In celebration of the 75th Charter Day of Cagayan de Oro, the City Tourism and Cultural Affairs Office, in collaboration with Vice Mayor Jocelyn ‘Bebot’ Rodriguez, has officially launched a one-of-a-kind cultural and heritage tour called MoTOURela, running from June 17 to 19. This unique initiative offers a nostalgic and immersive journey into the city’s historical landmarks aboard an iconic local invention—the motorela.
A portmanteau of “motor” and “caratela,” the motorela is more than just a mode of transport in Cagayan de Oro; it is a symbol of local ingenuity. First designed by Rafael Floirendo in 1965, the motorela has since become a common sight on the city’s streets, ferrying passengers to their destinations while subtly narrating the story of the city’s progress. Today, it serves not only as a public utility vehicle but also as a moving vessel of culture—literally and figuratively.
A Journey Through Time and Identity
MoTOURela stands out as a tourism innovation that ties together the city’s vibrant past and its evolving identity. Through this initiative, participants get to rediscover key heritage spots aboard these beloved three-wheeled vehicles, transforming a simple city tour into an enriching cultural experience.
The tour includes stops at significant landmarks such as:
- Duaw Park
- St. Augustine Metropolitan Cathedral
- City Hall Executive Building
- Gaston Park
- The old Water Tower, now the City Museum
- Macasandig Boulevard
- Kagay-an and Maharlika Bridges
- La Castilla Museum
- Kiosko Kagawasan at Divisoria Plaza
- Community Amphitheater
These sites are not just architectural marvels but storied spaces that echo the city’s journey through history, religion, governance, and public life.
The tour was joined by participants from various sectors including the faculty of COC-PHINMA’s Hospitality and Tourism Management, the COCPO Tourist Police Unit, City Information Office, Department of Tourism Region 10, and the Vice Mayor’s Office—further highlighting the initiative’s collaborative spirit.
Why MoTOURela Is Unique
What makes MoTOURela particularly remarkable is how it bridges tradition and tourism in a distinctly Kagay-anon way. While most heritage tours rely on buses or vans, this initiative celebrates the motorela not only as a heritage vehicle but as an active participant in the storytelling of the city. It offers a slow-paced, close-to-the-streets experience, perfect for absorbing the cultural essence of each stop.
Moreover, the initiative aligns with Mayor Rolando ‘Klarex’ Uy’s vision of placing local culture and history at the center of the city’s identity and development efforts.
As Cagayan de Oro marks its 75th year as a chartered city, MoTOURela brings its residents and visitors alike on a ride through memory lane—one motorela at a time. It’s a testament to how heritage preservation and tourism innovation can come together in meaningful, memorable ways.