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Luzon’s First DOT Tourist Rest Area to Rise In Baguio City

BAGUIO CITY — The Department of Tourism (DOT) in partnership with the Tourism Infrastructure Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) and the Baguio City local government broke ground on the first ever Tourist Rest Area (TRA) in Luzon today, 05 December (Monday). Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco led the signing of the provisional Memorandum of Agreement (MO A) held at the Baguio Country Club, which formalizes the establishment of the TRA in the country’s Summer Capital, to be constructed near the Lion’s Head, a favorite layover spot of tourists along Kennon Road. “Baguio is home to one of the most beautiful cultures that our country has; also, it has a very vibrant and dynamic local community that supports its own tourism initiatives.  We’re very happy to help in their initiatives by adding a component to tourism that will make the travel experience of coming to Baguio even more convenient and stress-free, because we’re providing the Tourist Rest Area to have clean and decent restrooms, a pasalubong center, and a tourist information center. We foresee that this can add further to the already very vibrant and dynamic tourism scene here in Baguio”  said Secretary Frasco, who was joined by TIEZA Chief Operations Officer Mark Lapid, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, and Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan represented by City legal officer Richard Tayag during the MOA signing. Baguio City Congressman Marquez Go was also represented by his wife Soledad J. Go at the event. “We at the Department of Tourism recognize the value that Baguio City brings not only in terms of your physical destinations but more importantly the intangible cultural heritage that you have so very well preserved; hence, we are here to manifest our full support,”  the Tourism Secretary added as she addressed the tourism stakeholders present at the event. Under the agreement, the TRAs will be constructed by TIEZA and upon completion, the Baguio local government unit (LGU) will then take charge of the operations and maintenance of the facility. The DOT will also approve any of the LGU’s requests relating to the financial sustainability of the TRA, such as the opening of pasalubong centers and other tourism-related businesses within the TRA. Visitor arrivals to Baguio City have since the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions shown a consistently increasing trend. The pandemic hampered the usually vibrant tourism environment of Baguio, with the City only recording over 267,000 visitors in 2021 and 268,000 in 2020, as compared to the over 1.5 million in 2019. The first 10 months of 2022 posted a growing tourist traffic to the city, with more than 474,000 visitor arrivals recorded. Last October,  the DOT broke ground on TRAs in four different locations in Visayas and Mindanao islands. Two TRAs were launched in the Visayas while the two others were in Mindanao in Bukidnon and in Samal Island in Davao. The Baguio TRA is the first ever in Luzon, with others scheduled to be put up soon in the provinces of Bohol, Ilocos Norte, and Palawan. “This year, the intention is to give our tourists convenience as they go along their journey understanding that the experience is not only at the destination itself but also the journey itself,”  Secretary Frasco said. “We’re maximizing domestic tourism as well by having close coordination [and] collaboration with our local government units such as Baguio City to ensure that we get Filipinos that are from the South and Central Philippines here to Baguio, and from here in Baguio at the North to Central Philippines and the South,”  she added. The TRAs are one of the landmark projects of Secretary Frasco in pursuit of President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s vision to make travelling in the country more convenient for tourists and help in providing livelihood to local communities.

Published:December 6, 2022

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DOT targets increased inoculation of tourism workers in more destinations

Puyat: More vaccines coming for Palawan tourism workers

Dot statement on nesthy petecio’s silver medal finish in the tokyo 2020 olympics, rizal park drive-thru vax site opens; puyat hails manila’s anti-covid initiative, dot gets highest coa rating for 2nd straight year, statement of the department of tourism on the passing of heritage and cultural tourism advocate mr. ramon hofileña, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the heightened community quarantine level implementations in ncr, more tourism workers in boracay to receive covid-19 jabs – dot, dot reiterates call for safe travel amid stricter quarantine measure, dot reminds hotels, resorts that room sharing for quarantined families is allowed, dot celebrates siargao inclusion in time magazine as one of the world’s greatest places of 2021, dot launches halal food tourism, dot backs gov’t infra program to boost tourism, dot backs iloilo bid for ‘creative city of gastronomy’ recognition from unesco, statement of the department of tourism on iatf decision allowing children five years old and above, and fully vaccinated seniors to visit outdoor areas, dot partners with viber to promote kain na foodfest, dot: 3,000 boracay tourism workers to receive covid vax, dot, tpb continues to support lgus with digital transformation projects, dot teams up with scarlet belo and cartoon network to take safe trips, dot statement on the activities of the taal volcano, bakuna by the sea: dot hails davao’s innovative approach to travel, hospitality workers, dot, tpb to roll out 2nd phase of rt-pcr financial subsidy program through pcmc, dot unveils region 1 tourism recovery plan, statement of the department of tourism on the drop of tourism contribution to gdp, dot to co-stage virtual fête de la musique june 18-21, more ncr tourism workers receive support through dot-dole program, travel for tourists of all ages from ncr plus to boracay, other mgcq areas extended to june 30, dot eyes inoculation of 5,000 bohol tourism workers, museums in ncr plus to reopen on limited capacity – dot, dot turns food tourism to high heat with 2021 kain na, terms for tourism business loans eased, dot bares tourism recovery plans for bulacan, dot and tiktok launch #sarapmagingpinoy campaign to promote local food tourism, dot launches five-year plan to develop tourism professionals, dot celebrates world environment month, highlights responsible marine wildlife interactions, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the rt-pcr requirement for leisure travelers under iatf-eid resolution 118a, statement of the dot on iatf-eid resolution 118a, more than 16k bulacan tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, dot orders stricter monitoring of staycation hotels and aes in gcq areas following new iatf guidelines, dot lauds inclusion of frontline tourism workers in a1 priority group, dot hosts pata summit for first hybrid mice event in 2021, over 1,400 golf workers in metro manila get dot-dole cash aid.

Central Luzon to Showcase ‘Flavors of Pampanga’, readies tourists for gastronomic experience

