Baguio City is home to many tourist spots and is a weekend getaway of those living in Metro Manila. Baguio City remains a prime tourist destination area in North Luzon because of its cool climate, fresh, green and peaceful environment unlike other tourist destinations in the Philippines. This makes it a favorite destination especially for those who would like to relax and stay away from the excessive heat of the lowlands and also a favorite venue of seminars and conferences.
Baguio is the midway to the wonders of Northern Luzon. The calm beaches of La Union; the fabled Hundred Islands of Pangasinan; the ancient churches, Spanish influenced houses, historical and cultural relics of Ilocos Sur and Ilocos Norte and is also the gateway to the Cordilleras where you could find the world famous Banaue Rice Terraces in Ifugao; the Kabayan mummy caves of Benguet; and the distinct culture and colorful traditions of the tribes of Benguet, Mountain Province, Ifugao, Kalinga, Apayao and Abra.
The name Baguio conjures, for both the international and domestic traveler, a highland retreat in the Grand Cordillera in Northern Luzon, with pine trees, crisp cold breezes and low luxuriant knolls and hillocks. Through the numerous decades Baguio has morphed from what was once a grassy marshland into one of the cleanest and greenest, most highly developed cities in the country. It has made its mark as an opening tourist destination in the Northern part of the Philippines with its cool climate, foggy hills, panoramic views and lovely flowers. Being the ideal union zone of neighboring highland places, Baguio is the melting pot of different peoples and cultures and has enhanced its ability to provide a center for education for its neighbors. Its rich culture and countless resources have attracted numerous investments and business opportunities to the city.
Baguio City, the Summer Capital of the Philippines promises a harbor to anyone who seeks its comfort where you could leave all your cares behind. With its numerous tourist attractions and panoramic scenes and refreshing pine scented fresh air it seeks to provide a relief to any traveler, a hideaway to the romantics and breather to the weariest soul. Encapsulate this one of a kind feeling as you look around through the stunning and exciting scenes of the Summer Capital of the Philippines.
Baguio's Chills
I learned this story from my cousin. She visited Baguio last year. She told me that Baguio is not only famous and beautiful but also chilly. My cousin Angella visited a very luxurious hotel. I know the name of the hotel but I will not tell since the hotel might lose its publicity.
One day when Angella visited the hotel, she felt something spooky but she didn't tell anyone because maybe all the people there might think she's a freak. That night she slept in one of the most beautiful rooms in the hotel. She heard some noise. She thought it was her roommate Clarisse. "Clarisse could you stop making noises I'm so sleepy", shouted a very sleepy Angella. But Clarisse didn't reply. Suddenly she heard gun shots and people shouting. Angella thought it was just some of the kids in the hallway. Angella was very tired of the noise that she shouted. Clarisse woke up. Finally Clarisse told Angella that she was so scared. She told her that she dreamt that so many people were killing each other.
Unable to stand their fear, they asked some workers about the history. They told them that it was really where the Philippines-Japanese fight was held. It was a bloody one. Sometimes they could see a lady asking if they saw her head. They told Clarisse and Angella everything. Since Angella and Clarisse were so scared they checked out. They promised that they would never go to Baguio.
One day when Angella visited the hotel, she felt something spooky but she didn't tell anyone because maybe all the people there might think she's a freak. That night she slept in one of the most beautiful rooms in the hotel. She heard some noise. She thought it was her roommate Clarisse. "Clarisse could you stop making noises I'm so sleepy", shouted a very sleepy Angella. But Clarisse didn't reply. Suddenly she heard gun shots and people shouting. Angella thought it was just some of the kids in the hallway. Angella was very tired of the noise that she shouted. Clarisse woke up. Finally Clarisse told Angella that she was so scared. She told her that she dreamt that so many people were killing each other.
Unable to stand their fear, they asked some workers about the history. They told them that it was really where the Philippines-Japanese fight was held. It was a bloody one. Sometimes they could see a lady asking if they saw her head. They told Clarisse and Angella everything. Since Angella and Clarisse were so scared they checked out. They promised that they would never go to Baguio.
Little History Camp John Hay
Baguio used to be a native Ibaloi hamlet called "kafagway" which means "a wide open space." The name later became "Baguio," which comes from the abundant moss called "bagiw."
The Americans only accidentally discovered Baguio while in pursuit of Filipino revolutionaries in November 1899. With an average temperature of 20 centigrade (the lowest recorded temperature is 6.3 centigrade on January 18, 1961), the American colonizers found the perfect place for their troops to escape the tropical heat and in the process save money (they would have otherwise sent them back to the mainland).
With its March weather almost like San Francisco, Baguio became the Americans’ summer capital and Camp John Hay became their rest and recreation base. By the way, the camp was named after a US Secretary of State, John Milton Hay, who is credited for negotiating the construction of the Panama Canal.
In the Second World War, this peaceful vacation camp was ironically the first to be bombed by the Japanese. Fittingly, the surrender of all Japanese forces by General Yamashita, known as the "Tiger of Malaya," was held inside Camp John Hay.
After the Americans left, the Filipinos took control and in a public bidding in September 1996, the Fil-Estate group won the rights to develop this vast 300-hectare camp.
People may gripe over the American presence in the Philippines, but you have to hand it to them for leaving Camp John Hay in a very beautiful condition. It is, in fact, the only place where thick pine forests stand. Fortunately Fil-Estate’s Bob Sobrependerstands his company’s responsibility. For every pine tree that they have to cut, Fil-Estate plants 100 new pine trees (exceeding what the government requires). Practically 90 percent or 272 hectares of its 300 hectares will have no buildings or structures.
The Americans only accidentally discovered Baguio while in pursuit of Filipino revolutionaries in November 1899. With an average temperature of 20 centigrade (the lowest recorded temperature is 6.3 centigrade on January 18, 1961), the American colonizers found the perfect place for their troops to escape the tropical heat and in the process save money (they would have otherwise sent them back to the mainland).
With its March weather almost like San Francisco, Baguio became the Americans’ summer capital and Camp John Hay became their rest and recreation base. By the way, the camp was named after a US Secretary of State, John Milton Hay, who is credited for negotiating the construction of the Panama Canal.
In the Second World War, this peaceful vacation camp was ironically the first to be bombed by the Japanese. Fittingly, the surrender of all Japanese forces by General Yamashita, known as the "Tiger of Malaya," was held inside Camp John Hay.
After the Americans left, the Filipinos took control and in a public bidding in September 1996, the Fil-Estate group won the rights to develop this vast 300-hectare camp.
People may gripe over the American presence in the Philippines, but you have to hand it to them for leaving Camp John Hay in a very beautiful condition. It is, in fact, the only place where thick pine forests stand. Fortunately Fil-Estate’s Bob Sobrependerstands his company’s responsibility. For every pine tree that they have to cut, Fil-Estate plants 100 new pine trees (exceeding what the government requires). Practically 90 percent or 272 hectares of its 300 hectares will have no buildings or structures.
Declare Baguio City
We believe that the City of Baguio is culturally, environmentally and aesthetically unique and different from other cities in the Philippines. We believe that Baguio is the nerve center of four rich and diverse cultures: the Filipino culture in general, the highland Cordilleran culture, the lowland Ilocano culture, and the heritage culture brought about by the Americans during the early 20th Century.
We believe that in the past two decades, the City of Baguio has experienced a substantial degradation of its unique culture, environment and art. We believe that the approval of certain politicians with no respect for the aesthetics and the environment of Baguio to put up concrete structures such as malls, overpasses and flyovers only worsens Baguio City's lamentable decay as a "City of Pines." We believe that this overdevelopment and resulting pollution have to stop.
We believe that due to its unique history and blend of cultures, Baguio can be to the Philippines as Barcelona is to Spain, Chiang Mai is to Thailand, and San Francisco is to the United States: a main center of arts, culture, philosophy, education, tourism, sustainable development and environmental awareness. We believe, therefore, that the City of Baguio deserves to be declared a "Special Heritage Zone," so that the degradation brought about by overdevelopment can be minimized and gradually controlled. We believe that Baguio City's heritage as a center of culture and environmental awareness is a valuable asset not just to the Philippines, but also to the world.
We now respectfully call on the residents of Baguio and the Filipino people to sign this humble petition, and for the local and national governments concerned to implement and declare Special Heritage status on this unique mountain City as soon as possible, preferably before the Baguio Centennial in 2009, so no further destruction on its limited cultural, environmental and aesthetic resources may continue.
We believe that in the past two decades, the City of Baguio has experienced a substantial degradation of its unique culture, environment and art. We believe that the approval of certain politicians with no respect for the aesthetics and the environment of Baguio to put up concrete structures such as malls, overpasses and flyovers only worsens Baguio City's lamentable decay as a "City of Pines." We believe that this overdevelopment and resulting pollution have to stop.
We believe that due to its unique history and blend of cultures, Baguio can be to the Philippines as Barcelona is to Spain, Chiang Mai is to Thailand, and San Francisco is to the United States: a main center of arts, culture, philosophy, education, tourism, sustainable development and environmental awareness. We believe, therefore, that the City of Baguio deserves to be declared a "Special Heritage Zone," so that the degradation brought about by overdevelopment can be minimized and gradually controlled. We believe that Baguio City's heritage as a center of culture and environmental awareness is a valuable asset not just to the Philippines, but also to the world.
