04/09/2026
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The House of Representatives has approved on Third Reading House Bill No. 9512, authored by Cagayan de Oro 2nd District Representative Rufus B. Rodriguez, seeking to declare the centuries-old Dao Tree (Dracontomelon dao) in Malasag, Barangay Cugman as the Cagayan de Oro Heritage Tree and a tourist attraction. The measure has now been transmitted to the Senate for consideration.
Estimated to be over 300 years old, the Heritage Dao Tree stands approximately 49 meters high and 2.20 meters in diameter. It is regarded as one of the biggest and oldest Dao trees in the Philippines and a living testament to Cagayan de Oroβs natural and cultural heritage.
It can be remembered that Cong. Rufus Rodriguez led the turnover of the completed P25-million access road leading to the Dao Tree last September 2025. The newly completed road section is expected to improve mobility for residents and visitors, making it easier for tourists to experience one of the cityβs remarkable natural landmarks.
Under the proposed declaration, concerned government agencies will be tasked to prepare a tourism development plan focused on the protection and preservation of the Cagayan de Oro Heritage Tree, while developing its immediate surroundings through appropriate infrastructure and facilities that will enhance tourism without compromising the tree and its natural environment.
Cong. Rufus reaffirms his commitment to protect the cityβs environmental heritage while making it accessible to future generations.