Dot lauds ph hotels recognized with the 2021 tripadvisor awards, 3,390 tourism workers in marinduque approved to receive p16.95m dot-dole cash aid, puyat bares tourism recovery plans for marinduque, dot proposes ‘green lane’ for fully vaccinated travelers, dot hails expansion of priority vaccination to a4 cluster, including tourism frontliners, 5,986 staycation rooms open for guests from ncr plus, intramuros to open fort santiago, baluarte de san diego to visitors may 17, dot statement on the proposed vaccination center in nayong pilipino, dot welcomes iatf decision to ease travel in ncr plus, 221m cash aid approved for 44k tourism workers in western visayas, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the collected garbage from the waters of samal island, davao del norte, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the reported violations of a hotel in davao city, dot to host hybrid pata annual event for adventure travel, p1.5m cash aid approved for 295 intramuros tourism workers, updates on the vaccination of tourism workers, labor day vax for tourism workers, more than 400k displaced tourism workers get dot-dole cash aid, philippine tourism and mice industry to bounce back with the hosting of wttc global summit, dot, manila lgu ink mobile hospital deal, dot-accredited establishment staysafe.ph-users, eligible for safety seal certification, dot grants the wttc safe travels stamp to 33 more hotels nationwide, dot welcomes proposals to convert tourism sites to temporary medical facilities, dot lauds repurposed hotels, calls for ‘bayanihan’ vs covid, dot approves use of burnham green and quirino grandstand in rizal park for temporary mobile hospital and drive-thru vaccination site, dot celebrates saud beach inclusion in the 25 most beautiful beaches in the world list of travel and leisure, 67k displaced tourism workers of ncr+ receive dot-dole cash aid, statement of the department of tourism on the vaccination facility in nayong pilipino property, statement of the department of tourism regarding the alleged birthday “super spreader” event in boracay, dot eyes adoption of covid-19 digital travel pass, dot statement on ecq extension in ncr plus, phl, dot nominated at asia edition of 2021 world travel awards, dot pushes for inclusion of other tourism workers in priority group a4, strict new guidelines set for hotels under ecq; lenten ‘staycations’ within ncr plus suspended, dot statement on ecq for ncr+ areas, dot statement on holy week, rizal park and paco park adjust visiting hours, remain open for physical exercise, dot statement on biatf measures for boracay, tpb philippines spearheads tourism and technology forum (ttf), dot statement on coron tourist with falsified travel documents, dot supports rizal tourism circuit on food, faith, art, adventure and nature, the ‘fun’ continues: philippines joins digital itb berlin, dot to spur domestic tourism in rizal, dot’s stdp program to enhance resiliency of phl destinations – puyat, dot sustains online presence with ‘wake up in ph’ campaign and safety travel advisories, dot greenlights partial operations of hotel restaurants on june 15, dot eyes tourism recovery as more destinations may reopen, domestic travel to drive recovery of tourism industry, says survey, dot hails revival of tourist cops, tourism will recover well, dot chief vows, dot celebrates hidden beach, palawan’s inclusion in cnt’s best beaches in the world, tourism industry hikes share in gdp to 13%; puyat sees strong recovery from pandemic, dot pushes stringent guidelines for stakeholders across the nation, biatf denounces travelers’ breach of entry protocol to boracay, dot lauds partnership model for safe and sustainable tourism in boracay, dot issues guidelines on tourist land transport services, iatf–eid resolution reiterates ‘dot certificate of authority’ as requisite to operate, dot issues protocols on restaurant operations under the new normal, dot welcomes ph ‘rising stars in travel’ citation by forbes.com, dot, dti to roll out health and safety guidelines, digital solutions for restaurants, dot, attached agencies promote digital tourism, tourism chief reminds hotels, resorts: no dot certificate, no business operations during mgcq, dot assists 36,000 tourists during covid-19 crisis, dot webinar tackles digital as the new normal, dot welcomes the resumption of tourism operations in areas under mgcq, trust and health safety key to phl tourism recovery – dot chief, puyat on reopening tourism: ‘do it slowly but surely’, dot brings home 84 tourists stranded in eastern visayas, dot supports coron’s sustainable tourism development to bounce back, dot welcomes puerto princesa reopening to domestic tourists, dot urges for more wttc safe travels stamp applications, boracay’s white beach, el nido’s nacpan beach among tripadvisor’s top beaches in asia, dot statement on uniform travel protocols, dot supports the safe reopening of negros oriental, puyat affirms support for siquijor’s reopening, dot statement on el nido’s swift action against tourists with false covid test records, dot supports dilg’s streamlining of travel requirements, dot assists 98 stranded tourists in western mindanao, dot assists 246 tourists stranded in bicol, dot response team assists 1004 tourists stranded in caraga region, statement of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat, dot8 springs stranded tourists, total assisted travelers now at 11,000, dot assists stranded tourists in central luzon, dot response teams assist over 10,000 travelers, dot announces the guidelines on hotels and other accommodation establishments during the enhanced community quarantine, dot chief: innovation to spur food tourism in new normal, dot webinar tackles heritage site conservation and use amid pandemic, dot banners “filipino brand of service”; assists over 35,000 tourists amid pandemic, dot to jumpstart domestic tourism under stricter protocols with iatf and lgus, dot partners with wttc to share experts’ tourism outlook, recovery plans, dot regulates hotel food deliveries, dot: tourism industry up to tough challenges on path to recovery, more than 155,000 tourism sector workers receive first tranche of dof wage subsidy program, dot mounts sweeper flights; brings home 1000 stranded domestic tourists, dot webinar tackles recovery, future of phl’s m.i.c.e., statement of the department of tourism (dot) on the iatf–eid authorization to mount sweeper flights, statement of secretary bernadette romulo puyat on the passing of former dot secretary ramon jimenez, jr., dot–ncr assists 24,000 in–transit nationals amid ecq of luzon, dot and ssi support philippine food producers in online philippine harvest, dot provides virtual backgrounds for video calls to encourage “travel from home”, dot offers online “enhanced opportunity” training for tourism stakeholders, dot-region 6 delivers filipino brand of service in crisis, dot outlines tourism response, post–covid 19 recovery plan to aid private sector, dot issues guidelines defining “new normal” for accommodation establishments, 24,836 hotel rooms reserved for ofws’ quarantine, bpo staff use – dot chief, stranded tourists welcome extended stay in batanes, dot welcomes lifting of travel ban for outbound passengers, recovery flights, tourism transport to continue for stranded passengers, statement of the department of tourism (dot) on covid-19 local transmission, dot statement on the curfew recommendation for lgus, dot, turkish airlines form partnership to increase philippine tourism from europe and mediterranean source markets, dot celebrates first run of the philippine international hot air balloon fiesta in calabarzon, puyat convenes tourism council; invites public to travel within ph, international visitor receipts hit usd 9.31b in 2019, 20.81% up from 2018, dot postpones nationwide mall sale to prioritize safety of citizens, department of tourism unveils new ad inspired by the abakada alphabet, highlighting unique filipino culture, puyat advocates for cultural and ecotourism in the new normal, relive the history of intramuros city with augmented reality app experience philippines, dot: 1st phl shopping fest kicks off march 1st, doh, dilg and dot give public gatherings green light, 2019 international arrivals exceed target with 8.26 million visitors to the philippines, dot welcomes lifting of taiwan travel ban, joint statement of the department of tourism and tourism congress of the philippines, dot backs “balik sa bohol” for tourism industry revival, intramuros reopens in the new normal, relaxed and standard health protocols, personalized trips key to tourism recovery, says latest philippine travel survey, dot files falsification raps against boracay tourists with forged covid test results, dot: reclassification of industries to hasten recovery, dot statement following the president’s latest directive to contain the ncov, guidelines in handling guests in tourism enterpises in the advent of ncov global health emergency, puyat eyes isabela as top agro-ecotourism destination, dot, dti inspect hotels and restaurants’ compliance with health and safety protocols, dot chief checks readiness of palawan, fresh produce at your doorstep, courtesy of dot–grab tie–up, dot ‘seal of good housekeeping’ boosts confidence among restos amid pandemic – puyat, dot celebrates as palawan reclaims best island in the world citation, tourism chief bullish on english schools’ recovery, dot, fao team up for sustainable farm tourism in ph, meetings, conventions allowed only under mgcq at 50% capacity – dot, boracay now open to youths, seniors from region, dot chief lauds senate approval of bayanihan 2 on final reading, cites plans for 10b stimulus fund, “think out of the box,” tourism industry urged in dot webinar, dot assures tourist stakeholders of all–out support for slow reopening, puyat meets with bohol execs to tackle tourism situation, recovery plans, dot, cloud panda ph launches phl harvest e-commerce site, statement of dot, dot to scale up baguio’s ridge to reef travel bubble plan across phl, dot celebrates “surprisingly spectacular diving” tag of 3 phl dive sites by lonely planet, phl bags best overseas diving award 2020, statement of department of tourism, dot’s phidex 2020 goes digital, dot-dole amended jmc further expands coverage of beneficiaries, dot welcomes new protocols for arriving passengers, dot bats for a more fun, safe and sustainable laguna, dot chief: green corridors are critical to tourism recovery, dot statement on destination test requirements, dot statement on boracay tourists, dot welcomes asean as a single tourism destination, iatf allows baguio hotels to receive domestic tourists under gcq, raising the bar of filipino hospitality with the leadership excellence series 2021, dot lauds inclusion of tourism frontliners in priority group for vaccination, dot’s ‘kain na’ cooks up online food fest, phl hosts 3rd asean meet on tourism professionals; dot commits to beef up competency of tourism workforce in the new normal, safety marshalls to ensure physical distancing when beaches, resorts reopen, 10,000 bpo jobs for displaced tourism workers, zero interest loans, no collateral, easy terms for distressed tourism businesses, puyat to grace baguio reopening; dot to go big on domestic tourism in 2021, chocolate, coffee, tea take centerstage in dot’s kain na food festival, dot receives safetravels stamp from world tourism body, puyat launches baguio’s vis.i.t.a. platform, reopening of boracay to more markets builds momentum for domestic tourism revival, puyat: even in most unusual ways, tourism must stay alive, message of tourism secretary bernadette romulo-puyat on the celebration of the world tourism day, dot statement on the city garden grand hotel, dot chief supports negrense cookbook launch, vows continued support to thriving food tourism scene in western visayas, dot statement on the closure of makati shangri-la hotel, dot pledges to help negros occidental get ready for more domestic tourists, dot welcomes the first two recipients of the wttc safe travel stamp, dot statement on baguio party incident, dot welcomes iatf decision to allow balikbayans, dot launches “have a safe trip, pinas” to promote safe travels and support tourism workers, dot celebrates ph’s victory as world’s leading dive destination and tourist attraction for intramuros in 2020, dot welcomes coron’s reopening on dec. 1 with health and safety measures in place, dot aims for data-driven response to tourism recovery under new normal with survey, dot backs enhanced contact tracing; announces low-cost covid tests with up-pgh for boracay-bound tourists, puyat encourages affected tourism workforce to avail of the expanded dot-dole financial assistance, dot welcomes strides to reboot mice, puyat visits batangas, shores up dive tourism, statement of the dot on cebu resort incident, dot presents virtual concert to promote manila’s cultural heritage sites, dot, makatimed foundation forge partnership for tourism destination health security, dot launches webinar training on reducing single-use plastics for hospitality sector, dot to assist zambales in safe and gradual tourism reopening, dot bats for uniform lgu travel requirements, dot, tpb promote pinoy christmas through music, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot’s 2020 kain na satisfies christmas cravings on fourth leg, dot prepares local destinations, accommodation establishments for wttc safe travels stamp application, 27,000 displaced tourism workers of car receive dot-dole financial assistance, dot backs temporary suspension of flights from uk, dot inspires balikbayans to come home with ‘balikan ang pilipinas’ campaign, dot, tpb expand rt-pcr financial subsidy program for 11,600 tourists through pcmc, dot reiterates penalties for quarantine hotels used for staycation and other purposes, dot supports strict entry protocols in light of new covid-19 variant, dot reiterates rule on staycation hotels, dot celebrates boracay and palawan inclusion in conde nast’s 25 best island beaches in the world list, dot issues guidelines for safe ‘staycation’, dot accreditation goes digital, boracay reopens, heralds “safe, gradual” revival of philippine tourism, dot gets coa’s highest rating on 2019 audit, dot sees domestic tourism boom in baguio with affordable antigen testing, phl islands named top favorites by int’l travel magazine, dot welcomes reopening of ilocos norte to luzon tourists on oct 15, dot funds rt-pcr testing of boracay tourism workers, dot inks tourism “cares for travel” msme loan program with sb corp, health, safety rules drawn up for recreational diving, batangas now open to divers – dot, puyat reminds ‘staycation hotels’ to follow rules, protocols, dot welcomes baguio city’s opening to guests from luzon starting oct. 22, dot statement on the opening of ilocos sur starting nov 15, ridge and reef corridor heralds domestic tourism recovery, puyat – hotels in gcq, mgcq may now be allowed to operate at full capacity, pra to amend retirement policies, suspends processing of srrv applications, dot supports expansion of palawan’s travel bubble starting oct. 30, tourism chief bats for covid-19 tests price cap, dot urges tourism businesses to avail of sb corp’s covid-19 loan program, dot leadership excellence series returns anew, dot statement on the inclusion of palawan and boracay in big 7 travel’s list of 50 most beautiful places, dot, tpb launch official philippine travel app, dot, dole agree on guidelines for cash-for-work program for displaced tourism workers, tour guides, dot’s kain na takes on food trips for november, intramuros is now asia’s leading tourist attraction the philippines and dot receive accolades at the 2020 world travel awards asia winners day, statement of the department of tourism on prrd’s signing of eo 118.