We now respectfully call on the residents of Baguio and the Filipino people to sign this humble petition, and for the local and national governments concerned to implement and declare Special Heritage status on this unique mountain City as soon as possible, preferably before the Baguio Centennial in 2009, so no further destruction on its limited cultural, environmental and aesthetic resources may continue.
The Session Road
Session Road is the main thoroughfare of Baguio City and is the main hub of what is called the Baguio Central Business District. Located at the city center, it is actually divided into two parts:
- Lower Session Road, extending eastward from Magsaysay Avenue (opposite the Plaza or Kilometer 0 and Malcolm Square) running through the BCBD until the intersections of Father Carlu Street (towards the Baguio Cathedral and Upper Bonifacio Street) and Governor Pack Road. This is the area where businesses are located, among others banks, shops, restaurants, bakeries, hotels, newsstands, boutiques, and studios.
- Upper Session Road, extending from Post Office Loop, Leonard Wood Road, and the foot of Luneta Hill (where SM City Baguio is located) to the rotunda cutting toward South Drive (towards Baguio Country Club), Loakan Road (towards Camp John Hay, Loakan Airport, Philippine Military Academy, the former Baguio Export Processing Zone, and the mine areas of Itogon, Benguet), and Military Cut-Off (towards Kennon Road
The Baguio City
Thank you for visiting this home page. It is all about Baguio City which is also known as the Summer Capital of the Philippines or the City of Pines. It is hoped that through this Website you will learn something about our beautiful city and the people who call Baguio home.
Visit the different Landmarks and Scenic Sites portrayed in this Website and see what it is that makes Baguio City a favorite among foreign and local visitors alike. Don't miss to check out Baguio Revisited in October 2003 which is the newest addition. Portrayed are the latest photographs of the parks and gardens of Baguio, the different landmarks and scenic attractions, a glimpse of what is seen along Session Road and at the Baguio Public Market. There are also night scene photos of Baguio. Another interesting highlight portrayed are the two Baguio
Photo Albums which should not be missed.
Baguio is my hometown and it will always remain this way. There is just nothing like it elsewhere in the Philippines to work for a living and start a family of your own. With its cool weather, friendly residents, clean environment, scenic mountain views, and pine-scented air, Baguio is not only one of the best places to visit when in the Philippines but also the most suitable city to be a resident of. Dan Pinkerton, an American friend of mine, wrote: "Of all the places I visited in the Philippines, to me, Baguio City is the grandest of all. Maybe it is the Igorot ancestors of years gone by that supplies the everescent glow one feels in this magical city. As a visitor, I cannot compare Baguio with any city I know in the USA. It is a city that is unique and one of its kind. I love Baguio and its godsend people."
Browse through, enjoy your tour, and return as often as you want ... or better yet, come and make an actual visit and see Baguio City for yourself. It will be an experience you will most surely enjoy and probably make you want to keep coming back.
Visit the different Landmarks and Scenic Sites portrayed in this Website and see what it is that makes Baguio City a favorite among foreign and local visitors alike. Don't miss to check out Baguio Revisited in October 2003 which is the newest addition. Portrayed are the latest photographs of the parks and gardens of Baguio, the different landmarks and scenic attractions, a glimpse of what is seen along Session Road and at the Baguio Public Market. There are also night scene photos of Baguio. Another interesting highlight portrayed are the two Baguio
Photo Albums which should not be missed.
Baguio is my hometown and it will always remain this way. There is just nothing like it elsewhere in the Philippines to work for a living and start a family of your own. With its cool weather, friendly residents, clean environment, scenic mountain views, and pine-scented air, Baguio is not only one of the best places to visit when in the Philippines but also the most suitable city to be a resident of. Dan Pinkerton, an American friend of mine, wrote: "Of all the places I visited in the Philippines, to me, Baguio City is the grandest of all. Maybe it is the Igorot ancestors of years gone by that supplies the everescent glow one feels in this magical city. As a visitor, I cannot compare Baguio with any city I know in the USA. It is a city that is unique and one of its kind. I love Baguio and its godsend people."
Browse through, enjoy your tour, and return as often as you want ... or better yet, come and make an actual visit and see Baguio City for yourself. It will be an experience you will most surely enjoy and probably make you want to keep coming back.
Baguio's Special Strawberry Jam
strawberry jam
When one speaks of Baguio, one thing comes to mind-strawberries! Strawberries can only grow in cold climates; Baguio has it. The sweet and sour strawberries of Baguio aren't just sold raw. It is being processed as well to strawberry jam. To make strawberry jam, just prepare fresh strawberries.
When one speaks of Baguio, one thing comes to mind-strawberries! Strawberries can only grow in cold climates; Baguio has it. The sweet and sour strawberries of Baguio aren't just sold raw. It is being processed as well to strawberry jam. To make strawberry jam, just prepare fresh strawberries.
Sports In Baguio
The beautiful city of Baguio in Philippines is well known for its wide range of activities and recreation. The city with its gorgeous landscape entertains the visitors of their country. The Philippines are a country mostly preferred by tourists worldwide. A chance visit to the country's favorite city Baguio makes the traveler get engaged into various sports and activities.
Baguio-the summer capital of Philippines- has varied favorite sports activities. But a visitor is bound to look for the following sports in Baguio.
Golf in Baguio
Horse Riding in Baguio
Apart from these two important sport activities in Baguio also offers activities like Beachineering. Baguio is a city of mountains. The Cordillera Mountain ranges encompass the whole city of Baguio. The word Beachineering means mountaineering along the beaches. The mountaineers have constructed this word as most of the mountain ranges of Philippines have their base along the beaches. An arduous hike till the summit is gifted by the view of the beach. All these attributes make Beachineering a favorite activity for the mountaineers.
Cross Country Cycling is another sport among the sports in Baguio favored by the sport lovers. Cycling is a long admired sport in Baguio, Philippines. Cycling through cross country is a multi day activity.
A tourist in Baguio can also take part in other important sports like Hiking. Hiking along the Asin River bank and the mountainous terrain surrounding the city helps in discovering the local flora and fauna. Hang Gliding and Para Gliding are also some of the well-liked sports in Baguio. Sailing and other water sports also tempt the tourist in Baguio. The water sports include deep sea fishing, windsurfing, boating. Billiards also occupies a good position as an indoor activity for the traveler. High star hotels and few pubs introduce the indoor games
Baguio-the summer capital of Philippines- has varied favorite sports activities. But a visitor is bound to look for the following sports in Baguio.
Golf in Baguio
Horse Riding in Baguio
Apart from these two important sport activities in Baguio also offers activities like Beachineering. Baguio is a city of mountains. The Cordillera Mountain ranges encompass the whole city of Baguio. The word Beachineering means mountaineering along the beaches. The mountaineers have constructed this word as most of the mountain ranges of Philippines have their base along the beaches. An arduous hike till the summit is gifted by the view of the beach. All these attributes make Beachineering a favorite activity for the mountaineers.
Cross Country Cycling is another sport among the sports in Baguio favored by the sport lovers. Cycling is a long admired sport in Baguio, Philippines. Cycling through cross country is a multi day activity.
A tourist in Baguio can also take part in other important sports like Hiking. Hiking along the Asin River bank and the mountainous terrain surrounding the city helps in discovering the local flora and fauna. Hang Gliding and Para Gliding are also some of the well-liked sports in Baguio. Sailing and other water sports also tempt the tourist in Baguio. The water sports include deep sea fishing, windsurfing, boating. Billiards also occupies a good position as an indoor activity for the traveler. High star hotels and few pubs introduce the indoor games
Baguio Man Made
1. Burnham Park - It is the oldest of all Baguio Parks. One can unwind from the tension of the day-to-day bustle of biking, skating or simply reflecting on the day's experiences amid a soothing garden backdrop of colorful flowers.It is thickly wooded and is a great place to have picnics and concerts. There are tennis and basketball courts, athletic oval and an orchidarium.
2. Botanical Garden - It is also called the Igorot village which features native hut typical of Cordilleras architecture. This village within a village captures the ethnic spirit and cultural legacy of the Igorot dweller.
3. Mines View Park - Appropriately named for its breathtaking view of mountain ranges and Baguio's "mineral bowl" where gold, silver and other curio items
2. Botanical Garden - It is also called the Igorot village which features native hut typical of Cordilleras architecture. This village within a village captures the ethnic spirit and cultural legacy of the Igorot dweller.
3. Mines View Park - Appropriately named for its breathtaking view of mountain ranges and Baguio's "mineral bowl" where gold, silver and other curio items
Horse Riding
Baguio city is like an open air amphitheatre. The leisure activities attract quite a number of tourists. The city of Baguio is known for being a soothing vacationing spot. Horse riding is a popular activity in Baguio because the very idea of riding a horse through the cool coconut grove on any tropical island is quite tempting. The main path for horse riding in Baguio is the Shalan Ni Kabadjo Bridle Path and Riding Circle. This path is at Camp John Hay of Baguio city. Camp John Hay has stables breeding horses locally also and thus they are of a glorious pedigree. The stable are designed with saddles and riding gears which provide a complete accessory for horseback riding around the trail of pine trees inside the camp.
