Councilor Paolo Nicolo Gaane and the Office of Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez joined more than 3,000 Kagay-anons in the fourth “Higala, Ayaw og Buhi, Kuyog ‘Ta sa Lakaw Paglaum” Solidarity Walk organized by the CSWD Psychosocial Unit on Sunday, September 13, as part of Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026.
Carrying the theme “Changing the Narrative on Suicide”, the activity aims to raise awareness on suicide prevention and encourage the community to create a more compassionate and supportive environment for individuals experiencing emotional and psychological struggles.
The walk was followed by a program featuring the launch of the Suicide Prevention Awareness Month 2026 video campaign by the CSWD and City Information Office.
As chair of the committee on health, Councilor Gaane, in his message, emphasized the importance of changing the way people respond to those who are struggling, particularly by replacing judgment, stigma, and silence with understanding, empathy, and meaningful support. “Wala kamo nag-inusara”, he stressed.
For his part, Councilor Rodriguez, as chairperson of the committee on social services and an advocate for mental health, reaffirmed his support for initiatives that promote mental health awareness and remind every Kagay-anon that they are seen, heard, and not alone.
The Solidarity Walk also served as a reminder that everyone has a role to play in suicide prevention—from listening without judgment to encouraging those in need to seek appropriate help and professional support. (JBD & JDO/SP)
The proposed revisions to the Cagayan de Oro City Traffic Code continue to undergo deliberation as the Committee on Public Utilities reviews Proposed Ordinance No. 2026-272, or the “Ordinance Adopting the Cagayan de Oro City Revised Traffic Code of 2026.”
Councilor Jonjon Rodriguez, one of the authors of the proposed ordinance, presented his observations and recommendations on the proposed revisions, citing the need to update existing traffic regulations to reflect the city’s current transportation conditions and address emerging traffic concerns.
The committee also reviewed various provisions of the proposed ordinance, particularly those related to traffic management and transportation, to ensure that the revised traffic code is practical, enforceable, and responsive to the needs of motorists, commuters, pedestrians, and other road users.
Chaired by Councilor Enrico Salcedo, the committee on public utilities is set to conduct its fifth discussion on the proposed ordinance. (JDO/SP)
Strengthening the city’s collective response to trafficking and violence against women and children, Councilor Desiree Dahino led the 3rd Quarter meeting of the City Inter-Agency Council Against Trafficking and Violence Against Women and Children (CIACAT-VAWC).
The meeting reviewed the council’s accomplishments for the previous quarter, approved the minutes of the previous meeting, and discussed updates and areas for improvement in the implementation of its programs and initiatives.
As chairperson of the committee on women and family relations, Dahino emphasized the importance of sustained coordination and stronger programs to ensure that women, children, and vulnerable families have access to protection, support, and responsive services.
She also highlighted the importance of regular meetings in strengthening collaboration, accountability, and shared responsibility among government offices and partner agencies.
The council also aligned its plans for upcoming activities included in its annual calendar. (JDO/SP)
