BAGUIO CITY – Sixty Boy and Girl Scout Officials for a Day (SOFAD) takeover city hall and other offices after the regular Monday flag raising ceremonies in Baguio City, on Monday, Oct. 26 The designation of the boy and girl scouts is embodied in Executive Order 162, series of 2026 issued by Mayor Benjamin Magalong provides them “opportunity to have hands-on training and experience in the day-to-day activities of public servants.” It is also a way to “hone their knowledge and skills to become responsible members of the community and shape them …. into becoming our future leaders,” the EO states. The announcement and list of SOFAD came from the Office of Girl Scouts of the Philippines, Baguio Chapter Executive Jennifer Bugtong which calendared the examinations and interview, Sept. 26; one-on-one interview at the Department of Education Schools Division Office, Oct. 1; observation of Sangguniang Panlungsod processings Oct. 12 and 19; and orientation and mock session for the Scout Vice-Mayor and Councilors, Oct. 16. Scout Mhissy Louiza Ilarde of the University of Baguio Science High School (UBSHS) unseats Mayor Benjamin Magalong for a day as top executive of the city, while Scout Jehannes Louisber Cabajel of Baguio City High School takes over the office of Vice-Mayor Faustino Olowan. Scout Arielle Fernandez of the University of Baguio High School (UBHS) takes care of the council committee of Councilor Edison Bilog; Scout Flynn Trevour Daculog (UBSHS) for Councilor Joel Alangsab, Scout Princess Alleyah Baulo (BCHS) for Councilor Jose Molintas, Scout Prince Xandrex Seridon (UBHS) for Councilor Leandro Yangot, Jr., Scout Brianna Sophia Sabalbro (BCHS) for Councilor Vladimir Cayabas, Scout Shandric Guinto of the Don Bosco School of Baguio, Inc.(DBSBI), for Councilor Peter Fianza; Scout Princess Charm Jeruz of Irisan National High School (INHS) takes over the office of Couuncilor Van Oliver Dicang, Scout John Jorel Gabriel (UBSHS) for Councilor Fred Bagbagen, Scout Angel May Saltat (INHS) for Councilor Paolo Raynor Salvosa, Scout Charles Aldrich Moreno (UBHS) for Councilor Betty Lourdes Tabanda, Scout Ashley Gail Ramos (UBHS) for Councilor Yuri Weygan, Scout Michael Derrick Cabato (UBSHS) for Councilor Elmer Datuin, Scout Ariane Leizel Mendoza of Fort Del Pilar National High School (FDPNHS) for Councilor Rocky Aliping, Scout Sydney Danelle Estranero (BCHS) for Councilor John Rhey Mananeng, Scout Rhean dela Paz (DBSBI) for Councilor Maximo Edwin, Jr.; Scout Myra Ezra Pae (BCHS) takes over the responsibilities of City Accountant Fredda Jimenez, Ma. Cassandra Gorospe of Pines City National High School (PCNHS) is Scout City Administrator, vice City Administrator Vittorio Jerico Cawis, Kyle Henry Matteo Carino (UBSHS) is Scout City Assessor for a day, vice City Assessor Normita Ramon, Scout Zamira Ibanes Cayabas (DBSBI) stands in for City Budget Officer Atty. Letty Clemente, Adriane James Prestosa (BCNSHS) unseats Arch. Johnny Degay as City Building Officer, for a day; Pricess Jhilliane Boldoken (INHS) is Scout City Engineer vice Engr. Richard Benjamin Lardizabal, Jordan Padchico (INHS) is Scout City Environment and Parks Management Office head vice Atty. Rhenan Diwas, Zarah Nishrine Caloscos of San Vicente National High School (SVNHS) is Scout City General Services Office head vice Ma. Guadalupe Della; Ron Eleli Caaya (DBSBI) is Scout City Health Services Office head vice Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, Ruth Lyn Aclayan (SVNHS) is Scout City Human Resources and Management Office head vice Atty. Agustin Laban III, Stefano Morven Moreno (UBHS) is Scout City Secretary vice Atty. Brenner Bengwayan, Zaira Alexa Ganio of Elpidio Quirino Elementary School is Scout City Legal Officer vice Atty. Althea Rosanna Alberto, and Justien Angello Tabuzo (BCNHS) takes over the duties and responsibilities of Executive Assistant V Samantha Jean Hamada. For the department heads, Scout Brianne Kahli Agustin from Quezon Hill Elementary School replaces City Planning, Sustainability and Development Officer Arch. Donna Rillera-Tabangin; Chad Lyrech Madume from Elpidio Quirino Elementary School (EQES) is Scout City Civil Registrar vice Allan Abayao; Scout Stacia Aria Battad from St. Louis University BEDS-LEDS unseats City Tourism Officer Aloysius Mapalo; Scout Ian Jace Botis of UBLES replaces State Auditor Melanie Cuilan for a day. Caitlin Tiffani Alcantara (SLU BEDS-LEDS) is Scout City Social Welfare and Development Office head vice Liza Bulayungan; Scout Carl Jacob Gacadan from Gibraltar Elementary School replaces City Treasurer Alex Cabarrubias for a day; Scout Ma. Philomena Ayala (SLU BEDS-LEDS) shall be  City Veterinarian vice Dr. Silardo Bested; Scout Jansen Peter Agtulao (EQES) takes the seat of Schools Division Superintendent (SDS) Soraya  Faculo, Ph D., for a day; Scout Gabrielle Cherisse Garcia (SLU BEDS-LEDS) replaces Jimmicio Daoaten as Regional Director of the Department of Information and Technology (DITC-CAR); Scout Jessmarc Sagario (EQES) stands in for Enrique Gascon, Jr. as Regional Director of the Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD-CAR); Scout Mary Louis de Mesa (SLU BEDS-LEDS) is Regional Director of the Department of Health-CAR vice Dr. Amelita Pangilinan; Scout Neil Habiatan