Baguio City Yesterday and Today (2026)

22/06/2026

Zonta Baguio Ushers in New Era of Leadership, Community Empowerment

With a renewed commitment to advancing the status of women and girls, the Zonta Club of Baguio formally installed its newly elected officers and inducted new members during its Induction, Installation and Turnover Ceremony held under the theme “Zonta as a Movement Maker: Leading Change, Empowering Communities.”

The ceremony brought together Zontians from across Northern Luzon, community partners, advocates, and women leaders in a celebration of service, leadership, and collective action.

Leading the induction and installation rites was District 17 Area 4 Director Maria Cecilia Pua-Phee, who inducted the officers for the 2026–2028 biennium headed by newly installed President Helen R. Tibaldo. Joining her leadership team are Vice President MeAnn Macaraeg, Secretary Bryce Fabro, Treasurer Marilen De Villa, and members of the Board of Directors: Jhona Legazpi (Membership), Jennifer Tiong (Finance), Amalia Singh (Zonta Foundation), and Debbie Pulido (Service and Advocacy).

The ceremony also welcomed two new members, Grand Joy Agdigos and Hazel Tamayo, who were inducted by Area 4 Vice Director Debbie Pulido.

It also featured the formal Transition and Handover Ceremony between outgoing President Amalia Singh and incoming President Helen R. Tibaldo, a symbolic moment that underscored continuity in leadership and service.

A highlight of the evening was the keynote address delivered by Outstanding Woman Leader Jingle Melan Ku-Marquez, who challenged women leaders to move beyond traditional notions of success and become architects of transformative change.

“The world does not need more women competing for limited seats at the table,” she said. “The world needs more women building larger tables.”

Ku-Marquez introduced the concept of the “M-Type Brain Woman”—a leader who is multidimensional, mindful, mission-focused, meaning-driven, and movement-making. She emphasized that modern leadership requires the ability to balance logic with empathy, strategy with compassion, and achievement with purpose.

She urged women to reject comparison and competition in favor of collaboration and contribution.

“Women who understand that another woman’s success does not diminish their own are the women who create lasting change,” she said.

Calling on Zontians to become bridges between generations, communities, and opportunities, she reminded them that true empowerment extends beyond personal accomplishments.

“You are not merely successful women. You are movement makers. You are possibility builders,” she said, challenging members to dream boldly, mentor generously, and commit wholeheartedly to service.

The evening also showcased innovation in advocacy with the unveiling and launching of “Zontie,” the official Zonta Baguio advocacy doll introduced by Vice President MeAnn Macaraeg.
Described as “a doll with a purpose,” Zontie comes in Adult and Teen versions and will serve as a storytelling and educational tool during school visits, leadership camps, reading circles, outreach activities, and advocacy campaigns. Through the character, Zonta hopes to initiate conversations on respect, equality, leadership, courage, and empowerment among children and young people.

Messages of support were likewise delivered by partner organizations and potential collaborators, including iCanServe Foundation and Minda’s Buddies, Outstanding Women Leaders Inc., the Department of Education–Baguio represented by Roxas National High School, Regional Mobile Force Battalion 15, and the Philippine Medical Women’s Association-Baguio Benguet Chapter.
In her acceptance and closing message,

President Helen Tibaldo reflected on her unexpected journey to leadership. Admitting that she was initially a reluctant Zonta member and an equally hesitant candidate for the presidency, she nevertheless embraced the role with gratitude and a strong sense of responsibility.

“Leadership is not about age; it is about service, commitment, and the willingness to journey together toward a common purpose,” she said.

A veteran public servant who dedicated 43 years to government service, Tibaldo emphasized that meaningful change is achieved through collective effort rather than individual leadership.

“Every Zontian has a stake. Every Zontian has ownership. Every Zontian has a voice. Every Zontian has a role,” she declared.
She stressed that projects undertaken during her term would never be considered the president’s projects but rather the shared responsibility of the entire membership.

Presenting the club’s strategic direction for the next biennium, Tibaldo underscored the organization’s vision of becoming a movement rather than merely a service club.

“Zonta is more than a service organization. Zonta is a global movement of empowered women working together to build a better world for women and girls,” she said.

The ceremony drew participation from fellow Zonta clubs in La Trinidad, San Fernando, La Union, Tuguegarao, Nueva Vizcaya, and Ilocos Norte, reflecting the strength of Area 4’s network and commitment to advancing women’s empowerment across Northern Luzon.