Horse riding in Baguio is comfortable enough with expert guidance from the trained leads. Children are also welcome to gather this exciting experience .The horseman guide the horses for them in around the camp area. And the experienced horse riders are free to travel around the camp area. The charges for the horse riding sessions are not more than 300 pesos per hour.
Horses for riding should be chosen very consciously. Horse riding in Baguio goes easy if one chooses horses with a proper saddle fitting the rider’s height perfectly. The foot stay should have a safe holding. These certain tips once checked will give the horse rider a relaxed ride.
Horse riding in Baguio is also done in Wright Park. A large number of ponies are also available for riding. One can hire horses and ponies according to their need. Horse riding has accomplished the position as great sport for the whole family. This enjoyable sport is taken up by families either to take a ride around the park grounds or to travel along the Baguio to explore the whole city.
Horse riding in Baguio is comfortable enough with expert guidance from the trained leads. Children are also welcome to gather this exciting experience .The horseman guide the horses for them in around the camp area. And the experienced horse riders are free to travel around the camp area. The charges for the horse riding sessions are not more than 300 pesos per hour.
Horses for riding should be chosen very consciously. Horse riding in Baguio goes easy if one chooses horses with a proper saddle fitting the rider’s height perfectly. The foot stay should have a safe holding. These certain tips once checked will give the horse rider a relaxed ride.
Horse riding in Baguio is also done in Wright Park. A large number of ponies are also available for riding. One can hire horses and ponies according to their need. Horse riding has accomplished the position as great sport for the whole family. This enjoyable sport is taken up by families either to take a ride around the park grounds or to travel along the Baguio to explore the whole city.
Panagbenga Festival
A host of activities make Panagbenga something to remember: the people, sounds, sights, touch, smells of the Festival. It begins with "Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom", which captures the community spirit and sets the tone that echoes throughout the Festival. Then, the Floral and Float Parades resonate with feet dancing to gongs echoing sounds of long ago. At the same time, bands play the Festival hymn as floats fashioned with flowers glide down the parade route. Moreover, Flowerscape in various guises showcases flowers which blend colors and shapes with nature's perfumes.The Market Encounter and Session Road in Bloom provide opportunities for commerce and fellowship while activities like the Pony Boys' Day lend and air of pageantry and provide a sense of history. Together, the make Panagbenga an event worth an annual trip to Baguio
Baguio Summer Capital
The country's summer capital, Baguio City is situated 1,500 meters above sea level and is one of the few places in the Philippines with a cool climate. It's always eight degrees cooler in Baguio than in lowlands.Baguio was developed during the early 1900s by American colonial officials who sought for a cool mountain retreat away from the heat of Manila. One little known fact is that the original city plan was modelled by architech Daniel Burnham after that Washington D.C. Its name derives from bagyiw, an Ibaloi word for a moss that grew in the mountains' damp, swampy areas.Burnham Park at the center of the city has pine trees, flower gardens and a mammade lagoon. The famous City market offers a bewildering array of fresh fruits ad vegetables, notably strawberries. Other specialities are fruit preserves and peanut brittle. Maharlika Center specialize in various arts and crafts along with antiques. Baguio Cathedral and Lourdes Grotto are the City's chief religious landmarks. The Mansion House is the summer residence of the President of the Philippines, with its gates patterned after those of Burckingham Palace. Camp John Hay is former US military facility that's now an upmarket vacation resort.Mines View Park and Dominican Hill are the city's best known view points, while Wright Park offers pony rides. Adjacent Baguio Botanical Park has souvenir stalls and upland replica houses. An entire set of houses were found along Asin Road, while weaves and silverwork are sold at Easter Weaving School and St. Louis School silver shop.
Things To Do And See
Cultural
Marker of the Philippine Commission’s First Session in Baguio
The site of the building where the members of the Philippine Commission met from April 22 to June 11, 1904 and officially initiated the use of Baguio as the Philippine Summer Capital.
Teachers Camp
Started its operations on April 6, 1908 and catered to teachers from all over the country to further their studies and at the same time spend their summer vacation in the city of Baguio. It now caters to conferences, meetings, seminars, and social functions sponsored by the government sector.
Baguio-Mountain Provinces Museum
Temporarily located at the Baguio Convention Center. On display are a variety of artifacts and relics showcasing the cultural heritage, customs, and traditions of the mountain provinces. The cluster of buildings within the complex depicts the architectural features of the native houses of the mountain provinces. The DOT and City Government of Baguio are undertaking a reconstruction of the Baguio-Mountain Provinces Museum building.
Natural
Asin Hot Spring
Located 16 kilometers northwest of Baguio. The resort’s main feature is a swimming pool surrounded by thermal springs, lush vegetation, and several hanging bridges. It is an ideal respite and now eyed to be redeveloped into a tourism resort along with the adjoining tourist attractions of Tuba and Baguio.
Mt. Sto. Tomas
A trek up the Mt. Sto. Tomas is a hiker’s delight. The peak is 7,500 feet high and commands a majestic view of mountain, sea, and valley. The mountain can be reached by foot or by vehicle.
Religious
Churches, Seminaries, and Convents
Baguio is an ideal location for meditation, contemplation, and spiritual renewal. Hence, the existence of no less religious denominations that run churches, seminaries, convents, and other institutions such as hospitals and schools.
Lourdes Grotto
A religious shrine housing the image of the Lady of Lourdes. About 252 steps lead to this shrine where pilgrims brave the steep climb to offer sacrifices, devotion and prayers. One is also regarded with a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Marker of the Philippine Commission’s First Session in Baguio
The site of the building where the members of the Philippine Commission met from April 22 to June 11, 1904 and officially initiated the use of Baguio as the Philippine Summer Capital.
Teachers Camp
Started its operations on April 6, 1908 and catered to teachers from all over the country to further their studies and at the same time spend their summer vacation in the city of Baguio. It now caters to conferences, meetings, seminars, and social functions sponsored by the government sector.
Baguio-Mountain Provinces Museum
Temporarily located at the Baguio Convention Center. On display are a variety of artifacts and relics showcasing the cultural heritage, customs, and traditions of the mountain provinces. The cluster of buildings within the complex depicts the architectural features of the native houses of the mountain provinces. The DOT and City Government of Baguio are undertaking a reconstruction of the Baguio-Mountain Provinces Museum building.
Natural
Asin Hot Spring
Located 16 kilometers northwest of Baguio. The resort’s main feature is a swimming pool surrounded by thermal springs, lush vegetation, and several hanging bridges. It is an ideal respite and now eyed to be redeveloped into a tourism resort along with the adjoining tourist attractions of Tuba and Baguio.
Mt. Sto. Tomas
A trek up the Mt. Sto. Tomas is a hiker’s delight. The peak is 7,500 feet high and commands a majestic view of mountain, sea, and valley. The mountain can be reached by foot or by vehicle.
Religious
Churches, Seminaries, and Convents
Baguio is an ideal location for meditation, contemplation, and spiritual renewal. Hence, the existence of no less religious denominations that run churches, seminaries, convents, and other institutions such as hospitals and schools.
Lourdes Grotto
A religious shrine housing the image of the Lady of Lourdes. About 252 steps lead to this shrine where pilgrims brave the steep climb to offer sacrifices, devotion and prayers. One is also regarded with a beautiful panoramic view of the city.
Baguio Masterpiece
Baguio masterpiece Baguio is a marvelous recreational city carved on a valley in upland Cordillera Region of the Philippines. Baguio is in the Benguet Province 250 kilometers north of Manila. Baguio has land area of 49 square kilometers enclosed in a perimeter of 30.6 kilometers.
Climate In Baguio
Baguio Climate – Climate is one of Baguio’s pluses! It’s a fine respite from the heat of the Philippines’ lowlands. Baguio, on the average, is 9 degrees cooler than any place in the Philippines. Baguio keeps its cool at about 26 degrees centigrade when Manila sizzles at about 35 degrees centigrade. Months November-February are Baguio’s coldest when temperature drops to as low as 15 degrees centigrade. November to May is Baguio’s peak tourist season. Baguio is tropical paradise from November to May. In the summer months of March, April, May, Baguio is indeed the “Summer Capital of the Philippines” when tourists travel to Baguio to cool off. During the Christmas season, Baguio glows with cool winter breeze. Casual clothing worn with jackets or sweater is recommended. Jackets or sweaters are typically worn year-round in Baguio especially in the late afternoons and evening, but necessary during the cold months.
The Fine Place
A Fine Place Baguio, Philippines is an upscale vacation lodging for individuals with discerning taste. Time-sharing real estate that provides elegant full living amenities more than other hotels, inns, transient apartments, cottages, rooms, vacation houses for transients, pensions or pension houses, retreat houses, condotel, can offer at reasonable cost.
