“Strength is not the absence of struggle, and healing is not weakness but courage in motion.” Thus declared Mayor Benjamin Magalong in a social media post in honor of October as Mental Health Awareness and Breast Cancer Awareness Month. “As we advocate for good governance, let us also remember that leadership is not only about accountability in service: it’s also about compassion for others and care for oneself,” he said. “To everyone facing silent battles, whether it’s the weight of expectations, the fight against illness, or the daily pressure to stay strong, know this: you are not alone. Seeking help is not a sign of weakness; it is an act of bravery,” the Mayor added. He is urging everyone to begin the week with empathy and resilience, check our mental health and those around us, support awareness, early detection, and compassion for breast cancer warriors, and lead with kindness because every heart we uplift strengthens our community. “True courage is not just in fighting corruption or injustice—it’s also in choosing to care, to heal, and to keep going,” the Mayor stressed.-Gaby B. Keith

  BAGUIO CITY — In support of education and community learning, SM Cares, together with SM City Baguio, turned over collected books from the Book Nook Donation Drive to the Baguio City Public Library. The turnover was led by SM City Baguio Mall Manager Philip Baysac, joined by mall administration volunteers, and was received by Ms. Easter Wahayna-Pablo, City Librarian of Baguio City Public Library. The activity highlights the mall’s continued commitment to promoting literacy and making learning resources accessible to the community. Anchored on the theme “Under the Same Sky: Share the Magic of Stories,” this initiative encourages mallgoers to share new or pre-loved books, which are then distributed to local libraries and partner institutions to inspire a love for reading. By partnering with the Baguio City Public Library, SM Cares and SM City Baguio reaffirm their shared commitment to nurture literacy, inclusivity, and community engagement. This initiative also highlights SM’s dedication to empowering individuals through education and lifelong learning. The Book Nook Donation Drive Turnover is part of SM Cares’ Education and Literacy Program, reflecting the company’s mission to help build stronger, smarter, and more connected communities.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The management of Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges (ABML) has clarified that Senator Francis “Chiz” Escudero does not own any property within the development, contrary to claims circulating online and in private circles. In a text message, ABML said that while the residential village does not publicly release its list of homeowners for privacy and security reasons, it was able to verify that no home is listed under the name of Sen. Escudero or any company associated with him. “ABML, like any other residential village in the country, does not divulge a list of its residents or homeowners. However, we are able to confirm that there is no home listed as owned by Sen. Chiz Escudero or any company associated with him,” according to management. ABML added that Escudero and his family have occasionally visited the property, as seen in social media posts by various individuals, but such visits should not be mistaken for ownership. “We are aware that he and his family are occasional visitors to the property, as can be gleaned from numerous social media posts by various parties. Mrs. Escudero, being a long-time member of Alphaland Balesin Island Club, is allowed the privilege to use the facilities of ABML,” the ABML official said. Located in Itogon, Benguet, Alphaland Baguio Mountain Lodges is one of the country’s premier mountain residential developments, known for its luxury lodges, high-altitude views, and exclusivity. It is a sister property of the Alphaland Balesin Island Club in Quezon province, both developed under the Alphaland Corporation brand. Escudero’s 2024 Statement of Assets, Liabilities, and Net Worth (SALN) does not include any declaration of ownership or business interest related to Alphaland or real estate in Baguio or Benguet.

  BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC), in partnership with the Department of Social Welfare and Development – Sustainable Livelihood Program Association (DSWD-SLPA), conducted a rattan weaving workshop to empower local communities through heritage-based livelihood training. Held at the JHMC Office, the workshop served as a platform for capacity-building among marginalized sectors, equipping participants with practical skills in crafting rattan products such as cups and flower vases. The initiative underscores JHMC’s institutional commitment to sustainable tourism and community empowerment, particularly through the integration of indigenous craftsmanship into modern livelihood opportunities. The training was facilitated by Ili-Likha artists Jason Domling and Allen Balisong, whose expertise in traditional weaving techniques provided participants with both technical proficiency and cultural insight. The session was lauded for its blend of heritage and innovation, fostering creativity and resilience among attendees. Participants included representatives from various community organizations like Atok Trail Women’s SLPA, Salat SLPA, Happy Hollow Agriculture SLPA, Indigenous Community Livelihood Association, Loakan-Apugan Sustainable Livelihood Association, Irisan Women’s Association, and individual members from multiple barangays, including the PWD Association of Baguio. Their active engagement reflected a shared aspiration for economic self-sufficiency and cultural pride. Observers from the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) Benguet, Sarah Jane O. Ubfan, and Shirley G. Carino were present throughout the activity, actively assessing its potential for broader livelihood integration and market viability. Their involvement not only reinforced the multi-sectoral collaboration behind the initiative but also signaled institutional interest in scaling heritage-based economic opportunities. JHMC President and CEO Manjit Singh Reandi expressed full support for the initiative, stating, “We are committed to making locally crafted products more accessible to the public and to helping our communities transform traditional skills into viable market opportunities. This is not just about livelihood, it’s about pride, sustainability, and inclusive growth.” He further emphasized that Camp John Hay, with its steady foot traffic from tourists and locals alike, offers a strategic venue to showcase and market these community-made products, creating a tangible link between heritage craftsmanship and economic opportunity.  

