BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Every February, when the mountain air of Baguio turns crisper and the city seems to breathe in unison, flowers begin to speak. They bloom not only in gardens and parks but in streets, schools, marketplaces, and hearts. This is Panagbenga, the Baguio Flower Festival, a celebration that grew from resilience, flourished through community spirit, and became one of the country’s most cherished cultural traditions. The story of Panagbenga began in 1995, at a time when Baguio was still healing from the devastation of the 1990 Luzon earthquake. From this period of recovery came an idea both simple and powerful: to hold a flower festival that would honor the city’s environment, culture, and people. Atty. Damaso E. Bangaoet Jr. presented the proposal to the John Hay Poro Point Development Corporation (JPDC), then managing Camp John Hay. With the support of the Base Conversion Development Authority and the immediate approval of its leadership, the plan took root. February was chosen as the month of celebration, a fitting season for renewal. When the first Baguio Flower Festival was held in 1996, it was fittingly billed “The Birth of a Tradition.” What began as an initiative quickly became a movement. Volunteers, city officials, artists, teachers, students, business owners, and civic groups all stepped forward. The people wanted a festival of their own, one that was unmistakably Baguio in spirit, color, and character. With the full support of city leaders—Mayor Mauricio Domogan, Representative Bernardo Vergara, and the City Council—the festival unfolded smoothly, its success carried by cooperation and shared pride. Over nine days, Baguio came alive with activities: a floral parade, street dancing, garden shows, cultural performances, competitions, and community-wide beautification efforts. Panagbenga had found its rhythm. Children danced along parade routes dressed as flowers of every shape and hue. Businesses created flower-inspired products. Civic organizations provided manpower and logistics. New traditions were born alongside it. “Let a Thousand Flowers Bloom” invited people from all walks of life, artists, children, families, and even tourists to paint flowers that would later transform city walls into open-air galleries. “Session Road in Bloom” closed Baguio’s most famous street to traffic, turning it into a promenade of flower carts, sidewalk cafés, music, and laughter. Art, fashion, and heritage converged in events that highlighted indigenous weaving, local creativity, and the city’s evolving identity. By 1998, Panagbenga had matured. Community involvement deepened, and participation expanded across sectors. Burnham Lake, envisioned by city planner Daniel Burnham as Baguio’s heart, became the stage for a fluvial parade and boating competitions. Horses, a long part of the city’s character, took center stage during Pony Boys’ Day, where riders dressed as knights, cowboys, Katipuneros, and tribal figures paraded and competed, blending history with spectacle. Food, too, became part of the celebration. The Baguio Association of Restaurants hosted a food festival, adding flavor to the already rich sensory experience. Drum and bugle corps filled the air with music, while schools brought the festival into classrooms and campuses through academic, artistic, and environmental activities. In these efforts, Panagbenga planted itself firmly in the consciousness of the youth, ensuring its continuity. As the festival grew, so did the understanding that its greatest strength lay not in any single event but in the collective spirit that sustained it. This came to be known as the Panagbenga Spirit—a sense of oneness born from shared purpose. Government agencies provided structure and support, much like a trellis guiding a garden’s growth. Each year, Panagbenga closes with rituals rich in symbolism, flags lowered and entrusted for safekeeping, petals falling from the sky, candles lit against twilight, fireworks bursting through the rain. These moments do not signal an ending but a promise: that the season of blossoming will return. Today, Panagbenga endures because it lives where traditions truly survive, in the hearts and minds of the people. Born from shared history, shaped by collective effort, and sustained by community spirit, it remains a celebration not only of flowers but of who the people of Baguio are and who they aspire to be. In every bloom, every dance step, and every helping hand, Panagbenga continues to say what words alone cannot: this is a city that flowers together. (Danielyn Abela, PIO-DMMMSU Intern)    

