Cagayan de Oro came alive this week as the Higalaay Festival 2025 filled the city with dazzling colors, vibrant music, and the roar of a cheering crowd. The float and civic-military parade turned the streets into a living storybook, with larger-than-life depictions of the legendary golden kugtong—the giant fish said to rest beneath the St. Augustine Cathedral. Alongside it, replicas of iconic landmarks showcased the city’s unique blend of folklore, history, and pride.
It wasn’t just a parade; it was a spectacular reminder of how Kagay-anons continue to carry their stories, legends, and traditions into the future.
Faith Anchored in Tradition
At the heart of Higalaay is a deep sense of devotion. This year’s festivities lead up to the feast of Saint Augustine, the city’s patron saint. On Thursday, the Archdiocese of Cagayan de Oro will celebrate the annual fiesta, an event also shared by Valencia City in Bukidnon.
Mayor Rolando Uy captured the spirit of the festival in his message, saying Higalaay is more than a tourism showcase, it’s about unity, faith, and identity. The celebration reflects how Cagayan de Oro continues to harmonize its rich folklore and strong religious tradition, creating a festival unlike any other in the Philippines.
A Celebration Safeguarded
The excitement drew massive crowds. According to the Cagayan de Oro City Police Office (COCPO), Wednesday’s parade alone gathered around 25,000 spectators who packed the streets to witness the spectacle. To ensure everything ran smoothly, more than 200 police officers were deployed, with support from the Coast Guard, Task Force Oro, and civilian volunteers.
COCPO Director Col. Salvador Radam assured festivalgoers that the situation was under control, with security measures in place until the grand finale of the celebrations this weekend.
The Higalaay Festival 2025 is more than just an annual fiesta, it’s a living proof that when folklore, faith, and friendship come together, the city’s identity doesn’t just survive, it shines brighter than ever.
