Pinulong ni Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) Chairperson Gladys Vergara, ang mga Burnham Boat Concessionaires at Burnham Photographers sa Visitor Information Center, Rose Garden, upang pag-usapan ang kanilang mga alalahanin hinggil sa nalalapit na Burnham Park Development.
Key Discussions:
Burnham Park Development – Vergara attentively listened to the concerns of concessionaires and photographers regarding how the planned improvements might affect their businesses, particularly in terms of changes to the park layout, operations, and accessibility. She assured them that their roles in the park’s tourism sector would be carefully considered in the planning process.
Impact of New Innovations – The rise of photo booths and instant photography services, especially during festivals and major events, has posed a challenge to traditional Burnham photographers. They expressed how this technological shift affects their income, as tourists now have more convenient and cost-effective alternatives for souvenir photos.
Sustaining Traditional Services – Vergara underscored the importance of preserving cultural and traditional services that have long been a part of Baguio’s tourism identity. She encouraged concessionaires and photographers to adapt to changing trends while maintaining the distinct charm and personal touch that set them apart from modern services.
Possible Interventions and Support – Vergara assured stakeholders that the BTC will explore possible programs to assist the affected sectors. These initiatives may include skills training, marketing strategies, and potential collaborations to ensure they remain competitive in a rapidly evolving tourism landscape.
“Ang mga taong nagbibigay ng mga tradisyunal na serbisyong ito ay matagal nang naging mahalaga sa Burnham Park,” sabi ni Vergara.
“Habang sumusulong tayo sa modernisasyon, dapat din nating tiyakin na ang mga kabuhayang ito ay hindi maiiwan ngunit instea suportado sa mga paraan na nagpapahintulot sa kanila na umunlad sa isang nagbabagong kapaligiran ng turismo.”
Ang pagpupulong ay nagsilbing daan para sa bukas na diyalogo, na muling pinagtitibay ang pangako ng BTC sa pagtiyak na ang mga tinig ng tradisyonal na service provider ng Burnham Park ay maririnig habang ang Baguio ay patuloy na ginagawang moderno ang mga handog nito sa turismo.