Top 19 Tourist Spots in Baguio Philippines: Scenic Parks, Art Museums, Strawberry Farm

1. Go Boating at Burnham Park

• 2. Feast on Local Cuisine at The Farmer's Daughter

3. Explore Camp John Hay

4. head to mines view park, 5. visit strawberry farms in la trinidad.

• 6. Appreciate Art at BenCab Museum

7. Discover Tam-Awan Village

8. go bargain-hunting at baguio night market, 9. try horseback riding at wright park.

• 10. Spend Time at The Mansion

11. Unwind at the Baguio Botanical Garden

12. buy souvenirs at the good shepherd convent, 13. visit the baguio cathedral, 14. admire the taoist architecture of bell church, 15. explore baguio museum, 16. take a dip at the asin hot springs, 17. head to the easter weaving room.

• 18. Stop by the Ifugao Woodcarver's Village

19. Check out the Colors of StoBoSa

Find out why Baguio is one of the top tourist destinations in the Philippines for both local and international tourists. Learn about the top Baguio tourist spots you shouldn't miss and explore in Baguio tours  in this mountainous region with help from this guide.

Visit one of the most family-friendly destinations in the Philippines — Baguio . While the capital and big cities of Metro Manila and other lowlands hit scorching temperatures during the dry season, the weather here is relatively cold, making it one of the top choices for a staycation in the Philippines  or a  workation  among locals.

If you're coming from the city, you can easily rent a car in Manila  to reach Baguio. There are also many options when it comes to hotels in Baguio City , so you won't have a hard time finding one that suits your needs. The romantic atmosphere also makes it a favorite for those looking for vacation packages for couples .

It has the temperature rising to just 26˚C on a typical summer day. If you want to enjoy outdoor activities in the Philippines during the summer season without the sweltering heat, then Baguio is the place for you.

Baguio is dubbed the "City of Pines" and is famous for its green park spaces and hillsides teeming with gigantic pine trees.

Locals also claim that the town got its name from a green flowering plant called "bag-iw" that grew there, which the Americans during the occupation pronounced as "bág-ee-yow.

Tourist spots in Baguio grew in number over the years, and several of its parks started offering other activities. Nowadays, you can chill out in one of these Baguio parks and spend a whole day just trying out everything that it has to offer. 

See our popular Baguio Vacation Packages

Ultimate 1-month philippine adventure tour package to boracay, palawan, siargao, bohol, cebu, baguio, amazing 2-week heritage & scenic tour to llocos, mt. pinatubo, baguio, sagada & bohol package, epic 15-day nature adventure & cultural tour to north luzon, cebu, bohol & palawan package.

If it's your first time in the city and are wondering where to go in Baguio, put Burnham Park on your list. Considered the city's "mother of all parks," Burnham Park is one of Baguio's best attractions. It was named after urban planner Daniel Burnham, the American architect who came up with the original design and layout of the park.

Burnham Park is an open green park at the heart of Baguio. The park's lush greeneries and blooming flowers make you forget that you are in the middle of a highly urbanized city.

Burnham Park is very accessible; it is located along Harrison Road and is just a stone's throw from the famous Baguio thoroughfare, Session Road. There are also several hotels that are within walking distance of the park, including Holiday Inn Baguio City Centre and Eurotel Baguio.

The park boasts multiple clusters that offer different activities and attractions, such as the Children's Playground, Rose Garden, Orchidarium, Picnic Grove, and Igorot Garden.

See our popular Burnham Park Tours

Aside from those attractions, Burnham Park is best known for the picturesque centuries-old artificial lake at its center. If there is one thing you must experience at Burnham Park, it is boating at the famous Burnham Lagoon. It's one of the best things to do in Baguio City.

There are several boats you can rent here. The best part is that they are easy to operate so that you can row it on your own. Boating in Burnham lagoon at sunset makes for a memorable experience if you're traveling with a loved one. So go ahead and rent a boat and go rowing! 

Trying out other  Burnham Park tours is also an excellent way to explore the park.

2. Feast on Local Cuisine at The Farmer's Daughter

If you want to taste authentic traditional Filipino dishes , there's no better place to go than The Farmer's Daughter, one of the most popular Baguio restaurants . 

This unassuming nipa hut restaurant on the outskirts of Baguio will take your tastebuds by surprise. It's thanks to the essential cooking techniques they employ and the fresh local ingredients they use.

The Farmer's Daughter serves home-cooked regional cuisine centered on smoked meats, fresh vegetables, and native wines. 

They may be humble home-cooked dishes, but you'll be surprised by how packed they are with potent flavors that will make you crave more. Be sure to try their best-sellers; the Pinikpikan, Etag, and Pinuneg. 

Pinikpikan is an Igorot dish. The Igorots are one of the indigenous tribes in the Cordillera region, and they follow a unique ritual in preparing chicken soup. 

The Etag, on the other hand, is sundried or smoked pork. The meat is cured in salt for a week and then either sundried or smoked for several weeks.

Pinuneg is the Ibaloi Tribe's signature sausage. What makes it unique is that, unlike ordinary sausages, it's not made from ground meat. It is pig's blood sauteed in onions and other local spices. If you fancy exotic native cuisine, The Farmer's Daughter Restaurant certainly will not disappoint you.

See our popular Baguio Tours and Activities

Baguio city shared cultural & outdoor tour with lunch & snack | mines view park, tam-awan village, atok gardens day tour with transfers from baguio | northern blossom, sakura park & tayao gardens, baguio top cultural & heritage attractions tour with lunch & transfers.

If you have limited time to tour Baguio attractions and you want to visit just one place, head to Camp John Hay. The camp was a former rest and recreation facility for American soldiers. 

Today it has become one of the best places to visit in Baguio over the years, mainly because it houses must-see tourist spots in one convenient area. Some might even consider it the best tourist spot in Baguio City.

This expansive recreational complex offers tourists tons of fun activities. It highlights the best that Baguio has to offer, which are pine trees, fresh air, cool breeze, and a serene atmosphere. It's a great option if you're looking for things to do in Baguio with your family.

You can go to a heart-pumping eco-adventure or commune with nature. Treetop Adventure inside Camp John Hay offers several thrilling rides, including the Superman Ride (zipline), Tree Drop (harnessed free fall), and Canopy Ride. 

Here, you can visit a world-class golf course designed by Jack Nicklaus, where famous tournaments like the annual Fil-Am Golf Tournament are held. If you're not a golf fan, you can visit the Historical Core or the Bell Amphitheater. 

See our popular Camp John Hay Tours

There's also the Butterfly Sanctuary, where you can see and learn about various species of butterflies. If you're into hiking, you'll love the pine-tree-lined Yellow Trail in Camp John Hay.

That's just scratching the surface. Not only does Camp John Hay have a lot more to offer, but this famous place in Baguio City has also evolved into a commercial complex with hotels, shopping centers, and dining establishments, all while retaining its natural charm. If you want to experience everything that this place has to offer, book a stay at The Forest Lodge at Camp John Hay . Trying out activities in Camp John Hay is also highly recommended.