CAMP JOHN HAY, Baguio City, Philippines — In line with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for inclusive and people-centered governance, the Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) has granted the Supreme Court of the Philippines usufructuary rights over a 10,000-square-meter property in Camp John Hay for the construction of a Hall of Justice serving Baguio City and nearby areas in Northern Luzon. The project will establish a centralized, purpose-built judicial complex aimed at improving court efficiency, reducing case congestion, and bringing justice services closer to communities outside Metro Manila. For BCDA, the initiative shows how state land can be strategically activated to strengthen governance and uphold the rule of law. BCDA President and CEO Joshua M. Bingcang said the agreement reflects institutional trust and a shared responsibility to deliver essential public services. “This grant is a conscious act of trust between institutions committed to serving the Filipino people,” Bingcang said. “We are confident this land will give rise to a Hall of Justice that stands for fairness, integrity, and the rule of law.” Court Administrator Ma. Theresa Dolores Gomez-Estoesta said the development is a significant step toward strengthening judicial presence and service delivery in the region, particularly in fast-growing urban centers. “[Their] continued support and cooperation are essential to ensure that the use of government lands is lawful, responsible, and beneficial to the public,” she added. The signing was attended by Chief Justice Alexander G. Gesmundo, Senior Associate Justice Marvic M.V.F. Leonen, and members of the Supreme Court. BCDA Chairperson Larry B. Paredes served as witness, underscoring the shared commitment to strengthening the country’s justice system. The project supports the Marcos administration’s broader agenda to expand access to justice, improve government service delivery, and ensure that public institutions work more efficiently and equitably for Filipinos, particularly in the regions.  

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) declared that the camp remains safe for visitors claiming that the January 16 traffic road crash that claimed the life of a 69-year-old senior citizen and injuring six others is an isolated case. JHMC president Manjit Singh Reandi said that the administration is currently assessing the overall situation of the camp to identify areas where the necessary adjustments could be introduced to sustain the overall safety and security of the people visiting the different areas of the former American rest and recreation center. Among the areas in the camp being currently assessed are the sidewalks, railings, facilities, and pedestrians to ascertain which areas need improvements or adjustments. The JHMC official claimed that the corporation will widen identified critical walkways and sidewalks, install additional railings in critical areas around the camp, put in place or adjust pedestrian lanes for the safety and convenience of residents and visitors frequenting the different facilities of the camp. Reandi pointed out that the road crash opened the doors for JHMC to work on some possible improvements in the camp that will contribute in enhancing the safety and security of the people visiting the different sites. At the same time, the JHMC is also closely working with the management of the Cordillera Basic Sectors Transport Cooperative (CBSTC), the operator of the electric vehicles plying the John Hay loop, to ensure the road worthiness of the vehicles being used to ferry people around the camp. Reandi explained that the JHMC is also closely looking at the fit to work condition of the drivers of the electric vehicles to check on their mental and physical conditions to prevent the occurrence of similar incidents in the future that might compromise the overall safety and security of passengers and pedestrians. Further, JHMC will also make sure that the operator will have the necessary insurance coverage for the electric vehicles and the passengers aside from making sure that their operation will be covered by the relevant permits from the regulatory agencies such as the Land Transportation Office and the Land Transportation Franchising Regulatory Board (LTFRB). According to him, JHMC has been consistent in closely monitoring the road worthiness of the electric vehicles being used in the free John Hay loop ride that is why the corporation also granted a space inside the camp that will serve as an office of the operator to ensure appropriate coordination and immediate action whenever there will be problems that may arise such as what happened in the recent incident. On the other hand, Reandi stipulated that JHMC officials had already reached out to the families of the fatality and the injured individuals right after the incident and that the corporation had already extended financial assistance to the bereaved family of the deceased senior citizen while it is also working out the appropriate aid for the injured individuals. He asserted that it is still business as usual inside the camp amidst the traffic incident as JHMC remains on top of the situation with the immediate response done by the