Baguio Country Club
Baguio Country Club (BCC) is inextricably linked to the history of the city in the clouds. When William Howard Taft was tasked with governing the Philippine Islands, he directed his friend, William Cameron Forbes, to look for a cool place in the Sierra Madre Mountains, of which he had heard rumors. You see, Taft was a large man who found the heat and humidity of the tropics too much for his corpulence. He longed for the cool temperate climes of the Northeastern United States and was determined to find such a place in the Islands.
It was this determination that saw the building of the Benguet Road and the subsequent establishment of the City of Baguio. Of course, once there, there had to be something to do for those who made the trek up the winding mountain road. To that end, Forbes tapped his associate, Dallas McGrew, to start a club. The founding members, including Forbes and McGrew, established BCC in 1905 and circulated the prospectus for membership the next year. For a fifty-peso initiation fee and a twenty-peso annual fee, one could avail of membership, provided, of course, he met the social criteria.
The club wasted no time and purchased 32 hectares of suitable land from Mateo Cariño, an Igorot chief who also owned the land on which Club John Hay now sits, for the princely sum of Php 2,400. The first clubhouse was little more than a large hut with a thatched roof; it was built in one day for Php 400. The club’s first facilities were two tennis courts, croquet grounds, and a three-hole golf course. In 1907, Major Gallagher of the US Army, Mr. Marshall of International Bank, and Mang Dangal from the Manila Club were retained by Forbes to lay out anew the golf course. And on March 25, 1908 the club began serving food to its patrons
It was this determination that saw the building of the Benguet Road and the subsequent establishment of the City of Baguio. Of course, once there, there had to be something to do for those who made the trek up the winding mountain road. To that end, Forbes tapped his associate, Dallas McGrew, to start a club. The founding members, including Forbes and McGrew, established BCC in 1905 and circulated the prospectus for membership the next year. For a fifty-peso initiation fee and a twenty-peso annual fee, one could avail of membership, provided, of course, he met the social criteria.
The club wasted no time and purchased 32 hectares of suitable land from Mateo Cariño, an Igorot chief who also owned the land on which Club John Hay now sits, for the princely sum of Php 2,400. The first clubhouse was little more than a large hut with a thatched roof; it was built in one day for Php 400. The club’s first facilities were two tennis courts, croquet grounds, and a three-hole golf course. In 1907, Major Gallagher of the US Army, Mr. Marshall of International Bank, and Mang Dangal from the Manila Club were retained by Forbes to lay out anew the golf course. And on March 25, 1908 the club began serving food to its patrons
Mansion House
The Mansion House is the official summer residence of the president. This is as close to the Mansion House as one is permitted to go. (November 2002)
The Botanical Gardens
The Baguio Botanical Gardens. At the entrance, it is not unusual to see native Igorots. A pony ride for youngsters is another common occurrence. (November 2002)
Within Baguio Botanical Gardens, there are model huts with different names and styles. Huts like these are used by indigenous people throughout the Cordillera Administrative Region. (November 2002)
Within Baguio Botanical Gardens, there are model huts with different names and styles. Huts like these are used by indigenous people throughout the Cordillera Administrative Region. (November 2002)
The Burnham Park
Burnham Park is within the central part of the city. There is a large pool where a boat can be rented and one can just row around the pool for a while. (November 2002)
The Cathedral
Baguio City Cathedral. The cathedral is on a hill and overlooks the city below. From this point, there is a good view of Baguio City. (November 2002)
History Of Benguet
The area that is now the province of Benguet was originally inhabited by the Ibalois and Kankanaeys. The Spanish did not succeed in conquering Benguet, although they were aware of the Igorot gold mines in the area. The first major Spanish incursion was in 1620 in the La Trinidad Valley. Several gold mines were held but abandoned six years later. It was in the 19th Century that Spanish finally established a presence in the area. Benguet was first created as a district of the new La Union province in 1846 but was separated in 1854. The Americans established civil government in 1900. Benguet became a sub-province of the old Mountain Province in 1908 until 1966. During the 1930s, mining companies setup to work the gold mines in the area. During WWII, Benguet was the scene of fierce battles between the Japanese Imperial Army and Igorot guerrillas and Americans in the days of liberation in 1945.
Attraction In Baguio
Botanical Garden’s of Baguio City.
It’s called the Igorot village huts typical of Cordillera architecture. This village captures that the ethnic spirit and culture legacy of the Igorot inhabitant. The garden is also a site of cultural presentations and the other tribal meetings.
Burnham Park
is the oldest park in Baguio city. One can unwind from the tension of the day-to day bustle by the biking skating or simply reflecting on the day’s experiences amid a soothing backdrop of the colorful flowers. Wooded is a great place in having picnics and concerts and there are the difference courts in Burnham Park just like tennis/basketball courts, foot ball field, athletic oval and also the orchidarium.
Wright Park sometimes mistakenly it’s called “Ride Park” by some who identify this pine tree reserve for its kiddy horse rides. A long stairway leads to the “Pool of the Pines”, a 100 meter long pool of water lined both sides by the famous Baguio towering pine.
Baguio Mansion House
is a magnificent and majestic house has housed a long list of Filipino presidents and American governors-generals. It has a structured buildings and the guesthouse. Its gate is patterned after the London’s Buckingham Palace.
Mines View Park
it’s appropriately named for it’s wonderful views of the difference mountain ranges and Baguio's “mineral bowl” where good, sliver and other ores were once quarried. These are now many souvenirs shop around the park offering such items as woodcarvings, woven cloth, ashtrays, shell products and the other curio items.
Philippines Military Academy
is the premier training ground for young Filipinos who want to excel in a military career. Aside from its interesting military-oriented structure, it also houses important relics such as cultural artifacts of the Cordilleras.
It’s called the Igorot village huts typical of Cordillera architecture. This village captures that the ethnic spirit and culture legacy of the Igorot inhabitant. The garden is also a site of cultural presentations and the other tribal meetings.
Burnham Park
is the oldest park in Baguio city. One can unwind from the tension of the day-to day bustle by the biking skating or simply reflecting on the day’s experiences amid a soothing backdrop of the colorful flowers. Wooded is a great place in having picnics and concerts and there are the difference courts in Burnham Park just like tennis/basketball courts, foot ball field, athletic oval and also the orchidarium.
Wright Park sometimes mistakenly it’s called “Ride Park” by some who identify this pine tree reserve for its kiddy horse rides. A long stairway leads to the “Pool of the Pines”, a 100 meter long pool of water lined both sides by the famous Baguio towering pine.
Baguio Mansion House
is a magnificent and majestic house has housed a long list of Filipino presidents and American governors-generals. It has a structured buildings and the guesthouse. Its gate is patterned after the London’s Buckingham Palace.
Mines View Park
it’s appropriately named for it’s wonderful views of the difference mountain ranges and Baguio's “mineral bowl” where good, sliver and other ores were once quarried. These are now many souvenirs shop around the park offering such items as woodcarvings, woven cloth, ashtrays, shell products and the other curio items.
Philippines Military Academy
is the premier training ground for young Filipinos who want to excel in a military career. Aside from its interesting military-oriented structure, it also houses important relics such as cultural artifacts of the Cordilleras.
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University (SLU) is an educational institution in Baguio City, approximately two hundred fifty kilometers north of Manila
Saint Louis University was founded in 1911 by Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae missionaries, to further the Christianizing of the northern Philippines. Its six hectare campus is located 250 kilometers north of Manila in Baguio City, a resort city know was the "Summer Capital of the Philippines". SLU is the largest university in the Northern Philippines with, 20,750 as of November 17, 2007, the students coming all regions of the Philippines as well as overseas. The 30 building campus is located centrally in Baguio drawing an eclectic mix of cultures and nationalities. Today is regarded as one of the Philippines' respected and leading educational institutions that has grown with the demands of the current and future environments for its students and faculty alike, and offers programs from the elementary, secondary, undergraduate, and graduate
History
In 1907, the CICM Missionaries arrived in the Philippines, mandated by the Vatican to christianize the northern part of the country. The Missionaries settled in Baguio because of its proximity to both Manila and the mountain province of Benguet beyond the Cordillera mountain range, that was home to numerous indigenous tribes. In 1911, Rev Fr Séraphin Devesse, CICM, founded a one-room elementary school in Baguio for ten local boys, nameing the school the Saint Louis School . In 1915, the the St. Louis school expaned to a vocatial and trade school. In 1915 the school opened a secondary branch. In 1952 the college of Liberal Arts and Commerce was open with Gerard Decaestecker. Other courses and further developments soon followed, under the guidance of the following In 1955, the graduate-level programs of Saint Louis College were granted recognition, and the Philippene government granted university status in 1963.[1]
Rev. Fr. Paul Van Parijs, CICM, was appointed as the 5th President of SLU. The administration of the post-graduate and undergraduate levels was integrated. Each College assumed the responsibility for the administration of specific programs in all levels. 1997 The SLU Laboratory High School was granted its five-year accreditation status by the PAASCU. The SLU Hospital of the Sacred Heart acquired the most modern CT Scan Machine. 1999 Phase I of the Partnership Program among SLU,BSU,Belgian Government Development Agency and the Flemish Inter-University Council was approved and signed. 2000 The SLU Natural Sciences Research Unit was inaugurated through the support of the Flemish Inter-University Council of Belgium. The SLU Internet Library was inaugurated. 2001 SLU was granted Full Autonomy Status by the Commission on Higher Education(CHED) in accordance with the pertinent provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1994.
