BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Philippine Atmospheric, Geophysical and Astronomical Services Administration (PAGASA) said the city recorded more than 1,400 millimeters of rainfall from August 1 to 10, an amount equivalent to about a month’s worth of rain. PAGASA Baguio Chief Engr. Larry Esperanza said, the city received a month’s worth of rain after experiencing prolonged torrential rains triggered by tropical storm “Maymay” and enhanced southwest monsoon or “habagat” caused by other weather disturbances. Esperanza said the city’s normal amount of rainfall for the entire month of August is 920.3 millimeters, a threshold established from 1981-2021. This year’s reading is way beyond the normal range and considering that it was just for a ten-day period, he said. PAGASA Administrator Dr. Nathaniel Servando reportedly said that among the areas affected by the weather disturbances, it was Baguio City that received the highest amount of rainfall at 1,413 mm for just nine days from Aug. 1-9. Rainfall is said to be the amount of rain that falls over an area during a certain period. It is measured in millimeters (mm) with 1 mm of rain equal to 1 liter of water per square meter. The amount of rain is measured using weather instruments. The city experienced rains starting Aug. 1 due to tropical depression “Luis.” The rain became severe and relentless in the succeeding days triggered by tropical cyclone “Maymay.” The prolonged rainfall has resulted in flooding, landslides, road closures and other weather-related incidents in the including the fatal landslide incident at Guisad Surong. (By Rose Frejane A.Cruz)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced the possible declaration of a ‘no-build zone’ at ground zero of Barangay Guisad Surong, after severe landslides buried three houses, killing ten people, during the height of the southwest monsoon in Baguio City. According to Magalong, affected residents in this area will not be allowed to return to live or build houses because there are signs of soil instability observed by city engineers. “I had our engineers go to the landslide area and they saw that the soil is too stressed, so it is dangerous to live in. And for the displaced residents, the DSWD promised to first cover the rental support for their relocation and we will also arrange for them to find relocation sites,” Magalong said. It was learned that more than 20 families affected by the Guisad Surong landslide are temporarily staying at the Baguio International Academy. He said they have first banned residents from returning to the area and the city government will temporarily find rental houses for the affected families while working on a permanent relocation site. According to Magalong, DSWD Gatchalian promised that the agency will assume the ₱10,000 monthly rental fee for three to six months, while long-term socialized housing is being arranged. He said he has also coordinated with the concerned agencies, especially the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), to revisit the area for a clean-up drive and assess the area and identify engineering solutions to help prevent similar incidents. Magalong said the Baguio city government continues to lead the local response, coordinating relief operations and working with national government agencies to address the immediate needs of affected families. Magalong previously revealed that there was also a landslide in the area in the 1970s, just next to the area where the deadly landslide struck on Sunday. (By Rose Frejane A. Cruz)  

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) continues to intensify its crime prevention and law enforcement efforts, with recorded declines in several serious offenses. From April 1 to July 22, 2026, crimes of Murder remained at zero incidents, while Rape decreased by 50%, from 14 to seven incidents, and Carnapping of Motor Vehicles declined from three incidents to zero. Robbery and Theft increased during the period. Most incidents occurred in commercial establishments, wherein the private nature of these establishments presents challenges to police presence. Despite the increase, cases were promptly investigated and filed in court. To further strengthen its crime prevention efforts, BCPO implements its Four-Pillar Strategic Framework for Crime Prevention, namely: (1) Law Enforcement Operations; (2) Target Hardening and Technology; (3) Community and Stakeholder Partnerships; and (4) Root-Cause Interventions and Offender Management. The framework also includes data-driven police deployment and anti-crime operations, improved security measures, leveraging technology and monitoring habitual offenders involved in robbery and theft cases for possible intervention under the Panag-aywan Iti Kailyan (PIK) 2.0 Program, in partnership with other agencies that provide skills development and livelihood training opportunities. Further, on July 27, 2026, BCPO convened a meeting with major commercial establishments to strengthen stakeholder coordination, improve security measures and information sharing, to enhance preventive response to property crimes. Col.Ruel D. Tagel, City Director, emphasized that the BCPO remains committed to strengthening data-driven policing, preventive measures, and community partnerships to effectively address emerging crime trends and promote a safer and more secure Baguio City.      

