Despite of the challenging year it has been, particularly with the ongoing health crisis caused by COVID-19 pandemic that the world continues to fight, the Port Management Office of Misamis Oriental/Cagayan de Oro remains steadfast in giving thanks and gratitude to its hardworking men and women and agency partners, and acknowledgement of its accomplishments and blessings as one PMO throughout the year.

A Eucharistic mass was offered on 18 December 2020 which was attended by PMO personnel in the actual venue and via online streaming for those in the Terminal Ports and other offices/units, to offer thanksgiving to the Almighty Father for the continuing guidance, safety, and protection bestowed to the PMO.

After the mass, the Acting Admin Manager relayed to all the Christmas message of the PPA General Manager Jay Daniel R. Santiago, who also extended his thanks to all PPA employees for the heroism in this time of pandemic. “Lubos akong umaasa na patuloy tayong maging katuwang ng ating pamahalaan sa mabilis ng pagbangon ng ating bansa,” GM said.

This was followed by a “fellowship” lunch. Individual lunch meals were provided to all on office duty personnel to maintain the mandated physical/social distance and avoid mass gathering during this activity.

In the afternoon, bags of food items were donated to the Stella Maris-Apostleship of the Sea Center for its distribution to the porters, pedicab drivers, and families of seafarers at CDO Port. Each bag contained rice, canned goods, and packed noodles.

Also held in the afternoon was the judging of the parols (lanterns) made by PMO personnel who participated in the Parol Making Contest 2020. Among the thirteen (13) parol entries which were made from indigenous materials, the parol made out of synthetic feathers, abaca fibers and banana sheets  was declared as the first prize winner. This was followed by the parol made from assorted dried leaves and one made of bamboo and corn-related materials for the 3rd place. The winner of the People’s Choice Award from the online voting of PMO employees was crafted using seaweeds and “ginit” or cloth-like sheath from coconut trees. The rest of the participants received consolation prizes.