Cagayan de Oro history

The history of the city of Cagayan de Oro is a story of the fusion of indigenous cultures, colonial influence, and strategic development on the island of Mindanao. Known today as the "City of Golden Friendship," the city has come a long way from an ancient settlement to a modern economic hub.

Foundation and First Mentions

Archaeological findings, particularly in Huluga Cave, indicate that settlements in this territory have existed since at least 350 AD. Before the arrival of Europeans, the settlement of Himologan was located here, inhabited by indigenous peoples. The modern history of the city begins in 1622 with the arrival of two Spanish Augustinian monks. On their advice, in 1626, the local chieftain Datu Salangsang moved his settlement downriver to the site where Gaston Park and Saint Augustine Cathedral now stand. This was done for protection against attacks from other sultanates.

Key Factors of Formation

The development of the city was defined by several key aspects:

• Geographical Location: Its position along the mighty Cagayan River and on the shores of Macajalar Bay made the settlement an important transport and trade point on the northern coast of Mindanao.
• Religious and Political Influence: Catholic missionaries played a central role not only in spreading Christianity but also in strengthening the settlement. A fort was built for protection against raids, and by 1738, the Spanish had firmly established their authority here.
• Administrative Status: In 1872, Cagayan (then without the "de Oro" suffix) became the capital of the Misamis province, which contributed to its growth as an administrative centre.

Early Cultural and Economic Features

Initially, the settlement's economy was based on agriculture. With the arrival of the Spanish, trade began to develop. The name "Cagayan" is believed to derive from a Malayo-Polynesian word meaning "river." The suffix "de Oro" (Spanish for "of gold") was added in the 20th century when the city received its charter in 1950, alluding to the historic gold mining in the region. The culture of early Cagayan represented a synthesis of indigenous traditions, such as those of the Higaonon people, and Spanish Catholic influence, which is still reflected in local festivals and traditions today.

Chronology of Key Events

• c. 377 AD — Archaeological findings in Huluga Cave indicate the existence of ancient settlements within the territory of the modern city.
• 1622 — Arrival of two Spanish Augustinian missionaries, marking the beginning of Spanish influence in the region.
• 1626 — Local chieftain Datu Salangsang moves his settlement downriver, establishing the core of the future city.
• 1738 — The Spanish finally establish control over the settlement, fortifying it as an outpost in northern Mindanao.
• 1872 — The settlement, known as Cagayan de Misamis, becomes the capital of the Misamis province (Segundo Distrito de Misamis).
• 10-11 January 1899 — Following the departure of the Spanish, the flag of the First Philippine Republic is raised in Cagayan de Misamis for the first time.
• 7 April 1900 — The Battle of Cagayan de Misamis takes place between Filipino independence fighters and American forces.
• 4 June 1900 — The Battle of Makahambus Hill occurs, one of the few Filipino victories in the Philippine-American War.
• 1930 — The province of Misamis is divided, and the city becomes part of the new province of Misamis Oriental.
• 2 May 1942 — Japanese forces land in Cagayan de Misamis during World War II.
• 15 June 1950 — Cagayan de Misamis receives chartered city status and is officially renamed Cagayan de Oro.
• December 2011 — The city is severely affected by Tropical Storm Washi (local name "Sendong"), leading to massive reconstruction efforts.

Key Stages of Development in Cagayan de Oro

The transformation of Cagayan de Oro from a small settlement into a thriving metropolis in northern Mindanao is marked by several important milestones that defined its economic, cultural, and urban landscape.

• Achieving City Status (1950): On 15 June 1950, under Republic Act No. 521, Cagayan received city status and its modern name — Cagayan de Oro. This event was the starting point for its accelerated development as an independent administrative unit. The suffix "de Oro" (translated from Spanish as "golden") was added in recognition of historical gold mining in the region.
• Mayor Borja's "Golden Age" (1954–1964): The term of Mayor Justiniano R. Borja is considered a time of phenomenal growth for the city. His administration laid the foundation for modern urban infrastructure by opening iconic facilities such as Cogon Market, which remains one of the city's main commercial hubs today. This stage marked the transition to planned urban development.
• Becoming a Regional Hub (1970–1990s): Thanks to its strategic location, Cagayan de Oro established itself as the primary commercial, logistical, and educational centre of Northern Mindanao. The development of the port and road network facilitated an influx of investment and turned the city into a "gateway" for neighbouring provinces, such as Bukidnon.
• Tourism Development and City Branding: In the late 20th century, the city began actively developing the tourism industry, betting on extreme sports. Whitewater rafting on the Cagayan River became the city's calling card, attracting tourists from all over the world. This helped strengthen Cagayan de Oro's image as the "City of Golden Friendship."
• Aftermath of Typhoon Sendong (2011): The devastating Typhoon Sendong (international name Washi) in December 2011 was a tragic but pivotal moment in the city's history. The disaster forced a complete review of approaches to urban planning, risk management, and development of riverine zones, leading to the implementation of large-scale projects to improve the city's resilience to natural disasters.
• Infrastructure Modernisation (21st Century): In recent decades, the city continues to actively modernise. A key project was the opening of the Laguindingan International Airport, which serves Cagayan de Oro and the entire province, replacing the old airport and significantly improving the region's transport accessibility.

