Cagayan de Oro Riverfront Esplanade Tourism Complex

Cagayan de Oro City has the second highest per capita GDP (GDP) in 2022, behind 17 highly developed
cities and 82 provinces outside Metro Manila. This is according on data released today, March 18, 2024,
by the Philippine Statistics Authority. The city's per capita GDP was Php 343,936, about double the
national average of Php 178,751.

According to PSA's Provincial Product Accounts, the city has the second highest per capita GDP after
Baguio City. considering the city's high per capita GDP, involves enhancing the existing economic
prosperity while maintaining sustainable growth. The design challenge should focus on further elevating
the city's economic status through tourism initiatives that capitalize on the natural beauty of the
Cagayan de Oro River. Key aspects to address in the design solution include:

Economic Diversification: Develop a riverfront space that not only attracts tourists but also caters to the
diverse interests of visitors, offering a mix of recreational activities, local businesses, and cultural
experiences. Identify and integrate innovative revenue streams and business opportunities that align
with the city's economic strengths and potential for growth.

Sustainable Tourism Practices: Implement sustainable measures to minimize the environmental impact
of tourism activities on the Cagayan de Oro River Basin. Focus on waste management, water
conservation, and ecosystem restoration to ensure the long-term preservation of the river's natural
beauty and biodiversity.

Community-Centric Design: Foster community engagement by involving local residents in the

development and management of the riverfront esplanade. Create spaces that facilitate cultural events,
community gatherings, and educational programs to celebrate the city's heritage and promote social
cohesion.

Enhanced Infrastructure: Design accessible pathways, amenities, and facilities that cater to the needs of
a diverse range of visitors, ensuring safety and comfort. Improve connectivity between the riverfront
and surrounding areas to enhance transportation options and overall accessibility for residents and
tourists.

By addressing these key aspects in the architectural design of the Cagayan de Oro Riverfront Esplanade
Tourism Complex, the city can further leverage its economic prosperity, preserve its natural resources,
and strengthen the community's connection to its environment, ultimately fostering sustainable growth
and development.

Recreational Area is allotted for the development of parks and open spaces,
playgrounds, pedestrian paths, trees and green areas, wharves, river theatre, etc.

Parking Zone is intended for parking areas, loading and unloading zones for
PUVs, taxis, jeepneys, buses and other public transportations.

Commercial Zone is designated Pavilion, strip mall, tourism center (Iconic structures), Food park and
other types
of facilities. This area will cater to visitors and investors coming to the site.
Ancillaries are intended for utility, maintenance, material recovery facility, Rainwater and Stormwater
Harvesting that will cater to manage the orderliness and cleanliness of the area.
Site Requirements:
Site:

The site in Isla de Oro, estimated to cover 3.8 hectares, is strategically located with various facilities in its
vicinity, including schools, hotels, churches, supermarkets, shopping malls, banks, fire stations, hospitals,
and police stations. This classification and the land-use map designate the area as parks/open space
suitable for the development of a riverfront esplanade tourism complex. The road network map
illustrates that the site is well-connected to the National Highway Road, enhancing its accessibility and
potential for development.

Considering the characteristics and strategic location of Isla de Oro, the development of a riverfront
esplanade in this area holds significant promise for enhancing the protection of the Cagayan de Oro
River, promoting tourism, and fostering community engagement. The site's classification and existing
amenities make it a suitable location for the proposed project, aligning with the city's Comprehensive
Land Use Plans and offering opportunities for new developments that can benefit both residents and
visitors.
Isla de Oro, Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental (Source: Google Maps)