CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

A. GOAL AND OBJECTIVES The first plan for Baguio was prepared in 1905 by
Architect. Daniel H. Burnham for an expected population of
25,000 people. Daniel Burnhams original intention was
The Land Use Plan is the physical translation of the
inspired by the design of Washington D.C. which specifically
overall vision and sectoral plans for the city. Its overall goal is
emphasized the role of government through the strategic
to enhance the quality of life of the populace by providing
positioning of administrative buildings. However, development
substantial opportunities for land to be utilized at the optimum
pressures and later plan revisions have since diluted this
level at the same time ensuring the creation of a livable and
vision. The concept of a cool summer retreat for 25,000 people
environmentally sustainable city.
has given way to a rapidly growing multi-functional city. The
legacy of large institutional reserves still remains and provides
Specifically, the following are its objectives:
both constraint and opportunity for the future development of
Baguio.
1. To guide the orderly development of the city to promote
health, safety, welfare and convenience of the
The eastern reserves of pine forests and various formal
population;
and informal open spaces interspersed with low density
housing provide the lungs of Baguio which help create the
2. To provide/delineate guidelines for use of natural
visual effect and character which has historically attracted
resources;
visitors for both recreation and residency. This impression is
continued westwards into the city proper by the swathe of
3. To preserve special natural features and
Burnham Park having an area of 33 hectares, which adjoins,
environmentally critical areas;
and runs parallel to the major commercial area along Session
and Harrison Roads.
4. To serve as basis in reclassifying the use of land;
The major existing land uses in Baguio still largely
5. To promote an efficient circulation system; and
reflect the intentions of the Burnham Plan prepared in 1905 as
amended by William Parsons and others in the following
6. Allocation and delineation of different land uses to
decade. The city map of 1917 clearly shows many of todays
promote sustainable development.
major land uses such as Camp John Hay, Mansion House,
Forbes Park, Teachers Camp and the outline of Burnham Park.
(Please refer to attached copy of the original plan for Baguio
B. HISTORICAL LAND USE prepared by Architect Daniel H. Burnham)

Baguio was a wide span of pasture and grazing land

first inhabited by mountain tribes (Igorotes) called Ibalois and C. EXISTING STRUCTURAL ELEMENTS
Kankanaeys. It was partly planted with coffee and partly used
as grazing ground for cattle. Huts were sprawled on different
Based on the study reflected in the Baguio and
sections and from one main path horse and cart trails led to
Dagupan Urban Planning Project, an analysis on the pattern of
other parts of the city.
the city in terms of an abstract vocabulary, Baguios character
has the following elements:

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 172

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

2. Socio-economic development is expected to stretch

1. Nodes - places at which major routes or axes intersect or towards the adjacent municipalities of La Trinidad,
which otherwise act as central places Itogon, Sablan and Tuba (BLIST);

2. Landmarks memorable objects (such as towers) which 3. For purposes of determining the total urban land
may often sit in prominent locations and serve to orient requirements, the HLURB guidelines are used; and
the observer in space and mark or symbolize a locality
4. The in-fill of existing or occupied areas will be carried
3. Axes abstract lines between landmarks and nodes, etc. out considering the evident lack of land supply.
which may organize the pattern of streets, spaces,
buildings and landscape Projected urban requirement for residential
purposes is 1,848 has. This is based on the average
4. Patterns the configuration of various elements in a area of 200 sq.m. per family. The DENR requires a
locality, which is itself memorable such as grid or radial minimum of 200 sq.m. (as to land area) for Townsite
structure Sales Applications before it can be approved. Likewise,
doubled up housing from 1.06 is expected to decrease
5. Vistas broad or narrow views which link between various to 1.04 by the year 2008.
elements and cause them to coalesce into a pattern,
and also characterize the zone from which the vista is Table VI-141. Projected Housing Requirements, 1998-2008
gained DESCRIPTION 1997 2001 2005 2008
Population 252478 308,956 379,572 442,936
6. Edges a memorable boundary feature, which defines and No. of HH 53576 65,821 80,865 94,365
separates character areas: this could be a ridge-line, HH/dwelling 1.06 1.05 1.04 1.04
river, building ensemble, etc. Housing Reqmt. (units) 50,543 62,687 77,755 90,736
Land Area Reqmt. 1,010 1,253 1,551 1,814
7. Character areas a zone, which has to some extent a (hectares)
homogenous identity and is distinguished in the mind Replacement/Displacem 34 has.
as a distinct entity. ent (2600 units)

For commercial purposes, the average area required is 1.5 to

D. FORECASTED SPACE REQUIREMENTS 3 percent of the built up area. Built up area represents around
3,232.96 hectares. These areas are devoted to residential,
The following assumptions were made in the projection commercial, industrial, institutional, parks & recreation, and utilities.
of urban land requirements: Minimum area required for this is 97 hectares.

