Barangay Bulua – Cagayan de Oro City, Misamis Oriental
Barangay Bulua is a highly urbanized and strategic barangay in Cagayan de Oro City (CDO). Serving as the western gateway to the city proper, it is a bustling hub of commerce, transportation, and education. This guide provides an overview of its significance to the city’s economy and culture.
Geography and Location
Bulua is situated in the western part of Cagayan de Oro. It sits geographically between the municipality of Opol to the west and the barangays of Patag and Kauswagan to the east. Because of its location along the Butuan-Cagayan de Oro-Iligan Road, it serves as the primary entry point for traffic coming from Laguindingan Airport and Western Mindanao.
Local Government and Administration
Bulua is part of the 1st Legislative District (West District) of Cagayan de Oro City. The barangay is under the jurisdiction of the following elected officials:
- Congressman (1st District): Lordan Suan
- City Mayor: Rolando “Klarex” Uy
- City Vice Mayor: Jocelyn “Bebot” Rodriguez
Education
Bulua serves as an educational center for the city’s First District, hosting major institutions that cater to students from pre-school to the tertiary level.
Colleges and Universities
- PHINMA Cagayan de Oro College (COC) – Bulua Campus: Located near the Westbound Terminal, this is a major satellite campus offering tertiary courses and Senior High School programs.
High Schools
- Bulua National High School (BNHS): The primary public secondary school in the area, serving a large population of students from Bulua and neighboring Iponan.
- Merry Child School (High School Dept): A prominent private institution located in Zone 7, offering Junior and Senior High School strands.
Elementary and Pre-School
- Bulua Central School: The main public elementary school located in the heart of the barangay.
- Golden Land School of St. Hannibal: A private Catholic school run by the Rogationist Fathers.
- St. Leonard’s Learning School: A private institution catering to early childhood and basic education.
The “Pottery Capital” of CDO
Bulua is famously known as the Pottery Capital of Cagayan de Oro. The barangay has a rich history of ceramic craftsmanship, with local artisans creating large clay jars, garden ornaments, and decorative bricks. Travelers driving along the national highway can easily spot displays of these terracotta products lining the road.
Westbound Integrated Bus Terminal
One of the most critical facilities in Bulua is the Westbound Integrated Bus Terminal and Public Market (IBJT). This terminal is the main transport hub for:
- Buses heading west to Iligan, Ozamiz, Pagadian, and Zamboanga.
- Jeepneys and vans connecting CDO to the western municipalities of Misamis Oriental (Opol, El Salvador, Alubijid, Laguindingan, etc.).
Economy and Commercial Growth
Aside from pottery and transport, Bulua has developed a strong commercial sector. The area hosts:
- Gaisano City Bulua: A major shopping mall providing retail, grocery, and dining options.
- Automotive Industry: The highway strip is lined with major car dealerships and service centers.
- Government Offices: Bulua is home to the Land Transportation Office (LTO) Region 10, making it a daily destination for vehicle registration and licensing.






