CAGAYAN DE ORO — Beyond the thrill of white‑water rafting through the Cagayan River, a different kind of adventure awaits visitors to this vibrant city: the discovery of authentic, locally‑made products that tell the story of Northern Mindanao’s rich cultural heritage. On April 8, 2026, that journey became even more convenient with the opening of R&B Delights, a dedicated One Town, One Product (OTOP) hub situated along Masterson Avenue in the bustling uptown district. Located within Gaisano City Uptown, the store provides both tourists and residents with a single, easily accessible destination to explore and purchase a curated selection of food items, handicrafts, and unique delicacies from across the region.
A Curated Collection of Northern Mindanao’s Best
The store’s shelves are stocked with a diverse range of products that highlight the entrepreneurial spirit and craftsmanship of local Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs). Visitors looking for authentic “pasalubong” or souvenirs can find treats such as Fredo’s Salvaro, Cheding’s Toasted Peanuts, Soling’s Crunchy Piniato, and Mama Rita’s Tablea – perfect for bringing home a taste of Mindanao. Other notable offerings include Bukidnon’s Monk’s Blend Coffee, Atugan’s Binaki, and a nutritious Pilipinut Trail Mix from GreenMinds Inc., which is made with local superfoods like adlai, cacao nibs, and calamansi, supporting farmers in Claveria, Misamis Oriental, and Sumilao, Bukidnon. By offering these products, the store not only provides a convenient one‑stop shop for visitors but also serves as a vital retail platform for small‑scale producers to reach a wider market.
A Hub with a Mission, Built for Tourists and Locals Alike
The OTOP hub was launched by Rodel and Badette Reyes, owners of R&B Food Products Trading, in partnership with the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) provincial office. The couple’s journey from a workshop concept to a full‑fledged retail hub is rooted in a clear purpose. “When we first thought of engaging in something that would bring in money, we thought of something that would not only bring in money but should have a mission and a purpose,” Rodel said. That mission includes contributing to the local economy and championing local producers, an authentic narrative that resonates with the growing demographic of conscious travelers.
For tourists visiting the city, finding locally‑made products is often a priority. Jesusa Abear, DTI Misamis Oriental provincial director, said the store offers a dedicated venue for producers. “The OTOP stores improve and showcase the products of MSMEs; we provide our MSMEs with a platform and venue where they can display their products,” Abear said. Strategically located along Masterson Avenue, the store is situated in the heart of the city’s booming “Uptown Strip”, a modern lifestyle district lined with hotels, dining establishments, and entertainment hubs. This prime positioning makes it a convenient stop for visitors who are exploring the area’s contemporary side.
Strengthening CDO’s Tourism Ecosystem
The opening of this OTOP hub is poised to enhance Cagayan de Oro’s position as not just an “Adventure Capital” but also a burgeoning “Food and Pasalubong Destination.” Traditionally, tourists leaving the city have had to navigate crowded night markets or multiple stops to gather regional delicacies. The uptown OTOP store streamlines this process in a modern, comfortable environment, directly supporting local farmers and artisans. This initiative complements the rise of other major infrastructure in the area, including the soon‑to‑rise Radisson Blu Hotel & Residences and the Upper Central integrated lifestyle community, both expected to draw more high‑spending visitors to the uptown corridor in the coming years.
Furthermore, the Reyes couple has utilized digital tools to expand their market reach, successfully fulfilling orders for local delicacies as far as Manila and Cebu. This online presence is a valuable resource for tourists who wish to re‑order products or share Mindanao’s flavors with friends and family after returning home. “It’s aligned with our dream of being able to help move local products or develop more local products,” Rodel added. With its combination of convenient location, diverse product range, and community‑focused mission, the OTOP hub is set to become a must‑visit stop for anyone seeking an authentic taste of Northern Mindanao.