1. The trend of increase in population will be maintained In terms of Social services, by the year 2008, a total of 886
or even decline. Maximum growth should not exceed hospital beds are required to satisfy the standard of 1 hospital bed per
the present rate; 500 population. At present, the city has 806 hospital beds revealing
a deficit of 79 beds. Using the standard proportion of 6,280 square

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 173

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
meters for 150 hospital beds, an area of 3,308 square meters is
required for hospital facilities.
Fourteen (14) District Health Centers are required to cope with
the demand of the increasing population. This is based on the
standard of 1 District Health Center per 2,000 population. It would
require an area of 2,800 square meters with an average of 200
square meters for District Health Center. Likewise, 14 sub-District
Health Centers are needed requiring an area of another 2,800 square
meters.
At least one (1) Day Care Center is ideally required for each
barangay. This would mean an area of 25,800 square meters covering
the 128 barangays distributed at 200 square meters for each
barangay.
There is only one Fire Station in the City, which is located at
the Central Business District. Four Fire sub-stations were identified to
respond to emergency situations, which are located within high-
density settlements. These are to be situated at Aurora Hill
Barangay, Crystal Cave Road, Dontogan and Pacdal area.
Peace and Order is one of the citys major concerns.
Kababayan Centers are envisioned to be established within strategic
places to augment the existing Police Sub-Stations. Eight (8)
additional Centers will be established near existing Kababayan
Centers. Each will require an average area of 6 square meters.
Schools have reached its maximum on-site expansion for its
facilities. Considering a projected school-age population of 68,362,
44,204 and 999,006 for Elementary, Secondary and College levels; an
area of 347,984 square meters for school facilities is required for the
plan period.
All industrial activities will be located at the Philippine Export
Zone Authority (PEZA).
E. SPATIAL STRATEGY
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
The city of Baguio continues to serve as a major urban center
in the Northern part of the country because of its unique character
and historic significance. It is a major tourist destination, a center for
education, trade, employment and Regional Administrative
Government. As the city makes every effort to maintain and enhance
its environment, the city is faced with negative effects as a result of
high population growth and in-migration.
The city experiences traffic congestion within the Central
Business District (CBD) because of its radial road network and the
concentration of commercial activities within this area.
Dispersal of activities and services along strategic places will
contribute towards minimizing the problems on traffic congestion
within the CBD and at the same time reduce pollution load caused
by vehicular emission. This would release traffic pressures at the
Central Business District more so with the provision of roads
connecting all the growth centers. In this regard, the multi-node
development strategy is hereby adopted for the citys spatial growth.
Economic activities are expected to be established at the
identified barangays providing better opportunities for livelihood.
Locating these urban centers near settlements would provide
convenience in terms of distance and shorter travel time.
The Central Business District serves as the central point of
activity. The area is zoned as Commercial C1, which will allow specific
uses as identified in the Zoning Ordinance, i.e. retail and personal
services. This major growth center is supported by smaller nodes
classified as follows:
1. Commercial C2 , which requires larger areas for the
allowed activities herein are located at Marcos Highway
and Camp 7.
2. The existing site of the Philippine Export Zone Authority
(PEZA) is zoned as Industrial Zone.
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
3. Commercial C3. The Baguio Country Club, although
caters only to its members, is zoned as C3. The same
facility integrates a golf course, restaurant and hotel. A
portion at Irisan is also classified as C3. This center is
located along a national road, which has been
upgraded into all-weather road leading to La Union
where sea ports and airports are available. The
availability of these facilities would ensure the easier
transport of goods into the city.
Due to the constraints of land availability for expansion, the
growth node strategy was adopted so that developments are
contained in already existing and serviced settlements. With the
strategy, no resident will be displaced and their living environment
further enhanced by the upgrading of existing facilities and services.
A linear type of commercial development along the northern
and western road links of the city rationalizes the existing spots of
irregularly spaced commercial activities along these areas by putting
them into orderly clusters. This trend is the better option to
converting already congested residential areas and/or to expanding
in the peripheries where commercial activities are likely to be
ecologically and economically unsustainable.
F. CITY IMAGE PROPOSALS
Along with adopting a multi-nodal spatial development
strategy, the city needs to improve its image in order to
enhance its livability among its residents, its unique identity as
the summer capital of the country, and as a prime tourist
destination for both local and foreign tourists. Described
hereunder are proposals to further enhance the citys urban
design (lifted from Baguio (Urban BLIST) Urban Planning
Project conducted in 1993):
1. The central axis of Burnham Park should be extended
northwards to the corner of Naguilian and Bokawkan