BAGUIO CITY — A total of 184 wanted persons were nabbed in intensified manhunt operations, while 66 drug personalities were arrested in anti-illegal drug operations from April 1 to July 22, 2026, according to a report by the Baguio City Police Office. The accomplishment data was presented by BCPO City Director Police Col. Ruel Tagel during the third quarter joint meeting of the City Peace and Order Council (CPOC) and the City Anti-Drug Abuse Council (CADAC), held on July 28. Tagel attributed the increase to the intensified operations against wanted persons and the continuous efforts of law enforcement units to locate and apprehend individuals with pending warrants, whether inside or outside the city. He said that while the number of most wanted persons arrested decreased compared to last year, the BCPO continues to strengthen intelligence monitoring, target profiling, and coordinated operations to facilitate the capture of priority fugitives. In the anti-drug campaign, Tagel said, the operations resulted in the confiscation of 105.06 grams of shabu with an estimated street value of P752,060.80. Tagel noted that the number of anti-illegal drug operations conducted during that period increased by 18 compared to the same period last year, reflecting the BCPO’s intensified efforts against the illegal drug trade in the city. The campaign also led to the destruction of five marijuana plants, further demonstrating the police’s continued efforts to crack down on the distribution and cultivation of illegal drugs. Tagel explained that the ongoing law enforcement operations have contributed to the increase in non-index crime incidents, as violations of Republic Act No. 9165 or the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act and Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Law are classified as offenses under special laws. The campaign against loose firearms, which reported an increase in operations conducted from 47 to 49, resulted in the recovery, confiscation, or surrender of 49 firearms. Tagel said the increase in the number of firearms removed from circulation reflects the effectiveness of the city’s intensified law enforcement initiatives in reducing the potential use of loose firearms in the commission of crimes. The BCPO continues to strengthen checkpoint operations, intelligence monitoring, and public awareness campaigns to promote responsible gun ownership and ensure compliance with Republic Act No. 10591 or the Comprehensive Firearms and Ammunition Law. Tagel emphasized that the continued implementation of these initiatives is part of the BCPO’s commitment to enhance public safety, maintain peace and order, and prevent criminal activities in Baguio City.      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) Secretary Rex Gatchalian assured those who lost loved ones, were injured, and were homeless due to the landslide that they will be given financial assistance from the government. Gatchalian, along with Mayor Benjamin Magalong, personally visited the landslide area in Barangay Guisad Surong, Baguio City, the evacuation area, those recovering in the hospital and expressed condolences to the families of those who died in the disaster who are lying in state at the Cathedral of the Resurrection, on Tuesday, August 11. According to Gatchalian, the agency provided initial financial assistance to the bereaved families and will cover the funeral expenses of the victims, as well as the hospital expenses of the survivors. For families who cannot safely return to their homes, the DSWD will extend rental assistance for approximately 3 to 6 months while the city government works on long-term relocation and socialized housing options. Relief operations for affected families will continue, with financial assistance, relief support, and psychosocial interventions provided based on their assessed needs. Magalong, meanwhile, said that ground zero of the landslide will be declared a no-build zone following signs of soil instability observed by city engineers. He said the LGU will collaborate with relevant agencies, including the Mines and Geosciences Bureau (MGB) and the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH), to assess the area and identify engineering solutions to help prevent similar incidents. Magalong said the Baguio city government continues to lead the local response, coordinating relief operations and collaborating with national government agencies to address the immediate needs of the affected families. The mayor also expressed his gratitude to Secretary Gatchalian and the DSWD for their prompt response and continued support for the victims. The LGU and DSWD assured the affected families that assistance will continue from immediate relief response to their long-term recovery and relocation.                  

