BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – Instead of the usual advice to do good or prove yourself, Mayor Benjamin Magalong asked student grantees to be watchdogs against corruption or any wrongdoing in their assigned areas. Magalong led the swearing-in of about 151 grantees of the 2026 Special Program for the Employment of Students (SPES) on April 13. “If you see or know of any illegal activity or transaction, do not hesitate to report it to me. My office is open to receive you,” he told the students during a simple induction program. According to Magalong, during the one-month tenure of the students in the city government, they can gain first-hand experience in the work systems of various departments. Based on this experience, they will be able to tell whether or not City Hall is worthy of its status as a model of quality service and good governance, he said. “Through you, we will know if we are worthy of our ISO 9001:2015 certificate and reputation for good governance. Above all, we also count on you to tell us whether or not there is corruption in our offices,” Magalong told the students. The city achieved its recertification to ISO 9001:2015 after passing a recent external audit conducted by third-party auditor SGS Philippines Inc. The auditing firm confirmed that the city’s processes and services continue to meet the standards of the Quality Management System (QMS) and maintain its dedication to quality service, which led to the awarding of the ISO certificate on April 13, 2026. The SPES grantees are the first of two batches of student workers to be employed in the city this year through the Public Employment Service Office of the City Mayor’s Office. The next batch of 149 students will begin their positions next month.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong has previously expressed opposition to the proposal to deploy additional taxi units in the city, saying the plan should undergo local consultations and should consider the city’s road and transportation constraints. Instead, Magalong proposed reducing the number of taxis while increasing public transportation vehicles with higher capacity to ease congestion. He cited data collected in the first four months of 2023 showing that taxis make up the largest share of vehicles on the city’s roads at 42 percent, followed by private vehicles at 31 percent, motorcycles at 16 percent, PUJs at 8 percent, and trucks and buses at 3 percent. Magalong will recall that he criticized the Land Transportation Franchising and Regulatory Board (LTFRB) for its proposal to deploy 100 electric taxis in the city. The proposal to deploy 100 full electric sedan taxis (e-Taxi) was submitted by Design Green and Smart Corporation through its subsidiary Romansa Mobility Land Transport Service. The company is seeking the city government’s approval and endorsement from the LTFRB-CAR for the franchising and operation of e-taxis in the city. According to Magalong, he will not allow the proposal in its current form, emphasizing that the city already has too many taxi units, and that while he prefers eTaxis in the city for environmental reasons, the permitting of additional units should follow a strict “one-in, one-out” policy to avoid worsening traffic congestion. “I will never allow this,” noting that franchising decisions are made by the LTFRB central office without proper consultation with regional offices and local government units.” He said the city government, which directly manages traffic conditions, should be involved in such decisions. In response, LTFRB Chairman Vigor Mendoza promised Magalong to immediately discuss the concerns with his team and expressed his willingness to arrange a courtesy meeting with city officials to plan specific measures. In a message to Magalong, Vigor said the agency has not opened any new franchises, including taxis in the city since he took office in October 2025 and future decisions will be made only with the city’s endorsement. “I assure you that we will not open any new franchise without consulting and obtaining your favorable endorsement,” Mendoza said in a text message to the mayor. Magalong welcomed the assurance and urged the LTFRB to help re-examine the city’s Local Public Transport Route Plan (LPTRP) pointing out the need to use data-driven methods in determining the appropriate number of public utility jeepneys (PUJs) and routes.  

  BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – At SM City Baguio, creativity comes naturally. As more people turn everyday moments into stories, the mall continues to be a space where content creators can express themselves, connect with others, and bring their ideas to life. From lifestyle bloggers to video creators and social media enthusiasts, SM City Baguio has become a go-to destination for those looking to capture engaging and meaningful content. With its diverse spaces and vibrant atmosphere, creators find inspiration in every corner. Local content creator Gell Gadiano is among those who have found a creative home in the mall. Through her content, she highlights not only her personal style and experiences but also the different spaces and tenants within SM City Baguio, showcasing what the mall has to offer in a relatable and engaging way. Areas such as the Sky Terrace provide a dynamic backdrop where natural light, open spaces, and city views come together, making it ideal for photos and videos. Whether it is a quick shoot, a collaboration, or a spontaneous idea, the mall offers endless possibilities for content creation. Beyond aesthetics, SM City Baguio fosters a growing community of creators. It serves as a place where individuals can collaborate, exchange ideas, and support one another, creating a positive environment for creativity to flourish. For creators like Gell, the experience goes beyond content. It is about sharing stories, highlighting local brands, and connecting with audiences in a more meaningful way. By providing accessible and engaging spaces, SM City Baguio continues to support the local creative community while also giving tenants additional visibility through authentic storytelling. More than a lifestyle destination, SM City Baguio remains a space where creativity is celebrated, communities are built, and every visit becomes an opportunity to create, share, and inspire.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — A new haven for wellness and reflection has opened at Camp John Hay. The Tranquility Park, spanning approximately 896 square meters, was formally launched today as part of John Hay Management Corporation’s continuing efforts to enrich the area’s attractions and nurture community well-being. The ribbon-cutting ceremony was led by JHMC President Manjit Singh Reandi, who reminded staff and service providers: “Development means sustaining what we have built. Let us help one another to preserve and nurture it. The opening of a project does not mark the end of responsibility; it marks the beginning of it.” Inspired by Camp John Hay’s historic role as a rest and recreation site for U.S. soldiers during World War II, the park reimagines that legacy for the present. It now offers the public a serene space for meditation, exercise, and social connection—an environment where heritage and modern wellness meet. Designed by Architect Leonardo Biasura, Jr., with the significant creative input of JHMC’s Project Management Division, Environment Management Division, General Services Division, and the Aesthetic Enhancement Committee, the park embodies a vision of symmetrical balance. Its layout invites visitors to leave behind daily stresses and embrace tranquility. Among its key features are a central meditation statue, landscaped walkways for relaxation, and open areas that blend wellness activities with community interaction. The design emphasizes simplicity and harmony with nature, encouraging mindfulness, peace, and a renewed sense of balance.              

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the city government has officially declared a State of Calamity in the Summer Capital to address the growing economic and social impacts of the global energy crisis due to the ongoing Middle East conflict. Magalong said the declaration is necessary to legally access emergency funds under existing government regulations and that while the national government has already declared a State of National Energy Emergency, the Mayor stressed that mobilized resources under such a declaration are primarily allocated to national agencies, leaving local governments with limited flexibility. “To properly utilize our Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) funds—especially the Quick Reaction Fund (QRF)—we need to declare a State of Calamity. The rules are very clear,” Magalong explained. Under Commission on Audit (COA) guidelines, local governments can only access the QRF—which comprises 30 percent of the DRRM fund—during a declared State of Calamity. The DRRM fund itself represents 5% of the city’s annual revenue. For Baguio, this translates to over ₱200 million, with approximately ₱146 million allocated for preparedness, mitigation, and prevention, and the remaining portion reserved for immediate emergency response. The city has already begun deploying these funds, as around ₱20 million has been allocated to provide financial assistance to the transport sector, including public utility jeepney (PUJ) and taxi drivers, while ₱5 million is being distributed as ₱3,000 cash aid to over 1,600 financially vulnerable residents. The city is also rolling out a significantly expanded rice assistance program, supported by funding from the national government, as the Mayor noted that this is the first time Baguio has received such a large allocation from the Local Government Support Fund (LGSF). Previously, the city could only allocate about ₱3 million annually for rice assistance, often supplemented by donations. This year, however, the allocation has surged to ₱56 million, equivalent to approximately 33,000 sacks of rice weighing 50 kilograms each. “This is a big help. A lot of people will benefit from this program,” Magalong said. He said the State of Calamity would remain in effect depending on the trajectory of the energy crisis, which he linked to ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly the conflict involving Iran. “Even if the war stops now, recovery could take three to six months in the best-case scenario. In a moderate scenario, it could take six months to a year. Worst case, one to two years,” he said. Magalong warned that the current crisis could have a more severe economic impact than the COVID-19 pandemic, as he pointed out that before the pandemic, the Philippines recorded a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth rate of 6%in 2019. In contrast, recent figures show a declining trend, with GDP dropping to 4% last year and continuing to fall in subsequent quarters. “All the drivers of GDP—consumer spending, investments, government spending, imports, and exports—are affected,” he explained. “With the energy crisis beginning in March, we expect the first-quarter GDP to decline even further.” He urged residents to prepare for prolonged economic challenges as the city navigates the ripple effects of global instability. “We really have to brace ourselves,” he said. (Gaby B. Keith)

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Philippine National Police Training Institute (PNPTI) strongly condemns the alleged rape incident of a female police trainee inside the Cordillera Administrative Region Training Center (CARTC), Teacher’s Camp, Baguio City. The PNPTI confirmed that a case has been formally filed with the concerned Prosecutor’s Office and administrative processes are underway. “We reiterate that there is no place in the Philippine National Police (PNP) for abuse of authority or misconduct. The PNPTI assures the public that justice will be served with speed, transparency, and accountability. Those found guilty will face the full force of the law – no exceptions.” While following due process, the PNPTI reaffirms its commitment to maintaining a safe, secure, and respectful training environment for all police trainees and personnel. The PNPTI calls on all its members to uphold the highest standards of discipline, integrity, and professionalism, and remain steadfast in their duty to serve and protect the Filipino people. It may be recalled that a 23-year-old female police trainee filed a complaint of rape against her 41-year-old instructor after she was allegedly sexually assaulted twice, the incidents of which occurred on January 20, 2026 at around 2:00 a.m. and again on February 8 at around 1:00 p.m. inside the CARTC barracks. It was learned that the suspect has been placed under restrictive custody, disarmed, and transferred to the PNP training headquarters in Canlubang, Laguna, pending the filing of criminal and administrative charges under Republic Act No. 8353. CARTC Academic Chief Lieutenant Colonel Maila Alog said the training center maintains a “zero tolerance” policy for any form of abuse involving trainees.

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  – The Department of Tourism-Cordillera will once again launch the 7th Mangan Taku Cordillera Food Festival, which will feature the delicious culinary tapestry of the Cordilleras with the theme ‘Preserving Traditions, Preserving Flavors’ to be held at the Rose Garden, Burnham Park, Baguio City on April 23-27. Executive Order No. 40-2026 signed by Mayor Benjamin Magalong stated that the DOT-Cordillera is designated as the main implementer and executor of the aforementioned activity and is authorized to utilize the support of the public and private for the successful implementation of the project. Magalong also directed all concerned government agencies and departments and local government offices to provide support for the successful implementation of the said project. DOT Regional Director Jovi Ganongan said the provinces of Abra, Apayao, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalingam Mountain Province and Baguio City will showcase their innovative cuisines and heirloom dishes to boost the culinary tourism industry in the region. She said that besides this, a vibrant celebration of culinary passion, local heritage, and innovative flavors that pay homage to the rich tradition of Filipino cuisine will be held at the Cook Fest on April 24. “Given the current oil crisis, this year’s theme goes beyond showcasing culinary excellence, it highlights resilience, creativity, and