Some places get lost next to a city. That is the deal when your neighbor is Cagayan de Oro. But if you look just west of the city, you will find Opol, a coastal town in Misamis Oriental that is very much doing its own thing. And once a year, on June 15, Opol takes the spotlight — at least locally — for Opol Day.
This is the town’s founding anniversary, a day to mark when it officially became a municipality. It is a celebration that focuses on the people who live there, the small businesses trying to grow, and the barangays that make up the town’s identity.
You will usually find a short program organised by the local government. There are speeches, sure, but also performances by students or community groups. Some years, there are parades, trade fairs, or booths showing off local produce and crafts. It depends on the budget, the weather, and other factors. People come out to support either way.
If you live in Opol, the day is pretty familiar. Local government workers are busy. Schoolchildren might participate in contests or shows. Small food stalls appear, and families take a moment to check out what’s happening at the plaza or municipal hall. The mood is upbeat, but it is not over the top. It is more about being present.
What makes it interesting is how much has changed around the town in the last few decades. With tourism slowly growing, especially in places like Agutayan Island and certain beach resorts, Opol is no longer as quiet as it used to be. But Opol Day is still very much a local thing. It is not packed with tourists. It is just residents recognising the town’s progress and giving themselves a reason to gather.
[Photo by Jim (Jimothy) Natanauan]