As the evening concluded, one message resonated throughout the gathering: empowered women, united by purpose and service, can create transformative change in their communities. With a new leadership team in place and a renewed vision ahead, the Zonta Club of Baguio begins its next biennium determined to be a true movement maker—leading change and empowering communities.

22/06/2026

Ballet Baguio Soars at National Choreography Competition, Bringing Home Top Honors

In a celebration of creativity, discipline, and artistic vision, Ballet Baguio emerged as one of the standout institutions at the 2026 Association of Ballet Academies Philippines (ABAP) Emerging Choreographers Competition, earning multiple top awards and special recognitions at the Maybank Performing Arts Theater on June 21 in Taguig City

The Baguio-based dance institution brought home two first-place awards, one second-place finish, the prestigious Tony Fabella Emerging Choreographer Award, and a scholarship grant to the 2026 Manila Dance Prix—an achievement that underscores the growing influence of Cordilleran artists on the national dance stage.

At the heart of Ballet Baguio’s success was Artistic Director Jacqueline Go Ramon, whose choreography showcased both technical sophistication and imaginative storytelling.

Her work “Aerodynamic” captured First Place in the Adult Small Group Neo-Classical Ensemble Category. Inspired by the synchronized precision and breathtaking aerial formations of the U.S. Navy Blue Angels, the piece transformed the mechanics of flight into a dynamic dance language. Through sweeping formations and tightly coordinated movement, dancers Yesha Alimondo, Quisha Babas, Phoeboa Buen, Jade Mestito, Lara Namoca, and Keri Villegas embodied the discipline, trust, and unity required of elite aviators.

Ramon also earned Second Place in the Senior Small Group Neo-Classical Ensemble Category for “The Waves Obey Her,” a work rooted in mythology and the enduring power of the sea. Performed by Jiyana Maymaya, Alana Azarias, Alea Bai, Andrea Ducusin, Clea Go, Angellyn Lorenzo, and Theona Subala, the piece drew inspiration from warrior-like sea nymphs whose legends echo through Philippine waters. The choreography blended fluidity and strength, creating an evocative portrait of feminine power and nature’s force.

For her outstanding contributions in neo-classical ballet, Ramon was additionally honored with the Tony Fabella Emerging Choreographer Award, one of the competition’s highest distinctions recognizing artistic excellence and innovation.

Meanwhile, Ballet Baguio Ballet Master Gabriele Alinio claimed First Place in the Adult Small Group Contemporary Category for “Sleepless.” The contemporary work delved into the emotional turbulence of insomnia, portraying the spiraling thoughts, anxieties, and restless energy that accompany a sleepless night. Through expressive movement and raw physicality, performers Yesha Alimondo, Quisha Babas, Phoeboa Buen, Simone Co, Angellyn Lorenzo, Jade Mestito, and Keri Villegas brought the work’s psychological landscape vividly to life.

The success of “Sleepless” extended beyond the competition stage, earning Ballet Baguio a scholarship grant to the 2026 Manila Dance Prix, opening new opportunities for artistic development and national exposure.

For Ramon, the awards represent more than individual achievements.
“These recognitions reflect the dedication of our choreographers, dancers, faculty, families, and supporters who continue to believe in the power of dance and artistic excellence,” she said. “We are honored to represent Baguio City and the Cordillera region on the national stage.”

The accomplishments of “Aerodynamic,” “The Waves Obey Her,” and “Sleepless” highlight Ballet Baguio’s commitment to cultivating original Filipino choreography while nurturing dancers capable of excelling across classical and contemporary forms. More significantly, the victories signal the growing presence of regional dance institutions in shaping the future of Philippine performing arts.
Founded to advance excellence in dance education and performance in Northern Luzon, Ballet Baguio continues to provide opportunities for young artists to develop their craft, tell compelling stories through movement, and contribute to the vibrant cultural life of Baguio City and the Cordillera region.

As the curtain fell on this year’s competition, Ballet Baguio’s artists left the stage with more than trophies and citations. They carried with them a powerful message: world-class artistry can flourish far beyond the country’s traditional cultural centers—and the mountains of the Cordillera continue to be a place where creativity takes flight.

15/06/2026

First Look at the Cordilleras: U.S. Embassy CDA Bridgette Walker Visits Baguio Museum

Nearly a month after arriving in the Philippines, U.S. Embassy Charge d’Affaires Bridgette Walker made her first trip outside Metro Manila, choosing the Summer Capital as an opportunity to experience the country’s rich cultural heritage and learn more about one of its most historic cities.