The architectural appearance of the city of Cagayan de Oro is a multi-layered canvas woven from the heritage of different eras. Although ancient structures from the pre-colonial period have not survived, urban development and key styles vividly reflect the history of the Philippines. Here, one can trace the influence of Spanish colonial rule, the American period, and modern development.

Spanish Colonial Period (17th-19th Centuries)

Like many Philippine cities founded by the Spanish, the urban structure of Cagayan de Oro was initially formed around a central square (plaza), a church, and administrative buildings. This period left a mark in the form of monumental ecclesiastical architecture and old houses.

• Saint Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral: Originally built in 1845 in the neo-Gothic style, the cathedral was destroyed during World War II and rebuilt in the 1950s. The first version of the temple was constructed from coral stones, while the modern building preserves unique stained glass windows from the Chapel of the Sisters of the Sacred Heart in New York.
• Casa del Chino Ygua: Considered the oldest house in the city, built in 1882. Its bricks were brought from China as ballast on trading ships. This house witnessed important historical events, including the first raising of the Philippine flag in the city.

American Colonial Period (Early 20th Century)

With the arrival of the Americans in the early 20th century, new styles appeared in the city's architecture, particularly Neoclassicism and Art Deco, characteristic of government and public buildings of that time. This period was marked by the construction of infrastructure that was modern by the standards of the day.

• Cagayan de Oro City Museum (Old Water Tower): Built in 1922, this water tower is a prime example of American engineering and architecture. In 2008, it was converted into a museum housing artefacts that tell the story of the city.
• Misamis Oriental Provincial Capitol: Constructed between 1948 and 1950, this building combines the elegance of Classicism with the functionality characteristic of the American colonial style.
• Gabaldon School Buildings: The city retains schools built under the Gabaldon program in 1907-1915, which are examples of American colonial architecture adapted for the tropical climate.

Post-War and Modern Architecture

After World War II, which caused significant damage to the city, a period of reconstruction and modernisation began. Modern Cagayan de Oro is a dynamically developing centre with high-rise buildings, shopping malls, and new residential complexes. The architecture of this period is functional and diverse, reflecting rapid economic growth and urbanisation. An example is the library and science building of Lourdes College (1965), which became the first high-rise building in the city. Today's cityscape is an eclectic mix of historical relics and modern structures, making it interesting to explore.

Distinguished Personalities in the History of Cagayan de Oro

The city of Cagayan de Oro, with its rich and dynamic history, has been the birthplace and sphere of activity for many outstanding Filipinos. These individuals made significant contributions to politics, culture, and social development not only in the city but across the entire country.

• Apolinar Velez (1865–1939) — Military figure and politician. Velez was one of the leaders of the resistance during the Philippine-American War. He commanded the "El Mindanao" battalion and achieved a significant victory in the Battle of Makahambus Hill in 1900. Later, he served as governor of the Misamis province and mayor of Cagayan de Misamis (the city's old name).
• Tirso Neri (dates unknown) — Revolutionary leader and the second mayor of the city (1901–1903). He was one of the key participants in the Philippine Revolution in the region. One of the city's central streets is named after him, highlighting his contribution to the early development of Cagayan.
• Justiniano R. Borja (1912–1964) — Mayor of Cagayan de Oro (1954–1964). His tenure is considered the "Golden Age" in the city's history. Borja laid the foundations of modern urban planning and initiated the construction of key infrastructure facilities, including the city hospital, which now bears his name (JR Borja Memorial Medical Hospital). He is remembered as an outstanding administrator whose vision defined the city's development for decades to come.
• Aquilino "Nene" Pimentel Jr. (1933–2019) — Prominent statesman, senator, and champion of democracy. He began his political career as mayor of Cagayan de Oro (1980–1984). Pimentel was a staunch opponent of the Ferdinand Marcos regime, for which he was repeatedly arrested. He is the author of the "Local Government Code," which expanded the powers of regional authorities in the Philippines.
• Blas Velez (dates unknown) — World War II hero and physician. During the Japanese occupation, he was a vital participant in the underground intelligence network, providing valuable information about enemy forces. His courage and dedication to the resistance left a notable mark on the city's military history.
• Emmanuel Pelaez (1915–2003) — Vice President of the Philippines, senator, and diplomat. Although he was not born in the city itself, his activities were closely linked to the region. It was Pelaez who proposed adding the suffix "de Oro" ("golden") to the city's name to emphasise its rich historical heritage.