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – City Environment and Parks Management Office has clarified some points raised in news reports and discussions concerning the rehabilitation of the Burnham Lake saying they welcome public opinion and constructive feedback to attain the shared goal of restoring the lake’s health but these should be based on accurate information. CEPMO Head Rhenan Diwas pointed out that the Burnham Lake rehabilitation project cost approximately P100 million and not P400 million as claimed in some discussions. He said that while the city is aware that advanced technologies such as mechanical aeration and filtration systems could further improve water quality, the cost is beyond the city’s means. “These are desirable features, but they also require substantial capital investment and long-term operating and maintenance costs that were beyond the approved project budget,” he said. “Hopefully, these can be considered in future funding opportunities,” he added. He explained that one of the major causes of the lake’s declining water quality over the years has been stormwater runoff carrying silt, mud and solid waste into the lake and this was addressed by the project. “Dredging was ruled out after technical studies indicated it was not advisable.  Instead, the project focused on rehabilitating the lake walls and installing barriers and improved drainage systems to prevent soil and silt from flowing into the lake during heavy rains.  Today, even after heavy rains, we can already observe that muddy runoff and debris no longer flow directly into the lake as they did before—a significant environmental improvement,” he said. He also that Burnham Lake is not a stagnant body of water as the continuous operation of hundreds of pedal boats helps promote water circulation and oxygen exchange albeit these are not a substitute for dedicated aeration systems. To further improve water quality, he said the city plans to introduce more aquatic species that naturally consume algae. It also regularly applies an environment-friendly biotechnology treatment every three months to help maintain clean water while remaining safe for aquatic life. He said that environmental restoration is a long-term process that requires continuous management, monitoring and phased improvements. “The rehabilitation should therefore be viewed not as the end of the process but as an important step toward restoring Burnham Lake’s ecological health,” he said. Diwas also disclosed that as part of a long-term water renewal strategy, the city will construct an underground water impounding facility to be connected to Burnham Lake. He said the plan is part of the P30 million Burnham Skating Rink project which although distinct from the lake rehabilitation, forms part of the overall Burnham Park Master Development Plan. “This demonstrates that the City’s approach goes beyond improving appearances—it also considers the lake’s long-term environmental sustainability,” Diwas said. – Aileen P. Refuerzo  

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government under Mayor Benjamin Magalong has recently been recognized as a Silver Trailblazer Awardee under the Performance Governance System (PGS), affirming its sustained commitment to institutional excellence, innovation and responsive public service. Conferred in partnership with the Institute for Solidarity in Asia, the recognition marks a significant milestone in the city’s governance journey, reflecting its successful implementation of the PGS—a strategic framework designed to translate long-term goals into measurable and sustainable reforms. Since adopting the PGS, the city has steadily advanced through its governance milestones. It completed the development of its Transformation Plan in 2020, successfully passed the Initiation Stage in 2021, and has since progressed to the Compliance Stage, where city offices continue to strengthen the implementation of strategies aligned with Baguio’s vision of efficient and responsive governance. As part of its efforts to institutionalize excellence, the city conducted the PGS Examination from August to November 2025 to assess employees’ understanding of the governance framework while reinforcing a culture of competence and accountability across the local bureaucracy. Five offices achieved a 100 per cent passing rate among first-time examinees: the City Civil Registry Office, City Accounting Office, City Environment and Parks Management Office–Burnham, City Planning, Development, and Sustainability Office, and the City Library. Their achievement reflects a strong commitment to the principles and standards of the Performance Governance System. Meanwhile, 16 offices were recognized for achieving a 100 per cent completion rate among examinees, demonstrating broad participation in the city’s governance improvement program. These are the City Engineering Office, City Environment and Parks Management Office, Sangguniang Panlungsod, City Legal Office, City Human Resource Management Office, City Mayor’s Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, City Assessor’s Office, City Budget Office, City Social Welfare and Development Office, General Services Office, City Treasurer’s Office, City Health Services Office, City Buildings and Architecture Office, City Veterinary and Agriculture Office, and City Administrator’s Office. Magalong said these accomplishments underscore the dedication of Baguio City’s workforce in advancing a culture of excellence and continuous improvement and added that the PGS will remain a key instrument in driving reforms, enhancing public service delivery and ensuring that the city’s long-term development goals are effectively implemented. He also congratulated all participating offices for their commitment and contributions, noting that their achievements strengthen Baguio’s pursuit of innovative, transparent, and service-driven governance.-Gaby B. Keith