corporation’s emergency response team who were right in the midst of the action within one minute after it was reported to the management. Meanwhile, The city government provided assistance to the victims of the road accident along Scout Hill, Camp John Hay last January 16, 2026 where one woman died and four others injured. Mayor Benjamin Magalong ensured that all appropriate assistance will be extended to the victims through the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWD) and the City Health Services Office (CHSO). The Baguio City Police Office through the Traffic Enforcement Unit (TEU) is still investigating the cause of the accident even as documents are being prepared for inquest proceedings. The bus driver was arrested by responding authorities. Initial report of the BCPO said the incident happened at around 3:20 p.m. and was reported to authorities at about 4:30 p.m. involving a Bases Conversion Development Authority (BCDA) electric bus driven by a 52-year-old man from Itogon, Benguet. Initial investigation showed that the bus was ascending Scout Hill Road when, for still unknown reasons, it swerved to the left side of the road and hit five women who were along the area. The bus then continued forward and eventually ditched on the roadside slope. One of the victims was declared dead on the spot by responding Emergency Medical Service (EMS), while the four other women sustained injuries. The injured victims were given first aid and rushed to a hospital for further treatment. (Baguio PIO)    

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – “Ang serbisyo publiko ay hindi dapat transaksyon, at ang pamumuno ay hindi dapat nakabatay sa personal na utang.” In a social media post, Mayor Benjamin Magalong said that for genuine change to last, the current system must be changed to prevent the asking of favors from politicians in exchange for votes. “Panahon na ring wakasan ang kultura ng padrino at utang na loob. Ang pamahalaan ay dapat gumana sa malinaw na patakaran, pantay na serbisyo, at pananagutan: hindi sa palakasan,” he said. Magalong pointed out that good governance starts when government institutions are strong, and processes are clear. “Ang tunay na reporma ay nagsisimula sa pagbabago ng sistema, hindi sa pansariling pabor,” he stressed. “CONVICTION, INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT NEEDED TO SERVE EFFECTIVELY” “In public service, true leadership requires unwavering faith not only in God but in the purpose of serving the people.” Thus, declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong in a social media post, as he pointed out that just as the wind tosses a wave, a leader who doubts can be easily swayed by challenges, criticism, or uncertainty. He said that to serve effectively, “one must act with conviction, integrity, and steadfast commitment, trusting that sincere intentions and faithful actions will guide positive change.” “Let us, therefore, approach every decision and responsibility with faith, clarity, and courage, anchored in service to the community and the common good,” the Mayor stressed. (Gaby B. Keith)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The Palafox Associates architectural firm, the winning bidder to prepare the Dominican Hill Heritage Site redevelopment plan, has finished and presented their output in a final public consultation held Jan. 20, 2026 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center. The public consultation was open to the public, stakeholders, heritage advocates, professionals and other interested individuals while it was also broadcast via social media livestream to reach a wider audience ensuring an inclusive decision-making in the adaptive reuse of the 3.2-hectare city government’s property. The Palafox team led by Heritage Conservation Specialist Architect Joel V. Rico have presented a comprehensive Conservation Management Plan (CMP) for the century-old Dominican Hill Heritage Site project focused on the preservation and adaptive reuse while promoting sustainable development aligned with the 2021 Guidelines for Cultural Properties. Key features of the CMP include the retention of the original facade and the additional modern elements such as the following: Crystal Gazebo inspired by Fr. Roque Ruano’s original design – paying homage to the retreat house’s historical intent; Skylighted Portico – designed to enhance natural daylight and reducing the need for artificial lighting; Spiral Staircase replacing the semi-circular staircase while adding a Scenic Elevator for persons with disability accessibility; and a Patio and Garden in the Atrium. The design aims to enhance the structure’s aesthetic and functional appeal while integrating it into the surrounding landscape. Adaptive reuse of the building prioritizes state-of-the art galleries to serve as a Creative Hub for local artists considering that Baguio City is a designated UNESCO Creative City for crafts