BFP event to spotlight province’s rising tourism gems, including ‘Maldives of Mindanao’

CAGAYAN DE ORO CITY (October 27) – Misamis Occidental is set to blaze with action and excitement as it hosts the 2026 National Fire Olympics, the Bureau of Fire Protection’s (BFP) premier annual competition bringing together the country’s top firefighters.
BFP Chief Fire Director Jesus Fernandez confirmed the announcement during the opening of the Northern Mindanao Regional Fire Olympics in Oroquieta City, saying the province impressed organizers with its sports facilities and community support.
“We will test this place for the whole nation to showcase their skills—and for the province to showcase its tourism to all BFP personnel nationwide,” Fernandez said.
Governor Henry Oaminal Sr. welcomed the honor, saying the national event will not only highlight the province’s firefighting readiness but also its growing tourism appeal.
By March 2026, visitors may already witness the completion of the Asenso Misamis Occidental Resorts and Aquamarine Park in Sinacaban—a PHP600-million coastal development project envisioned as the “Maldives of Mindanao.”
The world-class resort and aquamarine park are expected to become a major attraction for local and foreign visitors, complementing the province’s white-sand beaches, heritage sites, and eco-tourism destinations.
With the National Fire Olympics drawing thousands of delegates from across the country, Misamis Occidental is positioning itself as both a training ground for heroes and a gateway to adventure in Northern Mindanao.

