By JOEL C. ESCOL, Managing Editor
Photos credit to owner
Cagayan de Oro City witnessed a significant political development last Friday, September 27, as 2nd District Congressman Rufus B. Rodriguez and Mayor Rolando “Klarex” Uy came together to sign a historic manifesto, marking the formal establishment of the One Kagay-an Coalition. The event, held at the packed Aquilino Pimentel Jr. International Convention Center in Barangay Indahag, attracted a large crowd of local leaders, supporters, and political figures who came to witness the launch of this coalition ahead of the upcoming elections.
The One Kagay-an Coalition aims to unify various political forces in Cagayan de Oro City, representing a collaborative effort to bring about positive change, development, and progress in the region. By joining forces, Congressman Rodriguez and Mayor Uy hope to consolidate support across the city’s political landscape, fostering a united front to better serve the needs and aspirations of Kagay-anons.
In addition to the signing of the manifesto, the event served as a platform to introduce the official slate of candidates that will represent the coalition in the upcoming elections. These candidates, a mix of seasoned politicians and fresh faces, are expected to push forward a common agenda aimed at improving the city’s infrastructure, economic growth, public services, and overall quality of life for its residents.
The announcement of the candidates was met with cheers and applause, as many attendees expressed optimism about the coalition’s vision and objectives. By presenting a strong and cohesive lineup, the One Kagay-an Coalition seeks to ensure that their political platform resonates with a broad spectrum of voters, addressing key issues such as employment opportunities, education, health care, and urban development.
During the event, Congressman Rodriguez and Mayor Uy both emphasized the importance of collaboration and unity in governance. In their respective speeches, they outlined the coalition’s vision of creating a more inclusive, transparent, and accountable local government. They believe that by working together, they can more effectively address the challenges facing Cagayan de Oro and lay the foundation for sustainable progress.
Mayor Uy, in particular, highlighted the coalition’s commitment to enhancing public services and ensuring that the city’s development is balanced and equitable, reaching all sectors of society. He stressed the need for comprehensive planning to address urban issues such as traffic management, flood control, and housing for the city’s growing population.
Congressman Rodriguez, on the other hand, focused on economic growth and legislative initiatives that would support local businesses and create jobs. He vowed to push for infrastructure projects that would further modernize Cagayan de Oro, making it a hub for commerce and tourism in Northern Mindanao.
The signing of the manifesto and the launch of the coalition have garnered widespread support from various community groups, business leaders, and civic organizations. Many see the One Kagay-an Coalition as a necessary step toward achieving greater political stability and progress in the city. The coalition’s emphasis on inclusivity has also resonated with many voters who feel that a united political front is key to tackling the diverse challenges that Cagayan de Oro faces.
Furthermore, the event underscored the role of community engagement in shaping the city’s future. Both Rodriguez and Uy encouraged Kagay-anons to take an active part in the political process by supporting the coalition’s candidates and engaging in meaningful dialogue about the issues that matter most to them. They urged the public to remain vigilant and informed as the election season approaches, emphasizing that an informed electorate is vital to maintaining a healthy democracy.
A United Front for the Future
As the One Kagay-an Coalition embarks on its journey toward the upcoming elections, its leaders remain confident that their unified platform will resonate with the people of Cagayan de Oro. By focusing on issues that directly impact the lives of residents and fostering collaboration across political lines, the coalition hopes to inspire a new era of governance in the city.
The signing of the manifesto marks a pivotal moment in Cagayan de Oro’s political landscape, setting the stage for what could be a transformative election season. With Congressman Rodriguez and Mayor Uy at the helm, the One Kagay-an Coalition is poised to be a formidable force in the upcoming polls, representing the aspirations of a united and forward-thinking Cagayan de Oro.
The official candidates of the coalition include the following:
For City Mayor: Hon. Mayor Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy
For City Vice Mayor: Hon. Jocelyn “Bebot” Rodriguez
For District 1 Congressman: Hon. Raineir Joaquin “KapKik” V. Uy
For District 2 Congressman: Hon. Rufus Rodriguez
ABAMIN Partylist Nominee: Former Cong. Maxie Rodriguez
For District 1 Councilors:
Atty. Adonis Gumahad
Dir. Manny Darimbang
Hon. Roger “Ger” Abaday
Mr. Juancho “Antoy” Roa Pascual
Ms. Desiree “Des” Dahino
Mr. Moreno “Jing” Yamut Daba IV
Hon. Al “Boy” Pabilona Legaspi, Sr.
Mr. Christopher “George” Goking
For District 2 Councilors:
Former Kap. Jonjon Rodriguez
Former Kap. Tony Abejuela
Hon. Joyleen Mercedez “Girlie” Balaba
Hon. Atty. Edgar “Ed” Cabanlas
Hon. Eric Dael Salcedo
Dr. Paolo Gaane
Hon. Gilda “Gigi” Go
Hon. Yan Lam “Alam” S. Lim