Roads involving the creation of a belvedere (lookout
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
point) at the western corner of Camp Allen or a
landmark at the intersection, (such as a pillar on a
roundabout). This landmark would be also on the axis
of a central grand avenue down the proposed Quirino
Park (which would incorporate the present Buyog
watershed landscape and part of the Bureau of Plant
Industry farms). At the top of the hill would be a major
landmark such as large church, which would be visible
also from La Trinidad on the other side of Quirino Hill.
The central axis of the new La Trinidad center would be
terminated by this landmark.
2. The central axis of Burnham Park, if extended
southwards, passes up the center-line of Sunshine Park
and east (and parallel to the faade) of the Convention
Center. We propose to create an avenue through
Sunshine Park, linked to the center of Burnham Park by
a new footpath on axis. The Baguio City Center Local
Plan describes the proposal for a plaza defined by
public buildings, at the southern end of this axis. This
would be a node, and the plaza should incorporate an
axial landmark.
3. An axis will be created between this node and the
Cathedral south front passing over the Pines Hotel site:
this axis would generate design or layout features of
the proposed retail center and associated works, (such
as footways). See the Local Plan (below) for details.
4. The Local Plan describes a proposal to create a classical
set piece faade around Burnham Park north and east
edges (on Harrison Road and Chanum Street) involving
common cornice lines, fenestration rhythm, colonnade
lines, etc. The area north of the park would be
rehabilitated by new construction and conservation in a
classical manner. The link between adjacent streets
(such as Chugum, Rizal and Cario Streets) and the
park would be established by removal of traffic;
streetscaping, and creating pedestrian links so as to
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
extend their axes into the park. The axis of Harrison
Road would be extended southwards by creating a
grand staircase from the Park to the Cathedral: this
involves relocating the Petron Filling Station on Harrison
Road, which is necessary for traffic management
reasons in any case. The High School currently
terminates the subsidiary axis of the park at its
southern end, but a landmark on Camp Allen Hill could
terminate the northern end. The other subsidiary axis
could receive similar termination. The Baguio General
Hospital is a historic structure: the landscape oval in
front of it is a potential entry point or gateway, but it
requires some amendment to the landscape, which
obscures this function at the moment. The insertion of
other new buildings could help to create a circus on the
45 degree axis of the center of the octagon at the
southern end of the park.
5. Other axes could be feasibly created as follows. The
Mansion House and avenue are aligned on an
impressive axis. This could be extended westwards to
Bayan Park, where an axially aligned symbolic building
could be created (such as small church with a tower).
Secondly, an axis in the long term could connect together the
end of the Mansion Avenue, the Forbes Park Oval, Pacdal Roundabout,
St. Joseph Church towers and the center-line of Gibraltar (which has a
grid on this alignment) together with two new monumental structures
on Holy Ghost Hill and the proposed Quirino Park.
Thirdly, a grand avenue from General Luna Road could be
created leading up to Brent School which would align axially with the
landmarks on Holy Ghost Hill and Bayan Park.
The open areas (such as Bayan Park, Holy Ghost Hill, Quirino
Park, etc.) would be modified to include new avenues, archways,
stairways, etc. on axis. Detailed study would be needed.
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
G. PROPOSED POLICIES ON LAND USE AND LAND
MANAGEMENT
The following are some land use policies, which shall be
applied to implement the proposed multi-nodal spatial pattern
strategy:
1. Considering the lack of land supply, existing residential
zones that are served by the citys major transport
system will be reclassified into commercial zones;
2. Vacant areas with very steep slopes which are unbuildable
will serve as open spaces/buffer zones;
3. Protected areas or areas that are covered by Presidential
Proclamations as well as local legislations shall remain
to serve as is. RA. 7279 or the Urban Development
Housing Act of 1992, however, provides that
Government owned lands, whether owned by the
National Government or any of its subdivisions,
instrumentalities, or agencies, including government-
owned or controlled corporations and their subsidiaries,
which have not been used for the purpose for which
they have been reserved or set aside for the past ten
(10) years from its effectivity and identified as suitable
for socialized housing, may be disposed in accordance
with this Act. Proposed conversions shall be
subject to feasibility studies to determine
benefits as against environmental effects. These
shall be compared as basis in coming up with decisions.
The citys watersheds have to be preserved and
protected, as these are the citys main source of water.
4. All suitable industrial activities will be located at the
Philippine Export Zone Authority (PEZA). Other than the
industries allowed at the PEZA, only non-pollutive, low
water consuming, low volume and high value products
are encouraged such as tourism-related cottage/home
industries; and
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
5. Traffic management shall be improved. Provision of
adequate parking spaces especially for traffic
generating activities shall be imposed. Furthermore, a
traffic management plan shall be required from these
establishments.
H. THE NEW LAND USE PLAN
1. General Land Use Proposals
a. Residential Areas
The citys land supply is physically constrained
