By Aileen P. Refuerzo-PIO   Baguio City has been adjudged as top model city stamping its class as an Education Hub, Livelihood and Employment Centered, Family First and Social Service Oriented place, Retirement Haven, Safe Haven, and Food Security Enabler in the recently concluded The Manila Times Model Cities and Municipalities 2024 Awards. Aside from topping the seven categories, the city also placed first runner-up in the Sustainability Champion aspect of the prestigious awards program. Mayor Benjamin Magalong expressed elation over the recognition as he shared the honor with the private sector and the Baguio community whose cooperation has been instrumental in the gains so far achieved in the continuing pursuit for a better Baguio. The mayor’s Executive Assistant V Samantha Jean Hamada received the award in behalf of the city government in ceremonies held Sept. 19, 2024 at Crowne Plaza Hotel in Pasay City attended by Manila Times president and chief operations officer Blanca Mercado, P&A Grant Thornton Vice Chairman and Deputy Managing partner Olivier Aznar; Managing Director of Megaworld Hotels Cleofe Albiso; and Times Chairman and chief executive officer Dante Ang II. Sharing Baguio’s standing was Bacnotan, La Union which took the top plum in the municipalities category. A total of 26 cities and 12 municipalities were screened for the awards program this year which centered on the theme, “Reinventing, Reinvigorating Urban Living,” The project aims to give recognition to “exemplary cities and municipalities that manifest steadfast commitment to providing sustainable development and economic growth for their residents through various initiatives.” “The Philippine Model Cities and Municipalities 2024 celebrated the progress and development in urban areas across the country,” according to the Manila Times. “It highlighted the capability of the local governments’ capability to reduce poverty; enhance productivity and profitability; integrate information, communications and technology, and governance strategies; benchmark best practices; universalize literacy in the country; reform competitiveness in local trade and investments; and streamline the ease of doing business.”

By Glonie Nais-od (PIO Intern)   The Summer Capital is a natural and great place where a family can experience the great outdoors and observe the beauty of nature. With its lush forests, cool climate, and a variety of wildlife, Baguio city is an ideal setting for families to foster a deep appreciation for nature and develop a sense of environmental responsibility. Here are some things to do with your family to embrace your “Makakalikasan” self: Explore Local Parks and Trails: Take a walk and enjoy places like Burnham Park, Camp John Hay, and the Botanical Garden to discover the city’s natural treasures; Start a Home Garden: Growing plants and vegetables at home can teach children about the food cycle and the importance of sustainable agriculture; Participate in Environmental Activities: Join barangay clean-up drives, tree-planting activities, and nature walks; Learn About Wildlife: Observe and learn more of the city’s birds, insects, and other animals to understand their behavior and habitat; and Read Books and Watch Nature Documentaries: As early as now, introduce children to the wonders of the natural world through literature and media. Being Makakalikasan in Baguio City is being surrounded by abundant biodiversity, living a healthy lifestyle, environmental education, and community engagement which are beneficial for families where the city’s ecosystem serves as a living laboratory for exploring diverse species. Outdoor activities promote fitness and mental well-being while connecting people and their loved ones with nature which includes hands-on experience that fosters understanding of environmental issues and conservation practices. Participation of every family member in eco-friendly initiatives strengthens community bonds and preserves Baguio’s natural beauty for future generations. As a family living in Baguio City, a makakalikasan lifestyle will bring them closer together and strengthen familial bonds of each member.        

As part of the vibrant Food Festival celebration, SM City Baguio hosted the much-anticipated Bestival Chef event. This culinary showcase featured the assembly and decoration of 500 Giant Strawberry Danish pastries, led by Sandex Cambi, Richard Garcia, and Ryan Reyes—three expert pastry chefs from The French Baker—along with talented culinary students from the Philippine Institution of Culinary Arts, Le-Fleur Hospitality Training Center, and Cordillera State Institute of Technical Education. The event highlighted the artistry behind pastry making, attracting food enthusiasts eager to witness the process and savor the finished creations. Attendees had the unique opportunity to witness the meticulous process of folding, proofing, and decorating these delectable pastries and enjoyed the festive atmosphere. This event was a memorable highlight of the food festival, offering a feast for both the eyes and the taste buds. In addition to the Bestival Chef, the month-long Food Festival also includes the ongoing FavorEATS Market, which showcases a variety of products from local MSMEs. This bazaar runs until the end of September, offering visitors a chance to explore and support local businesses. Mall-goers also have the opportunity to visit SM City Baguio’s cafes and restaurants to experience regional tastes and celebrate the festival with a regional palate experience. Overall, the food festival at SM Baguio is a memorable celebration of food, community, and culture, bringing people together to enjoy and appreciate the diverse flavors and talents on display.    