sustainability in the kitchen. From age-old heirloom recipes to creative and caring cooking methods, the event celebrates how tradition continues to evolve while remaining deeply rooted in culture and community,” Ganongan said. She said that there are two features in the cook competition, the Industry-Based category – Chefs by profession and culinary schools and Community-Based Category- Homegrown cooks and non-professionals. “No matter your background, if you have the passion, creativity, and skill—this is your moment to shine. Discover the cuisine at “Mangan Taku” – a celebration of local flavors, farmers, and traditions.” April is known as Filipino Food Month pursuant to Proclamation NO. 469 to help promote, preserve, and promote the traditions and culinary treasures of the Philippines, ensure the transfer of knowledge to future generations, and to support various industries, farmers, and agricultural communities that benefit from the said industry.                        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – Twelve people were arrested in a drug den during a surprise search warrant operation conducted by personnel of the Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA) at a canteen in Barangay Sto. Niño, Baguio City, on April 17. According to the PDEA, the suspects were unable to escape while inside a canteen believed to be distributing local drugs at the slaughterhouse compound of the aforementioned barangay. During the search, authorities recovered 10 sachets containing suspected shabu, weighing approximately 21 grams, with an estimated street value of P142,800 and various drug paraphernalia at the scene. Twelve individuals were arrested, subject to a search warrant identified as Alyas “Stong/Estong”, 39; Alyas “Jay”, 33 and Alyas “Kiday”, 40, all residents of Sto. Niño, Baguio City, while the other arrested suspect is from Baguio City and neighboring provinces. All the suspect were charged with violation of Sections 6, 7, 11, and 12 of Republic Act 9165, also known as the Comprehensive Dangerous Drugs Act of 2002. The operation was a collaborative initiative led by the PDEA RO-CAR Baguio/Benguet Provincial Office and Baguio City Police Station 6, supported by a strong group of units, which included PDEA units: Abra Provincial Office, RSET, and LTIU; as well as PNP Units: BCPO Station 2, BCPO-City Drug Enforcement Unit, PNP Drug Enforcement Group-Special Operations Unit, and the City Intelligence Team Baguio RIU14.

15-year agreement brings themed café development to Camp John Hay, reinforcing its place as a tourism destination   BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) continues to strengthen Camp John Hay’s investment appeal with the signing of a 15-year lease agreement with Sophia Real Estate Executives and Development Corporation (SREEDC) for the construction and development of a themed café within the property. The agreement, signed on 30 March 2026, covers a 500-square-meter site within Camp John Hay and a step forward in BCDA’s ongoing efforts to attract quality investments that elevate the camp’s position as a premiere leisure and ecotourism destination in Baguio City. Beyond enhancing the visitor experience, the project is expected to spur local economic activity and create jobs in construction, hospitality, and day-to-day operations. BCDA President and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang said this development reflects sustained private sector confidence in Camp John Hay’s long-term potential. “Our goal is to build a stable investment climate that empowers our partners to succeed,” said Engr. Bingcang. “By aligning with our Master Development Plan, this project brings a fresh dimension to the camp, further establishing it as a world-class tourism hub where nature and leisure meet.” SREEDC President Donna Mae B. Ame affirmed the company’s commitment to delivering high-quality products and services to the Camp John Hay community. “We are very excited to embark on this journey with BCDA and JHMC,” she said. New offering for the Camp Artist’s render from the 2025 Comprehensive Master Development Plan for Camp John Hay The upcoming themed café will introduce a distinctive new offering within the John Hay Special Economic Zone (JHSEZ), diversifying the ecozone’s portfolio of commercial and hospitality establishments. The project is fully aligned with the updated Master Development Plan of Camp John Hay, ensuring that it contributes to the integrated and sustainable growth of the property. It is expected to draw both local and international visitors seeking curated leisure experiences in Baguio’s highland setting. The signing event was led by BCDA President Joshua M. Bingcang and SREEDC President Donna Mae B. Ame, marking the beginning of a promising partnership for Camp John Hay’s future growth. Also present were SREEDC Director Man Sik Jang, SREEDC Corporate Secretary Analiza B. Intuya, John Hay Management Corporation Director Atty. Kristoffer Lee V. Dance, and BCDA Vice President for Investment and Promotions Erwin Kenneth R. Peralta.