedness are expected to play central roles in the campaign, especially with Cagayan de Oro’s history of vulnerability to natural disasters. Moreno’s experience in disaster management and urban development might resonate with voters, while Uy’s focus on addressing poverty and providing immediate relief could also garner support.
A Pivotal Race
As both men prepare for the 2025 elections, the contest between Oscar Moreno and Klarex Uy is shaping up to be one of the most crucial political battles in Cagayan de Oro’s recent history. The race will not only determine the city’s future direction but will also serve as a reflection of the broader political dynamics in Northern Mindanao. With both candidates commanding considerable influence, the stakes have never been higher. Cagayan de Oro voters will once again decide which leader can best navigate the city through its next chapter of growth and development.
Who is Oscar Roa Moreno of Cagayan de Oro City?
Oscar Roa Moreno is a prominent Filipino politician and public servant, best known for his significant contributions as the former Mayor of Cagayan de Oro City in Northern Mindanao. He served as the city’s mayor for three consecutive terms from 2013 to 2022, earning a reputation as a transformative leader focused on urban development, disaster preparedness, and improving public services. Before his tenure as mayor, Moreno held several key government positions, including being the Governor of Misamis Oriental and a congressman.
Early Life and Education
Oscar Moreno was born on February 28, 1951, and hails from Balingasag, Misamis Oriental. He pursued a law degree from the University of the Philippines College of Law, where he honed his skills in public administration and governance. Moreno is also a licensed lawyer and had an early career in private practice before fully dedicating his time to public service.
Political Career
Governor of Misamis Oriental (2004-2013)
Before becoming mayor, Moreno served as the governor of Misamis Oriental for three consecutive terms, from 2004 to 2013. During his time as governor, he prioritized healthcare, agricultural development, and infrastructure improvements. His governance style was highly regarded for being transparent and inclusive, helping him establish a solid reputation in Northern Mindanao.
Congressman (1998-2004)
Prior to his role as governor, Moreno served as the representative of the first district of Misamis Oriental in the Philippine House of Representatives from 1998 to 2004. During his time in Congress, he worked on legislation that supported local governance and economic development initiatives.
Mayor of Cagayan de Oro (2013-2022)
In 2013, Moreno shifted his focus to Cagayan de Oro City, successfully running for mayor. He was re-elected twice and served the maximum three terms allowed. Under his leadership, the city saw substantial infrastructure development, including road improvements and flood control projects. Moreno also enhanced the city’s healthcare services, including establishing the J.R. Borja General Hospital as a key public healthcare facility in the city.
One of his most notable accomplishments was the focus on disaster preparedness and response, especially after Cagayan de Oro experienced devastation from Typhoon Sendong in 2011. His administration took major steps to create a more resilient and safer urban environment, including the construction of relocation sites for affected families and upgrading the city’s disaster risk reduction and management office.
Leadership Style and Legacy
Oscar Moreno is recognized for his technocratic approach to governance. He emphasizes long-term development planning, prioritizing infrastructure, healthcare, education, and disaster resilience. His leadership style is considered hands-on, focusing on efficiency and systematic improvements in governance. Moreno’s legacy in Cagayan de Oro includes transforming the city into one of Mindanao’s key economic hubs, balancing development with inclusivity and public welfare.
Return to Politics in 2025
After reaching the term limit for mayors, Moreno is planning to run again in the 2025 Cagayan de Oro mayoral elections, challenging incumbent Mayor Klarex Uy. This political rematch is highly anticipated, with Moreno aiming to continue his legacy of development and good governance.
Oscar Moreno remains a respected figure in both local and national politics, known for his vision of modernizing and uplifting Cagayan de Oro City and Misamis Oriental.
Who is Rolando “Klarex” Uy of Cagayan de Oro City?
