Symphony of Support: VM Bebot Rodriguez’s Ordinance to Boost CDO Music Scene

♬ Cagayan de Oro the City of Golden Friendship Pachada Cagayan, Cagayan de Oro kanhi kalambagohan The gateway of Mindanao Gikan sa kabukiran, hangtud sa lapyahan ampingan ang kina-iyahan. There will never be a place to stay as beautiful as Cagayan. ♬

These heartfelt lyrics, composed by a talented Kagay-anon artist, capture the essence of Cagayan de Oro—a city filled with charm and beauty. This winning composition from Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez's pop music festival last year underscores the vibrant and diverse musical talent thriving in the city.

Photo credits: VM Bebot Rodriguez official Facebook page

"I recognize that ours is a city with a rich musical heritage, and I want to pave the way for the preservation and promotion of our unique Kagay-anon sound. Hence, I initiated the songwriting contest... and I will continue to promote our music and our local artists by pushing forward the Original Kagay-an Music (OKM) Ordinance," said Vice Mayor Bebot Rodriguez.

The OKM ordinance is a proposed legislation by the vice mayor, featuring a comprehensive approach to empower local artists and the entire music scene in the city.

In her proposal, programs promoting broadcast initiatives and airplay support will be put into place such as establishing partnerships with local radio stations to create a support system for OKM by including it in their regular programming and encouraging them to conduct interviews and features with OKM artists.

To honor the creation of local artists, provide platforms for artistic growth, and foster healthy competition among them, Vice Mayor Bebot also proposed initiatives like concert series for local artists across various genres, fostering cultural music exchanges with other regions, and providing scholarships, financial assistance, workshops, and masterclasses, among others.

Furthermore, she promotes the establishment of affordable and accessible recording studios and rehearsal spaces. Platforms like music showcase, street performances, music competitions, and art festivals will be created to provide artists with opportunities to perform and gain exposure.

With the implementation of the proposed OKM ordinance, Cagayan de Oro is poised to become a hub for artistic expression. Our local music is set to resonate louder than ever, and the melody of Kagay-anons can be heard, valued, and celebrated across the city and beyond.