Baguio City, located in the mountains of Northern Luzon in the Philippines, is a delightful destination for travelers throughout the year. It is well-known for its cool weather and a friendly atmosphere that makes everyone feel welcome. Visitors can explore numerous attractions, savor delicious local cuisine, or simply have a relaxing time—Baguio offers plenty of memorable experiences. This city is often referred to as the “summer capital of the Philippines” and holds great historical importance, with its rich past harmoniously coexisting with modern conveniences.
Baguio’s Historical Roots and Planning
Baguio’s history began to take shape in the early 1900s during the American colonial era. Its special climate and scenic beauty made it the ideal spot for those wanting to escape the heat of lowland provinces. The city was designed under a plan conceived by American architect and city planner Daniel H. Burnham, who dedicated time to observe and assess the area. Burnham collaborated closely with government officials, scrutinized maps, and traversed the terrain both on foot and horseback. This thorough analysis allowed him to craft a beautiful city layout based on the “Garden City” concept, which was popular at the time. This concept focused on incorporating green spaces and creating a balance between nature and urban life. His vision was brought to life by American officials such as William E. Parsons and Warwick Greene, who constructed essential infrastructure, including roads and government buildings, shaping Baguio into the city we see today.
The Baguio Mansion House: A Presidential Museum
A prominent building from Burnham’s era is the Baguio Mansion House, finished in 1908. Originally, it served as the summer residence for the American Governor-General of the Philippines. Over time, it evolved into the official summer residence for the President of the Philippines. The Mansion House was closed to the public for many years but has recently undergone significant restoration and is now a Presidential Museum. The museum was inaugurated by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos, Department of Tourism (DOT) Secretary Christina Garcia-Frasco, and House Deputy Speaker Duke Frasco. Visitors can explore the museum to learn about the country’s history and the lives of its former presidents. It showcases valuable memorabilia and artifacts from many presidencies that shaped the Philippines, including timelines of seventeen presidents, portraits of leaders and their spouses, and replicas of their offices from different time periods. There is even a gallery dedicated to past First Ladies, including Corazon Aquino, who became the president following the 1986 EDSA People Power Revolution.
Secretary Frasco stressed the significance of making this historic site available to the public. She pointed out that this move not only boosts tourism but also supports the local economy. She stated, “This will inevitably, I’m sure, also help our local economy here in Baguio with the tourists coming in; suppliers will benefit from added touristic activities in the area, and most importantly, it will instill a sense of national pride, especially among our youth as they learn about the contributions of our previous presidents to the country.”
Visiting the Presidential Museum at the Baguio Mansion House is free of charge and open to the public from Tuesday to Sunday between 9 AM and 5 PM. For more details or to book a tour, reach out using these contact numbers: +63 962 589 3153 (Smart) or +63 956 857 3715 (Globe), or send an email to the museum.
Scenic Parks and Attractions
Across from the Mansion House lies Wright Park, a lovely linear park originally named after the American Governor-General Luke Wright. Now it is famous for its dancing fountain and is surrounded by towering pine trees. Wright Park is particularly well-liked for horseback riding, offering a unique way to take in the park’s natural beauty.
Another essential stop is Mines View Park, just a short drive from the Mansion House. This park has an observation deck that allows visitors to enjoy breathtaking views of the lush, mountainous terrain and nearby communities. Especially during the cooler months from December to February, visitors can witness a magical “sea of clouds” that blankets the mountains. From the observation deck, one can see the town of Itogon in Benguet province, known for its historical mining activities. After enjoying the stunning views, many visitors like to take photos with the friendly Saint Bernard dogs that have become a beloved symbol of the park.
Session Road: Baguio’s Historical Hub
Baguio City was historically a center of power for several national government agencies. The Supreme Court of the Philippines holds its summer sessions on Upper Session Road, continuing a tradition dating back to the city’s early days. Session Road is a 1.7-kilometer stretch that holds significant historical importance. During the American colonial period, it served as the main thoroughfare for the Philippine Commission. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines has placed a marker on a building along Upper Session Road to commemorate the spot where the 1904 assembly of the Philippine Commission declared Baguio as the summer capital of the country. Today, Session Road is a lively hub filled with many iconic restaurants. In an effort to encourage pedestrian activity, Session Road is closed to vehicles every Sunday. On this “Pedestrianization Day,” people can walk freely, explore shops, enjoy street performances, and immerse themselves in the local culture.