Accompanied by her husband, James Edward Johnson, Walker visited the Baguio Museum, where she was welcomed by museum officials and given a comprehensive introduction to the history, culture, and identity of Baguio and the Cordillera region.

The visit served not only as a sightseeing opportunity but also as a chance for the American diplomat to gain a deeper understanding of the communities, traditions, and historical narratives that have shaped Northern Luzon.

A highlight of the museum tour was the Cordillera Gallery, where Assistant Curator Gemma Estolas guided the visitors through exhibits showcasing the unique heritage of the region’s provinces. Estolas provided an overview of Cordillera culture and traditions, featuring artifacts from across the mountain region, including those representing Cordillera provinces-Abra, Benguet, Ifugao, Kalinga, Mountain Province & Apayao.

The couple also received a detailed walkthrough from Executive Director Stella de Guia, who presented the museum’s extensive exhibits on Baguio’s transformation through the decades.

Among the exhibits highlighted were displays tracing the city’s early history, its experiences during the Japanese occupation and subsequent liberation during World War II, and the leadership legacy of Baguio’s mayors from 1909 to the present. De Guia also discussed exhibits that explore Baguio’s evolution as a multicultural community, often described as a melting pot and bastion of unique heritage where diverse cultures converge.

The visitors were introduced to galleries featuring “The Old and the New Baguio,” illustrating the city’s continuing transformation, as well as exhibits documenting Baguio’s development from a colonial hill station and health resort into the modern-day City of Pines.

Museum officials likewise highlighted the institution’s Prosperity Tree of Donors, Sponsors and Contributors, recognizing organizations and partners that have supported the museum’s growth and preservation efforts. Among those acknowledged are the United States Embassy in the Philippines, National Commission for Culture and the Arts, and city government of Baguio whose assistance has helped sustain museum programs alongside revenues generated through visitor admissions.

Another significant part of the visit was the presentation of the works of renowned Cordilleran artist Ernesto 'Erning' Dul-ang. The Walkers viewed the celebrated woodcarving depicting the surrender of Tomoyuki Yamash*ta, one of Dul-ang’s most recognized works.

They were also given a preview of pieces that will be featured in the museum’s forthcoming exhibition, Master of Wood Carving: The Extraordinary Journey of Ernesto 'Erning' Dul-ang, which honors the life and artistic legacy of the master woodcarver.

The visit concluded with a warm reception from Museum Board of Trustee Helen Tibaldo, who joined De Guia & Estolas in welcoming the distinguished guests.

For Walker, the museum visit offered an insightful introduction to the Cordilleras and Baguio City’s enduring story—one that blends indigenous traditions, colonial history, wartime experiences, artistic excellence, and cultural diversity. As her first journey outside the capital, the visit provided a meaningful glimpse into the heritage and people that continue to shape one of the Philippines’ most beloved mountain cities.

Walker is also scheduled to pay a courtesy call on Mayor Benjamin Magalong, reflecting the continuing engagement between local government leaders and international partners.

02/06/2026

𝗕𝗚𝗛𝗠𝗖 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝗹𝗲𝘀 𝟳𝟲 𝗣𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗲𝗻𝘁𝘀 𝗶𝗻 𝗠𝗮𝗿𝗰𝗼𝘀 𝗛𝗶𝗴𝗵𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗕𝘂𝘀 𝗖𝗿𝗮𝘀𝗵

The Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) managed and treated patients referred following a vehicular accident involving two buses along Marcos Highway on the evening of May 30.

Among the receiving hospitals, BGHMC handled the highest number of patients, including those in the most critical condition, underscoring its role as the apex referral hospital in Northern Luzon.

A total of 76 patients were received at the BGHMC Emergency Department. Of this number, 12 patients required admission for further management and more advanced interventions. Unfortunately, one patient later succumbed to severe traumatic brain injury.

The remaining 64 patients sustained minor injuries and were provided with appropriate care and treatment before being safely discharged.

At present, the remaining 11 admitted patients continue to receive close monitoring and are undergoing specialized treatment plans to address their respective conditions, with hospital teams ensuring comprehensive and continuous care.

Upon receiving reports of the incident, BGHMC promptly activated its emergency response protocols to ensure the immediate triage, assessment, and treatment of all incoming patients. To augment the hospital’s response and to efficiently manage the surge of cases, doctors and nurses from other wards and areas, including allied health, ancillary, and administrative staff provided support. Likewise, some who were on off duty, voluntarily reported and were directed to assist in operations at the Emergency Department, ensuring that all patients were attended to without delay.

