Hailed as the Summer Capital of the Philippines, Baguio City is the best destination if you want to relax or take a break from the heat of Metro Manila.
But did you know that Baguio City is not just known for its cold weather? Locals are proud of their rich heritage, arts, and culture. In fact, Baguio City was recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City in the Crafts and Folk Arts category in 2017. What makes this special is that Baguio City is one of the 63 newly named cities from 44 countries worldwide!
Interested in checking out why Baguio City received such prestigious recognition? Read on the round-up of activities and destinations if you want to discover the creative side of Baguio City.
1. Panagbenga Festival
You've probably heard of the Panagbenga Festival. It is one of the tourist attractions of Baguio City for both local and foreign tourists.
Panagbenga is from a Kankanaey term that means the season of blossoming. Every February, Baguio City holds a flower festival to celebrate the abundance of blossoms, thus attracting visitors to witness the colorful parade and joyful cheer of people.
Panagbenga Festival grew from the collaboration and support of the government, residents, schools, civic organizations, and the business community. Creative concepts were born with the Cordilleran culture and arts as the touchstone. The Bendian Dance of the Ibaloi tribe was also incorporated to showcase the celebration of unity and harmony. Simply, Panagbenga Festival is not just a showcase of the locals' creativity but their solidarity and enthusiasm as well.
It is a definite feast on the eyes as Panagbenga Festival is jam-packed with vibrant and captivating activities. There are landscaping and floral arrangements exhibitions as well as cultural shows that you can bring your kids to watch. More than that, feel the warm and joyful welcome as locals decorate their houses, stores, and streets with flowers to invite more guests and customers.
The festival's highlights are the street dance competition and Grand Float Parade at the well-known Session Road. Experience the city's energy as street dancers clad in their eye-catching costumes move along the drum beats and flash their best smiles. Watch in awe as you witness the amazing floral floats in various sizes and designs. Some floats were shaped into a floral forest, house, animals, and many more!
Like a flower seed, the Panagbenga Festival continues to flourish, growing ever grander and more attractive by the year. Undoubtedly, more and more tourists look forward to joining this creative festivity.
2. Ibagiw Festival
The word ibagiw means "someone or something that is from or of Baguio." The Ibagiw Festival is an annual event that showcases and pays homage to local artists, crafters, and artisans.
It gives the spotlight to hundreds of artists and their artworks. If you want to see their artworks, you may visit the various exhibits of art installations, murals, and street art, some of which run throughout November.
Aside from the exhibits, there are also basketry, metal craft, tattooing, weaving, and woodcarving competitions. Consider this as part of your itinerary as you get to see artists present their best handicrafts!
3. Ili-likha Artist Village
There is a place in Baguio City that will surely surprise you in every corner you turn to. Ili-likha Artist Village is a hole-in-the-wall restaurant that houses the work of art and delectable food of local artists.
Ili-likha, which translates as “village of creators”, was started by film director, writer, and National Artist Kidlat Tahimik. You might think of it as a treehouse! Its roots are deeply anchored in Baguio; its exterior look aims to honor the nature vibes of the city.
But don’t be fooled by how you see Ili-likha Artist Village from the street! Once you come inside, it’s a treat for the eyes as different artworks are visible everywhere— from the start leading to every food stall. Ili-likha Artist Village is a haven for local artists who created this multi-level food park with varying recycled and raw materials. There are wood carvings, paintings, statues, art installations, stacked wine bottles, and colorful mosaic staircases. Needless to say, every area is truly Instagrammable!
Once you’re done with your mini art tour, you may choose from a selection of food stalls. You can have a heartful meal at a fair price. There are vegetarian dishes, comfort food, pasta, desserts, coffees, and other drinks. Your whole family or barkada can have a bite of their cravings.
Make sure to include the Ili-likha Artist Village in your Baguio City itinerary. This eco-art place will keep you inspired and have a bigger respect for our local artists. Check it out at #32 Assumption Road, Brgy. Kabayanihan, Baguio City, Benguet.
4. Oh My Gulay!
Another classic establishment in Baguio City is the Oh My Gulay! As the name suggests, Oh My Gulay! is well-known for its delicious, vegetarian menu that leaves a memorable gastronomic experience for the customers.