of Pinget Elementary School replaces Glenn Murphy as Provincial Director of the Technical Education and Skills Development (TESDA) for a day; Scout Avril Diwag of Adiwang Integrated School replaces Jovita Ganongan as Regional Director of the Department of Tourism – CAR; Raphael Amiel Phitaka of Baguio City Special Education Center is Scout Regional Director of the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE-CAR) vice Atty. Erwin Aquino; and Scout Danica Dane Villalon (EQES) unseats Atty. Shiela Enciso as Regional Director of the Department of Agrarian Reform (DAR– CAR), for a day. Scout Francis Charles Cardenas of San Vicente Elementary School (SVES) replaces Engr. Paquito Moreno, Jr. as Regional Director Department of Envirnment and Natural Resources (DENR-CAR); Scout Preciouse Jewel Daligdig of Quezon Hill Elementary School (QHES) replaces Apollo Edwin Pagano as Regional Director of the Department of Economy, Planning and Development (DEPD-CAR), Scout Ryceb Gates Bayang of Mabini Elementary School unseats Engr. Lalaine Sobremonte as Regional Director of the Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTr-CAR) for a day. Scout Christienne Louise Lozares (UBLES) replaces Atty. Raymond Panhon as Regional Director of the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI-CAR); Scout Zaiber Klint Bangcawayan of Gibraltar ES replaces Atty. Jennilyn Dawayan as Regional Director of the Department

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The proposed budget of the City Government of Baguio for 2027 rises by 13% to P4.143 billion, or P492.02 million higher than the P3.652-billion budget for 2026. The proposed Local Expenditure Program (LEP) with a total amount of P4,143,610,299 was submitted by Mayor Benjamin Magalong to the Baguio City Council on September 23, 2026 and is set for legislative review and approval. The increase will fund the operational requirements of city offices and various programs and projects, with Economic Services receiving the largest sectoral allocation at P1.627 billion or 39.25% of the proposed budget. General Public Services follows with P1.465 billion or 35.34%, while Social Services gets P838.85 million or 20.24%. Other Services accounts for P213.7 million or 5.16%. Among the offices receiving the largest appropriations are the City General Services Office with P527.982 million, City Health Services Office with P429.952 million, City Engineering Office with P269.249 million, City Social Welfare and Development Office with P215.155 million, and City Environment and Parks Management Office with P204.312 million. The proposed LEP includes increased funding for several social and public service programs. Allowances for city-paid Barangay Health Workers and Barangay Nutrition Scholars are proposed to increase from P5,000 to P6,000. The Baguio College Education Financial Assistance Grant (BCEFAG) is proposed to increase from P19 million to P24 million, while the youth meals program increases from P2.5 million to P3 million. Assistance to Individuals in Crisis Situations (AICS) is also proposed to increase from P25.342 million to P27.980 million. A P1,000 monthly local senior pension is also proposed for 700 eligible beneficiaries, with P8.729 million allocated pursuant to Ordinance 104-2025. For health and education, P67.98 million is proposed for mobile laboratories and pilot district health centers in Aurora Hill and Irisan, while P27 million is allocated for the construction, rehabilitation, or completion of four school buildings. The proposed budget also includes P65 million for 10 dump trucks to augment the city’s waste collection fleet. For environmental and sanitation programs, an estimated P150 million from sanitation and environmental user fee collections is earmarked for the rehabilitation of the Baguio Sewerage Treatment Plant. Another P21.6 million is included under the Development Fund for sewer lines and sewerage projects. Disaster preparedness measures include P30 million for a citywide integrated geohazard, geological, geotechnical, and hydrological assessment and mapping; P27 million for the updating of the Community-Based Monitoring System; P10.380 million for road development, road networks, and drainage rehabilitation; and P6.6 million for Project the Strategic and Integrated Risk Emergency Notification Systems (SIRENS) in Baguio City. The proposed LEP allocates P1.301 billion for Personal Services, P1.745 billion for Maintenance and Other Operating Expenses, P519.543 million for Capital Outlay, P364.346 million for the Development Fund, and P213.7 million for the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Fund (DRRMF). Personnel measures include the implementation of the fourth and final tranche of the Salary Standardization Law VI, the upgrading of 114 drivers to Salary Grade 4 and 60 traffic aides from Salary Grade 3 to Salary Grade 5, and the conversion of 45 Revenue Collection Clerks from job order to casual status. Alongside the LEP, the City Council will also consider the proposed 2027 Annual Investment Program (AIP), which identifies P94.075 billion in total resource requirements for the city’s programs, projects, and activities. Adopted by the City Development Council (CDC) through Resolution No. 2026-11, Series