by topography with most of its area having slopes
ranging from 20% to 50% (Figure VI-2 ). However, most
of these areas have already been developed for
residential purposes. Slope protection measures were
introduced by landowners making it fit for residential
purposes. Soil testing is another requirement especially
for proposed buildings that are beyond 3 storey to
determine the capacity of the soil in terms of holding
the structure. Likewise, owners are required to secure
an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) with the
Department of Environment and Natural Resources. The
ECC is expected to look on the environmental concerns
of any proposed development project.
Residential areas are proposed to be increased
by 58.14% or 1,023.8026 hectares to accommodate
the shelter needs of the growing population. Vacant
areas are located at the boundary as appearing in the
existing land use map. In terms of ownership, these are
either subject of claims, covered by title as well as
government owned lands. This is supplemented by the
infill of existing residential areas. Residential zones are
categorized into R1 or low density residential areas, R2
for medium density and R3 for high density residential
areas. Socialized housing areas have been identified in
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
various parts of the city classified as residential. The
city-owned lot located at Irisan is the pilot area for
socialized housing program. Area for residential
purposes will occupy 48.44 percent of the citys land
area.
b. Growth Centers
Growth Centers are areas that provide
employment and service opportunities for the city as a
whole and the barangays. These centers are near
existing community facilities such as schools, church,
recreation and others. Utilities such as power, water,
transportation facilities are available in these areas.
The specific location of these centers are described in
the zoning district boundaries and in the Land Use map.
Commercial C1
The Central Business District which accommodates a cluster of
retail and personal services shops has its center at the popular
Session Road and extends to the market area including the following
areas:
1. Lot deep along Bokawkan Road
2. Market area including Magsaysay Avenue
3. Session Road; Rizal Monument Barangay; AZCKO Barangay
4. Malcolm Square; Kabayanihan; Kagitingan Barangay
5. Upper and Lower Gen. Luna Road
6. Right Side of Bonifacio St. near St. Louis University
7. T. Alonzo; New Lucban Barangay; Tabora Barangay
8. Lot deep along M. Roxas St., Trancoville
9. Kisad Legarda Including Concorde and Europa
Condominium
10. Monticello Hotel at Camp 7 Barangay
11. Along Siapno and Ambuclao Road near Pacdal Circle
(Existing Satellite Market)
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
Commercial C2
C2 districts allow a wider range of local retail and service
establishments than C1. These are specifically located at:
1. From Junction Yandoc St. to Naguilian Rd. up to City
Cemetery
2. Part of Lourdes Subdivision and San Roque
3. Along left side of M. Ponce St., Quezon Hill Proper Brgy.
4. One lot deep along left side of Trinidad Road
5. Portion of Happy Homes Old Lucban Barangay
6. Marcos Highway (From Junction North Sto. Tomas Road to
Junction Balacbac Road)
7. Part of Atab Road near Tuba municipality
8. One lot deep along Kennon Road Camp 7 (near Camp 7
Satellite market)
Commercial C3
C3 districts are zoned for larger commercial activities and the
like. These are specifically located at Irisan and the existing Baguio
Country Club. The later, however, which incorporates a hotel,
restaurant and golf course, is intended for club members only.
c. Industrial Zone
Industrial area is decreased by 78.69 hectares. This is
due to the re-zoning of the existing Irisan Lime Kiln into
commercial area and socialized housing site. All major
industrial activities are expected to be contained at the
Philippine Economic Zone Authority (PEZA) in Loakan.
Thereby, only non-pollutive and low water consuming, low
volume and high value product are encouraged, i.e.
cottage/home industries.
d. Institutional Areas
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
Existing areas for institutional purposes will be
increased by 12.69 percent, which is located at a vacant area
adjacent to Tuba Municipality. The identified site shall be
acquired by the proponents before any institutional
development is introduced. Institutional facilities, which are
mostly located at the Central Business District, have reached
their maximum on-site expansion. Enhancing educational
facilities is in line with the role of the city as a center of higher
learning in the north.
e. Watershed Reservations/Protected Areas:
The urban forest is another critical means of
preserving and protecting the natural environment and, in
particular, helping to improve the air quality and supply of
water in the city.
These are mostly found within forest/watershed
reservations. Aside from this, planting and growing of trees
along streets and roadways, as well as on private lands is
encouraged.
All forest/water reserves will be maintained. Forest
reserves have an aggregate area of 521.2332 hectares. Some
portions of Forbes Park have been released to actual occupants
for residential purposes. Republic Act No. 8963, which is
entitled An act excluding from the Baguio Townsite
Reservation and from the operation of Proclamation No. 10
dated February 9, 1924, and Proclamation No. 63 dated August
6, 1925, which established the Forbes Forest Reservation and
the Government Center, respectively, all situated in the City of
Baguio, Island of Luzon, certain portions of land within lots
1,2,3,4,5 and 6 embraced therein and declaring the same
alienable and disposable lands for disposition to qualified
applicants under Republic Act. No. 730. This has decreased
the area by approximately 4.68 hectares.
VI - 178
 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