CAMP JOHN HAY, Baguio City — The John Hay Management Corporation (JHMC) and Rogue Food and Beverages Inc., operating under the brand Rebel Bakehouse, formally signed a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) on October 28, 2025, for the lease of the Bell House Library located within the Camp John Hay Historical Core. The agreement grants Rebel Bakehouse a 12-month lease to operate a café within the heritage site, with the aim of enhancing the visitor experience through curated food and beverage offerings, some of which will be exclusively available at the Camp John Hay branch. JHMC President and Chief Executive Officer Manjit Singh Reandi and Rebel Bakehouse President Yvette Danica M. Santos led the ceremonial signing, which was witnessed by Donna Jane G. Aldana, Corporate Secretary of Rebel Bakehouse, and Rachelle Anne N. Montoya, JHMC Business Development Manager, as well as members of the JHMC staff. Under the terms of the agreement, Rebel Bakehouse shall ensure full compliance with all existing and future national environmental, health, and sanitation laws, as well as the specific regulations implemented by JHMC and other relevant authorities within Camp John Hay. The lessee is also mandated to dispose of all garbage, waste, and pollutants in accordance with applicable rules and standards, as environmental stewardship is one of JHMC’s core mandates. “This collaboration with Rebel Bakehouse reflects our enduring commitment to responsible stewardship and adaptive revitalization of heritage spaces,” said Singh Reandi. “By welcoming enterprises that align with our values, we continue to preserve the legacy of Camp John Hay, and we also cultivate community-driven economic growth.” Santos expressed gratitude for the opportunity, saying, “This is truly a dream come true. I have vivid memories of playing at the Scout Hill grounds as a child, and to now be part of this historic site through Rebel Bakehouse is deeply meaningful. We are honored to uphold the environmental and cultural standards set by JHMC, and we look forward to serving the community in a space that inspires both reflection and connection.” While enjoying freshly brewed coffee and artisanal breads, visitors and patrons may also explore the historical features housed within the Bell House Library. A remnant of American colonial architecture and a symbol of Baguio’s storied past, the Bell House Library is expected to open its doors to café guests in the coming weeks. The initiative is anticipated to attract both residents and tourists, further enriching the cultural and recreational experiences within Camp John Hay. The partnership is part of JHMC’s broader initiative to rekindle heritage spaces through sustainable and community-aligned enterprises.      

BAGUIO CITY – The economy of Baguio City grew marginally to 5.8 percent in 2024 and remains the fastest growing economy among all Cordillera provinces and highly urbanized cities, according to the Philippine Statistics Authority-Cordillera. PSA-Cordillera Chief Statistical Specialist Aldrin Federico Bahit, Jr., said the city’s gross domestic product (GDP) last year was estimated at P178.85 billion compared to P169 billion GDP in 2023. He said the fastest growth was observed in professional and business services with 12.3 percent, followed by other services and human health and social work activities with 11.3 percent and 10.5 percent growth, respectively. Baguio City is the largest economy in the Cordillera provinces and a highly urbanized city in the region as of 2024, contributing 47.3 percent of the gross regional domestic product (GRDP), estimated at approximately P378.26 billion. According to Bahit, Baguio’s per capita GDP is estimated at P485,433 in 2024, which is obtained by dividing the GDP of the province or city by its total population based on the 2024 Census of Population. Other industries that contributed to the city’s recorded GDP growth were financial and insurance activities – 10.46 percent; education – 7.5 percent; accommodation and food service activities – 7.4 percent; electricity, steam, water and waste management – ​​6 percent; real estate and ownership of dwellings – 5.2 percent; wholesale and retail trade, repair of motor vehicles and motorcycles – 5 percent; construction – 3.8 percent; agriculture, forestry and fishing – 3.6 percent; public administration and defense and compulsory social security – 3 percent; information and communication – 2.9 percent; transportation and storage – 2.2 percent; mining and quarrying – 2 percent and manufacturing – 0.4 percent. In April, PSA-CAR reported that the Cordillera region’s economy contracted by 4.8 percent last year compared to a 6.9 percent growth recorded the previous year. Baguio’s GDP growth was part of the provincial product account that PSA-CAR distributed during a dissemination forum held recently for the purpose of providing local governments with the status of their economic growth year-on-year.      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Mayor Benjamin Magalong is now targeting to intensify the implementation of ‘Oplan Kasilyas” in all business establishments that comply with sanitation laws especially in providing proper and well-maintained restrooms and handwashing facilities by early 2026. Magalong said, this is part of the city’s ongoing efforts to raise sanitation standards and promote a healthier environment for residents and tourists. “It’s time for us to take this matter seriously. I want to see results of change by the first quarter of next year. “Our target is 100 percent compliance by March 2026,” the mayor said during the Management Committee meeting. He requested a meeting with establishment owners as soon as possible to clarify the point. Magalong’s statement coincides with the city’s ongoing intensified sanitation compliance drive launched on October 1 by the Environmental Health and Sanitation Division (EHSD) of the City Health Services Office (CHSO) and the Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) of the City Mayor’s Office. According to City Health Services Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, as of October 20, a total of 637 establishments have been inspected by the sanitation division and of this number, 539 were found to be compliant, while 98 were charged with various violations and issued sanitary orders requiring immediate corrective action. According to a report by Sanitation Division Chief Engr. Albert Pay-an, common violations are non-compliance maintained or unclean toilets; lack of proper hand washing facilities; non-functioning toilets and equipment; and lack of liquid soap and paper towels or hand dryers. Other violations include unsanitary conditions of food preparation areas or kitchens, lack of or unmaintained grease traps; improper disposal of F.O.G (fats, oils, grease), improper disposal of solid and liquid waste, failure to wear PPE by food handlers, failure to pass rapid water test results, presence of rats or pests in the establishment, and lack of a proper health certificate. According to Pay-an, establishment owners were reminded to strictly adhere to the provisions of the Sanitation Code (Presidential Decree 856) which mandates safe food handling, access to clean water, adequate sanitation facilities, and regular sanitation maintenance. The Public Order and Safety Division (POSD) reported that they inspected 324 establishments covering 51 barangays and assessed their facilities for comfort based on cleanliness and odor levels and the presence of closed and toilets, clean water, running water, hand washing facilities, bar or liquid soap, hand drying facilities, trash cans with lids, ventilation, adequate lighting, and live animals. plants. The city government stressed that inspections will continue in the coming months to ensure 100 percent compliance with regulations by the first quarter of 2026.      

