BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The City Government will hold the Circular Tourism Summit 2026 on March 30-31, 2026 as part of its push for sustainable development. With the theme, “Weaving a Circular Tourism Economy,” the two-day event is part of the city’s Pansa-Nopen Tayo Program, which promotes a shift from the traditional “take-make-waste” model to a more sustainable circular economy. The summit aims to help tourism stakeholders, especially micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), adopt environmentally friendly practices. It will focus on raising awareness of circular economy principles, identifying waste management solutions, and linking businesses with green innovators and upcycling groups. Jonathan F. Co, project head of Sentinel Upcycling Technologies, will serve as keynote speaker. He is known for promoting the conversion of waste materials into useful products. The event is supported by the EU-PH Green Economy Partnership, a grant-funded program that selected Baguio as one of its pilot local government units. The program is co-led by the Department of the Interior and Local Government and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme. A highlight of the summit is the Circular Solutions Marketplace, where hotels, restaurants and tour operators can directly connect with recyclers and solution providers to address their waste management needs. Mayor Benjamin Magalong earlier emphasized that circular economy efforts require strong leadership and concrete results. City officials said the summit is part of Baguio’s ongoing efforts to reduce waste and promote a more sustainable and resilient local economy. The Pansa-nopen Tayo circular economy program of the city was launched on Jan. 31, 2025 after Baguio’s selection as one of the 20 local government unit grantees of the European Union-Philippines (EU-PH) Green Economy Partnership, a five-year initiative aiming “to enhance waste management, support the transition to a circular economy and accelerate the deployment of renewable energy technologies” of local government units funded by the EU and implemented in by the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The Green LGUs project where the city is one of the 20 recipients, is one of the objectives of the EU-GEP and is being co-led by the Dept. of Interior Local Government (DILG) and implemented by the United Nations Development Programme Philippines (UNDP).  It aims to enhance circular economy practices of LGUs in collaboration with the private sector and the civil society groups. (Aileen P. Refuerzo)        

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines  — Colorful designs of various types of flowers and ornamental plants were the designs of the 30 floatsthat participated in the grand Panagbenga Festival flower parade in Baguio City, on March 1. Themed “Blooming WithoutEnd”, the  floats from the Small, Medium and Large categories, some of whichwere brought by celebrities, onceagainshone brightly, with the participants highlighting their float entries in line with this year’s theme, which will be the basis for the judges’ selection of the winners. As early as 4:00 a.m., spectators took their seats at Session and Harrison Road to get a closer look at the elegant designs of the floats, some of whichwere brought by celebrities, much to thedelight of the spectators. Each float reflects the creativity, craftsmanship, and cultural pride of local designers, artists, and community groups who carefully transformed fresh flowers into moving works of art. From intricate floral designs tocreative themes inspired by the nature and heritage of the Cordillera, the parade attracted thousands of residents and visitors eager to witness the colorful spectacle. In the small float category, there are 7; in the medium catego ry 7; and in the large category 11 are all in the competition category. Also participating in the parade are the City Government’s large float; the Department of Tourism-CAR float and AB Leisure Exponent Inc (Bingo Plus), as non-competing floats. The large floats of Baguio Country Club and SMPrime Holding Inc. also participate annually as Hall of Famers. This year, the participants in the small floral float category are Radiowealth Finance Company, BB Wedding and Events Styling, Jam AE Enterprise Corp., Wlcon Depot Inc., Eurika Garden, Zaparatta’s Garden, Zaparita’s Garden. In the medium category, Wright Park Hotel, Chowking-Fresh N’ Famous Foods Inc., KFC, Mang Inasal, Palawan Express, Philippine Retirement Authority, RBC Flower Trading/RBC Cutflower Organization. In the large floral category, International Pharmaceuticals In., TIEZA, Pepsi Cola, Golden Arches Development Corporation (MCDO), Regasco, Gamezone IThru Caper Consumer Business Innovation,Inc.. John Hay Management Corporation, GMA Network Inc./Sunsilk, Jollibee Food Corporation, Chooks to Go, Zaparita;s Garden.   The flower float is considered a crowd-pulling event in the history of Panagbenga Festival since 1995.By Zaldy Comanda            