Proclamation 198 dated June 29, 1993 provided the Pucsusan watershed SP. Res. 190, s. 0.8442
transfer of the John Hay Air Station to the Bases Conversion 1995
Development Authority, renaming it as Club John Hay, and Guisad Surong watershed Land ID. 0.125
declaring it for tourism, human resource development center Camp 8 & Poliwes watershed SP Res. 399, s. -
and multiple use forest watershed reservation. This has an 1997
area of 570 hectares, more or less. Presidential Proclamation TOTAL 521.2332
No. 420 dated July 5, 1994, likewise, designated portion (288.1
hectares) of the former Camp John Hay as the John Hay Special
Economic Zone pursuant to Republic Act 7227. Likewise,
Executive Order No. 64 was issued by President Ramos,
declaring the property of the Bases Conversion and
Development Authority located in Scout Barrio, Baguio City as
housing site and providing for its disposition to bonafide
occupants. All developments therein shall conform with
their designated functions as specified under the laws
that amended the same. Development shall likewise
conform with the citys approved CLUP and zoning
ordinance.

Protected Forest at Camp John Hay

The table below presents the list of watershed reservations

covered by Presidential Proclamation and Sangguniang Panlungsod
Resolution.

Table VI 142. List of Watershed Reservations

TOTAL AREA
PARTICULAR PROC. NO.
( In hectares)
John Hay Forest Reserve Proc. 198 273.87
Crystal Cave Watershed Proc. 16 4.073
Sto. Tomas Forest Reserve Proc. 581 22.11
Buyog watershed Proc. 93 19.93
Busol Watershed Proc. 15 112.00
Camp 8 Watershed Proc. 107 14.36
Lucnab Watershed Proc. 178 5.98
Forbes Park I, II, III Proc. 10 67.941 Buyog Watershed

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 179

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

2. Sto. Tomas School Site, Bakakeng

Norte and Camp 7
3. Atok Trail, Happy Hollow, Outlook
Drive
4. Mines View

Irisan Conservation Area

Forbes Park No. 1, South Drive

Open Space/Conservation Areas

Vacant areas with slopes above 50%,

which are unbuildable, are reserved as open
areas. These can be devoted for reforestation
activities and the like, as specified in the
allowed uses under the Zoning Ordinance. These
areas shall be continuously preserved for the
purpose to further enhance the citys natural
environment.
Sto. Tomas School Site, Bakakeng Norte and
The new land use plan has identified Camp 7
open spaces/conservation areas at the periphery
particularly at:
1. Irisan Conservation Area

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 180

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

f. Parks and Gardens

These include all major parks and those

parks at the various barangays that are existing
and identified by the City Land needs
Identification Committee.