of 2026, the AIP includes the annual capital and regular operating requirements of the city as well as projects under the Local Development Investment Program and Comprehensive Development Plan. The P94.075-billion AIP includes P3.668 billion for LGU and department requirements, P717.924 million for development projects, P213.7 million for the DRRM Fund, P134.71 million for the Special Education Fund, P232.161 million for the Special Health Fund, P260.9 million for non-office requirements, and P190.7 million for other economic services projects. However, a large portion of the AIP consists of projects requiring funding beyond the regular city expenditure program. It identifies P41.596 billion in priority projects for fund sourcing and P47.061 billion in projects endorsed to the Regional Development Council. The AIP was transmitted to the Baguio City Council on September 18, 2026 and is scheduled for inclusion in the regular session agenda on October 12 , 2026, while the LEP is scheduled for the regular session October 26, 2026. Plenary deliberations on the proposed AIP and LEP are tentatively scheduled for November 5-6, 2026 when concerned city offices and agencies will present and clarify their proposed appropriations before the Baguio City Council. Both the 2027 AIP and LEP remain subject to review and approval by the Baguio City Council. (Jordan G. Habbiling)    

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) are working together to address concerns over the warping of the newly installed decks and other deficiencies at Burnham Lake, assuring the public that corrective measures are being undertaken to improve the facility’s safety, stability and durability. The city government, through the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO), is closely coordinating with the contractor to correct the problem and ensure that the project meets the required quality standards before it is accepted by the city. CEPMO Head Atty. Rhenan Diwas said some portions of the deck, including those shown in photographs circulating online, developed warping under actual site conditions with Baguio’s changing weather and the heavy volume of pedestrian traffic identified as possible contributing factors. The issue prompted the project implementers to review the installation method, inspect similar projects and explore alternative solutions to improve the decking’s performance under local conditions. Following technical discussions and further assessment, a corrective installation method different from the manufacturer’s original procedure was adopted to improve the decks’ stability and durability. The corrective works are being undertaken section by section to minimize inconvenience and allow the public to continue using Burnham Lake while the necessary improvements are being made. CEPMO clarified that the affected walkway sections, including those shown in photographs circulating online, are among the portions being corrected by the contractor. The corrective measures entail additional expenses, but the contractor has committed to shoulder the costs, with no additional expense to TIEZA or the city government. Diwas stressed that TIEZA and the City Government will not accept the project until it is satisfied that the workmanship meets the required standards and that the facility is safe for public use. The city government and TIEZA recognize the public’s concerns and understand the disappointment over the condition of a newly improved public facility. They are appealing for the public’s patience and understanding while the corrective works are ongoing. Diwas said both the city and TIEZA are committed to addressing the issues head-on rather than allowing the problem to result in recurring maintenance issues in the future. He thanked the public for their continued vigilance, saying public feedback helps ensure that government-funded facilities are properly implemented, maintained and made fit for long-term public use. – Aileen P. Refuerzo        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Local climate action is gaining ground across Baguio’s barangays, with communities implementing environmental programs and several barangays formulating Local Climate Change Action Plans (LCCAPs), according to a legislative monitoring report on Resolution 259-2011. The resolution called on the City Government and the city’s 128 barangays to formulate and implement local climate change action plans to guide measures for climate change adaptation and mitigation. Prepared by the Baguio City Council’s Legislative Monitoring and Evaluation Section, the monitoring report found that the resolution was complied with, while participating barangays recommended stronger coordination, monitoring, capacity-building, resource allocation, and community participation to further improve implementation. Among the climate-related initiatives reported by Burnham-Legarda Barangay are regular cleaning and clearing of waterways, tree planting, composting and information campaigns, recycling and other circular economy practices, community gardening, rainwater harvesting, and water conservation. The barangay also reported the enactment of local measures supporting climate change mitigation and adaptation, the strengthening of