Baguio was a former mining town in the early 20th century. To get a glimpse of that past, you have to visit Mines View Park. This park sits on a ridge on the northeast side of Baguio. 

As such, its main attraction is a viewing deck that offers a stunning view of the Cordillera Mountains and Benguet's old copper and gold mines.

Tourists are given a chance to dress in traditional Ifugao garbs like bahag (loincloth), vests, and headdresses, and even hold a shield and spear for picture-taking.

Mines View Park is also a great spot to buy souvenirs. There are several shops here that sell woven items, knitted garments, wooden souvenirs, as well as silverwork.

You will also find rows of succulents, flowers, and bonsai trees you can purchase.

Visiting the strawberry farm in nearby La Trinidad along with other attractions is one of the top experiences you can't miss out on when you're in the Summer Capital.

The weather in the North is perfect for growing several kinds of vegetables and fruits, but nothing is more popular and delicious than the plump red strawberries here.

See our popular Strawberry Farm Tours

La Trinidad, the capital of Benguet, is about 30 minutes from the Baguio town proper. This municipality is where you'll find hectares of land dedicated to growing strawberries to supply the rest of the country. It is one of the most popular  Benguet tours .

If you want to take your Baguio experience even further, there is no better way than to try strawberry picking at the La Trinidad Strawberry Farms.

The activity is open from November to May every year. The rates for this activity vary. If you leave the work to the professionals, you can buy freshly picked strawberries near the exits of the farm.

Aside from strawberries, you can also purchase fresh flowers and choose from a wide selection of fresh vegetables. Don't forget to try treats like fresh Strawberry Ice Cream and Strawberry Taho as well.

  6. Appreciate Art at BenCab Museum

Baguio is home to a vibrant art scene; from contemporary Filipino art to the distinctive traditional architecture of the Cordillera Region. 

Whether you're an art aficionado or you're looking to deepen your appreciation for Filipino art, be sure to drop by at BenCab Museum.

BenCab Museum is home to the permanent collection of Philippine National Artist Benedicto Cabrera. It also serves as a venue for art shows and exhibitions. 

The museum has several themed galleries. One of which is a gallery dedicated to original Cordillera art pieces such as sculptures, weapons, and paintings. Immersions in Bencab Museum is one of the best ways to enjoy the province and can also be enjoyed as a rainy season activity in the Philippines .

See our popular Bencab Museum Tours

Baguio museum and arts tour with lunch & transfers, baguio & benguet farms, gardens & museum tour with lunch & transfers.

One of the prominent exhibits is BenCab's bulol collection. Bulol is an Ifugao rice god figurine carved from Narra wood. You won't miss this exhibit, as the display occupies a whole wall in the museum. 

Another fascinating exhibition is the Erotica Gallery, which features several paintings and sculptures that explore sensuality.

There is also the Indigo Gallery, which features the works of several renowned Filipino contemporary artists. 

Of course, the highlight of the museum is the gallery of BenCab himself. The BenCab Gallery houses the National Artist's masterpieces, which mostly feature Sabel, his best-known muse.  

Sabel was a real scavenger woman whom BenCab saw and photographed in 1965. She has since been the subject of several of BenCab's paintings.

Aside from the galleries, BenCab Museum also has a restaurant. Cafe Sabel serves the Cabrera family recipes and uses ingredients that are grown in the museum's garden. 

If you want to explore to learn more about the region's indigenous art forms, go on a Cordillera heritage tour and start with Tam-Awan Village. 

Built by the Chanum Foundation in 1998, Tam-Awan Village is modeled after native Ifugao villages to give people a glimpse of the other parts of the region.

The word Tam-Awan in the local dialect means vantage point. An apt name since the Tam-Awan Village sits on a hillside with a panoramic view of the South China Sea. 

With a stunning vista and lush greenery, you'll surely enjoy exploring the several Cordillera huts scattered around Tam-Awan Village. You can also go on a quick hike to several viewing decks in the village.

See our popular Tam-Awan Village Tours

If you're not too keen on hiking, check out the art galleries in Tam-Awan Village. The village also holds regular exhibitions and cultural shows from both local and visiting artists.

For a more immersive experience, join Tam-Awan village tours and register for any of their workshops in drawing, oil painting, watercolor, and wood carving.

For those who want to stay for more than a day, the village also has a café where you can taste authentic Cordilleran dishes, as well as huts for lodging.

If you're unsure of what to do in Baguio at night, drop by the Baguio Night Market. Baguio is a famous bargain shopping hotspot. If you want to put your haggling skills to the test, there is no better place than the Baguio Night Market. This bargain-hunting haven is every thrifty fashionista's dream.

From 9 PM to 2 AM, a part of Harrison Road at the northeast of Burnham Park transforms into a flea market. Here you can find everything to complete a casual look without burning a hole through your wallet, thanks to the rows of ukay-ukay stalls. 

Ukay-ukay is the local term for surplus items shipped from other countries and second-hand apparel such as clothes, bags, and footwear that are sold at bargain prices.

Baguio Night Market is overflowing with ukay-ukay. It's the best place to shop for quality second-hand jackets, boots, clothes, and accessories for a fraction of their original price.

And if you're lucky or have great thrift-shopping skills, you can score one-of-a-kind vintage finds or even items that are in mint condition. 

After shopping, grab an ear of sweet corn, noodle soup, or other street food on the northern side of the hill.

Wright Park is one of the many scenic parts of Baguio. It is a quiet promenade with blossoming flowers, a pool lined with pine trees, and a long stairway that leads visitors to a riding circle.

Wright Park is considerably smaller than Burnham Park, but it is also less crowded and more peaceful. It is located in the eastern part of Baguio and fronts the main gate of The Mansion.

Wright Park's long rectangular pond is called the "Pool of Pines," which could not be a more perfect name as the length of the lake is flanked by pine trees on both sides. 

There is also a park circle and pavilion where you can sit, relax, and listen to the swaying pine. Wright Park is an open green space, so feel free to stroll around and admire its natural beauty.

Wright Park is often called Ride Park, an understandable mistake since the park is known for its horseback-riding activity. 

Indeed, Wright Park is the perfect place for people who love horses and want to learn how to ride one. It’s a great addition to the tourist spots often included on a day trip in Baguio . Follow the long stairway at the far end of Wright Park to reach the Riding Circle.

There you'll find several horses you can hire and ride around in the vicinity. If you're traveling with kids, good news! There are friendly ponies that are perfect for children.

Rest assured, every horse has an experienced handler who will guide and watch riders at all times. If it's your first time, the driver will lead the horse and walk alongside you as you ride.

10. Spend Time at The Mansion 

Located on the eastern side of the city, it is right in front of the idyllic Wright Park. This grand palace is easily one of the most photographed landmarks in Baguio. 

Although the main gate is open to the public, visitors are only allowed in The Mansion House Museum, where tourists can check out presidential memorabilia.

Aside from exploring the museum, the only other activity you can do here is picture-taking. So don't be shy about taking tons of photographs!

The Mansion's elegant main building is inspired by the Spanish Colonial Revival design, making it an excellent backdrop for any picture. You can also snap photos in front of the ornate iron gate or by the beautifully manicured lawn.

The Baguio Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful places in Baguio and provides a much-needed tranquil space amid bustling Baguio City. In 2009, the garden was renamed Centennial Park in celebration of Baguio's 100th year as the Summer Capital of the Philippines. 

However, it is more known as the Botanical Garden.

Exploring the garden is a whole adventure on its own, as it has several sections with different attractions. As you enter the park, you will be greeted by a giant sculpture. 

This bronze masterpiece is the work of Ben Hur Villanueva, a renowned Filipino sculptor. The statue represents the of the Cordillerans, Americans, Chinese, and Japanese in building Baguio.

Filled with pine trees, the Botanical Garden has two purposes. It serves as a hideaway in the often crowded city. It also houses nurseries dedicated to propagating flora that will eventually be replanted in the parks and gardens of Baguio. 

With the abundance of trees and different plants, the Baguio Botanical Garden is truly a great place to unwind. You can explore the various sections, sit by the benches, or have a snack under the cottages.

You will find pocket gardens and pavilions dedicated to Baguio's sister cities in countries such as South Korea, Japan, China, Canada, Thailand, and the USA.

These sections are decorated with symbols that represent each city. There are also relics from the Igorot Village, such as giant statues depicting different Cordillera tribes.

Aside from the pasalubong stores around Mines View Park, do not forget to drop by the Good Shepherd Convent, which is just a stone's throw away. 

Their acclaimed peanut brittle, ube, and strawberry jam have become synonymous with Baguio pasalubong. They are also now offering baked goodies like Lengua de Gato and alfajores, homemade ice cream, and strawberry-calamansi juice.

Nuns and volunteers from the international congregation The Religious of the Good Shepherd Sisters run the convent, with profits from Good Shepherd going to charity. 

Students of the Mountain Maid Training Center and Development Inc. create the products as part of the congregation's livelihood program for poor female students from Kalinga and Bontoc.

