Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth
Second 
Introduced by Representative LORDAN G. SUAN 
EXPLANATORY NOTE 
After nearly two years of being locked down during the Covid-19 
pandemic, travelers are now feeling a sense of liberation as our beloved 
President Ferdinand R. Marcos, Jr. lifted the State of Public Health Emergency 
throughout the Philippines. After being isolated for so long, travelers are 
eagerly seizing the opportunity for their long-awaited getaways, seeking fresh 
experiences, and fulfilling their adventure-filled aspirations. 
Among the many popular adventures that await travelers, whitewater 
rafting stands out as a favorite. Whitewater rafting involves navigating fast-
flowing rivers or bodies of water using inflatable boats and has become 
increasingly popular amongst travelers due to its thrilling nature and numerous 
health benefits. Not only does it offer an adrenaline-pumping adventure, but it 
also provides physical and psychological advantages. Some of these benefits 
include the inhalation of fresh outdoor air, which helps to reduce stress, as well 
as the physical challenges of the activity that contribute to muscular 
development and cardiovascular fitness, ultimately boosting one's self-esteem. 
The Department of Tourism has placed significant emphasis on 
promoting the Cagayan River as the primary attraction for whitewater rafting in 
Cagayan De Oro City (CDO City). This river boasts great depth, steep inclines, 
and captivating rock formations while offering a breathtaking panoramic view 
of its rocky walls, untouched vegetation, and glimpses of various wildlife 
species in their natural habitats. 
August 14, 2023
1:55 pm
8881


Cagayan De Oro distinguishes itself as the only city in the Philippines that 
provides year-round rafting opportunities for tourists. As the premier attraction 
in CDO City, whitewater rafting has been instrumental in aiding the city's 
recovery from the negative impact of Covid-19 by generating decent 
employment opportunities, ensuring sustainability, and fostering economic 
growth. 
By declaring CDO City as the whitewater rafting capital of the Philippines, 
the city will undoubtedly provide additional income sources and decent work 
for its residents, helping them recuperate from the devastating effects of the 
pandemic. Moreover, this designation will also serve as a catalyst for the 
preservation of the river and its surrounding ecosystem, benefiting future 
generations while simultaneously bolstering tourism in our country. 
In light of the preceding, this bill’s approval is fervently sought. 
LORDAN G. SUAN 
Cagayan de Oro City – 1st District 


Republic of the Philippines 
House of Representatives 
Quezon City, Metro Manila 
Nineteenth
Second 
Introduced by Representative LORDAN G. SUAN 
AN ACT 
DECLARING THE CITY OF CAGAYAN DE ORO 
AS THE WHITEWATER RAFTING CAPITAL OF THE PHILIPPINES 
Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in 
Congress assembled: 
SECTION 1. Short Title. — This Act shall be known as the “Cagayan De Oro 
1 
City as Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines Act.” 
2 
3 
SEC. 2. Declaration of Policy. — It is hereby declared the policy of the State 
4 
to promote and support whitewater rafting tourism in the country as a catalyst 
5 
for economic development while ensuring sustainable protection of the 
6 
environment. 
7 
8 
SEC. 3. Cagayan de Oro City as Whitewater Rafting Capital of the 
9 
Philippines. — In recognition of its status as one of the premier tourist sites for 
10 
whitewater rafting and its unique distinction as the only city in the country that 
11 
provides year-round whitewater rafting opportunities, the City of Cagayan de 
12 
Oro is hereby declared the Whitewater Rafting Capital of the Philippines. 
13 
14 
SEC. 4. Effectivity. — This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its 
15 
publication in the Official Gazette or a website provided for by law. 
16 
Approved, 
8881