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — The city government through the City Health Services Office (CHSO) has assured the public that there is still no cause for alarm in the city with regards to the Nipah virus, which is now causing concern after registering deaths in India. In a statement, City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes said that there are currently no confirmed or suspected cases of Nipah virus in the city and that they are closely monitoring developments in coordination with the Department of Health (DOH). She said measures are in place for the safety and protection of residents against the disease and these are aligned with the protocols in the national level. The DOH had earlier said that the country is prepared to respond to Nipah virus and other emerging infectious diseases. Nipah virus is said to be “a zoonotic disease transmissible from animals to humans with fruit bats as its natural carriers. Pigs and horses can also become infected, though human cases remain rare and outbreaks have been contained in affected areas. First identified in Malaysia in 1998 and Singapore in 1999, the virus now sees seasonal outbreaks in parts of Bangladesh and India, including recent managed cases in West Bengal. The Philippines receives updates via the World Health Organization’s International Health Regulations (IHR) network. The DOH has confirmed that the country is prepared, noting past cases in Sultan Kudarat in 2014 linked to infected animals and close contacts—no further cases since, with ongoing surveillance by the DOH Epidemiology Bureau. In 2023, the Research Institute for Tropical Medicine (RITM) updated guidelines stressing Nipah’s high-risk status, transmission via body fluids and droplets, lack of vaccine or antiviral treatment, supportive care needs, strict PPE and infection controls and centralized testing at RITM. As a precaution, the CHSO reminded the public to avoid contact with bats and sick or dead animals, consume only meat inspected by the National Meat Inspection Service (NMIS), ensure food is thoroughly cooked and practice good hand hygiene. Individuals experiencing flu-like symptoms with severe headache or neurological signs, especially after animal exposure, are advised to seek medical attention promptly. Brillantes said the CHSO continues to work closely with the DOH-CAR, hospitals, laboratories and emergency response units to maintain readiness. The public is urged to remain calm, rely on official information and avoid spreading misinformation. She assured that updates will be issued should there be any change in the situation. – (Aileen P. Refuerzo)

BAGUIO CITY – Three major events of the Panagbenga Festival inaugurated consecutively as the 30th edition of the much-anticipated and crowd-drawing festival in Baguio City opens on February 1. With the theme “Blooming Without End,” elementary drum and lyre contingents will once again perform in a street dancing parade to enliven the opening of the month-long celebration of the Panagbenga Festival. Participants in the elementary drum and lyre competition are Tuba Central School Drum and Lyre Corps; Pugo Central School, El Tribu D’Lucban Elemetary School. Baguio Central School, Lucban Elementary School, Puguis Elemenrtary School and Mabini ElementarySchool. Before the parade, an “Uggayam” interfaith program will be held at Panagbenga Park at around 7:00 a.m., where various religious groups will offer prayers to wish for a successful and peaceful celebration, followed by a traditional ‘canao’. The parade starts at 8:00 a.m. led  by Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan and the city councils, Congressman Mauricio Domogan, officials of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation.Inc., Baguio Tourism Council and Liga ng mga Barangays along Session, Harrison Road, towards Malvin Jones Football Ground in Burnham Park. Two other major eventsinaugarated, the opening of the Market Encounter, where products from the Cordillera region and invited entrepreneurs from various areas will be displayed and purchased. Panagbengascapes will also beinaugurated for the landscaping competition and exhibition located at the Rose Garden. Here you can see various designs of flower and plant landscapes that will be displayed by 12 famous landscapers of Baguio City. The much-awaited grand street dancing parade and flower float parade will take place on February 28 and March 1, followed by the Session Road in Bloom the next day with the entire celebration ending on March 8. (By Zaldy Comanda)      

