Gingoog, Philippines

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Gingoog, Philippines

Region: Misamis Oriental

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Geographic Coordinates: 8.816700, 125.100000

Climate: Tropical climate with high rainfall throughout the year, and frequent typhoons during the rainy season.

Population: 136698

Language: Cebuano

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Gingoog is a small city located in the province of Misamis Oriental, Philippines. It is situated on the eastern coast of Mindanao, One of the largest islands in the country. The city’s name originates from a local term guingoo which means good luck. Gingoog is known for its rich cultural heritage and natural beauty, Making it an ideal destination for tourists who want to experience authentic Filipino culture. One of the most popular tourist attractions in Gingoog is its beautiful beaches.

The city boasts several pristine beaches such as Talisay Beach and Mabua Pebble Beach where visitors can enjoy swimming, Snorkeling or just relaxing on white sandy shores. In addition to beaches, Gingoog also has several waterfalls that offer breathtaking views and refreshing dips. One such waterfall that attracts many visitors is the Mapaso Hot Spring which features warm waters that are believed to have therapeutic properties. Apart from natural wonders, Gingoog also has historical sites that showcase its rich cultural heritage. One of these sites is the Buenavista Cave where ancient artifacts were discovered dating back to prehistoric times.

Another historical site worth visiting is St. Augustine Cathedral which was built during Spanish colonial rule and features stunning architecture and intricate designs. For food enthusiasts, Gingoog offers a unique culinary experience with its local delicacies such as binaki (sticky rice cake) and kinilaw (raw fish marinated in vinegar). These dishes are made using locally sourced ingredients giving them a distinct flavor unlike any other. The people of Gingoog are known for their warmth and hospitality towards visitors making it easy for tourists to feel at home while exploring this charming city.

Additionally, The annual Kahimunan Festival held every August showcases traditional dances like Tinikling or bamboo dance performed by locals dressed in colorful costumes. Overall, Gingoo’s combination of natural beauty, Historical significance, And friendly locals makes it a must-visit destination for travelers looking for an authentic Filipino experience.

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1. Magsaysay Park – a popular park in the city center with a playground, picnic areas, and a scenic view of Gingoog Bay.
2. Divine Mercy Shrine – A religious site located in Barangay Malibud that features a 50-foot statue of Jesus Christ.
3. Agay-ayan Bridge – The longest bridge in Mindanao spanning over 2 kilometers across Gingoog Bay.
4. Kapitolyo Park – A public park with several recreational facilities including basketball courts and jogging paths.
5. Mapaso Hot Spring – A natural hot spring located at the foot of Mount Lumot where visitors can enjoy swimming and relaxing in warm waters.
6. Tinuy-an Falls – Located about an hour away from Gingoog City but worth visiting for its beautiful cascading waterfalls surrounded by lush greenery.
7. Mount Lumot – An ideal destination for hikers who want to experience the breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and valleys from its peak.
8. Lantaw Bukid Resort – A resort situated on top of a hill overlooking the city where visitors can enjoy various outdoor activities like zip-lining or just relax while enjoying good food with panoramic views around them.
9. Guimba Beach – one of Gingoog’s hidden gems that boasts white sand beaches perfect for swimming or just lounging under the sun while enjoying fresh seafood delicacies offered by local vendors along its shorelines.
10. Kanligyaw Cave – another gem found within Barangay Binakalan that offers visitors an exciting adventure exploring underground cave systems filled with stalactites and stalagmites formations while learning about its rich history as well as local folklore stories passed down through generations.
11. Gingoog City Hall – A historical landmark that serves as the city’s seat of government and a symbol of its rich cultural heritage and tradition.
12. Gingoog Baywalk – A scenic promenade along the bay where visitors can enjoy a leisurely stroll while watching the sunset over the water or sampling local street food from nearby vendors.

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• The main industries and businesses in Gingoog, Philippines are:
1. Agriculture
2. Fisheries
3. Tourism
4. Small-scale manufacturing
• The city is renowned for its production of:
1. Rice
2. Corn
3. Coconut products
• Additionally, it has a thriving fishing industry because of its proximity to the sea.
• Tourism is on the rise in Gingoog with attractions such as:
1. Agay-ayan Beach Resort
2. Mimbunga Falls
• Small-scale manufacturing includes:
1. Furniture-making
2. Handicrafts production
3. Food processing

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Noteable History

Historical Events in Gingoog

1. The establishment of Gingoog as a town in 1932.
2. The Battle of Gingoog during World War II, where Filipino guerrillas fought against the Japanese forces.
3. The assassination of Mayor Ruthie Guingona in 2002 by communist rebels.
4. The election of Mayor Marie Guingona, daughter-in-law of Ruthie Guingona, as the first female mayor of the city in 2016.
5. The presence of indigenous communities such as the Higaonon tribe in the area.

