The province of Misamis Oriental, fondly known as Mis. Or., is the third largest economy in Northern Mindanao. Spanning a rugged 3,570 square kilometers, the province is defined by its majestic mountains and rolling hills, which cover about 70% of its land area. Misamis Oriental is home to 23 municipalities and two vibrant cities—El Salvador and Jingo. Cagayan de Oro City, the bustling capital, is a highly urbanized hub that operates independently of the province.

Misamis Oriental is blissfully located outside the typhoon and earthquake fault zones, offering its residents a serene and safe environment. The people here primarily speak Visayan, but Tagalog and English are also widely understood and spoken. The rich tapestry of languages includes the ethnic dialects of Higaonon, Ilonggo, and Warai, which continue to thrive. The majority of the population are predominantly Christians, representing almost 80% of the people, while about 20% belong to other religious affiliations.

Historically, Misamis Oriental was once part of Cebu. In 1880, it became a corregimiento divided into four partidos: Partido de Misamis, Partido de Dapitan, Partido de Cagayan, and Partido de Catarman, all under the larger Misamis Province. Misamis Oriental shares a deep history with its sister province, Misamis Occidental. On November 2, 1929, the Philippine legislature enacted Republic Act 3537, which took effect on January 1, 1930, officially dividing Misamis into Misamis Oriental and Misamis Occidental.

The name Misamis traces its roots to guyamis, a variety of sweet coconut that was a staple food for the earliest Negrito settlers. Spanish colonizers later adapted the name to Misamis. In honor of this heritage, the Kuyamis Festival was born—celebrating the coconut industry that thrives in Misamis Oriental.

This vibrant festival showcases a dazzling array of coconut-based products and byproducts, from intricate handicrafts to delicious Filipino dishes. Featuring coconut as the star ingredient, the festival highlights the ingenuity and traditions of the province. The Kuyamis Festival not only promotes the local coconut industry but also strengthens the province’s agritourism efforts, drawing visitors to experience the bounty and culture of Misamis Oriental.