barangay committees and councils, and the allocation of funds for climate-related programs, projects and activities. Imelda Village Barangay noted that climate change remains relevant to Baguio as the city continues to face flooding, landslides, water shortages, and environmental degradation. It reported that different city offices and barangays are implementing climate-related programs, but these are not always coordinated under one plan. The barangay also observed inconsistent reporting of activities such as tree planting, waste segregation, drainage cleaning and disaster preparedness, as well as the need for more training and technical assistance for barangay officials in preparing and monitoring climate action plans. Several barangays submitted their LCCAPs as part of the monitoring. These included Campo Filipino, Padre Burgos, Middle Rock Quarry, Sto. Niño Slaughter, and Quezon Hill Proper. Padre Burgos also submitted resolutions adopting disaster risk reduction and climate change adaptation measures into its policies, programs, and activities and approving its 2026 LCCAP. City Camp Central Barangay submitted its Barangay Ecological Solid Waste Management Plan for 2026 to 2028. Gibraltar Barangay likewise reported continuing environmental activities such as tree planting, community cleanups, urban gardening, solid waste management, and creek and waterway cleaning. It recommended additional financial support, tools and equipment, regular training and capacity-building, and incentives or recognition to encourage community participation. The barangay also proposed establishing task forces at the city’s major entry points to remind visitors to properly dispose of their waste or bring it home. Based on the barangays’ recommendations, the monitoring report called for a standardized reporting and monitoring system for climate initiatives, regular training and technical assistance, stronger coordination between the City Government and barangays, and the integration of climate-related programs into barangay development plans. The recommendations also include adequate or dedicated funding, financial and logistical support, stronger community participation through information and education campaigns and recognition programs, and regular assessment to identify good practices and areas for improvement. A proposed resolution incorporating the recommendations was attached to the monitoring report for consideration by the Baguio City Council. (By Jordan G. Habbiling)        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government is stepping up water conservation and preparedness measures under its October 2026 El Niño Continuity Action Plan as the city enters the orange phase, focusing on managing water demand, protecting water sources, reducing losses and preparing for a possible red-phase escalation. The plan outlines 12 key actions involving various city government offices and partner agencies to help ensure adequate water supply and prepare critical facilities and vulnerable sectors for possible worsening conditions. Among the priority measures is the implementation of a coordinated public information campaign, including daily water conservation advisories, updates on water supply conditions and possible service disruptions, and dissemination of conservation measures to households and establishments. The Baguio Water District (BWD), in coordination with the City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (CDRRMO) and the Management Information Technology Division (MITD), will also establish a weekly water stress dashboard to monitor water availability, supply conditions and pumping water levels. Citywide water demand management will be intensified, with particular attention to high-volume water users such as tourism enterprises, commercial establishments, golf courses, car wash shops and other water-intensive businesses. The plan also calls for accelerated leak detection and repair, pipe replacement and other measures to reduce water losses. To protect existing supplies, the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO), with the National Water Resources Board, will monitor critical water sources, springs and groundwater conditions and pursue measures to protect these resources. The city will also assess the availability of backup water storage facilities in barangays and prioritize hospitals, health centers, evacuation centers, fire stations and other essential facilities for water supply augmentation. Other measures include identifying alternative water sources and storage options, preparing contingency plans for a possible red phase, and assisting micro, small and medium enterprises in developing water conservation and business continuity plans. The City Health Services Office and the City Social Welfare and Development Office will likewise strengthen surveillance and preparedness for heat-related and waterborne illnesses, including monitoring vulnerable residents and affected locations. The BWD, in coordination with the Public Information Office, will disseminate its water conservation action plan through official city communication channels and other appropriate information platforms. The action plan schedules the implementation and intensification of these measures throughout October, with selected activities receiving priority attention as the city prepares for a possible escalation to the red phase. The city government is urging residents, businesses and institutions to conserve water and cooperate with conservation measures to help protect available supplies. – Aileen P. Refuerzo                

