Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park | Dolphin Island

The province is perhaps one of the very few places in the Philippines where one can swim with and feed the dolphins up close. The Misamis Occidental Aquamarine Park (MOAP) and the Dolphin Island are the main reasons why we visited the province.

Ozamiz City: Birhen sa Cotta Shrine

OZAMIZ CITY, Misamis Occidental - It was our second and last day in Ozamiz City and we didn't let this day pass without visiting the Birhen sa Cotta Shrine, especially that the feast of Nuestra Señora de la Inmaculada Concepción y del Triunfo de la Cruz de Migpangi (Our Lady of Triumph) will be celebrated the following day.

The shrine is one of the most significant pilgrimage sites in Mindanao, dedicated to the 18th century statuette of the Blessed Virgin Mary carved on the exterior wall of Cotta Fort. The image is believed to be miraculous, standing to guard the entrance of the city from Panguil Bay.

We lighted candles and offered prayers and were moved by the devotion of the people of Ozamiz to their beloved Birhen sa Cotta, as the Catholic faithful venerate and touch the miraculous image of Mary vested in pink and blue.

This visit has become a spiritually uplifting experience that reminded us that because we are all one in faith, we are neither Filipino nor Chinese, rich nor poor, male nor female. (Galatians 3:28 )

Immaculate Conception Cathedral in Ozamiz City

After a hearty lunch at Mooon Cafe, we visited the nearby cathedral. The Immaculate Conception Cathedral is the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Ozamiz and is one of the five cathedrals within the Roman Catholic Ecclesiastical Province of Ozamiz.

Lunch at Mooon Cafe in Ozamiz City

When travelling, we usually research first on places to eat, prior to the trip. This time, we skipped the research part and just randomly selected a restaurant. From Royal Garden Hotel, we walked our way towards the cathedral and saw this restaurant beside the church - Mooon Cafe.

Royal Garden Hotel in Ozamiz City

We chose Royal Garden Hotel primarily because of its location. It is within downtown Ozamiz and right in the middle of the commercial establishments and tourists spots. It's just a few blocks away from the cathedral and restaurants. Major banks also have branches and ATMs within the area. The hotel is also just few steps away from grocery stores, bakeries and the public market. Transportation is also not a problem since there are tricycles and pedicabs everywhere.