The SLU College of Nursing celebrated its Silver Jubilee. SLU and the University of the Cordilleras signed a Memorandum of Agreement on April 6, 2001 for the offering of Master in Science in Civil Engineering major in Geotechnical Engineering. 2002 SLU inaugurated the Sunflower Children’s Center, a center that promotes the welfare and rights of children. SLU, University of the Cordilleras and Benguet Sate University signed a Memorandum of Agreement on April 24,2002 to offer the course in Master of Science in Mountain Engineering. 2003 SLU signed the cooperation commitment with Flemish Universities in Belgium for the University Cooperation Programme involving SLU and Benguet State University and funded by the Belgian government. The SLU College of Education celebrated its Golden Anniversary. Inauguration of the Burgos Administrative Center, the Physical Education Building, SLU Laboratory High School New Annex Building and the bronze statue of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, SLU’s Patron Saint. 2004 The SLU Museum of Arts and Cultures was re-opened to the public. SLU was tapped by the ASEAN-EU University Network Programme to undertake a project on the establishment of a distance study course on Business Economics and Business Reporting.
SLU was ranked third among 296 schools nationwide with high passing rates in various licensure examinations covering the period 1999 to 2003 by the Professional Regulation Commission and the Commission on Higher Education. 2005 The SLU Student Center was inaugurated. It is composed of a 268-bed men’s dormitory, a mess hall and a public canteen. SLU and Sungkonghoe University in Seoul, Korea signed a partnership for the Special Program for English Language and Literature for the latter’s students. SLU and BayanTel Communications signed a partnership for the establishment of a broadband Internet access platform in the university’s Internet Libraries. Rev. Fr. Jessie M. Hechanova was installed as the 6th President of SLU. He is the first natural born Filipino Citizen to hold the highest position in the University. 2006 SLU celebrates its 94th Foundation anniversary with the first-ever "Handog ng SLU sa Baguio" at the Melvin Jones, Burnham Park
Saint Louis University was founded in 1911 by Congregatio Immaculati Cordis Mariae missionaries, to further the Christianizing of the northern Philippines. Its six hectare campus is located 250 kilometers north of Manila in Baguio City, a resort city know was the "Summer Capital of the Philippines". SLU is the largest university in the Northern Philippines with, 20,750 as of November 17, 2007, the students coming all regions of the Philippines as well as overseas. The 30 building campus is located centrally in Baguio drawing an eclectic mix of cultures and nationalities. Today is regarded as one of the Philippines' respected and leading educational institutions that has grown with the demands of the current and future environments for its students and faculty alike, and offers programs from the elementary, secondary, undergraduate, and graduate
History
In 1907, the CICM Missionaries arrived in the Philippines, mandated by the Vatican to christianize the northern part of the country. The Missionaries settled in Baguio because of its proximity to both Manila and the mountain province of Benguet beyond the Cordillera mountain range, that was home to numerous indigenous tribes. In 1911, Rev Fr Séraphin Devesse, CICM, founded a one-room elementary school in Baguio for ten local boys, nameing the school the Saint Louis School . In 1915, the the St. Louis school expaned to a vocatial and trade school. In 1915 the school opened a secondary branch. In 1952 the college of Liberal Arts and Commerce was open with Gerard Decaestecker. Other courses and further developments soon followed, under the guidance of the following In 1955, the graduate-level programs of Saint Louis College were granted recognition, and the Philippene government granted university status in 1963.[1]
Rev. Fr. Paul Van Parijs, CICM, was appointed as the 5th President of SLU. The administration of the post-graduate and undergraduate levels was integrated. Each College assumed the responsibility for the administration of specific programs in all levels. 1997 The SLU Laboratory High School was granted its five-year accreditation status by the PAASCU. The SLU Hospital of the Sacred Heart acquired the most modern CT Scan Machine. 1999 Phase I of the Partnership Program among SLU,BSU,Belgian Government Development Agency and the Flemish Inter-University Council was approved and signed. 2000 The SLU Natural Sciences Research Unit was inaugurated through the support of the Flemish Inter-University Council of Belgium. The SLU Internet Library was inaugurated. 2001 SLU was granted Full Autonomy Status by the Commission on Higher Education(CHED) in accordance with the pertinent provisions of the Higher Education Act of 1994.
The SLU College of Nursing celebrated its Silver Jubilee. SLU and the University of the Cordilleras signed a Memorandum of Agreement on April 6, 2001 for the offering of Master in Science in Civil Engineering major in Geotechnical Engineering. 2002 SLU inaugurated the Sunflower Children’s Center, a center that promotes the welfare and rights of children. SLU, University of the Cordilleras and Benguet Sate University signed a Memorandum of Agreement on April 24,2002 to offer the course in Master of Science in Mountain Engineering. 2003 SLU signed the cooperation commitment with Flemish Universities in Belgium for the University Cooperation Programme involving SLU and Benguet State University and funded by the Belgian government. The SLU College of Education celebrated its Golden Anniversary. Inauguration of the Burgos Administrative Center, the Physical Education Building, SLU Laboratory High School New Annex Building and the bronze statue of St. Aloysius Gonzaga, SLU’s Patron Saint. 2004 The SLU Museum of Arts and Cultures was re-opened to the public. SLU was tapped by the ASEAN-EU University Network Programme to undertake a project on the establishment of a distance study course on Business Economics and Business Reporting.
SLU was ranked third among 296 schools nationwide with high passing rates in various licensure examinations covering the period 1999 to 2003 by the Professional Regulation Commission and the Commission on Higher Education. 2005 The SLU Student Center was inaugurated. It is composed of a 268-bed men’s dormitory, a mess hall and a public canteen. SLU and Sungkonghoe University in Seoul, Korea signed a partnership for the Special Program for English Language and Literature for the latter’s students. SLU and BayanTel Communications signed a partnership for the establishment of a broadband Internet access platform in the university’s Internet Libraries. Rev. Fr. Jessie M. Hechanova was installed as the 6th President of SLU. He is the first natural born Filipino Citizen to hold the highest position in the University. 2006 SLU celebrates its 94th Foundation anniversary with the first-ever "Handog ng SLU sa Baguio" at the Melvin Jones, Burnham Park
Schools And University
Baguio city has the followings schools and univercity,which are fomous and attended by midle class students. The followings are listed below.
- University of the Philippines, Baguio
- University of the Cordilleras
- Saint Louis University, Baguio City
Accumodation And Restaurants
Baguio has a fine selection of accommodations, mostly cozy pension houses and small hotels that reflect this Philippine province's delightful homey atmosphere.
Atenara House, 40 Navy Road, Baguio City, ☎ +074-446-9808, Beautiful bed & breakfast with a fantastic location, between the top tourist attractions and the commercial center, friendly, comfortable & reasonable priced. Great for seminars, large groups, honeymooners, with bonfire barbecue options. Best rates on official website start at US$12/person.
Burnham Hotel Baguio, 1 Calderon Street, Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +074-442-2331. Best rates on official website start at US$20.
El Cielito Inn Hotel, 50 North Drive, Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +637-443-4846 (fax: +632-250-6020). Best rates on official website start at US$42.
Ferionnil Pension House and Dormitory, 140 T. Alonzo Street, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-443-6763. Check out: 12 PM. A cheap and very basic local place to stay near the Lizardo Trans bus terminus - convenient if you need to catch an early bus. 1,000 - 1,400 pesos (equiv. to US$20-28) depending on room type, including breakfast.
Hotel Elizabeth, No. 1 J. Felipe St., cor. Gibraltar Rd., Baguio City, Philippines. Comfy and cozy.
Hotel Veniz, One Abanao St., Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-446-0700 (fax: +63-74-446-0704). Affordable comfort & class with over 100 air-conditioned rooms and suites at the foot of Session Road, across Burnham Park, within Baguio's main shopping district. Best rates on official website start at 1000 pesos.
Microtel Inns and Suites Baguio, Upper Session Road, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-619-3333 (fax: +63-74-619-3344). This Baguio hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at very affordable prices that no other hotel in Baguio can match. Best rates on official website start atUS$36.
City Travel Hotel Baguio, 15 Kisad Road (Across Burnham Park)Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +63-74-445-0456 (fax: +63-74-445-04574).
City Travel Hotel is located within the city proper right across Burnham Park and boasts of amenities for both leisure and business travelers. Manned with an efficient and courteous staff. City Travel Hotel vows an imparallel service to the guest... and this starts with a warm smile... Best rates on official website.
Summer Place Hotel, KM 288 Marcos Highway, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-446-5400-01; +63-02-7838355 (fax: +63-74-446-0560). Best Hotel in Baguio City.
Atenara House, 40 Navy Road, Baguio City, ☎ +074-446-9808, Beautiful bed & breakfast with a fantastic location, between the top tourist attractions and the commercial center, friendly, comfortable & reasonable priced. Great for seminars, large groups, honeymooners, with bonfire barbecue options. Best rates on official website start at US$12/person.