and folk arts. Multipurpose halls and a historical wall will also be integrated with an industrial design. Additionally, a proposed restaurant will be incorporated serving as a commercial component to generate income for site maintenance and heritage conservation. Outside the building, a hillside amphitheater will be weaved into the existing landscape; at least two Cantilever view decks will be integrated without cutting existing mature trees; a sound garden or meditation zone; a deck/frontage expansion; adaptive reuse restaurant; a picnic and botanical garden; adaptive reuse of the 10 commandments building; an outdoor gallery and donor’s wall; and pedestrianized pathways. “The property offers only about 30% of its area as buildable land, due to slopes being less than 18%, which complicates the planning process. Furthermore, the buildable area is encircled by lush vegetation and mature trees, protected under the Baguio Environmental Code, preventing any tree removal,” the team stated. To address the site’s parking requirements, the team identified a nearby open-space approximately 250 meters from the main gate – that currently functions as a ground parking area. Said space can be redeveloped into a mixed-use parking facility that includes a ticketing area, administration office, and commercial components. The team recommends the implementation of a park and walk setting to minimize vehicular traffic and reduce carbon emissions within the property. Also, the inclusion of a Hop-On, Hop-Off shuttle service is proposed to facilitate seamless access for commuters and visitors. For Persons with Disabilities, the team proposes the installation of a hill hiker system similar to a funicular. The system would transport PWDs from the base of the Dominican Hill to the property located at the top. During the final public consultation, traffic and garbage management were pointed out, and the team assured that these are all part of the business plan component of the CMP. In the study, a carrying capacity of 200 persons at a time inside the building was calculated, and 2,000 individuals outside. The Dominican Hill Heritage Site, located in Barangay Dominican-Mirado,r is recognized as a Grade 2 level heritage property under the internal rules and regulations of RA10066, which covers Important Cultural Properties, Natural Properties of Cultural Significance, Declared Archeological Sites, Heritage Trees, Heritage Zones, Marked Structures, and Gabaldon School Buildings. In 2022, the National Commission on Culture and the Arts (NCCA) secured a 15 million pesos national grant for the Detailed Architectural and Engineering Design Service (DEADS) and the development of the CMP. Historical and cultural significance were the major considerations in the preparation of the CMP, as well as a series of technical workshops and consultations with stakeholders. The team projected a probable project construction cost of more than P800 million to P1 billion for the conservation and adaptive reuse of the Dominican Hill Heritage Site, at par with Green Building Certification Standards. – Jessa Mardy Samidan  

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Jaime Raphael Feliciano, Chief Business Development Officer of Megawide Construction Corporation signed the lease agreement for the Baguio City Integrated Terminal Project, the city’s first project implemented under the Private-Public Partnership (PPP) scheme, on January 21. The signing ended years of obstruction in the complex steps of the PPP process that began in 2020. PPP Center Executive Director Undersecretary Rizza Blanco-Latorre attended the event and congratulated the city for the successful project and acknowledged the amount of effort put in by both parties in the endeavor. Feliciano assured that they came up with a “very fair contract” considering the “rigorous and transparent process” they went through with both the executive and legislative branches of the city government. “We had to go through the eye of a needle. But because of that, we were able to come up with a contract that was very fair,” he said. He assured that they will fulfill all their obligations and build a “world-class intermodal terminal” like they have done in their quality PPP projects nationwide including the Parañaque Integrated Terminal Exchange (PITX) and the Clark International Airport. “Because Baguio is special to us and to most Filipinos, we promise to fulfill all obligations and more, in the times to come,” he said. “Megawide in partnership with the Baguio City Government aims to strategically build an intermodal terminal to help decongest the central business district (CBD). The goal is to offer an enhanced passenger experience by providing a first-world transport facility that can integrate multiple modes of transportation,” Megawide said. The BCIT project is one of the city’s major projects under the PPP program, to be built in Barangay Dontogan along