Updated: Jan 9
IN a highly urbanized city like Cagayan de Oro, where the pulse of democracy beats strong, there is a need for a more accessible and transparent governance.
How are decisions made? What ordinances are being passed? And most importantly, what does the government do to involve citizens to engage in the democratic process?
Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez shares these concerns and is championing a solution: the establishment of a comprehensive Legislative Information System (LIS).
With the LIS, Kagay-anons will have the power to delve into the details of city ordinances and resolutions with just a few clicks.
At its core, her vision aims to elevate transparency and accountability within the local government, empowering constituents with the tools they need to engage effectively in the democratic process.
Gone will be the days of rummaging through endless archives, scouring through stacks of paperwork, searching on numerous online websites, or relying on second-hand information.
Take, for instance, the recent declaration of a state of emergency in response to the water crisis gripping Cagayan de Oro. In such critical times, citizens yearn for clarity and insight into the actions being taken by their elected representatives. With the proposed LIS, Kagay-anons will have the ability to track easier the progress of legislative measures in real-time, ensuring that they remain informed about the steps being taken to address pressing issues affecting the city.
Whether for research purposes or out of genuine care as a concerned citizen, the convenience of an online system that provides up-to-date, easily accessible legislative information cannot be overstated.
The envisioned system will offer a streamlined, search-based platform, offering access to a wealth of legislative documents including ordinances, resolutions, committee reports, session minutes, and more.
Moreover, the proposal includes measures for digital security and data protection, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information. Communication channels and feedback mechanisms will also be established, fostering dialogue between the council and the community it serves.
The success of this endeavor hinges not only on technology but on human capacity. Recognizing this, her proposal contains provisions for creating positions for the purpose and conducting capacity building and training to ensure that employees have the necessary abilities to properly traverse this digital landscape.
As we embrace the digital age, Vice Mayor Rodriguez is laying the groundwork for a more informed and empowered citizenry. By fostering transparency, accountability, and citizen engagement, this initiative is poised to transform the relationship between the government and the governed, driving positive change and progress for our city.
Updated: Jan 9
GROWING up, you may have come across the tale of a mythical water creature called kugtong that resides in the Cagayan de Oro River. Legend has it that this creature has scales made of gold; thus the word ‘Oro’ in our city’s name, derived from the Spanish word for gold (or de Oro meaning golden or ‘of gold’).
Beyond local folklore, the etymology of "Cagayan/Kagayan" has several linguistic interpretations, but it generally means "river" – a proof that the City of Cagayan de Oro has a strong connection to its waterways.
Indeed, when you search for Cagayan de Oro online, iconic images of the river frequently appear as it serves as the heart of the city's most popular tourist attraction—whitewater rafting, earning Cagayan de Oro the title of the Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines.
These elements—mythical tale, etymology, and tourist activity—all highlight the river’s invaluable role as a historical and cultural asset of our city.
The Cagayan de Oro River has been a witness to the city's growth, and to further leverage its potential and significance, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez has proposed the incorporation of river ferry services along the river in order to offer alternative transportation options, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable travel within the city.
The proposed legislation includes the development of infrastructure such as ferry terminals and wharves, along with vessel maintenance and safety regulations, fare structures, stakeholder collaboration, preservation of the river's historical and cultural heritage, and integration with existing transport modes.
The rationale behind her proposal is to support the metropolization of the city and maximize accessibility and convenience for residents and visitors while promoting tourism and maintaining the city’s identity. The metropolization of Cagayan de Oro is a key element of the RISE development agenda of Mayor Rolando Uy’s administration, which VM Bebot fully supports.
Her proposed ordinance establishes the framework for the management and operation of river ferry services, demonstrating her commitment to creating legislation that supports sustainable urban development.
As the Cagayan de Oro River continues to play a pivotal role in the city's narrative, it carries the legacy of the city's growth and prosperity, and VM Bebot’s vision seeks to bridge the past and the future by harmonizing preservation and progress.
Updated: Jan 9
IN 2022, the city of Cagayan de Oro made significant strides with the passage of its very own Mental Health Code which was designed to create strategies for fostering healthy mental well-being in the city and develop an integrated and comprehensive approach to the City Mental Health Care Delivery System.
While this landmark legislation is a critical step forward, destigmatizing mental health and ensuring accessible support for all is still out of sight.
The necessity for such initiatives can be gleaned from two recent statistical records. First is from the report of the psychosocial unit of the City Social Welfare and Development Office, which recorded 47 suicide cases in the first three quarters of 2023. Second is AXA Mind Health Study which documented 87% of Filipinos who experience work-related mental health issues, with only 22% seeking professional help for burnout.
Building on the foundation laid by the Mental Health Code, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez has proposed another ordinance to further improve access to mental health services.
This initiative seeks to establish Barangay Mental Wellbeing Corners, strategically located within or near barangay halls, to serve as hubs for early intervention, prevention, and community resilience. These corners will provide essential support and create a nurturing environment vital for mental health recovery and well-being. Plans also include building networks between the Mental Wellbeing Corners and city mental health services to ensure comprehensive care.
Under the proposed legislation, each barangay will be equipped with at least one trained Mental Health Worker (MHW) to provide effective support and intervention. These corners may also integrate trained volunteers or peer support workers to supplement services, cultivating a collaborative approach to mental health care.
With this community-driven approach, Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez aims to create a more compassionate city — one where mental well-being is prioritized and support is readily available in every barangay.