Hospital management commended the coordinated efforts of the hospital staff from various departments and units who worked seamlessly during the critical response. The swift action, teamwork, and preparedness of the whole team ensured that no patient was left unattended.

BGHMC Medical Center Chief, Dr. Larry C. Haya, assured that the hospital extended comprehensive support to all affected patients.

“We have ensured that all patients received the necessary medical attention during this critical time. Beyond addressing their physical injuries, the hospital has also provided psychological first-aid and psychosocial support to help them cope with the emotional impact of the incident,” Dr. Haya said.

BGHMC also coordinated closely with emergency responders and referring teams to facilitate the orderly transfer and management of patients.

This incident highlights BGHMC’s readiness and capability to respond to mass casualty situations, reaffirming its commitment to delivering timely, efficient, and compassionate healthcare services to the people of Northern Luzon.

01/06/2026

Empowering Classrooms and Communities: Zonta Baguio Partners with Roxas National High School for Brigada Eskwela

True to the Filipino spirit of Bayanihan and a shared vision of community empowerment, Zonta Club of Baguio formally handed over financial assistance to Roxas National High School (RNHS) during its enrollment period.

The turnover was led by Zonta Club Baguio President Helen Tibaldo, with Past President Amalia Singh and Treasurer Pam Chu. The financial assistance supports the school’s Brigada Eskwela campaign, a nationwide initiative focusing on stakeholder engagement, community volunteerism, literacy promotion, and the creation of safe learning spaces.

The partnership aligns with Zonta’s global vision of empowering communities, women, girls, and educators. By upgrading the school's facilities, Zonta helps create an inclusive environment where both students and teachers can thrive.

RNHS Principal Victor Fernandez warmly accepted the donation, witnessed by the school's faculty members.

"We are grateful for Zonta’s support," Fernandez noted, adding that this year’s successful Brigada Eskwela is a collaborative triumph.

Along Zonta Baguio, local barangay officials and a local religious group have also stepped up to help prepare the school campus for the upcoming academic year.

The turnover concluded with an informal planning to expand development programs. The Zonta met with RNHS Faculty President and Gender and Development (GAD) Lead Rossana Puyao, with Journalism Focal Persons Grace Manuel and Joanne Signapon.

Discussed was the continuation and expansion of two Zonta Baguio programs:
* The Lead Series Journalism Workshop: A program designed to amplify student voices, fight misinformation, and build critical communication skills.
* GAD Self-Defense Training: An initiative focused on safety, confidence, and physical empowerment for young women and faculty members.

Moving forward, these projects will no longer be exclusive to Roxas National High School. Zonta Baguio and RNHS agreed to expand the participation to include students and faculty from nearby schools, maximizing the reach of gender equity and skills development in the region.

Through financial aid and educational programs, Zonta Club Baguio continues to help build a better world starting with empowering the next generation.

29/05/2026

When celebrating milestones of Baguio’s greats makes you reminisce and become part of Baguio’s awesome past.

28/05/2026

Project H.I.R.A.Y.A. Rolls Out to Strengthen Inter-Regional Patient Referral Systems

A significant step toward a more seamless and patient-centered healthcare system was recently undertaken as the Department of Health–Cordillera Administrative Region (DOH-CAR) formally enrolled Project H.I.R.A.Y.A. under the Policy and Governance Committee workplan of the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center Multi-Sectoral Governance Committee (BGHMC-MSGC).

The initiative aims to standardize and streamline patient referral systems within the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) and neighboring regions, including Ilocos, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon, through strengthened inter-regional coordination and collaboration.

In line with this initiative, DOH-CAR convened a Consultative Meeting on the Establishment of an Inter-Regional Referral System for the Cordillera Administrative Region and the Launching of Project H.I.R.A.Y.A. The activity was recently conducted in hybrid format, with participants joining both virtually and onsite.

The gathering served as a vital platform to present and discuss Project H.I.R.A.Y.A., a high-impact initiative developed by DOH-CAR as part of its commitment to the BGHMC-MSGC, chaired by former Department of Health Undersecretary Myrna Cabotaje.

Project H.I.R.A.Y.A. seeks to improve both intra-regional and inter-regional patient referral systems to and from BGHMC. Through stronger coordination among healthcare facilities and regional health offices, the project aims to reduce uncoordinated referrals and ultimately improve patient experience and healthcare delivery.

In his opening message, Department of Health Undersecretary Glenn Mathew Baggao, who currently heads the North, Central, and Southern Luzon Cluster, underscored the critical role of referral systems in strengthening the country’s healthcare network.

