By Rose Frejane A. Cruz

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – “I’m very satisfied with the ongoing rehabilitation of Burnham Lake, I can see that it will be even more beautiful when it is finally completed and with its modern design, it will definitely be more enjoyable for those who visit and boat here,” said Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) General Manager Mark Lapid during his re-inspection, on July 9.

Lapid also apologized to Mayor Benjamin Magalong and the City of Baguio for the delay in the rehabilitation and hopes that before the end of August, they will be able to turn it over to the city.

The P400 million TIEZA fund for the rehabilitation of Burnham Park, of which P100 million as Phase 1 is for the lake, began in October 2025, and was expected to be completed on May 26 but was delayed due to adjustments in the project plan.

“I am very confident based on our engineers that this will be completed this August and we will follow with the rehabilitation of the Children Park, Skating Rink and Rose Garden. Mayor Magalong has given us the plans and is currently reviewing them for implementation and is expected to be completed next year,” Lapid said.

Lapid said the agency remains committed to providing continued support with funding for the rehabilitation of parks, not only in the Summer Capital, but also in other areas, to ensure that the historical value of the park is preserved while improving its facilities for residents and tourists.