CDO’s Oldest Establishments: Kamusta Na Sila Karon?
Living in Cagayan de Oro in the 1950s, 60s and 70s was quite different. Back then, everything was so simple.
The streets were free of pollution coming from smoke belching vehicles, and traffic was at the most minimum level. A lot of Kagay-anons flocked to Divisoria during their free time, as there were no malls and big department stores at that time yet.
There were no high rise buildings and hotels. Most were family owned structures and a number were residences. Over the years, as the city progressed, some of these buildings remained in their original state, while others were demolished. Nevertheless, they have remained well-remembered, especially by true blue Kagay-anons.
Allow us to be a little nostalgic as we share with you some photos of the most popular establishments of early Cagayan de Oro.
SkyHi Cinema (The one in Capsitrano as we are yet to secure photos of the original one in Cogon.)
What used to be SkyHi Cinema in Capistrano is now being used by a Christian ministry.
The stairs leading to the cinema.
Inside the cinema...
Roket Cinema (Along Capistrano Street, near Shanghai Bakery, another old establishment.)
Voltes V The Movie was shown here.
Wardrobe (Still along Capistrano Street.)
Everybody's favorite tailor...
Archbishop’s Palace
The Archbishop's Palace's staircase.
Wadhu’s Quality Store (Still up and standing after all these years!)
Wadhu's has been a trusted name for generations.
St. Augustine Cathedral (One of the city’s most popular landmarks.)
Casa del Chino Ygua (Along Velez cor. Hayes Streets. Now Pots & Pans.)
One of the city's historical markers is also known as "Balay nga Bato".
Come January 2011, we will feature more of CDO’s treasured establishments and residences. The special will be divided into three parts and will include more interesting stories (and perhaps even trivia) about the old Cagayan de Oro. So, stay tuned!
In the meantime, Merry Christmas, Cagayan de Oro!
-Text by Maia Fortich-Poblete-
-Photos & Research by Jay Daphne Bual, Mara Jayne Tismo and Gillian Abonitalla-
I love watching old photos of CDO City. Pls. add more old pics specially streets & establishments after WWII. Thanks keep it up!