NORTHERN MINDANAO — Local tourists and residents frequent the City of Gingoog in the Province of Misamis Oriental, particularly at night, following the opening of "The Bay-Gingoog," a P29,062,080 project of the City Government of Gingoog City.

The project commenced in early 2022, with Mayor Erick G. Cañosa and, then vice mayor, now Governor Peter Unabia, entrusting the transformation of "Pahayahay sa Pantalan" in the port area into a vibrant public space, where people could gather, relax and enjoy a beautiful and friendly environment.

Chief Architect Jason Roi Bucton, who was entrusted to work on the plan, told DAILY TRIBUNE, Monday, 24 February, that with the help of fellow architects from LGU-Gingoog, he presented the proposed redevelopment of the 240-linear-meter length, approximately 6,750 sq. m. ground open area, walkable spaces, and two-story commercial building to accommodate existing vendors, ample parking space, improved drainage, landscaping and outdoor lighting.

“The alignment of ideas between the mayor’s vision and our technical expertise led to a unanimous approval. However, with a projected cost in the millions, the project was temporarily put on hold until funding could be secured,” Bucton narrated.

“Then came the shear line phenomenon in December 2022, which caused widespread damage to infrastructure across the city — including ‘Pahayahay sa Pantalan.’ This event underscored the need to prioritize the site’s rehabilitation. With the full support of the 21st City Council, led by Vice Mayor Thaddeus Lugod, the Redevelopment Project was deemed made a priority,” he added.

Bucton said legislation for funding the project came after, procurement followed as a regular procedure and construction of Phase 1 began in November 2023, backed by an initial P22,262,080 million funding. “Staying true to its purpose as a walkable boulevard, the design incorporated innovative features, such as a wave deflector — engineered by personnel from the City Engineer’s Office to protect the seawall from destructive waves — and an elevated platform to adapt to rising sea levels. As construction progressed, additional funding of P6.8 million was allocated to ensure the successful implementation of Phase 2.

“After much anticipation, The Bay-Gingoog City is finally opened to the public. But, this is just the beginning, as what we see now is only a fraction of the grand vision outlined in The Bay Master Plan. Currently, we have completed Phases 1 and 2, with more developments to follow in the coming years,” Bucton stressed.

As a government-funded project, The Bay’s development depends on phased budget allocations. Public funds are distributed across various sectors, meaning infrastructure projects like this progress gradually. While Phases 1 and 2 are now complete, upcoming phases — including pavement elevation, commercial buildings, a parking area, landscaping, more lighting and more — will depend on future budgeting.

As the next phases unfold, Gingoognons can look forward to a more vibrant and sustainable waterfront — one that balances economic growth, environmental resilience and community enjoyment.

Bucton said “What was once just a mere vision in 2022 — marked with a banner that read ‘Something Exciting Is About to Happen’ — has now become a reality. The excitement ends while something has already happened. ‘Pahayahay sa Pantalan’ has undergone a remarkable transformation, and, today, we proudly unveil — what we call it from now on — The Bay-Gingoog City.”