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) is developing the Guard’s Unified Assistance and Reporting Digital Link (GUARDLINK) app to strengthen incident reporting and coordination among the local police force, the city government, and other security stakeholders. In a report, the BCPO said the app is designed to centralize communication among security partners to facilitate faster incident reporting, information sharing, and coordinated responses during emergencies. The application is currently in the coding phase and is expected to be rolled out soon to enhance coordination among security stakeholders in different parts of the city. Newly installed BCPO City Director Police Col. Nixon Laoyan envisions a police force that continues to strengthen its personnel, protect the city, and modernize police services through identified priorities and initiatives. The BCPO remains committed to delivering “Serbisyong Mabilis, Tapat at Nararamdaman” while working closely with the city government, security partners, and the community. Earlier, the BCPO launched the BCPO Baguio View app, which provides residents and visitors with information on prevailing traffic conditions along city roads, road conditions leading to major tourist destinations, situations at tourist spots, and parking areas and available parking slots, among other features. The app was developed by BCPO personnel during the term of former City Director Police Col. Ruel D. Tagel, who now serves as chief of the Regional Plans and Strategic Management Division of the Police Regional Office–Cordillera Administrative Region. The BCPO said it will sustain its presence through strategic deployment and police visibility in key areas across the city, including schools, tourist destinations, and major convergence points, to help maintain safety and order for residents and visitors and address the public safety needs of Baguio’s diverse population.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Baguio City Government is preparing for the implementation of its sidewalk recovery project following the approval of ₱250 million in funding from the national government. City Engineer Richard Lardizabal said the project is currently in the preliminary engineering stage, with surveys and preparations for the program of works now being undertaken by the Baguio DPWH District Engineering Office. Among the areas being considered are Trancoville and San Luis-Side Road, where some portions have narrow or no sidewalks. The project primarily aims to recover road right-of-way and provide wider sidewalks to improve pedestrian safety. “Ang main purpose noon ay to recover yung right of way natin at maglagay tayo ng sidewalk na maluwang para sa mga pedestrian,” Lardizabal said. Recovered road spaces will also be utilized for designated loading and unloading bays to provide safer areas for commuters and help prevent road obstructions and traffic. The project will include mobility features such as lighting, railings, shade and ramps for persons with disabilities (PWDs). Lardizabal said one of the major challenges is determining the extent of private structures that may have extended into the road right-of-way. Surveys will be conducted to establish property boundaries and determine whether existing structures are within titled properties and comply with required setbacks. Lardizabal said consultations with affected residents will also be conducted as part of the project preparation, giving them an opportunity to raise their concerns. Implementation of the project is targeted for 2027, while surveys, consultations and other preparations are currently being undertaken. Lardizabal said the project is expected to provide safer roads and better mobility for pedestrians and other road users. (By  Allan Roy Canilang, UP-PIO Intern/ Baguio PIO)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The redevelopment of Session Road is set for implementation in 2027, with the city government preparing plans to improve pedestrian spaces, drainage and sewer systems, and traffic flow along one of Baguio’s major roads. City Engineer Richard Lardizabal said the project was previously funded at around P120 million but was not pursued due to the COVID-19 pandemic, with the funds instead used for emergency needs during the health crisis. The project is now being revived through a P150-million fund from the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), an initiative pursued by Mayor Benjamin Magalong as part of the city government’s efforts to revive the redevelopment of Session Road. The city’s plans have already been submitted as the agency finalizes the project’s drainage and sewer components. Lardizabal said the redevelopment will widen sidewalks on both sides of Session Road to support the city’s goal of creating a more pedestrian-friendly area. The sidewalk development concept was also based on suggestions and recommendations gathered from