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Continuous rains unleashed by Tropical Storm “Maymay” have resulted in several landslides, fallen trees and power outages in the city as of 6 p.m. on August 6, 2026. Mayor Benjamin Magalong who chairs the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (CDRRMC) led an inspection of the affected areas amid the downpour. He cited the vigilance and diligence of barangay officials who continued to conduct inspections and monitoring of their communities to check on the situation, monitor residents’ safety and respond to concerns brought about by the continuous downpour. He also commended the various responders and volunteers who undertook the operations. The city’s Emergency Operations Center and Smart City Command Center (SC3) went on a red alert status in the afternoon as rains pummeled the city, mobilizing all manpower and resources for response operations. In its report on weather-related incidents, the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) under CDRRM Officer Charles Bryan Carame, eight incidents of landslides, soil erosion and rockfall were reported in barangays Pinsao Pilot, San Carlos Heights, Pacdal, Camp 8, Lucnab and Sto. Tomas. Response teams installed protective measures such as tarpaulins, plastic sheeting and caution tape, while other sites were cleared or remain under monitoring. A total of seven families were evacuated due to the effects of the storm. One family composed of four members is staying at the San Luis Evacuation Center while six others are temporarily staying outside the evacuation center. One report of damaged property was recorded in Barangay Dontogan and is under monitoring by barangay officials. The city also responded to 19 incidents involving fallen or leaning trees in different barangays. Most of the affected areas have already been cleared through the efforts of the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO), barangay responders, ARESCOM and the Baguio Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Council (BDRRMC). Several remaining incidents are still under follow-up or awaiting the necessary permits before tree removal. Two flooding incidents were recorded in Kayang Extension and Outlook Drive, Pucsusan. The City Engineering Office carried out preventive measures while the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) cleared the affected area in Outlook Drive. Power and telecommunications interruptions were also reported in several areas, including Dacanay-Marcos Highway, Outlook Ridge, Military Cut-off, BGH Compound, Navy Base, and Marcoville. Utility providers and concerned agencies are conducting follow-up responses to restore affected services. Carame said the CDRRMO will continue to monitor the situation and respond to incidents received through the city’s response hotlines. – Aileen Refuerzo/Jessa Mardy Samidan

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – Sixteen beautiful candidates will compete for Miss Baguio 2026, after being presented during the launching of the 117th Baguio Day Celebration held at the Baguio City Hall Multi-Purpose Hall, on April 3. With the theme “Everlasting Baguio: Cultivating Circularity,” the city government laid out the activities, of which Miss Baguio 2026 is one of the highlights. The Sashing Ceremony of the Miss Baguio 2026 candidates formally introduced the young women who will carry the name and spirit of Baguio and its barangays as they embark on their journey in this year’s search. The candidates include Xyla Reynrose Marh Magno, of Barangay Asin Road; Kyla Murielle Jose, of Barangay Balsigan; Zeira C. Tamayo, of Barangay East Bayan Park; Shanaya Turco, of Barangay Gibraltar; Emerie Lauigan Gumiran, of Barangay Irisan; Corinthe Sophie Mabatan, of Barangay Loakan Proper; Patris Raquel Balajadia, of Barangay Lower Lourdes Subdivision; Charlotte Megan Gosioco, of Barangay Military Cut-Off; Jessa Sumayog San, of Barangay New Lucban; Jennylyn Ramos Bedania, of Barangay North Sanitary Camp; Charlene Gonzales, Barangay Pacdal; Frances Vlynee D. Licayo, of Barangay Pinget; Mikka Soriano, of Barangay San Luis Village; Katrina Sandhu, of Barangay San Vicente; Santo Tomas Proper – Camille Cano, of Barangay Santo Tomas Proper and Daniella Mazen Moustafa, of Barangay South Sanitary Camp. The Gala Night will take place on August 21, while the Country Fashion Show will be on August 30, followed by the Pre-Pageant and the Miss Baguio 2026 Coronation Night on September 5 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center. The City Tourism, Culture and Arts Office (CTCAO) is the designated general coordinator for this year’s Charter Day celebration of Baguio City, based on Executive Order No. 97, series of 2026, signed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong. Some of the major activities in the celebration are the opening of the Arboretum and Charter Day Program Proper on September 1; the Search for Outstanding Citizens of Baguio; the Baguio Country Fair and Baguio Day: Melting Pot of Cultures from August 30 to September 1; Victory Day on September 3; and other additional activities scheduled throughout September. Magalong also encouraged national government agencies, the business sector, private organizations, and other stakeholders to extend their full cooperation and support to ensure the success of the 2026 Baguio Charter Day celebration.