Governor Oaminal delivers transformative 4th SOPA: Misamis Occidental rises as a model of Asenso Governance

 

OROQUIETA CITY (Nov. 3, 2025) — Governor Henry S. Oaminal delivered his 4th State of the Province Address (SOPA) before a packed crowd at the Bayfront Arena, highlighting how Misamis Occidental has been transformed into a province of peace, progress, and prosperity under the banner of #AsensoMisamisOccidental.

Governor Oaminal began his address by expressing gratitude to the people and all sectors of government for their unity and trust, which turned the Asenso vision — “Misamisnon Magpuyong Malinawon, Malambuon ug Malipayon” — into a living reality.

From Fear to Freedom: Restoring Peace and Order

Once plagued by criminality and illegal drugs, Misamis Occidental now stands among Northern Mindanao’s safest provinces. Governor Oaminal credited the strong collaboration of law enforcement agencies, local government units, and citizens in reclaiming communities from fear and restoring peace and confidence throughout the province.

Building Progress: Infrastructure and Development Without Loans

Governor Oaminal proudly reported that massive infrastructure developments were achieved without incurring loans. These include the 550-bed capacity Asenso Misamis Occidental Medical Center, the Asenso Misamis Occidental Recreation and Adventure Park, and major road, bridge, covered courts, water system and public facility improvements across all municipalities.

“These projects symbolize responsible governance — proof that we can achieve progress without burdening future generations with debt,” Oaminal emphasized.

Empowering Farmers and Fisherfolk

Through the Asenso Rice Farmers Full Assistance (ARFFA) program, rice farmers in Misamis Occidental receive comprehensive support— from land preparation, free fertilizers and seedlings, production assistance, to post-harvest facilities, the buying of farmers’ produce, marketing support, and the establishment of KADIWA Center for the “Baratong Bugas para sa Misamisnon” program.

Education and Employment for Every Family

Under the One Family, One Professional program, the province continues to invest in scholarships, ensuring that every Misamisnon family will have at least one professional graduate. This, Oaminal said, “is our long-term vision to break the cycle of poverty and give every family a fighting chance for a better life.”

Health and Social Services for All

Governor Oaminal reported that health facilities have been expanded across the province — with improved medical equipment, ambulances, and hospital upgrades ensuring accessible and quality health care for all Misamisnons.

Social services, including assistance for senior citizens, persons with disabilities, and indigent families, were also strengthened, reflecting the province’s principle of #LubosLubosNgaSerbisyo — total service with compassion.

Tourism, Sports, and Economic Growth

With the Asenso Misamis Occidental Recreation and Adventure Park and new tourism circuits, the province continues to attract both local and international visitors. Recent events like the ASEAN+ Chess Championship showcased Misamis Occidental on the global stage, boosting local tourism and economic activity.

A Future Anchored on Unity and Progress

Governor Oaminal concluded his address by calling for continued unity among Misamisnons, emphasizing that the province’s achievements are the result of shared vision and collective action.“Together, we have proven that progress is possible when there is unity, discipline, and genuine service. Let us continue building a Misamis Occidental that is truly peaceful, progressive, and happy — a province we can all be proud to call home,” Oaminal said. (PGMO)