Notable People from Gingoog

• Teofisto Guingona Jr., former Vice President and Senator of the Philippines who hails from a prominent political family in Gingoog.
• Ruthie Guingona, former mayor and wife of Teofisto Guingona Jr., who was known for her advocacy for women’s rights and environmental protection.
• Maria Lourdes Sereno, former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court who was born and raised in Gingoog before moving to Manila for her education.
• Vicente Yap Sotto, a prominent businessman and politician who served as Governor-General during the American colonial period.

These individuals have contributed significantly to politics, law, business, and social advocacy both locally and nationally throughout Philippine history.

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Museums and Things To See

1. Gingoog City Museum and Library
2. Gingoog City Plaza and Monument
3. Our Lady of the Holy Rosary Cathedral
4. Divine Mercy Shrine
5. Mount Balatukan Range Natural Park
6. Agay-ayan Rice Terraces
7. Kalagonoy Hilltop Park and Resort
8. Minalungao Cold Spring Resort
9. Bongbong’s Pasalubong Center
10. Misamis Oriental Agricultural Research Center (MOARC)

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Cultural Events

1. Gingoog City Fiesta is celebrated every 12th of January to honor the city’s patron saint, Sto. Niño.
2. Sinulog sa Gingoog is a religious and cultural festival held every third Sunday of January that features street dancing and a procession in honor of Sto. Niño.
3. Kahimunan Festival is an annual celebration held every July that showcases the rich culture and traditions of the indigenous tribes in Gingoog.
4. Agro-Industrial Fair is an event that promotes agriculture and industry in the city, usually held during the fiesta week.
5. Binuyugan Festival is a cultural festival showcasing traditional dances, music, and costumes inspired by local folklore and legends.
6. Araw ng Gingoog is celebrated every 29th day of September as a commemoration of the city’s founding anniversary.
7. Pasko sa Gingoog is a Christmas celebration featuring parades, concerts, bazaars, and other activities to bring joy to locals during the holiday season.
8. Hudyaka sa Pangantucan-Gingoog Rodeo Festival – an annual event showcasing cowboy skills such as bull riding, calf roping etc., usually held on October 31st to November 2nd at Barangay Pangantucan which is near to Gingoong City proper.

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Cuisine

• Kinilaw – a dish made with raw fish marinated in vinegar, onions, ginger, and chili peppers. You can try it at Kainan sa Plaza.
• Lechon – a roasted pig dish that is crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. You can find it at Lito’s Lechon.
• Seafood – Gingoog is known for its fresh seafood such as crabs, shrimps, and fish. You can try it at Seafood Island.
• Buko Pie – a pie made with young coconut meat and milk that is famous in Gingoog City Bakery.
• Suman Latik – a sweet rice cake wrapped in banana leaves topped with coconut milk caramel sauce which you can find at Bibingka ni Ate Joy.
• Halo-halo – a popular Filipino dessert made of shaved ice mixed with sweetened fruits topped with evaporated milk served by many street vendors around the city.
• Lechon Manok – roasted chicken served by Andoks or Chooks-to-Go which are both located within the city proper.

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Parks and Recreation

1. Gingoog City Plaza is a public park situated in the heart of Gingoog city that offers various amenities such as a playground, basketball court, and a gazebo.
2. Mount Sumagaya National Park is located in the northern part of Gingoog and is a protected area that provides hiking trails and breathtaking scenic views.
3. Initao-Libertad Protected Landscape and Seascape spans across several municipalities including Gingoog, offering visitors opportunities for beachcombing, camping, and bird watching.
4. Kweba sa Tabok is an open cave system located in Barangay Tabok that welcomes visitors for spelunking adventures.
5. Agay-ayan Falls are situated in Barangay San Juan and are famous for their crystal-clear waters and picturesque surroundings.
6. Lake Mainit borders two provinces including Misamis Oriental where Gingoog is situated; it’s the fourth-largest lake in the Philippines offering fishing opportunities as well as boat tours around its scenic vistas.
7. Sabang-Gibong River Cruise provides an excellent opportunity to explore nature with mangroves on both sides while enjoying fresh seafood cuisine on board during the river cruise along Sabang-Gibong River.

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Travel And Be Free.

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