DOT Starts Baguio City’s Tourism Rehabilitation
The Department of Tourism (DOT) has rolled up its sleeves as they start conducting the long-planned rehabilitation of Baguio City’s tourist spots for sustainability.
An unobstructed view of the City of Pines/IMAGE Department of Tourism
Last January 10, DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat set foot in Baguio City to oversee the changes in the City of Pines since the long-planned rehabilitation started.
DOT, in collaboration with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources, and the Department of the Interior and Local Government were also in an open discussion to talk about the updates on the ongoing rehabilitation project. This inter-agency collaboration was also the team behind the success of Boracay and Manila Bay revitalization.
DOT Secretary Bernadette Romulo-Puyat, together with Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong and DILG Secretary Eduardo Año, visited the Burnham Park site. Specific spots that will undergo major rehabilitation are the Burnham Lake and children’s playground./IMAGE Philippine Information Agency
According to Puyat, there have been some serious concerns that were raised over the City’s non-reducing urban development and over-tourism. This leads to several city problems like traffic, overcrowding, water shortages, and growing pollution.
Puyat also assured that this rehabilitation will be done properly through collaborative efforts and when everyone is already convinced of the merits of sustainable tourism development.
“The current thrust of the DOT is to encourage everyone to #SaveOurSpots, instilling the culture of responsible tourism and greater concern for our environment.”, the DOT Secretary said.
Also read: 3 PH Cities to Be Awarded ASEAN Clean Tourist City Standard
The cool breeze of air, breath-taking landscapes, and heart-filling activities will again take over Burnham Park as it will be allocated with a budget of Php 480 million.
This budget will be used for landscaping, lighting, and electrical works; hardscape and softscape; construction of view deck and boat docking; installation of terrace planters; and view deck renovation. There would also be a plant box improvement designed for Burnham Lake.
Tourists enjoying the serene waters of Burnham lake/IMAGE Department of Tourism
Gazebo and restroom construction and installation of play equipment for the children’s playground are also on the list to give the said park a new face.
Also read: Burnham Park in Baguio City: Most Welcoming Place in the City
The City of Pines’ rehabilitation is not intended only for the tourist spots but will also help revive and preserve the city’s ecological health, start proper land use and zoning, build a sewerage treatment plant, and enhance street lights and pedestrian areas.
Other than that, the construction of efficient road networks, and modernizing transportation is also expected to happen at the end of this recuperation. All of these are geared to highlight and preserve the vivid culture and distinct artistry of the Cordilleras.
Source: Department of Tourism, Philippine Information Agency
Image courtesy of Department of Tourism