Burnham Hotel Baguio, 1 Calderon Street, Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +074-442-2331. Best rates on official website start at US$20.
El Cielito Inn Hotel, 50 North Drive, Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +637-443-4846 (fax: +632-250-6020). Best rates on official website start at US$42.
Ferionnil Pension House and Dormitory, 140 T. Alonzo Street, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-443-6763. Check out: 12 PM. A cheap and very basic local place to stay near the Lizardo Trans bus terminus - convenient if you need to catch an early bus. 1,000 - 1,400 pesos (equiv. to US$20-28) depending on room type, including breakfast.
Hotel Elizabeth, No. 1 J. Felipe St., cor. Gibraltar Rd., Baguio City, Philippines. Comfy and cozy.
Hotel Veniz, One Abanao St., Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-446-0700 (fax: +63-74-446-0704). Affordable comfort & class with over 100 air-conditioned rooms and suites at the foot of Session Road, across Burnham Park, within Baguio's main shopping district. Best rates on official website start at 1000 pesos.
Microtel Inns and Suites Baguio, Upper Session Road, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-619-3333 (fax: +63-74-619-3344). This Baguio hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms at very affordable prices that no other hotel in Baguio can match. Best rates on official website start atUS$36.
City Travel Hotel Baguio, 15 Kisad Road (Across Burnham Park)Baguio City, Philippines, ☎ +63-74-445-0456 (fax: +63-74-445-04574).
City Travel Hotel is located within the city proper right across Burnham Park and boasts of amenities for both leisure and business travelers. Manned with an efficient and courteous staff. City Travel Hotel vows an imparallel service to the guest... and this starts with a warm smile... Best rates on official website.
Summer Place Hotel, KM 288 Marcos Highway, Baguio City, ☎ +63-74-446-5400-01; +63-02-7838355 (fax: +63-74-446-0560). Best Hotel in Baguio City.
Do's And Events
Panagbenga - the Baguio Flower Festival is held every February. Street parades, colorful floats and costumes and native dance displays have drawn huge crowds to Baguio every year.
Horse back riding - at Wright Park and its surroundings. It costs 300 pesos per hour (150 pesos for half an hour), plus a guide fee if you want to ride beyond the park.
Buy
Peanut Brittle, Strawberry Jam, Sesame Crunch and Ube (purple yam) Jam - from the Good Shepherd Convent, 15 Gibraltar Road, Baguio City, +6374 442-3865.
Woven articles - various articles ranging from wristbands and bookmarks through hand bags and rucksacks to slippers, all hand woven.
Wood carvings - rice god figurines, traditional Ifugao houses and other nice carvings made from hard wood.
For unknown reasons phallic sculptures in wood or stone are common in gift shops. A popular novelty gift is the man-in-the-barrel. I won't spoil the surprise, but suffice it to say the same children advisory applies.
Eat
Baguio has the usual fastfood joints that are so ubiquitous in major Philippine cities. For a true taste of Baguio, have a bite at the following establishments:
Star Cafe & Restaurant, 39 Session Road, Baguio City. A Baguio landmark right on Session Road. This restaurant has been serving delicious Chinese food well before the dawning of the fastfood age.
Café by the Ruins, 23 Chuntug St., Baguio City, Tel +6374 4424010. Quaint ambience, hearty salads, pastas and juices and good coffee or tea to top it off. What more can you ask for?
Barrio Fiesta, upper Session Road for authentic Filipino food.
Horse back riding - at Wright Park and its surroundings. It costs 300 pesos per hour (150 pesos for half an hour), plus a guide fee if you want to ride beyond the park.
Buy
Peanut Brittle, Strawberry Jam, Sesame Crunch and Ube (purple yam) Jam - from the Good Shepherd Convent, 15 Gibraltar Road, Baguio City, +6374 442-3865.
Woven articles - various articles ranging from wristbands and bookmarks through hand bags and rucksacks to slippers, all hand woven.
Wood carvings - rice god figurines, traditional Ifugao houses and other nice carvings made from hard wood.
For unknown reasons phallic sculptures in wood or stone are common in gift shops. A popular novelty gift is the man-in-the-barrel. I won't spoil the surprise, but suffice it to say the same children advisory applies.
Eat
Baguio has the usual fastfood joints that are so ubiquitous in major Philippine cities. For a true taste of Baguio, have a bite at the following establishments:
Star Cafe & Restaurant, 39 Session Road, Baguio City. A Baguio landmark right on Session Road. This restaurant has been serving delicious Chinese food well before the dawning of the fastfood age.
Café by the Ruins, 23 Chuntug St., Baguio City, Tel +6374 4424010. Quaint ambience, hearty salads, pastas and juices and good coffee or tea to top it off. What more can you ask for?
Barrio Fiesta, upper Session Road for authentic Filipino food.
To Get In
To get to Baguio from outside of Luzon, one would still need to pass through Manila or Clark airport and from there get to Baguio by either of the following ways
From Manila
This is the most common and economical way to get to Baguio from Metro Manila. Several bus lines ply the Metro Manila to Baguio route with terminals scattered across the metro. It generally takes about 5 hours to get to Baguio by bus. An hour longer than it would by car due to stopovers along the way.
Victory Liner
Has hourly bus service to Baguio from its Cubao (+632 727-4534) and Pasay (+632 833-5019 to 20) terminals. Buses are generally modern and air-conditioned but seats are sized generally for Filipinos and tall people would need to take advantage of the various stopovers to stretch their legs. Cost is just under 400 Pesos per person one way.
Dagupan Bus, Edsa cor. New York St., Cubao, Quezon City, Tel. +632 929-6123, 928-5639, 727-2330, 727-2287. Also serves the Manila to Baguio route via its Cubao Terminal. Buses leave on an hourly basis.
From Clark airport
Partas Bus operates a bus service that stops at Clark airport and heads north from there, departing the airport at 5:00 PM. Get off at Sison (arrival there around 8:00 PM) and cross the road to the restaurant stop opposite and get on a Victory Liner bus that does a dinner stop there. The fare from Clark airport to Sison on Partas Bus is 193 pesos, then from there by Victory Liner to Baguio is an additional 90 pesos. Travel time is 3 hours Clark to Sison, then 1 1/2 hours Sison to Baguio, plus some waiting time at Sison.
By air.
Asian Spirit
As of June 2007 flies Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Manila to Baguio. The flight takes only 50 minutes and lands in Loakan Airport which is about a 20 minute ride south of the city center. A return ticket costs 6,000 pesos.
By car
The only motorway from Manila to the south to get to Baguio via car is using the North Luzon Expressway which extends until Sta. Ines, Pampanga and there is no more motorway beyond this, only narrow roads such as the McArthur Highway. Visitors need to pass through the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac and Pangasinan to get to Baguio quickly from Manila and the south. As much as driving is not advised for tourists in Manila, it is doubly risky to do it going to Baguio. There are three main routes leading up to Baguio by road, Kennon Road is the shortest taking only 30-45 minutes to climb from the foot of the mountain, Marcos Highway takes upto 1 hour to climb and Naguillan Road is 3 hours longer. All three roads can get blocked by landslides and Kennon Road with its long winding stretches is both scenic and dangerous. If you are intent on driving to Baguio, it would be best to hire a Filipino driver for this purpose. Most rental car companies in the Philippines offer chauffeur driven rentals in addition to the usual self-driven rentals.
Visitors need to keep in mind that it while it takes at average 6-7 hours to get to Baguio by car, it takes much longer during holiday weekends like Holy Week.
By jeepney
Similar to Manila, jeepneys ply various routes within Baguio and its immediate surroundings.
Jeepney traffic in the centre of Baguio
By taxi
More convenient for tourists perhaps, taxis are also common but once you are in the outskirts may be a bit hard to come by.
Taxis can also be booked for a whole day tour at 1,800-2,000 pesos for a 8-9 hour tour of all the main attractions in and around town. Find a taxi at the Tourist Information Counter at the Victory Liner terminal or through your place of accommodation.
From Manila
This is the most common and economical way to get to Baguio from Metro Manila. Several bus lines ply the Metro Manila to Baguio route with terminals scattered across the metro. It generally takes about 5 hours to get to Baguio by bus. An hour longer than it would by car due to stopovers along the way.
Victory Liner
Has hourly bus service to Baguio from its Cubao (+632 727-4534) and Pasay (+632 833-5019 to 20) terminals. Buses are generally modern and air-conditioned but seats are sized generally for Filipinos and tall people would need to take advantage of the various stopovers to stretch their legs. Cost is just under 400 Pesos per person one way.
Dagupan Bus, Edsa cor. New York St., Cubao, Quezon City, Tel. +632 929-6123, 928-5639, 727-2330, 727-2287. Also serves the Manila to Baguio route via its Cubao Terminal. Buses leave on an hourly basis.
From Clark airport
Partas Bus operates a bus service that stops at Clark airport and heads north from there, departing the airport at 5:00 PM. Get off at Sison (arrival there around 8:00 PM) and cross the road to the restaurant stop opposite and get on a Victory Liner bus that does a dinner stop there. The fare from Clark airport to Sison on Partas Bus is 193 pesos, then from there by Victory Liner to Baguio is an additional 90 pesos. Travel time is 3 hours Clark to Sison, then 1 1/2 hours Sison to Baguio, plus some waiting time at Sison.
