City to honor unidentified Sendong victims with interment ceremony

THE city government of Cagayan de Oro will conduct a formal interment ceremony for the remains of unidentified victims of Typhoon Sendong, currently resting in concrete vaults at City Memorial Park (Bolonsori) on December 16, 2024, marking the 13th anniversary of the tragic typhoon, which devastated numerous communities and left victims yet to be identified.

This decision followed Councilor James K. Judith II’s special report during the regular session held on October 21, 2024.

Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez, who attended the meeting, emphasized the importance of honoring the departed, recognizing that while closure may be elusive, respect and remembrance are essential.

“There is no such thing as closure when you lose a loved one,” Rodriguez noted. 

"This is about giving our loved ones the respect they deserve and celebrating their memory. We want a place where families can visit, light candles, and offer flowers, similar to traditions like All Saints’ Day. It should be a site of respect and remembrance,” she further pointed out.

Rodriguez also mentioned ongoing discussions with Mayor Rolando A. Uy regarding improvements to the memorial site.

“Let us make this area a meaningful and well-maintained resting place. This December, we come together to honor those who remain unnamed, ensuring they are remembered and respected by the community,” Rodriguez concluded.