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines � City Health Officer Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, of the City Health Service Office, assures the public that the increase in cases of the new variant of H3N2 Influenza, dubbed �Superflu� in the United States and detected in the Philippines, there is currently no cause for concern, reinforcing the statement of DOH Secretary Teodoro Herbosa. She reiterates the advisory issued last October 2025, which urges the public to strengthen preventive measures, particularly for residents with pre-existing health conditions. �We have consistently reminded residents and visitors to follow preventive measures since last year, including before the Christmas season, to help avoid potential surges in influenza cases,� Dr. Brillantes emphasized. Although Baguio City has not seen a significant increase in influenza cases, prevention remains the most effective safeguard�especially as students return for the new school season. According to Department Memorandum No. 2023-0391, an influenza-like illness (ILI) is defined as �any person with an acute respiratory infection with ALL of the following: measured fever of 38 degrees Celsius or higher, and cough or sore throat with symptoms.� Dr. Brillantes highlighted that ILI occurs throughout the year, with predictable peaks from August to October during the rainy and early cold months. The highest case counts are observed among children aged 1�9 years and older adults. In response, the CHSO strongly advises the public to remain vigilant and practice recommended health measures. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗚𝗲𝗻𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹 𝗣𝘂𝗯𝗹𝗶𝗰 Everyone is encouraged to reactivate and sustain the good health habits practiced during the COVID-19 pandemic: Wear a mask if you have a cough, cold, or any flu-like symptoms. Wash hands frequently with soap and water. Observe proper coughing and sneezing etiquette. Disinfect high-touch surfaces like doorknobs, tables, and toys. Avoid crowded indoor spaces with poor ventilation. Get vaccinated to avoid severe effects of the flu virus, especially for the elderly and children. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗟𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗻𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗜𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗶𝘁𝘂𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻𝘀 Elementary and high schools, universities, and training centers are advised to monitor the health status of students and staff. Individuals with coughs or colds should stay home until they have fully recovered. Parents are encouraged to bring symptomatic children to the nearest District Health Center for a free consultation. If symptoms persist for 3-5 days. Schools may consider hybrid learning options to support continued education. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗝𝗮𝗶𝗹 𝗙𝗮𝗰𝗶𝗹𝗶𝘁𝗶𝗲𝘀 Given the higher risk of transmission in closed settings: Isolate Persons Deprived of Liberty (PDLs) showing ILI symptoms. 2. jail personnel on identifying early signs of illness. Early detection and isolation help prevent outbreaks in crowded facilities. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗻𝘀𝘁𝗿𝘂𝗰𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗦𝗶𝘁𝗲𝘀 Contractors and site managers are reminded to: Provide spacious and well-ventilated barracks or resting areas. Supply masks and ensure symptomatic workers wear them at all times. Maintain handwashing and alcohol stations. Workers with symptoms persisting for 3-5 days should visit the nearest District Health Center for evaluation. 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗪𝗼𝗿𝗸𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗰𝗲𝘀 (e.g., Hotels and Restaurants, BPO companies, government offices, private establishments) Employers and managers are encouraged to regularly monitor the health of their personnel. Those exhibiting flu-like symptoms should stay home and seek consultation at the nearest District Health Center. Workplaces should promote frequent handwashing and proper cough etiquette. 4. Adequate ventilation must be maintained by opening windows or improving airflow. Frequently touched surfaces such as doorknobs, tables, and equipment should be disinfected regularly. To know your nearest DHC, check the link below: https://bit.ly/YourDHCBaguio 𝗙𝗼𝗿 𝗧𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗶𝘀𝘁𝘀 Tourists and visitors are advised to assess their own health before traveling and ensure they are well-rested. If symptoms develop, they should seek medical attention and remain at home until fully recovered. For urgent or unavoidable travel, wearing a mask is recommended to prevent virus transmission. The CHSO Epidemiology and Surveillance Unit reported a three-year analysis that describes influenza-like illness (ILI) trends in Baguio City from 2023�2025 using sentinel facility surveillance data. A total of 12,007 ILI cases were reported, with a sharp increase in 2024 and a decline in 2025. However, ILI cases in 2025 remained higher than in 2023. Laboratory findings confirmed ongoing circulation of multiple ILI-causing viruses, with influenza A and B, RSV, rhinovirus, and SARS-CoV-2 predominating. Pathogen or virus diversity was broader in 2023, while 2024�2025 reflected a more typical influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) seasonal pattern. The CHSO also explained the increase observed in 2024 likely reflects overlapping drivers: intensified circulation of respiratory viruses post-pandemic, school-related transmission, possible increased consultation and reporting, and co-circulation of influenza and RSV. � � � � � � � �

By Rose Frejane A. Cruz BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – The city government led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and officials of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) formally opened the Calendar of Activities of the month-long celebration of the much-anticipated crowd-drawing event Panagbenga or Baguio Flower Festival during a launch held at the Baguio City Hall grounds on January 12. The historic event with the theme “Blooming Without End” symbolizing three decades of stability, cultural pride, and community celebration.   BFFFI is now preparing for the re-blooming of the Summer Capital in celebration of the 30th Panagbenga Festival, with traditional events included in the more than month-long celebration from February 1 to March 8, once again delighting residents and tourists.   Aside from the visual appeal of the events, Panagbenga is considered a powerful tourism and local livelihood booster for Baguio City, continuously providing economic support to small and large businesses, while strengthening the city’s identity as a cultural and creative hub of the Cordillera.   Panagbenga will begin with the traditional grand opening parade on February 1, where elementary students will showcase their skills in their Drum and Lyre competition, followed by the opening of the Market Encounter at Burnham Park.   The much-anticipated grand street dance parade is on February 28 and the following day, March 1, the grand floral parade and Session Road in Bloom on March 2 to March 8.   Panagbenga, which means “time of flowering” and comes from the Benguet word Kankanaey, was started in 1996 in an effort to help the city recover from the devastating 1990 Luzon earthquake.   Over the years, it has grown to become one of the most iconic festivals in the Philippines, attracting thousands of visitors with its unique flower parades, street dances, and cultural performances and has been recognized as a member of the International Festivals and Events Association.