Be prepared to either line up for at least 30 minutes as you wait to be serviced or get heartbroken when your desired product goes out of stock.

Though, you may enjoy taking photos from the convent's view deck with the Cordillera Mountains as your background.

Formally known as the Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral, the Baguio Cathedral stands atop Mount Mary Hill, or what the Ibalois call "Kampo." 

The church is known for its Neo-Gothic style, as evidenced by its twin spires and its rose-colored exterior with stained-glass windows.

During World War II, it served as an evacuation center. Baguio Cathedral is also the largest Catholic church in the city. As it is built on top of a hill, it gives visitors an awe-inspiring bird' s-eye view of Session Road and the whole of Baguio. 

The Baguio Cathedral can be reached by climbing a 104-step staircase.

If you want to cut some time and effort, the road up the hill is accessible to cars. You can also climb the escalators of Porta Vaga Shopping Mall on Session Road and exit at the top floor, as it'll lead onto the church's parking grounds.

Bell Church was founded in 1960 by Ng Pee, a Chinese immigrant from the Canton Region. 

This Chinese temple is primarily influenced by Taoist architecture, but it also features a fusion of Buddhist symbols and follows ancient Chinese methods of construction.

Upon arriving at Bell Church, an ornate arch with dragon highlights and Chinese inscriptions will greet you. In front of the temple, you will find two octagonal lotus ponds that resemble a Bagua.

In Chinese culture, it represents the concept of rebirth and immortality. As you explore the church grounds, prepared to be entranced by the soaring pagodas, dragons, and lion statues, of course, the bells that decorate Bell Church.

Bell Church's pagodas feature images of saints and the Buddha. Past the opposing dragon figures, you will find a charming koi pond where you can make a wish.

You can go to the central patio of Bell Church to witness a panoramic view of the surrounding hills. 

Baguio is a melting pot of diverse Cordilleran culture. The Baguio Museum stands as a reminder of that and the city's storied past and rich cultural and historical heritage. 

The museum was built to resemble a traditional Ifugao home. It has wood and stone, and it features a pyramid roof that has two towering concrete poles at the stair entrance.

Baguio is part of Benguet Province and the greater Cordillera Region. The main floor of the building is dedicated to the craftsmanship of the provinces of the Cordillera region: Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province, Apayao, and Abra. 

You will find various tribal artifacts, native jewelry, apparel, fabrics, and musical instruments encased by protective glass panels.

If you're curious about what the lives of the indigenous Cordilleran tribes look like, the miniature dioramas in the museum will give you a picture.

Aside from the exhibits, the museum has educational clippings and photographs where you can learn more about the history of Baguio and the different tribes in Cordillera.

Baguio Museum also houses models of the different huts used by tribes in ancient times. Even more fascinating is the museum's collection of burial jars and carved wooden coffins, one of which contains a real mummified body! 

See our popular Museum Tours

As you can tell by now, Baguio is full of surprises. And as if the one discussed above is not enough, this perpetually cold city has one more natural attraction that will take you by surprise.   

16 kilometers northwest of Baguio lies the hot springs of Tuba, Benguet. Known as the Asin Hot Springs, these thermal and therapeutic springs are the perfect spot for relaxation and rejuvenation.

Because of its considerable distance from the city center, Asin Hot Springs is one of the most underrated destinations in the province of Benguet. 

Although the pools are tiled, the waters that fill them are natural and come straight from the mountains. The springs are even said to have healing properties.

For instance, the hotness of the water is known to soothe muscle pains, while the sulfuric water stimulates blood circulation and moisturizes the skin. Take a dip and feel your stress wash away.

Aside from the soothing thermal water, Asin Hot Spring offers visitors scenic mountain views and lush vegetation. There are also different facilities, such as pools for adults and children-friendly ones.

To complete your Baguio city culture and countryside tour, stop by the Easter Weaving Room. Established in 1909, Easter Weaving Room is as old as Baguio itself. 

It is also one of the few places in Baguio where you can witness authentic traditional weaving techniques practiced by the natives of the Cordillera Region. 

Easter Weaving Room has a work area where you can watch weavers do their magic on the looms with multi-colored threads. 

You also get to witness the intricacy of making the exquisite Montanosa cloth, which is a colorful hand-woven cloth unique to the Cordillera Region.

Aside from watching weavers work, you can also go around and check out the Easter Weaving Room's displays. 

You can also purchase those items, as well as baskets and wood carvings.

Compared to other woven products sold around Baguio, the quality of the items made in the Easter Weaving room is superior and, most of the time, even cheaper.

18. Stop by the Ifugao Woodcarver's Village

Another great spot to buy souvenirs in Baguio is the Ifugao Woodcarver's Village. 

Stretching for 3 kilometers long along Asin Road, the Woodcarver's Village is the largest concentration of veteran and budding local woodcarvers in Baguio. 

Here traditional crafts and skills of weaving and woodcarving that span back decades are practiced and passed on to the next generations. Ifugao woodcarvers are recognized as the best among Cordillera tribes in this art form.

The village is famous for its excellent quality wood carvings. From small critical chains to towering statues of Igorot tribesmen, you will be stunned by the variety of handmade crafts in the Ifugao Woodcarvers Village.

Woodcarver's village showcases the indigenous aesthetics of the region, its natural environment, and the rich cultural heritage of the Cordillerans through wood carving.

Subjects of the carved items are mostly associated with the Cordillera, the indigenous people, and animals. They are also commonly religious icons, household items, furniture, signs, and key chains.

Buy some souvenirs and support the local woodcarving industry.

The shanty-covered hills of La Trinidad used to be an eyesore in otherwise scenic countryside. 

Inspired by the Favelas of Rio de Janeiro in Brazil and the Gamcheon Cultural Village of South Korea, the local government sought to transform the bleak hillside communities of La Trinidad.

Today, the houses of Stonehill, Botiw-tiw, and Sadjap (StoBoSa) have become an expansive life-sized art piece collectively called the StoBoSa Hillside Homes Artwork. 

Also known as the Colors of StoBoSa, it comprises around 200 houses over an area of 18,000 square meters. If the sheer expanse of it is not enough to wow you, the vibrant hues of this massive art piece will.

This stunning community artwork has now become a hit tourist attraction. Indeed, the Colors of StoBoSa is a magnificent menagerie of bright colors that will capture your attention and entice you to stop and take pictures.

Visit Baguio and Enjoy its Cool Atmosphere

It continues to put the spotlight on the significance of the Cordilleran culture to the city, as well as celebrate the creativity and hard work of its people.

• Book this  1-week Ilocos Baguio Sagada tour package

Indeed, the Summer Capital of the country has something for every kind of visitor. You will never run out of places to visit, things to do, places to explore, lessons to learn, and food to eat in the City of Pines. You might even discover hidden tourist spots in Baguio on your next visit! 

Get the most out of your Baguio trip and plan your itinerary now. Check out our Baguio tours and activities that will let you experience the different sides of the province outside of the usual tourist destinations. If you are traveling in a large group, you can rent a car to Baguio or book a van to Baguio for rent .  

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Baguio tourism booms: Visitor arrivals soar past pre-pandemic levels

SNEAK PEEK Students garbed in Cordillera attire and with flower-themed props perform a street dance in front of the Baguio City Hall on Monday as a preview to the main event for the tourist-drawing Panagbenga or Baguio Flower Festival that will be restaged in-person in late February next year. —NEIL CLARK ONGCHANGCO

MANILA, Philippines — A city official in Baguio City announced on Wednesday that this year’s visitor numbers had already reached unprecedented heights, surpassing even the busiest years before the 2009 pandemic.

Alec Mapalo, the tourism officer of Baguio, reported that the city had welcomed a stunning 1.7 million visitors this year. However, the number does not yet account for November and December.

Despite the global pandemic, tourist numbers have already surpassed the 1.5 million mark, which was recorded in 2019 before the COVID-19 outbreak.

“This just shows na nalalampasan na natin at nakikita na natin ang talagang desire ng ating mga kababayan na makapasyal na,” Mapalo said in a public briefing.

(This shows that we are surpassing pre-pandemic levels, and we see the desire of Filipinos to travel.)

However, even though tourist arrivals are skyrocketing, Mapalo said the city is still recovering from losses after two years of lockdowns and restrictions due to the pandemic.

He said tourism is one of the major industries in Baguio City, wherein it rakes in up to P7 billion in gross receipts per year.

“Imagine natin na ‘yun ang nawala for two years. At this point, nasa recovery stage pa rin tayo. Hindi pa natin talagang fully na-recover ‘yung mga losses ng previous years,” Mapalo said.

(Let’s imagine the amount we lost for two years. At this point, we are still in the recovery stage. We have not yet fully recovered the losses from the previous years.)

The Baguio official, however, expressed optimism that the city’s recovery rate can be expedited based on the current trends in tourist arrivals and traffic in its shopping centers.