Oh My Gulay! is located along Session Road in Baguio City. The landmark would be the La Azotea Building, but if you have difficulty finding it, the locals are willing to guide you.
Just a tip, Oh My Gulay! is on the fifth floor of the La Azotea Building. Some diners would even say “OMG!” while making their way to the top as there is no available elevator. But this mini exercise will be rewarded with a relaxing and artistic interior of Oh My Gulay!
It has the same concept as Ili-likha Artist Village because both of these eco-art restaurants were thought up by Kidlat Tahimik. With his advocacy to build a space where local artists can freely create and showcase their artworks, Oh My Gulay! grew to be a truly unique and exhilarating space.
Aside from the artworks, the interior of Oh My Gulay blends with the natural ambiance of Baguio City. Trees and plants are everywhere as if encouraging you to live a healthy life. Speaking of which, the menu is another story. Oh My Gulay offers classic Filipino dishes with a vegetarian twist! It’s an experience that you should try when visiting Baguio City.
5. BenCab Museum
If you want to witness the creative side of Baguio City at any time of the year, then art museums should be part of your tour. For one, there is the famous BenCab Museum!
The BenCab museum, founded by the National Artist Ben Cabrera, lets you take in the beauty of arts and nature in just one place.
Benedicto Reyes Cabrera is the Philippine National Artist for Visual Arts and a master of contemporary Philippine art. His name and masterpieces are widely admired across Asia, North America, and Europe.
When BenCab decided to reside in Baguio City, he built the BenCab Museum. It houses his masterpieces and those of other esteemed artists and new contemporary artists.
All that aside, feed your stomach with fresh and good food from Café Sabel, named after BenCab's famous muse. This cafe is located inside the museum and has a view of the forest and pond, making it a refreshing dining experience for all the guests!
Visit the BenCab Museum at 91KM, #6, Asian Road, Tadiangan, Tuba, Benguet.
6. Baguio Cathedral
Our Lady of Atonement Cathedral, also known as the Baguio Cathedral, is one of the distinct landmarks in Baguio City.
Most tourists never miss taking photos of this Catholic church because of its architectural beauty. The Gothic style is evident in its vertical lines, pointed arches, stained glass windows, and rib vaults.
While most of the churches in the country are in grey bricks or brownstones, the Baguio Cathedral is unique with its rose-colored facade. The twin spires are identical to the smallest design detail, and this balanced design befits the impression of repose and order.
It's easy to locate the Baguio Cathedral, being on top of Mount Mary Hill and across Session Road. Admire the exquisite design of the Baguio Cathedral while ascending the 100 steps.
Free accommodation in Baguio City
A day in Baguio City won't be enough with these activities and more! Staying in the city for a few days and booking accommodation might be part of your plans to see what Baguio City offers.
Did you know that you can experience an enjoyable trip to Baguio City without spending too much on accommodation? Yes, it is possible with DMCI Homes' free accommodation perks in some of their leisure properties!
Known as DMCI Homes VacationPass™, this program gives free access to unit buyers of DMCI Homes. Enjoy free accommodation in Bristle Ridge or Outlook Ridge Residences.
Availing the DMCI Homes VacationPass™
Homebuyers can avail of this exciting perk for each unit reservation in participating pre-selling properties.
For every unit purchase, you can accumulate VPoints. Convert it to an overnight stay or a day tour and experience the signature of resort-inspired living of DMCI Homes. The accumulated VPoints will provide exclusive access to various popular leisure destinations.
Baguio Leisure Properties
If you plan to stay in Baguio City, you can use your VPoints to access any of the two DMCI Homes leisure properties.
Choose to stay in Bristle Ridge if you prefer quick access to creative and beautiful destinations. This relaxing community is located along Pacdal Road, Baguio City.
You may also bring your family to Outlook Ridge Residences for a serene ambiance during your stay. Be greeted by the foggy view of the mountains, and once the night falls, feel the warmth from the fire pit at the mid-deck.
Being a homebuyer can never be this rewarding! Enjoy traveling across the top vacation spots in the country while relaxing in the resort-inspired communities of DMCI Homes. The best part is you'll still feel at home wherever you are.
Avail the DMCI Homes VacationPass™ today or visit this link to know more.