Nestled along the gentle shores of Ormoc Bay and embraced by lush mountain ranges, the City of Ormoc proudly bears its title as the City of Beautiful People. Yet in Ormoc, beauty extends far beyond breath-taking landscapes or physical charm. It is found in the warmth of its people, in their generosity, and in their unshakable resilience—forged through challenges such as the devastating flash floods of November 5, 1991. Rising from tragedy, the people of Ormoc have built a future rooted in compassion, excellence, and a shared vision of community resilience.

A city with heart and vision

Ormoc is more than a bustling economic hub in Leyte; it is a thriving city where unity and innovation walk hand in hand. Known for its clean streets, vibrant public spaces, and sustainable development initiatives, Ormoc blends the vibrancy of modern life with the soul of a close-knit community. Sometimes I thought of it like a Sports Capital City knowing that their various infrastructures were created to support the needs of the various athletic enthusiasts.

Have you ever seen the Ormocana butterfly? This rare species, endemic to Ormoc, can be spotted in the protected area of Lake Danao—and, if you are observant enough, even fluttering across the city streets are some different kinds of butterflies, which shows that the environment supported their existence. Watching these delicate creatures dance in the air is a reminder of Ormoc’s fresh, clean environment and the green spaces its people work hard to preserve.

What I like most is when I wake up in the morning, I hear the birds in the window or see some different species of birds that are not scared of humans but willing to share their chirpings even though we are in the city. If you are eating in the place called Centro Food Park, when you look up in the sky, you will be amazed by different kinds of birds flying over your head, and if the sunset is coming, these creatures will remind you that there is nothing you need to worry about. Such as the written in the Bible verse about them: "There is nothing to worry or to toil because, like birds, God is watching for our needs."

Ormocanons are celebrated for their hospitality, hard work, and generosity. From market vendors greeting customers with genuine smiles to youth representing the city in academic and athletic competitions, every Ormocanon embodies a quiet yet steadfast pride in their heritage. Mostly people around you are willing to help; you can even find people who will open the door in the mall, which you cannot find in the big cities.

Every Friday, the grounds of City Hall come alive as local vendors offer their products at affordable prices, while the city centre boasts a lively food court serving fresh seafood and beloved delicacies. Come June, the city bursts with colour and festivity for the famous Pineapple Festival—a celebration of Ormoc’s sweet, world-class pineapples unmatched anywhere in the country.

The City College of Ormoc: shaping leaders of tomorrow

A vision realised

At the heart of Ormoc’s growth is its unwavering commitment to education, embodied by the City College of Ormoc (CCO). This institution was brought to life through the vision and partnership of two passionate leaders—Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez and Congressman Richard Gomez—united by their love for Ormoc and their dedication to education and good governance.

The City College of Ormoc (CCO) was born from the vision of the Ormoc City Government to make quality higher education accessible to all, particularly to students from low- to middle-income families. Officially established under the administration’s education reform initiatives, CCO reflects the city’s belief that education is the key to breaking cycles of poverty and driving local development.

The vision of this college is more than an academic institution; it is a beacon of hope for young dreamers. It nurtures talent, hones skills, and moulds future leaders ready to serve not only Ormoc but also the wider world. Offering a variety of academic programs—including the pioneering Bachelor of Science in Social Work, along with Public Administration, Business Administration, and Office Administration—CCO ensures its graduates are equipped with knowledge, competence, and the values of service, integrity, and innovation.

When I moved from Davao City to Ormoc in March this year to contribute to the college’s pioneering programs, I was struck by how far the city had come since the days when its streets were dark and undeveloped. I believe that my important contribution is to be part of shaping this premier college and then I can also pay back the free education that I enjoyed.

Today, Ormoc is a rising star in Western Leyte, and CCO stands as a training ground for leaders who will create limitless possibilities for the future. Under the guidance of passionate educators and visionary leadership, CCO fosters academic excellence and social responsibility. Students are encouraged to think critically, engage with their communities, and become compassionate, service-oriented citizens—true reflections of the Ormocanon spirit.

The college invested in a program that will support the attainment of Sustainable Development Goals, like pushing for the integration of the circular economy in the curriculum and offering an elective course like International Social Work and innovative teaching strategies for the business courses.

When I asked my students to share what they love most about CCO, their answers spoke volumes. Merry highlighted the college’s free tuition, uniforms, and tablets for students. John shared his appreciation for learning from highly qualified and experienced instructors. One student named Iya summed it up simply: “Just being enrolled in CCO is the best part of my life.” Many of our students are coming from far-flung communities and they go through various processes like entrance examinations and interviews and are well selected to join this premier college.

A partnership between city and college

The progress of the City College of Ormoc mirrors the city’s own journey toward growth and resilience. Supported by the local government and embraced by the community, CCO thrives as an educational hub that reflects Ormoc’s values. Together, the city and the college open doors for upward mobility, cultural enrichment, and civic engagement. As the current city mayor of this city, the Honourable Mayor Lucy Torres mentioned in one of her speeches that the City College of Ormoc is the crown of the Ormoc Development Team.

It is because investing in education is investing in the city’s future—producing future graduates who will not only uplift their own lives but also give back to the community that nurtured them.

Ormoc: beautiful inside and out

Whether strolling along its well-kept streets, savouring fresh produce and seafood, or engaging in heartfelt conversations with locals, visitors quickly realize that Ormoc’s beauty runs deep. You might walk the public oval for fitness, explore the city on foot, or marvel at the JAICA or Japan-funded bridge that connects mountain streams to the sea.

The panoramic views of Lake Danao, the cool bay breeze, and vibrant festivals add to the city’s charm. Yet, it is the kindness, resilience, and unity of its people that truly define Ormoc.

Here, beauty is not just seen—it is lived daily through acts of generosity, goals achieved, and dreams pursued.

At the heart of it all, the City College of Ormoc stands proudly as a partner in shaping the future of this City of Beautiful People.