“Marami nang nagreport sa atin na mga establishments gaya ng hotels and even ‘yung mga malls na nakikita na nila ang kanilang record-high, not only arrivals of guests but also food traffic in our shopping centers compared to 2019 before the pandemic,” he said.

(Many hotels and even malls have reported to us that they have already reached a record high in guests’ arrivals and food traffic in shopping centers compared to 2019 before the pandemic.)

“We are confident na ‘yung ating road to recovery at mapapabilis natin,” Mapalo added.

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(We are confident that we can quicken our road to recovery.)

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Baguio sees no covid-19 spike despite tourist boom — magalong, baguio ready for a complete comeback, disclaimer: comments do not represent the views of inquirer.net. we reserve the right to exclude comments which are inconsistent with our editorial standards. full disclaimer, © copyright 1997-2024 inquirer.net | all rights reserved.

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Baguio City Entry Guidelines for Tourists [UPDATED]

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Update for July 23-31, 2021

Baguio City remains under GCQ, Leisure travel not allowed for those coming from ECQ, MECQ and GCQ with heightened restrictions –end of update– While the City remains under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) status until June 30, 2021, the City Tourism Office of Baguio City has released an announcement stating that the city will reopen its doors for tourists who are looking to visit for leisure. However, there are certain guidelines that shall be followed prior to the intended visit.

The guidelines below have been updated as per the City Tourism Office’s latest announcement on June 21, 2021.

Who will be Accepted?

According to Baguio Tourism, only those who are coming from areas that are under General Community Quarantine (GCQ) and Modified General Community Quarantine (MGCQ) status will be accepted.

Requirements

The following are the requirements needed for tourists prior to the intended visit to Baguio City:

Visita Registration with QTP

• Go to visita.baguio.gov.ph and create an account and schedule a visit. Prepare to upload ID and a current photo. Photo files must not be more than 5 MB in size.
• Must be completed and be issued with QTP at least 24 hours before traveling. Registration on the day of travel is not allowed.
• Due to the surge in travel requests, approval of travel requests in by queue priority according to nearest travel date, so please wait until at least a day before your travel for approval and issuance of QTP.
• Strictly NO QTP, NO ENTRY at the border.

Negative COVID-19 Test Result

• RT-PCR or Antigen Tests  are allowed as long as taken within 72 hours prior to arrival. 
• As an option, if unavailable or with invalid test result, an Antigen test can be conducted upon arrival. The Antigen test costs Php 500.00.
• VISITA registration can be completed even if the test result is not yet available for upload, as long as the health declaration is filled out completely. Bring an e-file or hard copy of your test result at the triage for verification.

For Fully Vaccinated Individuals

Visitors who are considered fully vaccinated may refer to these new guidelines for entry:

New Entry Protocols for FULLY VACCINATED Residents and Tourists Entering Baguio City

Booking and accommodation.

Tourists who will be staying at the following must take note of these important reminders:

DOT-Accredited Accommodation Establishments

Those who choose to stay in accommodation establishments from our list, must contact the chosen establishment. Travel approval and issuance of QTP shall be after confirmation of booking by the accommodation establishment.

Staying with Friends/Relatives

Those who choose to stay with friends or relatives must have the correct information of the contact person in Baguio. Approval and issuance of QTP shall be done upon verification of the contact person. Barangays are also informed of your visit for monitoring

Important Note:

Renting or paying to stay in accommodations not registered with VISITA is illegal and shall be grounds for criminal offense.

Mandatory Triage Upon Arrival

• Yellow QTPs shall be escorted to Central Triage or CAP John Hay Triage
• Blue QTPs may go straight to hotels/terminals with triage
• Present QTP to the triage staff for health and documents verification. Symptomatic travelers or whose antigen tests will have a positive result will be refused entry or be referred to the nearest health facility.
• Tourists can only proceed to accommodation or destination after undergoing triage

Important Reminders:

• Business establishments are imposing limits in venue capacity, which must be complied with by all.
• Children below 15 years old must always be accompanied by adults. They may not be allowed in some private establishments.
• Local ordinances such as no smoking, number coding, and curfews are in place. Tourists shall follow and observe these laws to avoid penalties.

For Inquiries:

For more concerns/inquiries, contact VISITA through the following:

• Landline: (074) 446-2009
• Email: [email protected]

SOURCE: Baguio Tourism Office

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Baguio in focus

(HTTPS://VISITA.BAGUIO.GOV.PH)

Local and international tourists have been flocking to Baguio City all year round, as many come for its cool climate, relaxing and fun tourist spots, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene.

Attractive choice

Besides its various tourist destinations, the city also prides itself for its vibrant economy and dynamic communities—among the reasons why it remains an attractive choice for investors and homebuyers seeking to live in an urbanized location with the benefit of panoramic views.

As both populations of residents and tourists grow however, the local government of Baguio has taken measures to further ensure the right balance to make the Philippines’ Summer Capital still a livable city, and a safe and attractive tourist destination. For example, a main focus of the local government is to improve its major thoroughfares to enhance mobility in the city.

READ:  Bern delivers exceptional living experiences in Baguio

‘Living street’

This year, Session Road, a major road in the city, will be redesigned to complement Baguio’s “living streets.”

A “living street” is an urban renewal concept aimed at turning the common road into a shared space with amenities like roadside landscapes filled with trees, flowering plants and shrubs, park seats or benches, and “traffic calming” devices like bollards so cars would be forced to reduce speed, ensuring the safety of pedestrians and cyclists.

Two side streets that branch off Session Road—Carantes Street, which is a stone’s throw away from century-old Burnham Park, and Jacinto Street, which is beside Malcolm Square—were among the first “living streets” to be put up by the city. These narrow streets were improved and adorned with murals by local art groups to encourage more foot traffic here.

Many come to Baguio for its cool climate, relaxing and fun tourist spots, rich cultural heritage, and vibrant arts scene. (HTTPS://EN.WIKIPEDIA.ORG)

For Session Road, the local government is allocating P120 million to further expand it to five vehicular lanes from the current four. The plan is to remove the center filled with small trees. These trees would be transplanted on the sidewalks which would be widened into 4- to 5-meter “green walkways.” The walkways would be composed of a “frontage zone,” or the display sections and entrances of shops and stores; an unobstructed walking zone; a “furnishing zone,” or a health and lifestyle space filled with street lamps and benches; and a green buffer zone which actually acts as a “bioretention space” to absorb or redirect rainwater runoff.

Public-private partnerships

The city government of Baguio also said that big-ticket projects now being developed via public-private partnership (PPP) deals would help regulate and improve traffic management and build environmentally safe transport and power systems in the city. It is also the aim of the city to convert all neighborhoods into “liveable communities,” each equipped with its own small markets, pharmacies, hardware stores, and medical facilities.

Other possible PPP big-ticket projects in the city in the future include a P4.5-billion multistory market building, a P1.025 billion “intermodal terminal,” and an P11.6-billion elevated monorail and electric bus system.

Sustainable progress

Baguio City is no doubt consistently growing and all stakeholders are on the same path to make sure that progress will be sustainable. While the local government continues to prime the city for further growth, it is also prioritizing revitalization efforts in the city, promoting sustainable tourism, and preserving the unique cultural heritage of Baguio City.

Such initiatives formed part of the local government’s commitment to further elevate the quality of life of its people while continuously providing excellent services as a premier tourist destination.

And there are proofs. In 2017, the city was the first in the country to be named by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (Unesco) as one of the 64 Creative Cities Network cities worldwide under the Crafts and Folk Art category. In November 2022, the city received “Klimalikasan” award, a climate and disaster resiliency recognition from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources.

Burnham Park (HTTPS://WANDERINGSOULSCAMPER.WORDPRESS.COM

In December 2022, the city government received an ISO (International Organization for Standardization) certification after an exhaustive external audit TUV Nord Philippines, an accredited third-party auditing firm. The ISO certification is a seal of approval or a recognition of the management, support and operational processes and effective improvement in the quality of the services of the recipient.

Baguio City was likewise named as among the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Clean Tourist City awardees for the third year in a row in January 2024.

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Sources: Inquirer Archives, Philippine News Agency, Philippine Information Agency, new.baguio.gov.ph, Official Facebook page of Baguio Tourism

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ATOK, BENGUET’s 10 Best Tourist Spots & Things to Do

For the longest time, it was rare to hear about side trips from Baguio or La Trinidad. Given the sheer number of Baguio tourist attractions that can easily fill any given traveler’s itinerary, it was difficult to imagine needing to go out in search for more places to visit. Along came Atok .

This rustic town has been a favorite day trip destination among many Baguio locals but is barely noticed by tourists. Suddenly, when the buzz surrounding its flower parks resonated on social media, this bucolic town was suddenly catapulted into fame.

Located about 48 kilometers north of Baguio, Atok can be reached after a two-hour drive. Getting here, the road is paved all the way but the drive isn’t always easy. It zigzags consistently and, because of the altitude, visibility is sometimes an issue. But those who brave the winding road and steep cliffs get rewarded with an idyllic, often unforgettable, escape.