By air.
Asian Spirit
As of June 2007 flies Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from Manila to Baguio. The flight takes only 50 minutes and lands in Loakan Airport which is about a 20 minute ride south of the city center. A return ticket costs 6,000 pesos.
By car
The only motorway from Manila to the south to get to Baguio via car is using the North Luzon Expressway which extends until Sta. Ines, Pampanga and there is no more motorway beyond this, only narrow roads such as the McArthur Highway. Visitors need to pass through the provinces of Pampanga, Tarlac and Pangasinan to get to Baguio quickly from Manila and the south. As much as driving is not advised for tourists in Manila, it is doubly risky to do it going to Baguio. There are three main routes leading up to Baguio by road, Kennon Road is the shortest taking only 30-45 minutes to climb from the foot of the mountain, Marcos Highway takes upto 1 hour to climb and Naguillan Road is 3 hours longer. All three roads can get blocked by landslides and Kennon Road with its long winding stretches is both scenic and dangerous. If you are intent on driving to Baguio, it would be best to hire a Filipino driver for this purpose. Most rental car companies in the Philippines offer chauffeur driven rentals in addition to the usual self-driven rentals.
Visitors need to keep in mind that it while it takes at average 6-7 hours to get to Baguio by car, it takes much longer during holiday weekends like Holy Week.
By jeepney
Similar to Manila, jeepneys ply various routes within Baguio and its immediate surroundings.
Jeepney traffic in the centre of Baguio
By taxi
More convenient for tourists perhaps, taxis are also common but once you are in the outskirts may be a bit hard to come by.
Taxis can also be booked for a whole day tour at 1,800-2,000 pesos for a 8-9 hour tour of all the main attractions in and around town. Find a taxi at the Tourist Information Counter at the Victory Liner terminal or through your place of accommodation.
Camp John Hay Air Base
HISTORY:
John Hay Air Base was established on October 25, 1903 after President Theodore Roosevelt signed an executive order setting aside land in Benguet for a military reservation under the United States Army. The reservation was named after Roosevelt's Secretary of State, John Milton Hay. For a time, elements of the 1st Battalion of the Philippine Division's 43d Infantry Regiment (PS) was stationed here. Prior to World War II, a number of buildings had been constructed on base, including a U.S. Army Hospital and the summer residence of the Governor-General of the Philippines, later to be known as The American Residence, which is now used as the summer house of the United States Ambassador to the Philippines.
John Hay Air Base was established on October 25, 1903 after President Theodore Roosevelt signed an executive order setting aside land in Benguet for a military reservation under the United States Army. The reservation was named after Roosevelt's Secretary of State, John Milton Hay. For a time, elements of the 1st Battalion of the Philippine Division's 43d Infantry Regiment (PS) was stationed here. Prior to World War II, a number of buildings had been constructed on base, including a U.S. Army Hospital and the summer residence of the Governor-General of the Philippines, later to be known as The American Residence, which is now used as the summer house of the United States Ambassador to the Philippines.
John Hay Air Base
John Hay Air Base, more commonly known as Camp John Hay, was a major hill station located near Baguio City used for rest and recreation for personnel and dependents of the United States Armed Forces in the Philippines as well as Department of Defense employees and their dependents. It was last run by the United States Air Force. While officially designated a communications station, the facility was mainly used for rest and recreation. The facility housed The American Residence as well as Broadcasting facilities of the Voice of America.
Goverment Of Baguio
Like most Philippine cities Baguio is governed by a Mayor, Vice Mayor, and twelve (12) Councilors. However, being a highly-urbanized city, it is not subject to the jurisdiction of Benguet, the province which it was formerly part of.
The current mayor of Baguio is Reinaldo Bautista Jr. who first assumed office after the suspension of Braulio Yaranon in August 2006. Controversy surrounded Yaranon's term, one of the most problematic in Baguio's history,[citation needed], due in part to the Jadewell pay parking scandal, which resulted in the firm filing charges against him and Malacañang's favoritism, and ordering his suspension until the end of his term on June 30, 2007. They were preceded in office by Bernardo Vergara, who was defeated by Yaranon in the mayoral elections of 2004.
Bautista recently had his "interim/acting" tag removed from his title as he emerged as the winner in the 2007 city mayoral race, beating Yaranon, Vergara, former Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr. and post-Edsa mayor and spiritual healer Ramon "Jun" Labo Jr. His running mate, three-term vice mayor and law dean Daniel Fariñas, returned to that post as well after previously serving a term in the City Council.
Baguio City comprises one congressional district that is represented in the House of Representatives. As of 2007, that is in the person of Mauricio Domogan, who is now in his third term. Prior to being elected as congressman, he served three straight terms as mayor
The current mayor of Baguio is Reinaldo Bautista Jr. who first assumed office after the suspension of Braulio Yaranon in August 2006. Controversy surrounded Yaranon's term, one of the most problematic in Baguio's history,[citation needed], due in part to the Jadewell pay parking scandal, which resulted in the firm filing charges against him and Malacañang's favoritism, and ordering his suspension until the end of his term on June 30, 2007. They were preceded in office by Bernardo Vergara, who was defeated by Yaranon in the mayoral elections of 2004.
Bautista recently had his "interim/acting" tag removed from his title as he emerged as the winner in the 2007 city mayoral race, beating Yaranon, Vergara, former Councilor Leandro Yangot Jr. and post-Edsa mayor and spiritual healer Ramon "Jun" Labo Jr. His running mate, three-term vice mayor and law dean Daniel Fariñas, returned to that post as well after previously serving a term in the City Council.
Baguio City comprises one congressional district that is represented in the House of Representatives. As of 2007, that is in the person of Mauricio Domogan, who is now in his third term. Prior to being elected as congressman, he served three straight terms as mayor
Education And Culture Of Baguio
Baguio is a university town. It is the center of education in the entire North Luzon. There are eight major institutions of higher education in Baguio City, one of which (the University of the Philippines) is regarded as the country's premiere institution of higher learning and research.
U.P. Baguio Oblation
University of the Philippines Baguio (U.P. Baguio) -the national university of the Philippines, U.P. System's flag-bearer in Northern Luzon, internationally known for its excellent record in ethnic and multidisciplinary research and Cordillera Studies
Philippine Military Academy -the national training school for future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Saint Louis University, Baguio CitySaint Louis University is regarded as one of the Philippines' respected and leading educational institutions that has grown with the demands of the current and future environments for its students and faculty alike.
Around two hundred fifty kilometers north of Manila lies Baguio City, known to be the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" that enjoys temperate climate all year round. From a village resort established by the Americans, Baguio has become the Northern Philippines' center of business and commerce as well as the center of education. Saint Louis University has played a pivotal role in the evolution of the City into a center for learning in the North. Today, SLU is the largest university north of Manila with about 20,000 university students in its campus located in the heart of the City. Its reputation for excellence attracts students and scholars not only from the Philippines but from other countries as well. It has sustained itself throughout the past ninety years to become one of the top centers of academic excellence in the Philippines that meet international standards in tertiary education. Most of its programs, from the elementary to the graduate level, have received the highest level of accreditation in the country. SLU is centrally situated in a six-hectare campus in the heart of Baguio City and has more than 30 buildings. It has become the venue for seminars, various fora, and other special events of the public and private sectors in the Cordillera, in addition to the everyday conduct of student life in the University. It has welcomed within its walls an eclectic mix of various cultures, traditions, beliefs and nationalities.
University of Baguio
University of the Cordilleras (formerly the Baguio Colleges Foundation)
Baguio Central University
Pines City Colleges
Baguio City School of Arts and Trades
The languages spoken in Baguio are Kankana-ey, Ibaloi, English, Ilocano, Tagalog, Chinese.
Baguio's youth majority in the population has given it a distinct flavor different from those of other cities in the Philippines.
U.P. Baguio Oblation
University of the Philippines Baguio (U.P. Baguio) -the national university of the Philippines, U.P. System's flag-bearer in Northern Luzon, internationally known for its excellent record in ethnic and multidisciplinary research and Cordillera Studies
Philippine Military Academy -the national training school for future officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines
Saint Louis University, Baguio CitySaint Louis University is regarded as one of the Philippines' respected and leading educational institutions that has grown with the demands of the current and future environments for its students and faculty alike.
Around two hundred fifty kilometers north of Manila lies Baguio City, known to be the "Summer Capital of the Philippines" that enjoys temperate climate all year round. From a village resort established by the Americans, Baguio has become the Northern Philippines' center of business and commerce as well as the center of education. Saint Louis University has played a pivotal role in the evolution of the City into a center for learning in the North. Today, SLU is the largest university north of Manila with about 20,000 university students in its campus located in the heart of the City. Its reputation for excellence attracts students and scholars not only from the Philippines but from other countries as well. It has sustained itself throughout the past ninety years to become one of the top centers of academic excellence in the Philippines that meet international standards in tertiary education. Most of its programs, from the elementary to the graduate level, have received the highest level of accreditation in the country. SLU is centrally situated in a six-hectare campus in the heart of Baguio City and has more than 30 buildings. It has become the venue for seminars, various fora, and other special events of the public and private sectors in the Cordillera, in addition to the everyday conduct of student life in the University. It has welcomed within its walls an eclectic mix of various cultures, traditions, beliefs and nationalities.