BAGUIO CITY — Three distinguished journalists a veteran in print media, a radio pioneer, and a former broadcaster-turned-publisher—will be the top awardees at the Baguio Tourism Council’s (BTC) Media Awards and Appreciation Day during its general assembly on Monday, September 23, 2024. The event will be held at the Baguio Convention Center, where the BTC will also propose amendments to the Baguio City tourism code. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara announced the honorees as Jimmy Lozano, also known as “Lolo Doro,” Felix Eliral Refuerzo, and Rolando Fernandez. In addition, 53 other journalists will be recognized for their years of service in the media industry. Honoring Legends in Media Jimmy Lozano (Lolo Doro): Lozano began his career in 1967 as a paid reporter after joining the Northern Broadcasting Company (NBC) DZWX in 1964. He became acting station manager of DZWX when the station was temporarily shuttered in 1972 following the declaration of Martial Law by President Ferdinand Marcos Sr. Lozano remained with the station after it was acquired by Dr. Rogelio Florete and rebranded as Bombo Radyo in 1982, eventually retiring in 2011. He later worked with former Bombo Radyo Baguio Station Manager Edong Carta to form Tambalang Tatang and Lolong at Z Radio, serving as Station Manager and Area Manager for Luzon before retiring. At 77, Lozano shows no signs of slowing down, continuing his passion for media work and community service. Felix Eliral Refuerzo: Refuerzo joined NBC-DZWX at the age of 15 in 1966 as a radio production assistant and drama talent, and a year later became a broadcaster. In 1968, he was recognized as the youngest radio announcer and commentator in the Philippines. Refuerzo later joined the National Media Production Center (NMPC), where he rose to Assistant Director until its closure in 1986. He also contributed to national dailies such as Manila Times and Journal. In local media, he worked for Gold Ore and the Baguio Midland Courier before founding The Baguio Reporter in 1990, which operated until 2012. Rolando Fernandez: Fernandez, described by Frank Cimatu, a former Philippine Daily Inquirer correspondent, as having an “illustrious and meritorious career,” worked as a reporter and editor for Daily Express, Manila Chronicle, and Manila Times from the Martial Law years until the early 1990s. In 1992, he transferred to Baguio to establish the Northern Luzon Bureau of the Philippine Daily Inquirer. Following his retirement, Fernandez and his wife, Babeth Lolarga, continue to edit and write books. Recognizing Service Milestones The BTC will also honor media professionals for their long-standing dedication to the industry: 40 Years in Service Awardees: March Fianza, Victor Loakan, Jaime Bernabe Sr., Joel Arthur Tibaldo, Christopher Bartolo, Malou Laxamana, Aurora Alambra, Richard Valdez, Joseph Esteras, and Primo Agatep. 30 Years in Service Awardees: Atty. Antonio Pekas, Alfred Dizon, Romeo Gonzales, Joseph Cabanas, Andre Amadeo, Samuel Bautista, Aileen Refuerzo, Gabriel Baban Keith, Thomas Antonio Picaña, Fernando Zapata Jr., Vincent Cabreza, Eladio Landingin, David Leprozo Jr., Edgardo Espiritu, Helen Tibaldo, Joel Arthur Tibaldo, and Joseph Zambrano. 25 Years in Service Awardees: Jonathan Munar, Jonathan Llanes, Eufeldion Lobien, Ernesto Calinao Jr., Franklin Cimatu, Jimmy Ceralde, Miguelito Velarde Jr., Andrew Pinero, Liza Galao, Dexter See, Joseph Manzano, Mauricio Malanes, Artemio Dumlao Jr., Mauricio Victa, Rizaldy Comanda, Eddie Carta, Dhobie de Guzman, and Harley Palangchao. 20 Years in Service Awardees: Maria Elena Catajan, Roderick Osis, Jordan Tablac, Jane Cadalig, Rimaliza Opñia, and Alah Sungduan. 15 Years in Service Awardees: Rose Malekchan and Hanna Laxamana. The BTC’s Media Awards is an opportunity to recognize the vital role journalists play in promoting tourism and preserving the heritage of Baguio and the Cordillera region.  