By Rose Frejane A. Cruz BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Popular festivals from Cordillera region shines again the Festival of Festivals (FOF) 2025 marks its 4th year as a significant platform for celebrating the Cordillera’s rich cultural heritage and promoting local tourism on October 24, 2025, in Baguio City. The event is an annual program of the Department of Tourism-Cordillera to showcase the region’s premier and iconic festival highlights, offering a glimpse of the colorful festivities that await visitors. It promotes pride in the region and ignites greater interest in teaching the beauty and identity of the Cordilleras. Each festival will showcase their respective street dance parades that will take place on October 24, starting at Melvin Jones up along Session Road to the main performance area at the rotonda. Baguio City’s crowd-drawer, the Panagbenga Festival The Panagbenga Festival is more than just an endless bloom of flowers, it is a celebration of life, color, and community that transforms the city into a stunning masterpiece every year. The Adivay Festival of Benguet is more than just a celebration, it’s a vibrant tapestry of culture, showcasing the art, music, and stories that have shaped the land and its people for generations. As part of the Cordillera Festival of Festivals 2025, Benguet is gearing up to bring this colorful heritage to life on stage. The province of Apayao presented their Say-am Naya Apayao, featuring Rambak ni Mannalon of Luna,deep in the highlands of Apayao, a powerful tradition is about to awaken…Echoes of ancient chants and the pulse of Say-am fill the air — a vivid celebration of Apayao’s rich heritage and unbreakable spirit. The Matagoan Festival of Tabuk City, Kalinga is a vibrant celebration of traditions, history, and colorful culture This festival promises a dynamic showcase full of passion, music, and unforgettable moments. The Gotad Ad Ifugao honors the harvest, the land, and the timeless rituals that connect the Ifugao people to their ancestors. Graceful steps and rhythmic beats, the strength of Kawayan Festival is woven into every movement. The Province of Abra is preparing to unveil a cultural performance rooted in resilience, creativity, and tradition.   Lang-ay Festival, featuring Begnas Di Bauko, a sacred rites of harmony and harvest showcasing the rich traditions of the Mountain Province. According to DoT Regional Director Jovita Ganongan, said the FOF is a grand showcase of the region’s premier and iconic festival highlights, offering a glimpse of the vibrant celebrations that await visitors. It fosters regional pride and sparks greater interest in discovering the beauty and identity of the Cordilleras. The activity also features a 5-day Festival Exhibit that will provide maximum exposure to the diverse crafts, products, and traditions of the region’s six provinces and two cities. The exhibit will run from October 22-26, 2025, at Malcolm Square, Baguio City. This event also serves as an annual commemoration of Indigenous Peoples’ (IP) Month, which is marked in October by virtue of Proclamation No.1906 series of 2009, honoring the signing of the Indigenous Peoples Rights Act in 1997.