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away from Manila (Rizal Monument) |
BRIEF HISTORY During the Spanish Era, Benguet was not a remote area for the Spaniards to explore. The vastness and promising economic potential of the place lured the Spaniards to conduct series of expeditions. Early explorers included Juan Salcedo in 1572 and Don Q.M. Quirante in 1964. Series of attempts were made to pacify the "Igorots" but failed. Finally in 1846, Commandante de Galvey established his Commandancia at La Trinidad, Benguet (named after his wife). Galvey went to establish the province of Benguet with 31 rancherias. The first Kapitan of Benguet was Pulito of Kafagway, now Baguio, a minor rancheria of about 20 houses. Source of Information: Department of Tourism, Philippines |
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Baguio City Travel Tips and General Informations The presidentia of Baguio was first established in the house of the Campulet at the top of the new Tabacalera road at the lower end of Guisad Valley. Later, the presidentia of Baguio was moved to the present site of the Baguio City Hall. The Spaniards were able to establish order, built churches and schools, made trails and introduced coffee during their long occupation of the area. The Americans came early in 1900 and established their government with H. Whitmarsh as the appointed Governor of Benguet and Baguio as the capital. This was the first provincial government to be established in the Philippines and this happened a year prior to the inauguration of the civil government of the Philippines. Their best administrators and teachers were fervent boosters and promoters: Worcester, Wright, Forbes, Pack, Barrows, Eckman and others who together with Filipinos committed to make the place haven. Beginning 1909, a government fleet of Stanley steam autos brought up more than 2,000 passengers a season. The city was well governed and well kept. The mines near Baguio were developed and productive. Business in the city flourished with commercial centers put up. Recreation facilities were installed. The city was growing before the outbreak of the war. Baguio was bombed on December 8, 1941 by the Japanese and they occupied it on December 27 of the same year. However, the war changed course and on September 3, 1945, General Yamashita formally surrendered to the Americans at the US Ambassador's residence in Camp John Hay, after which, Baguio immediately set to the task of rehabilitation. The July 16, 1990 memorable earthquake devastated the entire city with its infrastructures, buildings and its populace but it did not end here. Four years after the great earthquake, Baguio City has recovered and is standing firm and proud for its restored heritage. Until today, Baguio City as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, is the most frequented destinations in Northern Luzon by local and foreign tourists alike. |