Rolando “Klarex” Uy is a prominent Filipino politician and the current mayor of Cagayan de Oro City, elected in 2022. He has had a long political career, serving as a congressman representing Cagayan de Oro’s first district before transitioning to the mayoral office. Uy is known for his grassroots approach to governance, focusing on the needs of marginalized communities and aiming to promote inclusive growth in the city.
Early Life and Background
Rolando Uy, widely known as “Klarex,” comes from a humble background, rising from a life of poverty to become a notable political figure in Cagayan de Oro. His early life experiences shaped his understanding of the struggles faced by the poor, which has influenced his focus on poverty alleviation, livelihood programs, and public welfare throughout his political career.
Political Career
Barangay Captain of Carmen
Uy’s political career began at the grassroots level, where he served as Barangay Captain of Carmen, one of the largest barangays in Cagayan de Oro City. His leadership at this local level built his reputation as a dedicated public servant, deeply connected to his community. His hands-on leadership style and responsiveness to local needs helped him establish a loyal support base.
Congressman of the First District of Cagayan de Oro (2007-2010, 2013-2022)
Uy was elected as the representative of the first congressional district of Cagayan de Oro City for multiple terms. During his time in Congress, he became known for championing legislation aimed at improving the lives of the poor and working-class citizens. He advocated for housing programs, infrastructure development, and livelihood support for informal settlers and low-income communities. Uy’s work focused heavily on ensuring that government resources were directed to areas where they were needed most, particularly the urban poor.
His second congressional stint lasted from 2013 to 2022, following a brief break after losing in the 2010 mayoral elections. In his congressional role, Uy was instrumental in pushing forward projects for housing and social welfare in Cagayan de Oro. His time in Congress solidified his reputation as a public servant with deep roots in the community.
Mayor of Cagayan de Oro City (2022-Present)
In 2022, Uy was elected mayor of Cagayan de Oro City, succeeding Oscar Moreno. His election marked a new chapter in the city’s leadership, with Uy focusing on continuing the development trajectory while placing greater emphasis on social welfare and poverty reduction. His administration has worked on improving access to public services, enhancing social protection programs, and investing in infrastructure that benefits the city’s marginalized sectors.
Despite some challenges, including criticisms regarding the pace of his administration’s project implementations, Uy has maintained a strong support base among working-class and rural communities. He has taken a more populist approach to governance, frequently visiting barangays and directly addressing local concerns.
Leadership Style
Uy’s leadership is often described as inclusive and people-centered. He has a strong connection with grassroots communities and is well-regarded for being approachable and accessible. He regularly engages with residents, listening to their concerns and responding to immediate needs, which has endeared him to many. While he may not be as focused on technocratic solutions as his predecessor Oscar Moreno, Uy’s appeal lies in his personal touch and ability to address day-to-day issues faced by ordinary citizens.
Achievements as Mayor
Under Uy’s administration, efforts have been made to bolster the city’s social safety nets and improve the lives of those in need. Some key areas of focus include:
Housing for Informal Settlers: Uy has continued the city’s initiatives in providing decent housing for informal settlers and low-income families.
Public Health: Strengthening public health services has been a priority, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic. Uy has worked to enhance healthcare access in underserved areas.
Economic Recovery: Uy’s administration has aimed at boosting the city’s economy post-pandemic through job creation programs, particularly in sectors like construction and small-to-medium enterprises (SMEs).
The 2025 Mayoral Election
Rolando Uy is expected to seek re-election in the upcoming 2025 Cagayan de Oro mayoral elections, where he will face a rematch with former Mayor Oscar Moreno. The race is expected to be highly competitive, as both men have strong followings and different approaches to governance.
Rolando “Klarex” Uy’s political career is marked by his populist leadership and focus on poverty alleviation. His deep connection with the grassroots and commitment to addressing the needs of the marginalized sectors of society have helped him maintain his political influence in Cagayan de Oro. As he seeks to continue his term as mayor, his leadership will be evaluated by how effectively he balances the city’s growth with his promise of inclusivity and social equity. ###