By Zaldy Comanda   BAGUIO CITY – Nagpahayag ng pagkaalarma si Mayor Benjamin Magalong sa pagtaas ng insidente ng sunog sa lungsod at ipinag-utos na paigtingin ang pagpapakalat ng impormasyon upang mapahusay ang kamalayan sa pag-iwas sa sunog ng mga residente. Sa ulat ng Baguio City Fire Department, naitala ang 78 insidente ng sunog mula Enero 1 hanggang Setyembre 19, 2024, kumpara sa bilang na naitala noong nakaraang taon na 67 kaso. May tatlong nasawi ngayong taon habang walang naiulat noong nakaraang taon. Sa 78 insidente ngayong taon, lima ang nangyari noong Enero; 16 noong Pebrero,;14 noong Marso; 10 noong Abril; 11 noong Mayo; tatlo noong Hunyo; walo noong Hulyo at Agosto at tatlo noong Setyembre. Sa nasabing kabuuang bilang ay 41 fire incedent ay  istruktura sa kalikasan. 17 sa grass fire, 12 forest fire, anim na sasakyan, isang garbage fire at isang electrical/post fire. “We have to ramp up our information-education-communication (IEC) campaign to prevent further incidents,” pahayag ni Magalong. Pinaalalahanan din niya ang publiko na maging mapagmatyag sa mga panganib ng mapanirang sunog.         Ang pinaka-latest na sunog na naganp sa San Carlos Heights, Baguio City noong Setyembre 18.

  Florentino Nool Dela Cruz Jr., a dedicated staff member of the Baguio City Public Library (BCPL), was recognized as one of the Outstanding Government Workers 2024 for his exemplary service and ethical conduct, making a lasting impact on public service during the Awards Rites for the 2024 Outstanding Government Workers at the Malacañan Palace on September 18, 2024. Dela Cruz made a huge impact in digitizing library services, improving community engagement, and supporting library programs that have impacted the role of the city library in the community. The Dangal ng Bayan is awarded to employees for their performance of extraordinary acts or public service and consistent demonstration of exemplary ethical behavior under Republic Act No. 6713 or the Code of Conduct and Ethical Standards for Public Officials and Employees. Last year, Dela Cruz was awarded the Most Outstanding Employee of the Year (First Level Category) in recognition of his extraordinary performance of duties in the name of public service during the BREEZE (Brand of Excellent, Extraordinary, and Zealous Employees) AWARDS 2023. The BREEZE awards aim to recognize employees who consistently exhibited commendable acts and behaviors that benefited employees, the city government, and the public. The prestigious event at the Malacañan Palace was attended by high-ranking officials and dignitaries, celebrating government workers who have gone above and beyond in their service. He was accompanied by his wife, Mrs. Margarita A. Dela Cruz and Baguio City Librarian Easter Wahayna-Pablo.  

The Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) will convene its annual general assembly on September 23 at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center. The assembly aims to finalize the city’s Tourism Development Plan, address updates on the amendment of the tourism code, and encourage stakeholders to present programs for the upcoming year. BTC Chair Gladys Vergara announced that the assembly will also serve as an opportunity to recognize the valuable contributions of local media in promoting Baguio’s tourism sector. Representatives from various sectors—including hotels and accommodations, restaurants and cafes, transport, education, arts and culture, tourist guides, and events—are expected to attend the day-long event. In a recent meeting, the BTC emphasized the need to “consolidate feedback and suggestions from stakeholders” to finalize the Tourism Development Plan. Vergara expressed the council’s commitment to assisting with the amendment of the tourism code while urging members to present project proposals for next year’s initiatives. One of the BTC’s major upcoming projects is the “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas,” a six-week celebration featuring various events designed to make the city’s Yuletide festivities even more vibrant and memorable. On the same day, the BTC will honor 56 local media personalities from print, radio, and television for their long-standing support in promoting local tourism. Among them, three distinguished journalists will receive the Lifetime Achievement Award for their 50 years of dedicated service: Jimmy Lozano, also known as Lolo Doro of Z Radio; former broadcaster and publisher/editor-in-chief of the defunct Baguio Reporter, Eliral Refuerzo; and retired Philippine Daily Inquirer bureau chief, Rolando Fernandez. According to Vergara, this recognition reflects the council’s deep appreciation for the generous support provided by the local media throughout the years. In addition, 53 more journalists will be honored with service awards, categorized by years of service: 40, 30, 25, 20, and 15 years. Notable recipients include PTV4 Cordillera chief Richard Valdez, March Fianza, and retired RPN DZBS manager Malou Pascual, all of whom have 40 years of service. The 30-year service honorees include BCBC president Thomas Picaña and Radyo ng Bayan reporter and former BCBC president Joseph Cabanas, among others. The largest group of awardees comprises journalists with 25 years of service, including Rappler stringer Franklin Cimatu, Dhobie de Guzman, Harley Palangchao, and Eddie Carta. All but Carta have previously served as Baguio Broadcasters and Correspondents Club (BCBC) president. A line-up of exciting and meaningful activities has been drawn, placing special emphasis on the true meaning of Christmas—the birth of Christ. Attending the meeting were City Tourism Officer Alec Mapalo, City Environment and Parks Management Chief Atty. Rhenan Diwas, AEBC Secretariat Head Pam Cariño, and the BTC staff. The day will culminate with a fellowship dinner and press briefing at the Baguio Palace Hotel, hosted by the BTC in honor of members of the Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club (BCBC) and the Kapisanan ng mga Brodkaster ng Pilipinas (KBP). During the event, media representatives will also be briefed on the BTC’s year-end program, “An Enchanting Baguio Christmas.”        

By Frejane Rose A.Cruz/Contributor BAGUIO CITY –His Excellency Most Rev. Rafael T. Cruz, D.D., is now officially installed as new Bishop of Baguio City, during the solemn canonical ceremony today, Sept. 17, 2024 at the Baguio Cathedral of Our Lady of Atonement. Most. Rev. Cruz will be the third bishop of the Diocese of Baguio after the late Bishop Carlito J. Cenzon and Bishop Victor Bendico – The historic occasion was attended by city officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong, officials from Benguet and religious groups. Magalong and Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan also formally handed over the City Resolution No. 510 series of 2024 with the title “Welcoming Most Reverend Rafael T. Cruz as the 3rd Bishop of the Diocese of Baguio City. The province of Benguet also delivered their 106th Regular Meeting of the 11th Sanggunian Board Resolution with the title “Welcomingthe Most Rev. Rafael Tamboan Cruz, DD, as the new Bishop of the Diocese of Baguio which is comprised of the Ecclesiastical jurisdiction of the province of Benguet and City of Baguio. Bishop Cruz, who was born on March 12, 1960 in Mapandan, Pangasinan, became the Parish Priest of St. Ildephonse Parish in Poblacion, Malasiqui, Pangasinan and a priest of the Archdiocese of Lingayen-Dagupan. He was ordained to the Sacred Order of Presbyters on September 8,1985 and has served in numerous ministries and serves the people in various capacities as member of the Presbyteral Council, member of the permanent committee for the Protection of Minors,Vicar Forane, and as an invited lecturer to the Mary Help of Christian Theology Seminary in San Fabian,Pangasinan, Immaculate Conception School of Theology in Vigan City,Ilocos Sur , and Recoletos Theology Seminary in Mira Nila,Quezon City. Bishop Cruz was appointed by Holy Father Pope Francis, as Bishop of the Diocese of Baguio on June 20, 2024, in place of MonsignorVictor Bendico. He was officially ordained as Bishop of Baguio City on September 7, 2024 at the Our Lady of Atonement, known as Baguio Cathedral.              

