Baguio’s Diverse Flora and Fauna

Over 90 graduate students and faculty from Baguio Central University spent two days in November 2025 restoring the Quezon Hill Eco Zone. They weeded, painted, and repaired facilities. This was the third phase of a project that turned a neglected park into a sanctuary for plants and wildlife. The work is part of a larger effort to protect Baguio’s remaining green spaces, which scientists are now studying to document the flora and fauna that still survive in the city.

Baguio is known for its pine trees and cool climate. But over the years, buildings and roads have eaten up much of the natural landscape. The Quezon Hill Eco Zone restoration shows what can happen when a community decides to take back a piece of land for nature. The project brought together students, faculty, and the local barangay to clean up overgrown weeds, fix broken structures, and add color to the park. If you’re planning a trip to Baguio and want to see a side of the city that’s not just tourist spots, this eco-zone is worth a visit.

What You’ll Find at the Quezon Hill Eco Zone

The eco-zone sits in Barangay Middle Quezon Hill, a hilly area on the outskirts of Baguio. Before the restoration, the park was in bad shape. Weeds blocked the paths, moss covered the walkways, and the paint was peeling. Now, the place looks welcoming. You can walk along the moss-free paths, sit under the painted pagoda, and see the ornamental plants that volunteers mulched. The study of Baguio’s green spaces by scientists adds another layer of meaning. They are documenting what lives there, from insects to birds to native plants. That research helps everyone understand how nature survives in a crowded city.

When to Go and What to Expect

The restoration took place in November, during the dry season in Baguio. November is part of the amihan season, which brings cooler temperatures and less rain. That’s a good time to visit the eco-zone because the paths are dry and the plants are thriving. But the park is open year-round. The main thing to know is that this is a community-run space. It’s not a major tourist attraction with big facilities. You won’t find souvenir shops or food stalls. What you get is a quiet green area where you can see the results of a local restoration effort.

One thing to keep in mind: the restoration project is ongoing. The university has done three phases so far, and more may come. If you visit during a project weekend, you might see volunteers working. For most visitors, the eco-zone is a peaceful spot to relax and observe nature. Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and be ready for a short walk uphill. The area is not very large, so you can cover it in an hour or two.

Getting to the Quezon Hill Eco Zone

The eco-zone is located in Barangay Middle Quezon Hill, about a 15-minute drive from Baguio’s city center. You can take a jeepney or taxi heading toward Quezon Hill. Tell the driver you’re going to the eco-zone, or ask to be dropped off at the barangay hall. From there, walk a few minutes uphill. The roads are narrow and winding, typical of the area. If you’re driving, there is limited street parking. It’s a good idea to visit with a local guide or use a ride-hailing app for convenience.

There’s no official sign at the entrance, but you’ll see the restored waiting shed and the painted railings. The barangay is friendly and supportive of visitors. The partnership between Baguio Central University and the barangay means the community is invested in keeping the park clean and safe. If you have questions, ask locals. They can point you to the best spots.

What to Do at the Eco Zone

Walk the Restored Pathways

Before the restoration, the pathways were covered in moss and weeds. Now, they are clear and safe to walk on. You can take a leisurely stroll and look at the plants. The volunteers mulched ornamental plants along the route, so you’ll see a variety of greenery. This is a good place to take photos of the restored landscape.

Check Out the Painted Structures

Volunteers repainted the waiting shed, the pagoda shed, and the grotto gate. The colors are fresh and add life to the park. The waiting shed is a good spot to sit and rest. The pagoda shed offers a shaded area with a view of the surrounding hills. Look for the railings that were scraped and painted. These small details show the community’s effort.

Learn About the Ongoing Research

Scientists are studying the plants and animals that live in Baguio’s green spaces. The Quezon Hill Eco Zone is one of the sites they are monitoring. While you’re there, you can observe the local flora and fauna. You might see birds, butterflies, or native plants. The area is not a zoo, but it’s a living example of urban biodiversity. This research helps show how important these pockets of nature are for the city.

Support the Community Effort

The restoration project is led by the Graduate School of Baguio Central University, with support from the barangay. If you want to contribute, you can ask at the barangay hall about volunteer opportunities. Even a small donation or sharing the story helps. The project is part of Baguio’s goal to become a UNESCO Creative City and to protect its environment.

Frequently Asked Questions

Plan Your Visit

The Quezon Hill Eco Zone is a small but meaningful destination. It shows what people can do when they care about their environment. If you’re visiting Baguio and want a break from the crowds, head to this restored green space. It’s not a theme park, but it’s a real place where nature and community come together. The best part: you’re supporting a local effort just by showing up. If this was useful, you might also want to read Baguio’s revitalization: can it reclaim its City of Pines title.

Sources

Should Baguio limit tourism? — A discussion on overcrowding and its impact on the city’s environment.

Finding rare orchids in Baguio’s mountains — A guide to spotting native orchids in the city’s green spaces.

Green Guardians III: University-driven restoration of Middle Quezon Hill Eco Zone. Pressenza, 2026.

Baguio seeks protection of green spaces. Philippine Daily Inquirer, 2023.