MALAYBALAY CITY (PIA)—In Bukidnon’s highlands, the municipality of Cabanglasan is located in a clearing shaded by the forested Pantaron Range in Bukidnon.

It is home to Lumad and settler-small farm owners who produce quality crops made possible by the Department of Agriculture.

Last August 12 they celebrated their 42nd “Araw ng Cabanglasan” with apparent thanksgiving that COVID-19 had not done them much harm, as it is wreaking havoc elsewhere.

With strict observance in distancing of attendees, Mayor Renante Inocando hosted a program at the municipal hall and delivered his State of the Municipality Address.

He recalled that years back, Cabanglasan was like a ghost and dusty town but now, life is undeniably alive and vibrant.

Almost all residents have their own rides. Be it motorbikes or four-wheeled. Everyone is indeed happy.

Mayor Renante Inocando of Cabanglasan, Bukidnon says in his State of the Municipality Address (SOMA) on August 12, that life in Cabanglasan now is alive and vibrant despite the pandemic. He shares during the 42nd “Araw ng Cabanglasan” rite that the day is also a time for the townsfolk to celebrate ‘Thanksgiving Day’ because COVID-19 has not harmed them as much as it has elsewhere. (MIO/PIA 10-Bukidnon)

Doubly happy and contented are investors attracted by modern infrastructures such as concrete roads and bridges, and telecommunication connections, among many others.

As the keynote speaker, Congressman Manuel “Manoy” Zubiri of Bukidnon’s 3rd District openly indicated his readiness to help people anytime, particularly those who are deeply depressed by the ongoing pandemic.

Zubiri added that he cannot be present in all of Bukidnon's barangays at the same time when the need for help arises. But he emphasized that he has mobile teams ready to deliver rice and food assistance to anyone in need anywhere in the province. (RLRB/PIA 10-Bukidnon)