  LUNGSOD NG BAGUIO – Ang kasalukuyang pinuno ng Konseho ng Turismo ng Baguio na si Gladys Vergara, ay matagal nang naging isang makabuluhang pigura sa buhay pampulitika at sibil ng lungsod, na may paglalakbay sa pamumuno na nagsimula sa kanyang kabataan at patuloy na nakakaapekto sa Baguio ngayon. Sa mga kamakailang pag-uusap sa mga lider ng kabataan sa iba’t ibang barangay, masayang pinagnilayan ni Vergara ang kanyang mga unang taon sa pamumuno. Ikinuwento niya ang kanyang pagkakasangkot sa wala na ngayong Kabataang Barangay (KB), ang pasimula ng Sangguniang Kabataan Federation ngayon, kung saan una niyang hinasa ang mga kasanayan sa pamumuno na tutukuyin ang kanyang karera. “Sa aking mga unang taon, pinamunuan ko ang Kabataang Barangay ng Baguio at kalaunan ay nahalal bilang KB Federation Regional President para sa Rehiyon 1,” pagbabahagi ni Vergara. “Ang mga karanasang ito ay napakahalaga, na humuhubog sa aking pag-unawa sa pamumuno at paglilingkod, na aking dinala sa mga susunod kong tungkulin.” Dahil sa pangako ni Vergara sa serbisyo publiko, tumaas siya sa mga ranggo, simula bilang nahalal na KB President ng Upper QM Barangay, pagkatapos ay bilang KB City Federation President ng Baguio, at sa huli, bilang Bise Presidente ng KB National Executive Council. Ang kanyang paglalakbay sa pamumuno ay nagkaroon ng makasaysayang pagliko sa panahon ng magulong pampulitikang tanawin noong unang bahagi ng 1990s. Noong 1988 elections, si Ramon “Jun” Labo, isang kilalang faith healer, ay nanalo sa mayoralty race sa Baguio City ngunit kalaunan ay na-disqualify dahil sa citizenship issues, na nagresulta sa pagiging alkalde ng lungsod si Jaime Bugnosen. Noong halalan noong 1992, muling nanalo si Labo, ngunit nahaharap sa panibagong diskwalipikasyon. Ang pagkakasunod-sunod ng mga pangyayari ay humantong sa pag-akyat ni Vice Mayor Mauricio Domogan sa posisyon ng alkalde, kasama si Gladys Vergara, na nahalal bilang No. 2 City Councilor noong 1988, na humalili kay Domogan bilang unang babaeng Bise Alkalde ng Baguio City. Nagmarka ito ng isang makasaysayang milestone sa kasaysayan ng pulitika ng Baguio at isang mahalagang sandali sa paglalakbay ng pamumuno ni Vergara. “Ang pagiging unang babaeng Vice Mayor ng Baguio City ay isang turning point para sa akin. Ipinakilala nito sa akin ang mgaposisyon ng pamumuno sa loob ng buhay pampulitika ng Baguio, at ito ay isang tungkulin na aking nilapitan nang may pagpapakumbaba at dedikasyon,” pahayag ni Vergara. Itinatampok ng tatlong dekada ng serbisyo ng gobyerno ni Vergara ang kanyang matatag na pangako sa serbisyo publiko, na may mga tungkuling kinabibilangan ng: Mayo 1985 – Abril 1987: Pangalawang Pangulo, Kabataang Barangay National Executive Council; Nahalal na Pangulo ng KB, Upper QM Barangay; Nahalal na KB City Federation President, Baguio City; Nahalal na KB Regional Federation President, Rehiyon 1; Nahalal ang KB Vice President, KB National Executive Council. Enero 1986 – Nob 1987: Itinalagang Konsehal ng Lungsod na Kinakatawan ang Kabataan, Baguio City. Peb 1988 – Mar 1992: Nahalal bilang 2 City Councilor, Baguio City. Mar 1992 – Hun 1992: Inako ang posisyon ng City Vice Mayor sa bisa ng succession. “Ang pamumuno ay laging bahagi ng aking buhay, at ako ay nagpapasalamat sa mga pagkakataong napagsilbihan ko ang Baguio,” pagtatapos ni Vergara. “Ang isang pinuno noon, isang pinuno ngayon, at isang pinuno sa kabila – ang aking paglalakbay ay nagpapatuloy habang ako ay nagsusumikap na masayang mag-ambag sa lungsod na mahal ko.”