By: James Murillo Elaco
CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY – As part of the ongoing Higalaay Festival, the local government of Cagayan de Oro and the organizers of the 2nd Kagay-an International Dragon Boat Fiesta Race 2024 welcomed guests and participants to Isla de Oro for an exciting two day event on August 10-11, 2024.
Cagayan de Oro City Mayor Rolando “Klarex” A. Uy emphasized the importance of this event in bringing people together and celebrating the city’s vibrant culture. Speaking at the opening ceremony, he expressed his enthusiasm for continuing the festival in the years to come.
“Ato ning ipadayon kay daghan pa ang atong mahimamat nga mga tawo kay usa kini sa dakong kalipay ug kalingawan sa atong lungsod. Ug atong makita sa atong kaugalingon nga mapahimuslan usab ang atong mga sapa sa tanang bahin sa atong nasud kay kon wala kining dragon boat dele, basin malimpyo ang atong mga suba.” Uy said.
(“We will continue this because we will meet many more people because this is one of the great joys and entertainment in our town. And we will see for ourselves that we can also take advantage of our streams in every part of our country because without this dragon boat dele, maybe our rivers will be clean.”)
Mayor Uy explained that the dragon boat races are not just for fun they also show how much the city cares about its rivers and streams. He believes that by holding these events, Cagayan de Oro can set a good example, showing how traditional sports can unite people and help protect the environment.
Also gracing the occasion were Chinese officials and leading personalities from the Filipino-Chinese community based in Cagayan de Oro. This showcased that there is a strong bond between the Filipinos and Chinese living within this city to make it even more lively. He was accompanied by other officials from the city who welcomed both local and international teams thereby showing hospitality exhibited during such festive moments.
The Kagay-an International Dragon Boat Fiesta Race is one of the highlights of Higalaay Festival. It shows unity and vitality of Cagayan de Oro’s people as they commemorate their great heritage along with tradition. The races this year entailed teams coming from different parts of the country all converging for exciting national dragon boat competitions.
During Higalaay festival, dragon boat races show a combination of traditional events with contemporary ones; this reflects how Cagayan de Oro merges old-fashioned undertakings with modern celebrations. This event acts as a unifying factor among individuals, besides sending an environmental message. As the race ended successfully for this year, Cagayan de Oro awaits more joyful meaningful moments. (JME/OB)