If you are planning to visit Atok soon, here are some of the must-see places and must-do activities (in no particular order).

WHAT'S COVERED IN THIS GUIDE?

Glorious sunrise

And when we say glorious, we mean gloooorious! This has got to be one of the most spectacular sunrises we have seen. You see, Atok is perched atop naturally forested or manually terraced mountains, putting you at a pretty magnificent vantage point. All you need to do — although easier said than done — is wake up early and wait for the sun’s rays to slowly burst out of the ridges of the distant peaks.

You’ll find numerous viewpoints in Atok, but our lookout of choice was Sunrise Cabin , a tiny inn atop a cliff, perfect for sunrise watching, hence the name. If you’re lucky, you also get treated to a view of a sea of clouds slowly drifting below.

Another favorite sunrise viewing spot is Northern Blossom Flower Farm. Speaking of…

Northern Blossom Flower Farm

This intricately designed flower farm played a huge role in putting Atok on the mainstream tourist map. It’s usually photos of their cabbage roses (rose cabbages?) bathing in the faint morning glow that make the rounds on Instagram and Facebook, attracting more and more visitors.

As for me, I just adore flowers. To me, it means happiness, success, and good times. The various beautiful blooms in season add colors and life to our surroundings, eliciting sighs of wonder and awe from admiring spectators. Imagine how delighted I was to be at the Northern Blossom farm, walking in between towering stalks of blooms. The sight of flower terraces overlooking the silhouette of the mountains in the distance is permanently tattooed on my mind.

Aside from its signature rose cabbages, you’ll also find different types of annual and perennial blossoms like lilies, hydrangeas, larkspurs, and sunflowers.

It’s best to visit early in the morning for two reasons. One, to avoid the crowd. Two, to avoid the sun. It’s easy to get sunburnt at higher places when it’s cold, just because we don’t feel it right away. But if you can’t help visiting between 10 AM and 3:00 PM, just bring protection from the sun like a hat, shades, and umbrella.

The ticket rate is inclusive of coffee and bread/snack. If you are planning to stay overnight in Atok, the flower farm also offers accommodations — both house and room options.

Address: Northern Blossom Flower Farm, KM50, Sayangan, Atok, Benguet Opening Hours: 6:00 AM – 4:30 PM (Monday – Saturday); CLOSED (Sundays). This might change, so check the official Facebook page for updates and announcements. Entrance Fee: P250 (11-59 y/o); P200 (Senior & PWD with ID); P50 (6-10 y/o); FREE (0-5 y/o)

Haight’s Place

Another flowery attraction in Atok is Haight’s Place , tucked in one of the municipality’s coldest corners. Just like Northern Blossom, it is home to countless rows of flowering plants like snapdragons, alstroemeria, and cosmos, painting the area in various colors. A few photo spots are also installed throughout the place.

Aside from its flowers, Haight’s Place is also open for camping and pre-nuptial shoots. It also has accommodation options (cabins) for overnight stay. And if you get hungry exploring the place, there’s a cafe inside the main building.

Address: Haight’s Place, Barangay Paoay, Atok, Benguet Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). The schedule may change, depending on special event or private gathering reservations, so check the official Facebook page of Haight’s Place for the announcements. Entrance Fee: P150 (Regular); P100 (Senior); P50 (8-12 y/o); FREE (7 y/o and below). Note that these rates include entrance to Sakura Park, Environmental Fee, and Maintenance Fee.

Sakura Park

Did you know that the Philippines has its own cherry blossom park? It’s situated just next to Haight’s Place! According to our guides, the Sakura Park is a completely separate entity. Haight’s Place is privately owned, charging an entrance fee, while the Sakura Park is public and is accessible for FREE. But because they’re so close to each other, most visitors mistake the two as a single attraction.

Located in Barangay Paoay, the Sakura Park is where they planted the cherry trees gifted in 2016 by Japan’s Kochi Prefecture and the Japanese Embassy to the Province of Benguet. They gave a total of 40 trees in celebration of their 40 years of friendship, but only 34 blossomed.

Why here? The local government of Atok chose this spot because it meets the environmental conditions needed for sakura to bloom. But of course, it is seasonal.

If you wish to see them in full bloom, it can get tricky because it’s all about timing it right. When we visited in early March, the trees were bare. Our guides said they should bloom in late March to April, depending on the rain. And when they do, they usually just last for a week or two, just like other varieties of sakura. Regardless, the park has other flowering plants scattered around the site.

By the way, to manage your expectations, these trees are a bit small (more like big shrubs than trees).

Address: Sakura Park, Barangay Paoay, Atok, Benguet Opening Hours: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Daily). The schedule may change, depending on special event or private gathering reservations, so check the official Facebook page of Haight’s Place for the announcements. Entrance Fee: FREE.

Second Highest Point of PH Highway System

Located along Halsema Highway, Atok used to hold the title of the highest point in the Philippine Highway System at the altitude of 7,400 feet (2,255 meters) above sea level. It clung to that record from World War II until 2019, when a new highest point was proclaimed. Today that distinction is held by a spot at about 7,968 feet (2,429 meters) along the Kiangan-Tinoc-Buguias Road in the municipality of Tinoc in Ifugao.

Although the crown has been snatched, it still remains a worthy stop; thanks to the stunning view of the craggy landscape below. Tourists (presumably on the way to or from Sagada and Bontoc) still drop by to take photos with the old signage.

Location: KM52, Halsema Highway, Atok, Benguet

Lourdes Grotto (Wagangan Rock Formations)

Sticking out in the middle of a vast area of vegetable terraces, the Wagangan Rock Formations safeguard the Lourdes Grotto , also known as the Bosleng Grotto . Concealed atop a peculiar stack of giant rocks, it is hard to miss if you’re coming from Haight’s Place or Sakura Park.

From the jump-off point or parking area, you’ll need to take a short hike, past gardens and vegetable fields. But don’t worry, the trail isn’t that long or that steep.

Fronting the entrance of the grotto is a humble open-air chapel adorned with a simple rock altar and a cross. Inside is a statue of Our Lady of Lourdes. It is a functioning chapel and Mass is held here regularly, according to our guide.

The rock formations also cradle two viewpoints, one at the very top and another just below it. Tourists can climb the rocks to appreciate the breathtaking views of the fields and the mountains beyond. But we found the lower lookout to be much better. If you decide to go all the way to the top, be careful on the steep way down.

Address: Our Lady of Lourdes Bosleng Grotto, Paoay, Atok, Benguet Opening Hours: Wayangan Rock Formation 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (Daily); Lourdes Grotto Gates 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (Saturdays). The schedule may change without prior notice. You may contact the Atok Tourism Office for the latest announcements. Entrance Fee: P120/head

Halsema Half Tunnel

Along the winding Halsema Highway (Baguio-La Trinidad-Bontoc Road), a 50-meter half-tunnel (with 3.8 meters height clearance) has become one of Atok’s popular attractions. After Typhoon Trining devastated the region, washing out the road in the area, the only viable option for road construction was to carve out this huge rocky outcrop creating a natural half-tunnel.

Coming from Baguio, you will pass through the half tunnel just before reaching Atok Municipal Hall and Atok Tourist Center in Sayangan. A few feet away from the half tunnel, there’s a restroom and some shops. You can park here if you want to stop for photos.

Location: Halsema Half Tunnel, Halsema Highway, Atok, Benguet

Osocan Spanish Trail

The Osocan Spanish Trail (or sometimes simply Spanish Trail ) was part of the complex network of horse and foot trails used by the Spaniards centuries ago. Also called the Salt Trail, this was the route used to transport salt throughout the region. Back in the day, here in the highlands, salt is very precious.

According to our guide, the trail stretches for 2-3 kilometers, featuring three man-made tunnels or caves carved through huge rocks.

There are actually two trailheads — the easier downward path and the upward path. The descending route’s trailhead is located near the Sakura Park area, while the ascending route’s trailhead is located between KM46 and KM47 (Landmark: JNB Diesel Station).

Loyung’s Restaurant

Located along Halsema Highway, somewhere between the Half Tunnel and the Northern Blossom Flower Farm, Loyung’s Restaurant is a popular roadside rest and dining stop for travelers, especially those heading to or coming from Sagada or Bontoc. It has a huge parking lot and a spacious dining area.

It serves affordable Filipino dishes with relatively bigger servings compared to the typical roadside eateries. We tried sinigang na ulo ng baboy (pig’s head in sour soup), chopseuy , and fried liempo (pork belly).

For desserts, we had custard cake and egg pie. According to them, the bestseller is the custard cake, but the team liked the egg pie better.

Address: KM49, Halsema Highway, Atok, Benguet Opening Hours: 7:30 AM – 8:30 PM (Monday – Friday, Sunday); 6:00 AM – 8:30 PM (Saturdays)

At over 2700 meters above sea level, Mt Timbak is the third highest mountain in Luzon. (Nearby Mt. Pulag and Mt. Tabayoc are first and second respectively.) And yes, you can access it from Atok. (You can see its summit from the Second Highest Point.)