Marcos Highway, which will serve as a passenger transfer terminal for provincial buses coming from outside Baguio to serve as a passenger transfer terminal to various modes of transportation to the city. They specifically aim to “consolidate provincial buses, UVs, modern jeepneys and taxis, offer better passenger facilities with comfortable and spacious waiting areas, provide quality facilities for transportation operators and develop an iconic structure that reflects the culture and heritage of Baguio.” The modern terminal is expected to provide travel conveniences (comfortable seats, waiting areas and boarding gates), passenger info displays/kiosks, ticket booths, customer service, baggage/luggage trolleys, food and retail offerings, free wifi, park and ride options); safety features and facilities for the disabled (24-hour safety and security system, ramps for the mentally challenged, elevators, etc., first aid provisions, breastfeeding stations for nursing mothers, standby police units and designated areas for massage services for the visually impaired); Multiple modes of transportation to various destinations (bus, UV, traditional and modern jeepneys and taxis) Other features are to the benefit of operators, in terms of lower operating costs and overhead costs (available space for minor repairs and cleaning, no need for separate ticketing facilities, no need for separate drivers’ lounge and canteen, no dead run due to the presence of a staging area, and the presence of EV charging facilities) Revenue is also seen to increase due to data-driven passenger management ensuring that transport demand matches supply. For the city government, revenue is expected to increase through rental payments, revenue share, property taxes, and businesses that generate contributions to business permits and taxes. The lease will last for 40 years, after which all project-related assets will be transferred to the city. The company has assured that city residents will be given priority employment for both construction and management. The project has an estimated cost of P1,186,000,000. – Aileen P. Refuerzo

Public urged to practice basic health protocols   BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The City Health Services Office (CHSO) urged both residents and tourists to continue practicing basic health protocols to prevent them from either contracting or passing on to others transmissible illnesses that might compromise their health. Dr. Donabel Tubera-Panes of the CHSO epidemiology and surveillance unit advised people who are not feeling well to voluntarily wear a face mask, practice regular handwashing and sanitation and more importantly, seek medical attention from the nearest health facility for proper diagnosis. The medical officer made the pronouncement after confirming that the city had around 18 cases of the so-called ‘super flu’, with the first case detected on October 15, 2025. Panes reports that most of those who contracted ‘super flu’ are children, comprising 66 percent of those afflicted and that most of them are females, primarily because of their health-seeking behavior. However, she said that all the 18 recorded ‘super flu’ cases in the city have already recovered from the cold day illness. She further advised that it is important for people to observe a healthy lifestyle by taking in nutritious foods to strengthen their immune system and avoid contracting illnesses that might affect their daily routine. For her part, City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes reminded people to shift their eating habits by avoiding fatty foods which might affect their overall health. She pointed out that a healthy lifestyle and good nutrition should be the guidepost of people in choosing their food with more vegetables, fruits and white meat instead of the usual red meat. Brillantes also reminded people to have themselves vaccinated with the available anti-flu vaccines for them to have an added layer of protection from the flu virus during the cold season for them to stay healthy and be productive. (Baguio-PIO)      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Social Security System (SSS) has appointed Normita M. Cruz as Vice President for the Luzon North 1 Division effective January 8, 2026. With over 40 years of service in branch operations, VP Cruz, who was the former head of SSS Angeles Branch, will oversee SSS offices in Laoag, Vigan, Candon, Bangued, Bontoc, La Trinidad, Baguio, Agoo, and La Union (San Fernando). Her leadership is expected to further improve service delivery, strengthen branch coordination, and enhance access to SSS programs and benefits for over 700,000 members and more than 33,000 employers across Northern Luzon. Ms. Cruz replaces Officer-in-Charge Ms. Nancy M. Umoso, who served in the division for 11 months. With the change in leadership, Umoso will revert to her former post as Branch Head III of the SSS Baguio Branch.