“One of the indicators of the strength of a health system is how efficiently patients move across levels of care,” Baggao emphasized. “Referral systems are not merely administrative processes; they are critical instruments of patient safety, equity, and service quality. A referral pathway that functions well means earlier diagnosis, faster treatment, better utilization of available resources, and less burden on patients and families.”

Providing the rationale behind the initiative, DOH-CAR Regional Director Amelita Pangilinan explained that while the effort initially stemmed from support for BGHMC, the initiative has evolved into a broader inter-regional collaboration.
“The Cordillera may have called this gathering, but the output we produce will belong equally to all four regions, as its eventual impact affects all of us,” Pangilinan said. “This is in line with the Universal Health Care Act of 2019 or Republic Act 11223, which calls for seamless, coordinated care across all levels of the health system.”

During the consultative meeting, several presentations highlighted the current landscape of patient referral systems and the envisioned reforms moving forward.

The discussions and presentations featured the DOH-CAR-led Project H.I.R.A.Y.A., enrolled under the BGHMC-MSGC Workplan; the Existing CAR Regional Patient Navigation and Referral Interim Guidelines; and the BGHMC Patient Navigation and Referral System, including the challenges encountered in its implementation. Participants were also apprised of the current referral processes being implemented by the DOH Centers for Health Development in the Ilocos Region, Cagayan Valley, and Central Luzon.

An audio-visual presentation was likewise shown highlighting the MSGC’s vital role in the hospital’s progress throughout its PGS Journey, as well as its contribution to the institutionalization process.

Representatives from the neighboring regions shared their existing referral mechanisms, best practices, operational challenges, and ongoing initiatives to improve healthcare coordination and service delivery.

Notably present during the meeting were DOH Cagayan Valley Regional Director Ferdinand Benbenen and Assistant Regional Director Pretchell Tolentino, with Medical Center Chiefs and Chiefs of Hospitals from various healthcare facilities across the four regions.

Participants collectively expressed strong support for Project H.I.R.A.Y.A. and recognized its potential to improve healthcare accessibility and efficiency through coordinated referral pathways.

As part of the project’s next steps, participating regions are expected to reconvene through formal and informal engagements to formulate Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) between BGHMC and referring healthcare facilities. The crafting of an inter-regional patient referral guideline is likewise being prioritized to institutionalize collaborative referral processes across regions.

The initiative also supports BGHMC’s “Final Mile to Institutionalization,” regarded as the most critical phase of its Performance Governance System (PGS) journey, further reinforcing the hospital’s commitment to excellence, accountability, and responsive public healthcare service.

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📸 DOHcar / BGHMC

23/05/2026

Over 200 Boys Benefit from Free Tuli Program in Baguio

For many Filipino boys, “tuli” is a medical procedure — that marks the transition from childhood to adolescence.

This year, more than 220 young boys from Baguio City and nearby communities took that important step through a Free Tuli Operation spearheaded by the City Health Services Office (CHSO) in partnership with the Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center (BGHMC) Advisory Board and Surgery Department.

Held on Saturday, May 23, 2026, the medical mission gathered doctors, nurses, medical students, volunteers, and support staff who dedicated their time and expertise to provide safe and free circumcision services to boys aged 8 years old and above. Most of the beneficiaries were 8 years old, while the oldest participant was 18.

Inside the activity venue, nervous smiles mixed with laughter as parents accompanied their sons to the operation area. Despite the anxious moments, the atmosphere remained warm and encouraging, thanks to the medical teams and volunteers who patiently guided the young patients throughout the process.

The BGHMC Advisory Board played a vital role in making the activity possible by providing medical supplies, manpower support, and logistical assistance, including meals for doctors and volunteers who tirelessly served throughout the day.

The successful turnout of the Free Tuli operation reflects the continuing spirit of bayanihan among the City Health Services Office medical staff; BGHMC personnel; volunteers from Pines City Colleges School of Medicine – MedKOM, the College of Nursing; Lions Club members and other medical student volunteers, together with healthcare workers committed to improving community health and uplifting the lives of those in need.

For the hundreds of boys who participated, the day was not only about overcoming fear — it was about experiencing compassion, care, and the support of a community that believes healthcare should be accessible to all.

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12/05/2026

One of Baguio City's resident took his passion to the next level by building a place for artworks and items of cultural and historical significance.

Baguio City Yesterday and Today

22/06/2026

22/06/2026

15/06/2026

02/06/2026

01/06/2026

29/05/2026

28/05/2026

23/05/2026

12/05/2026

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