various colleges and schools in Baguio during previous stakeholder engagements, as consolidated by the City Planning, Development and Sustainability Office (CPDSO). Loading and unloading bays and bio-retention areas will also be incorporated into the design. Bio-retention areas are intended to absorb and manage rainwater underground, helping replenish groundwater, while planters and green spaces along the road will contribute to maintaining greenery and supporting the city’s response to climate change. The project will also address the existing drainage and sewer systems along Session Road, which Lardizabal said have deteriorated and, in some areas, have been combined despite the need for separate systems. Traffic management will also form part of the preparations before construction begins. Lardizabal said the road will not be completely closed, with construction possibly being carried out by sections to maintain traffic flow. The city government will also conduct further coordination with the City Planning and Development Office, City Engineering Office, City Environment and Parks Management Office, tourism sector, business establishments, and other stakeholders to review the traffic scheme and address concerns that may arise during construction. Lardizabal said the project may face challenges, particularly concerns from businesses that could be affected by construction, traffic adjustments, and the relocation of plants maintained by the women’s association along Session Road. Once completed, the redevelopment is expected to provide wider pedestrian spaces, improved drainage and sewer systems, better traffic management, and additional greenery along Session Road. Lardizabal said the redevelopment is part of the city’s efforts to address long-term urban concerns and prevent urban decay as Baguio continues to develop toward 2043. The project is also expected to create a more pedestrian-oriented Session Road while improving the balance between urban development, mobility, drainage management, and green spaces.                              

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government is working with the Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) on a P180-million underdrainage project aimed at addressing flooding in Lagoon 1, one of the city’s low-lying areas where water from surrounding communities accumulates during heavy rains. City Engineer Richard Lardizabal said the Lagoon area covers around 11,033 square meters and serves as a receiving area for water coming from areas including Naguilian Road, Quezon Hill, City Camp Lagoon, and Lower Rock Quarry. The area has two sinkholes, identified as Lagoon 1 and Lagoon 2, which contribute to the area’s role as a natural collection point for water. Lardizabal said the city previously widened the throat of the lagoon to accommodate the huge volume of water entering the area. One of the continuing challenges, however, is the accumulation of garbage from its tributaries in upstream areas. Screens have been installed to prevent debris from reaching the main waterway, but these can become clogged and cause water to overflow. Lardizabal said barangays currently help monitor and clean the screens, particularly after heavy rains. The city also works with the Task Force Lagoon, led by Lower Rock Quarry barangay officials who are on the ground monitoring and clearing the lagoon during heavy rains. The City Engineering Office (CEO) assists in the disposal of accumulated waste and in the regular cleaning and maintenance of the lagoon. These efforts remain important while the city works toward a longer-term drainage solution. The P180-million project, which was initiated by the city mayor as part of efforts to address the recurring flooding in the area, will include an underdrainage system intended to improve the movement of water through the area. The project is part of a larger DPWH funding allocation, with the city planning to maximize the surrounding area for other uses, including planned green spaces, rainwater harvesting areas, a materials recovery facility, and other government facilities. The city is also working to address garbage entering the tributaries by recovering the three-meter creek easement required under existing regulations. Where recovery is not possible, the city may install fences along creek sides to discourage dumping. Mechanized screens are also being considered to help remove debris before it reaches the drainage system, while barangays and the Task Force Lagoon will continue to assist in monitoring and cleaning the waterways. Lardizabal said the city is currently coordinating with DPWH on the flood-prone areas, project concerns, and plans that will guide the implementation of the drainage project. The city has also consulted the 12 barangays affected by flooding in the area as part of preparations and planning for the project. For now, Lardizabal said maintenance and monitoring remain important, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall. He noted that the screens are regularly cleaned to prevent debris from obstructing the flow of water. The implementation schedule for the underdrainage project remains under discussion with DPWH as the city continues preparations for the project. (Baguio PIO)