As Cagayan de Oro approaches its 75th Charter Day celebration this June 15, a renewed appeal has been made to correct what one family views as a long-standing oversight in the city’s official history. The family of the late Congressman Pedro S. Baculio is advocating for proper recognition of his role in the city’s journey to becoming a chartered city.
Baculio’s Role Revisited
Dr. Pedrito “Toytoy” Baculio, son of the late congressman, asserts that his father was not merely a supporter but the actual author of a bill filed in Congress in 1948, aimed at converting the then-town of Cagayan into a chartered city. He maintains that this effort has often been downplayed or inaccurately portrayed as a lobbying act rather than a formal legislative move.
Tracing the Path to Cityhood
Cagayan de Oro’s road to cityhood officially began with a joint resolution passed in 1946 by the provincial board of Misamis Oriental and the municipal council of Cagayan. This resolution laid the groundwork for future legislation. In 1949, Congressman Emmanuel Pelaez filed House Bill No. 54, which ultimately led to the establishment of the City of Cagayan de Oro when President Elpidio Quirino signed it into law on June 15, 1950.
An Appeal for Historical Accuracy
Dr. Baculio contends that his father’s authorship of an earlier bill played a foundational role in the city’s eventual charter and deserves recognition in the historical narrative. He believes that correcting the record is essential not just for the sake of their family, but for the integrity of the city’s documented past.
Cityhood as a Symbol
Cityhood represents more than legal status — it embodies resilience, progress, and the collective aspirations of Kagay-anons over the decades. For many residents, this milestone is a point of civic pride and a reminder of the city’s ongoing transformation.
Honoring a Pioneer
As Cagayan de Oro commemorates 75 years as a chartered city, the Baculio family hopes that the contributions of Congressman Pedro S. Baculio will be rightfully acknowledged. They believe that embracing the full scope of the city’s history honors not only individuals, but the broader legacy of determination and vision that built today’s CDO.