A short stroll from Session Road is Burnham Park, another famous landmark in Baguio City. Named after Daniel Burnham, this park features a man-made lake where visitors can rent boats, biking paths, and extensive green areas filled with flower beds, including stunning roses. This park is especially appealing for those wanting to unwind in the cooler climate and beautiful scenery of the city.
Despite the scars left by previous natural disasters, such as World War II and the 1990 earthquake, Baguio’s attractions stand firm as a testament to the city’s resilience and enduring charm.
Tourism and Economic Development
The Department of Tourism (DOT) is actively promoting Baguio City as a prime tourist destination. Plans for a Tourist Rest Area clearly show DOT’s dedication to offering high-quality travel services. This facility will feature clean and accessible restrooms, convenient charging stations, a visitor information desk, and a market for local products. Baguio’s tourism stakeholders collaborate closely with DOT’s Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) office, which is evident in events like the Mangan Taku food festival and the United Nations Tourism Regional Gastronomy Forum for Asia-Pacific held in Cebu.
Baguio City has also received recognition as a Creative City of Crafts and Folk Art by UNESCO for its outstanding cultural heritage and artistic traditions. Secretary Frasco has reaffirmed DOT’s commitment to supporting and promoting Baguio as a key tourist location, saying, “Baguio City, with all its colors, its people, its tradition, and your history and heritage combined, indeed has made and will continue to make a lasting imprint on our visitors’ memories and build a positive image of your city and our country.” She highlighted that the DOT’s approach to tourism development is holistic, recognizing the vital role of local customs and culture in attracting tourists to the area.
Remembering the past is crucial for growth. This aligns with the Filipino proverb: “Ang hindi marunong lumingon sa pinanggalingan ay hindi makararating sa paroroonan” (He who does not know how to look back at where he came from will not reach his destination). This concept is very relevant for travelers who come to Baguio to uncover its rich history and culture.
Visiting Baguio
Traveling to Baguio City is convenient with several expressways connecting different towns. Whether you choose to drive or use public transportation, reaching Baguio is an easy task. The best times to visit are during Christmas when the city is beautifully decorated and during the hot summer months from March to May, when the weather remains cooler compared to lower altitudes. The city is especially lively during the Panagbenga Festival, also known as the “Festival of Flowers,” celebrated in February. This event showcases elaborate floral floats and celebrates the city’s floral heritage.
Summary
Baguio City is not only a refuge from the heat; it is a place where history, culture, and nature come together. From its carefully crafted layout to its celebrated landmarks, the city provides an unforgettable glimpse into the Philippines’ past while still thriving in the present. Today, the city is revitalizing its historical sites, like the recently transformed Baguio Mansion House, and planning new attractions such as the proposed Tourist Rest Area. Alongside the natural beauty found in places like Mines View Park, Wright Park, and Burnham Park, plus the bustling urban activity of Session Road, Baguio represents a blend of national heritage and a forward-looking tourist hub for people from all corners of the globe.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is Baguio City known for?
A: Baguio City is famous for its cool climate, stunning landscapes, and rich history. It is commonly called the “summer capital of the Philippines.”
Q: What are some of the popular attractions to visit there?
A: Notable attractions include the Baguio Mansion House, Mines View Park, Wright Park, Burnham Park, and Session Road.
Q: Is the Baguio Mansion House open to the public?
A: Yes, the Baguio Mansion House is now a Presidential Museum open to the public free of charge from Tuesday to Sunday, 9 AM to 5 PM.
Q: What is the best time to visit?
A: The optimal times to visit Baguio are during the Christmas season and from March to May when the weather is pleasantly cool. Additionally, the Panagbenga Festival in February attracts many visitors.
Q: How do I get to Baguio City?
A: Baguio is accessible by land through expressways, whether by private car or public transportation options.
Q: Is there a place to eat some traditional treats?
A: Yes, the Baguio City Public Market is an excellent place to find local delicacies like choco flakes, peanut brittle, and other sweets. Don’t miss trying the strawberry taho, a popular dessert in Baguio.
Q: Are there accommodations in Baguio City?
A: Absolutely! You can find various accommodations, from hotels and bed-and-breakfasts to rental properties.
Q: Are there transportation options once I get there?
A: Yes, Baguio offers taxis and jeepneys for public transportation.
Q: Are there other places to learn more about Baguio City?
A: Yes, you can check out the City of Baguio official website and their social media accounts for more information.
References
- City Government of Baguio Official Website
- Department of Tourism – Philippines Facebook page
- Baguio City Public Information Office Facebook page
- City Government of Baguio Public Information Office
