CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY — The city’s broadcast community took a well‑deserved bow on April 26 as the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP) Cagayan de Oro‑Misamis Oriental chapter held the 2nd Golden Friendship Awards. Staged at the Dynasty Court Hotel and Restaurant, the ceremony celebrated the professionalism, creativity, and public service of local radio and television talents—reinforcing the media’s essential role in shaping the city’s image as a welcoming, dynamic destination.
A Local Take on a National Tradition
Named after Cagayan de Oro’s moniker—the “City of Golden Friendship”—the awards are a localized version of the prestigious KBP Golden Dove Awards, the industry’s highest honor. The event was the centerpiece of Broadcasters Month, which has been observed every April since President Fidel Ramos issued Proclamation No. 557 in 1995.
KBP CDO‑Misamis Oriental chapter chairman Dr. Ronnie Waniwan, whose program Lampornas in Sight was named Best Program of the Year, underscored the industry’s broader purpose: “To my fellow broadcasters, it is my earnest hope that we continue to support one another regardless of the threats we face or the cost we may bear. Let us remain steadfast in combating fake news, dismantling troll‑driven disinformation and opposing any attempts to silence the free and responsible press”.
Beyond the Mic
The awards were part of a month‑long celebration marked by community outreach. KBP organized two separate activities: donating 30 sacks of rice and groceries to leukemia patients through the Leupapo foundation, and distributing 250 food packs to trisikad drivers in Barangay Macabalan.
Why It Matters for Tourism
A vibrant and responsible media sector is a strategic asset for Cagayan de Oro’s tourism industry. Broadcasters help shape the city’s public image, highlight hidden gems, and build the positive narratives that attract visitors. By recognizing media excellence, the Golden Friendship Awards underscores the city’s commitment to transparent storytelling and authentic hospitality—qualities that resonate with travelers seeking genuine destinations.