When we were exploring the town, our driver Kuya Bobby highly recommended it to us for our future trip. We didn’t get to climb it then because we didn’t have time, it wasn’t in our itinerary, and we weren’t even sure if it was open. (The town was just starting to reopen when we visited.)

The trail to the top, they say, is punctuated by the Stations of the Cross . Needless to say, the summit affords a majestic view. Also nearby is the site of the Cave Mummies of Timbak.

Atok Guided Tours

While many tourists go straight to attractions, we highly encourage you to drop by the Atok Tourism Office (within the Municipal Hall complex) to register, pay the ecological fees, and hire a tour guide. This way, not only do you earn a better understanding of every stop, but you also get to help the local tour guides and drivers.

If you are interested in booking a guided tour, here are your options. The rates are inclusive of guide and transportation within Atok but exclusive of entrance fees.

• PACKAGE 1 P1,500 (Good for 5 pax) – Sakura Park – Lourdes Grotto – 2nd Highest Point
• PACKAGE 2 P2,200 (Good for 6 pax) – Sakura Park – Lourdes Grotto – 2nd Highest Point – Spanish Trail

Co-written with Yosh Dimen Photos by Yosh Dimen & Asta Alvarez

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i need some info po regarding the travel packege below this if you can po,can we talk?

Contact Atok Tourism na lang po directly para straight from them.

I just want to clarify if the packages you mentioned in the blog is Php 1,500 / Php 2,200 PER PERSON? Or are those fees for the whole group?

Also, what is the contact information of Atok Tourism Office? I can’t seem to find it online. Thank you.

the rates are for the group, not per person.

Sorry, we don’t have the contact information. We just went straight to the tourism office when we arrived.

Hi! We’re from the US and travelling to Manila, then Baguio. Do you have instructions on how to go to Atok from either Baguio or Manila? Thank you.

Hi Jeanette,

In Baguio, make your way to Dangwa Bus Terminal and catch a bus bound for Sagada or Besao. Alight in Atok. Fare is P80. Vans are also available for P150 per way.

Hello! I know you guys didn’t finish the Osocan Spanish Trail, but I just wanted to ask, how hard is the trail? Is it hiking levels, or just more like an incline? Did the guide tell you how hard the 2-3km stretch was?

Hi Anna! She didn’t mention how hard it would be, but she said it would be uphill. And that the easier way was to do it the other way (start near the sakura park).

I really enjoyed reading your blog post about Atok, Benguet. It’s one of my dream destinations in the Philippines. I love how you captured the beauty and charm of this rustic town and its tourist spots. The photos of the glorious sunrise, the Northern Blossom Flower Farm, and the Sakura Park are stunning. I also appreciate the tips and information you shared about how to get there, where to stay, and what to do. Thank you for inspiring me to visit Atok soon.

ang second highest point of PH highway system po ay located po sa barangay CATTUBO hindi po sa barangay Paoay. Salamat po

Thanks for letting us know po!

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Isabela, 2 towns in Luzon, Visayas clinch top prizes in 2024 Tourism Challenge

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This is AI generated summarization, which may have errors. For context, always refer to the full article.

TOP PRIZE. Isabela City, Basilan Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman receives a symbolic check of P20 million from President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. after the city government topped the Mindanao category of the Mindanao Tourism Challenge, while Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco and Isabela City Tourism Officer Claudio Ramos III look on.

courtesy of Tourism Undersecretary Myra Paz Valderrosa

ZAMBOANGA, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. awarded Isabela City in Basilan, and the towns of Ambaguio in Nueva Vizcaya, and Tubigon in Bohol for winning the 2024 Tourism Champions Challenge on Monday, April 15.

The three local governments received a P20-million prize each from Marcos and Tourism Secretary Maria Esperanza Christina Frasco at the Philippine International Convention Center (PICC) in Pasay City.

Isabela clinched the top prize in the Mindanao category, alongside Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya in Luzon, and Tubigon, Bohol in the Visayas. They were acknowledged by the Department of Tourism (DOT) for their “exceptional work and commitment” during the 1st Tourism Champions Challenge.

The local government of Isabela won in the Mindanao category for its project proposal dubbed as the “Lampinigan Sands,” which aims to develop infrastructure and transform a jetty port on Lampinigan Island into a leisure and tourism attraction. The objective is to turn the place into an ecotourism zone.

In the Luzon category, Ambaguio, Nueva Vizcaya secured the top prize for its proposed Ambaguio Skyport, which aims to establish the first local paragliding airport terminal in the Philippines.

Tubigon, Bohol emerged victorious in the Visayas category for its proposed development of the “Enchanted Ilijan Plug of Tubigon.”

Other winners in Mindanao include Davao City (2nd place), Island Garden City of Samal (3rd place), Tagum City (4th place), and San Agustin, Surigao del Sur (5th place).

In Luzon, the other winners are Sablayan, Occidental Mindoro (2nd place), Bolinao, Pangasinan (3rd place), San Jose, Romblon (4th place), and Oriental Mindoro (5th place).

More winners in the Visayas are Badian, Cebu (2nd place), Silago, Southern Leyte (3rd place), Victorias City, Negros Occidental (4th place), and Panay, Capiz (5th place).

The competition aimed to empower communities to champion Philippine tourism, carrying the theme, “Tourism infrastructure for greater innovation and new tourism opportunities.”

Fourteen local governments across the country won prizes, with five in Luzon, five in Visayas, and four others in Mindanao.

Local governments that ranked second received P15 million each, while third placers were awarded P10 million each. Fourth placers received P8 million each, and fifth-place winners were given P7 million each.

Marcos announced that the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), which provided the prizes, approved an additional P5 million for the winners.

DOT regional offices received about 98 project proposals from 90 local governments, all aimed at improving and advancing local tourism spots.

The project proposals were evaluated based on several criteria: resilience, inclusivity, and sustainable development (20%); alignment with the theme (10%); project objectives and their impact on tourism (20%); economic and financial feasibility (20%); sustainability plans (15%); and the quality of presentation (15%). – Rappler.com

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'Project MINERVA' boosts Baguio's Smart City initiative

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• by Carlito Dar
• Apr. 17, 2024 9:54 am in News

BAGUIO CITY (PIA) -- The City Government of Baguio’s smart city initiatives got a boost with the Department of Science and Technology -Philippine Council for Industry, Energy, and Emerging Technology Research and Development (DOST-PCIEERD) turning over the completed Project MINERVA (Monitoring of Indicators for Efficient Redevelopment and Value Assessment).

DOST Secretary Renato Solidum Jr. together with PCIEERD Executive Director Enrico Paringit and Project Leader Chris Monterola of the Asian Institute of Management (AIM) led the symbolic turnover of Project Minerva to the city government of Baguio, headed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center on Monday (April 15).

Project MINERVA is among the PCIEERD programs for smart cities that aims to integrate or incorporate various technologies to help the country’s local government units become digitally enabled and digitally inclusive.

Project Minerva  in Baguio intends to complement the city’s urban and ecological renewal through artificial intelligence, data science, complex systems and agent-based modeling, especially in the areas of air quality, water supply and quality, urban mobility, and tourism demand, Paringit said.

The two-year project undertaken through Grants-in-Aid from DOST, AIM, the University of the Philippines-Baguio, and other partner stakeholders, will help address Baguio’s urbanization concerns through science, technology and innovations.

Through the deployment of a total of 588 high-quality  sensors composed of 500 GPS trackers, 80 air quality, and eight water quality sensors for data collection and monitoring across the city, Project MINERVA is integrated into the existing command center of Baguio City, which acts as the nerve center for smart city operations in terms of air quality, water supply and quality, urban mobility and tourism demand.

Solidum expressed gratitude to the City Government of Baguio, the PCIEERD, the AIM, and all partners for Project MINERVA, outlining its relevance to the SMART City PH Program of the agency.

“From unleashing synergy through strategic partnerships among stakeholders, I am very pleased to take part in  this collaborative effort to transforming our communities into a smart, and sustainable one,” Solidum said

“MINERVA exemplifies what can be achieved when we come together with a shared vision and purpose - to create smart and sustainable communities and cities that are not only technologically advanced, but also inclusive, resilient, and environmentally-sustainable,” he added.

The secretary also assured that, under the leadership of President Ferdinand Marcos Jr., the DOST will continue to push for smart cities and communities towards the attainment of progressive, inclusive, and resilient local government units all over the Philippines.

“DOST is dedicated to promoting governance innovations that empower our regional partners to leverage science, technology and innovation for safe, secured, and sustainable communities and cities that could be enjoyed by the present and future generations,” Solidum said. (CCD/PIA CAR)

• Smart cities

About the Author

Carlito Dar

Information Officer II at PIA Cordillera

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• April 8, 2024

Tuition Fee Consultation for School of Law

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