University of Baguio
University of the Cordilleras (formerly the Baguio Colleges Foundation)
Baguio Central University
Pines City Colleges
Baguio City School of Arts and Trades
The languages spoken in Baguio are Kankana-ey, Ibaloi, English, Ilocano, Tagalog, Chinese.
Baguio's youth majority in the population has given it a distinct flavor different from those of other cities in the Philippines.
Economy Of Baguio
The primary economy of Baguio City is its educational centers of which it has in excess of seven colleges and universities as well as a plethora of trade and technical schools. Estimates are that these schools compose in excess of one hundred thousand students.
The secondary source of income for the residents is its character as the commercial hub in the province of Benguet. Many of the agricultural and mining goods produced in Benguet goes to Baguio City for central distribution.
The city is also a major retail center for the Cordilleras and the Ilocos provinces, with shoppers from the provinces coming to the city to take advantage of the diversity of competitively priced commercial products on sale, most of which are only available in Manila. Despite the city's small size, there are numerous shopping centers and malls in the business district catering to the growing commercial activity in Baguio. These are the SM City Baguio mall, Baguio Centermall, Cooyeesan Hotel Plaza, Abanao Square, Maharlika Livelihood Center, and Porta Vaga mall.
Session Road
The areas of Session Road, Harrison Road, Magsaysay Avenue and Abanao Street comprise the trade center of the city. It is in these areas where commercial and business structures abound. First class movie houses, hotels, restaurants, department stores, and shopping centers are found in this downtown area. Shopping at the famous city market offers one a wide array of locally sourced goods and products, from colorful woven fabrics and strung beads to primitive wood carvings, cut flowers, strawberries and vegetables. (Strawberries and string beans - known as 'Baguio beans' across the Philippines - are shipped to major urban markets.)
Baguio is also home to one of the country's most profitable Philippine Economic Zone Authority areas (PEZA), called the Baguio City Economic Zone (BCEZ), located in the southern part of the city between the Camp John Hay leisure resort and the Philippine Military Academy. Firms located in the BCEZ mostly produce and export knitted clothing, transistors, small components for vehicles, electronics and other computer parts. Notable firms include Texas Instruments Philippines, MOOG, and Sitel. Recently, there has been an influx of call centers in the city with American companies outsourcing their technical support facilities in the country.
Tourism is one of Baguio's main industries. Commonly, overseas visitors pass through Baguio, while Filipinos make it a destination
The secondary source of income for the residents is its character as the commercial hub in the province of Benguet. Many of the agricultural and mining goods produced in Benguet goes to Baguio City for central distribution.
The city is also a major retail center for the Cordilleras and the Ilocos provinces, with shoppers from the provinces coming to the city to take advantage of the diversity of competitively priced commercial products on sale, most of which are only available in Manila. Despite the city's small size, there are numerous shopping centers and malls in the business district catering to the growing commercial activity in Baguio. These are the SM City Baguio mall, Baguio Centermall, Cooyeesan Hotel Plaza, Abanao Square, Maharlika Livelihood Center, and Porta Vaga mall.
Session Road
The areas of Session Road, Harrison Road, Magsaysay Avenue and Abanao Street comprise the trade center of the city. It is in these areas where commercial and business structures abound. First class movie houses, hotels, restaurants, department stores, and shopping centers are found in this downtown area. Shopping at the famous city market offers one a wide array of locally sourced goods and products, from colorful woven fabrics and strung beads to primitive wood carvings, cut flowers, strawberries and vegetables. (Strawberries and string beans - known as 'Baguio beans' across the Philippines - are shipped to major urban markets.)
Baguio is also home to one of the country's most profitable Philippine Economic Zone Authority areas (PEZA), called the Baguio City Economic Zone (BCEZ), located in the southern part of the city between the Camp John Hay leisure resort and the Philippine Military Academy. Firms located in the BCEZ mostly produce and export knitted clothing, transistors, small components for vehicles, electronics and other computer parts. Notable firms include Texas Instruments Philippines, MOOG, and Sitel. Recently, there has been an influx of call centers in the city with American companies outsourcing their technical support facilities in the country.
Tourism is one of Baguio's main industries. Commonly, overseas visitors pass through Baguio, while Filipinos make it a destination
Transportation
Air transport
Loakan Airport in Baguio is about 20 minutes by car south of the city. Because of the length of the runway, commercial jet aircraft are not able to use the airport. The airport is only used by propeller-driven aircraft. Currently, Asian Spirit flies Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday to and from Manila, a 50 minute flight. Flights to Baguio are scheduled only in the morning, as visibility approaches zero in afternoons when fog starts to form.
Land transport
It takes an average of six hours to travel the 250 km distance between Manila and Baguio by way of Kennon Road. It is about fifteen minutes longer through the Marcos Highway and could take three more hours when going through Naguilian Road, which is the usual route for travellers from the North. Kennon Road is occasionally blocked by landslides during the rainy season and the same problem occurs on the other two access roads. The route to Baguio through Kennon Road is as scenic as it is dangerous. There is another access to Baguio from Aritao in the province of Nueva Vizcaya but this is less traveled, the road is not well maintained, and public transportation through this route is not as regular. Another road, Halsema Road (also known as "Mountain Trail") leads north through the mountainous portion of the Cordillera Autonomous Region. It starts at the northern border of Baguio, in the Municipality of La Trinidad (Trinidad Valley).
There are several bus lines linking Baguio with Manila and Central Luzon, and provinces such as Pangasinan, La Union, and those in the Ilocos region. Most transportation companies also offer express and air-conditioned buses at a much higher fare, though some minibuses offer cheaper fares.
Bus services that ply Baguio include Philippine Rabbit, Dangwa Tranco, Dagupan Bus, Victory Liner, Partas, Genesis, Saulog Transit, Five Star, Viron Transit, and Greenland, as well as minibuses that come from other provinces.
Loakan Airport in Baguio is about 20 minutes by car south of the city. Because of the length of the runway, commercial jet aircraft are not able to use the airport. The airport is only used by propeller-driven aircraft. Currently, Asian Spirit flies Sunday, Monday, Wednesday and Friday to and from Manila, a 50 minute flight. Flights to Baguio are scheduled only in the morning, as visibility approaches zero in afternoons when fog starts to form.
Land transport
It takes an average of six hours to travel the 250 km distance between Manila and Baguio by way of Kennon Road. It is about fifteen minutes longer through the Marcos Highway and could take three more hours when going through Naguilian Road, which is the usual route for travellers from the North. Kennon Road is occasionally blocked by landslides during the rainy season and the same problem occurs on the other two access roads. The route to Baguio through Kennon Road is as scenic as it is dangerous. There is another access to Baguio from Aritao in the province of Nueva Vizcaya but this is less traveled, the road is not well maintained, and public transportation through this route is not as regular. Another road, Halsema Road (also known as "Mountain Trail") leads north through the mountainous portion of the Cordillera Autonomous Region. It starts at the northern border of Baguio, in the Municipality of La Trinidad (Trinidad Valley).
There are several bus lines linking Baguio with Manila and Central Luzon, and provinces such as Pangasinan, La Union, and those in the Ilocos region. Most transportation companies also offer express and air-conditioned buses at a much higher fare, though some minibuses offer cheaper fares.
Bus services that ply Baguio include Philippine Rabbit, Dangwa Tranco, Dagupan Bus, Victory Liner, Partas, Genesis, Saulog Transit, Five Star, Viron Transit, and Greenland, as well as minibuses that come from other provinces.
Georaphy
The three main access roads leading to Baguio from the lowlands are Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, and Naguilian Highway. Kennon Road starts from Rosario, La Union and winds through a narrow, steep valley. This is the fastest route to Baguio but is dangerous, with landslides during the rainy season. Marcos Highway, which starts from Agoo, La Union, and Naguilian Highway, which starts from Bauang, La Union, are longer routes but are safer than Kennon Road and are the preferred routes for coaches, buses and lorries. With its charter in 1909, Baguio is not a part of the Benguet province, though geographically speaking it's located in the said province.
History Of Baguio
The City of Baguio is a 1st class highly urbanized city in northern Luzon in the Philippines. Baguio City was established by Americans in 1900 at the site of an Ibaloi village known as Kafagway. Baguio City was designated by the Philippine Commission as the Summer Capital of the Philippines on June 1, 1903 and incorporated as a city by the Philippine Assembly on September 1, 1909. There is a presidential mansion, as well as supreme court and legislative offices in Baguio. Baguio is the seat of government of the Cordillera Administrative Region. The name of the city is derived from the word bagiw in Ibaloi, the indigenous language of the Benguet Region, meaning 'moss'. The city is at an altitude of approximately 1500 meters (5100 ft) in a moist tropical pine forest conducive to the growth of mossy plants and orchids.
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