BAGUIO CITY (PIA) — Mayor Benjamin Magalong presented the notable achievements under his administration’s brand of good governance beyond politics, and the new city’s vision “Baguio 2043.”
In his State of the City Address (SOCA) during the celebration of Baguio Day on September 1, 2024, Magalong presented the key highlights that include collaborative environmental programs such as the Ibaloi Heritage Park and Igorot Garden, and Bayan Park, which are already 74 percent complete, Arboretum Phases 1 and 2 that are completed, and Phase 3 which is underway, and the establishment of the Forbes Park Tree Research Center.
He also discussed the abandonment of the waste-to-energy project and the focus shifting to waste-to-resources and the circular economy. A new city council ordinance supports this change by promoting sustainable waste management practices.
Magalong also cited the disaster risk management and climate resilience progress made in Baguio City, which was adjudged as a beyond compliant LGU for excellence in disaster risk reduction and management and humanitarian assistance in the GAWAD Kalamidad at Sakuna Labanan, Sariling Galing ang Kaligtasan (KALASAG) 2023.
Another focus area was economic performance, with Baguio having an 11.3% growth rate in its economy, surpassing both the regional and national growth rates. The city attracted significant attention particularly from the Philippine Economic Zone Authority, which contributed about P11.78 billion to new business investments in 2020 or 2023 alone, he said.
In terms of social development, the mayor mentioned how committed they are towards enhancing public health and safety in the city. The healthcare programs initiated by the city government include expansion of the PhilHealth Konsulta Program as well as new agreements for operational patient assistance programs specifically dealing with critically ill patients.
The city has also made significant strides towards housing development through Terraces project which is supported by the Department of Housing, Settlement, and Urban Development and the National Housing Authority. Site development is 23 percent complete. The project is envisioned to have 10 buildings with 260 units.
The mayor also highlighted the SIGLAT Youth Innovation Hub has been a catalyst for technological and creative advancements involving over 2,100 participants in its first year. The SIGLAT (Synergize, Innovation and Gravitate Leadership Towards Adaptive Technologies) Youth Innovation Hub, the first in the country, captures the innovative activities and collaborative projects of the youth of Baguio City. He emphasized on increasing youth participation in governance and urban planning, which was recognized with the Seal of Child Friendly Local Governance on February 25, 2024. Magalong also gave importance to fostering youth leadership.
“I would like to repeat, and I would like to remind our elders, it’s about time that we have to allow our young people to take the lead. Allow them to participate in decision making. And please, let us listen to them. That’s the only way we will be able to empower our young people.”
The mayor also presented the new city’s vision “Baguio 2043”, which aims to transform the city into a livable, inclusive, and creative hub. This plan addresses anticipated urban issues while being anchored on a strategic direction that aligns with the 17 Sustainable Development Goals.
Magalong concluded his SOCA with a call to action against corruption, urging citizens to actively participate in governance and stand for honesty. He said addressing the corruption issue is one way through which a brighter future may be secured for the younger generation in Baguio City.
“If we think we have to speak up, we have to speak out against corruption to have continued and be passionate in promoting good governance. Silence is not neutrality. It is complicity, it is tolerance. If we become silent about this, then we have practically given up on the future of our young people today. Our children, our grandchildren, and most especially on the survival of our nation. So, we have to bond together, establish a united bond against corruption. It’s eating us. It’s eating this country.”
The City Government of Baguio celebrated its 115th Charter Day Anniversary with the theme “Tradition, Innovation, Celebration.” (DEG/Fatima Gilledo, PIA CAR-PHINMA-UPang Intern)