The parks offer a wide range of activities

such as children play, sports fields and facilities,
picnic areas and tourist attractions.

Major Parks
Atok Trail, Happy Hollow, Outlook Drive
Based on the recommendation of the Baguio and Dagupan
Urban Planning Project, there are three (3) proposed city parks that
may compete with Camp John Hay and Burnham Park and intended to
divert the agglomeration of people in these areas. The city will
explore the possibility of implementing these parks. These are:

1. Three Hills Ridge Park

This park will include (a) Dominican Hill

(including Lourdes Grotto, one of the most important
tourist attractions in Baguio), (b) Mirador Hill where the
Diplomat Hotel could be converted to leisure, and (c)
the hill near Crystal Caves. This hill will be crowned with
a Mirador because from this point it is possible to see
the Lingayen Gulf on a clear day.

2. Quirino Hill Park

Mines View
These portions have steep slopes and are
unbuildable. These are recommended for urban
forestry/ reforestation activities and the like.
This includes a watershed reservation area
which will continue because it is compatible with the
use of the area as a park. This park will be extended, if
possible, occupying the part of DTI and the Bureau of

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 181

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

Plant Industry properties where the topography is

smooth. It will be crowned on the top with a big
structure that will be visible from all the town. The park View Parks
will spread along the hillside. The design could be
inspired by rice terraces of the Ifugao indigenous tribes,
The city offers a wide variety of panoramic views and vistas
and also by Burnhams ideas of design with big axes,
owing to its mountainous topography. The city should benefit from
avenues, stairs and monuments.
this, raising view parks wherever the vistas have interest.
The implementation of Mirador Hill Park as mentioned earlier
will provide unity to the project.
3. Reservation Park

This park will be implanted in the reservations

(to the south of the Baguio General Hospital) and in the Parks Upgrading
actual watershed reservation. As mentioned, the use of
these lands as a park and as a reservation are While existing parks are comparatively well-maintained, more
compatible. To establish boundaries is the best way of funding is needed for modern equipment, walling, edging, path repair,
avoiding problems like squatters and facilitating lighting, maintenance of planting strips, etc. The following parks have
maintenance and supervision. been considered for upgrading in the Baguio and Dagupan Urban
Local Parks Planning Project: Burnham Park, Wright Park, Mines View Park,
Sunshine Park, Filipino-Japanese Friendship Garden, Aguinaldo park
and the Botanical Garden.
The following proposals are likewise lifted from the Baguio and
Dagupan Urban Planning Project conducted in 1993. These are quite
small areas in some barangays devoted to leisure activities for the
population living in the neighborhood, with meeting spaces to allow Green Corridors along Major Thoroughfares
children play, and sports that does not need big spaces. Neighborhood
fiestas could be organized here. Major highways should be greened by the planting of avenues
where space allows. In other places, trees could cluster on unused
In addition to land acquisition, investment will be needed in areas. This should be coordinated with the removal of informal shops
children game areas, sport areas, roads, paths, sidewalks, lighting and (i.e. auto repair shops, woodworks), which disfigure some streets and
drainage systems, urban furniture, toilets, storage and planting. These also congest some traffic flows. Proper boundary fencing, surfacing of
are: footways and margins and the removal of superfluous signs would
also help. Key intersections and viewpoints could be celebrated by
1. Bayan Park sculpture or rotundas. Taken together with the avenues, these could
2. Quezon Park create a network of green routes that would unify the urban pattern.
3. Pinsao Park
4. Fairview Park g. Other Areas
5. Trancoville Park
6. St. Joseph Park The remaining areas are utilized as airport, abattoir,
7. City Camp Lagoon garbage dumpsite, and utilities zone.

Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008 VI - 182

 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
1. The Utilities Zone located at the northeast portion
of Mines View Barangay shall accommodate
common carriers such as communication towers
and antenna.
The plan discourages the location of cell
towers in residential areas. These shall be
located at a high elevation as designated in the
utilities zone. The locational guidelines of the
Housing and Land Use Regulatory Board (HLURB)
shall govern the establishments of cell towers.
2. Airport Zone at Loakan shall be maintained and
upgraded according to the standards set by the
Air Transportation Office (ATO).
3. Slaughterhouse Area at Brgy. Sto. Nino shall be
maintained and upgraded to conform with the
standards of a class A abattoir as per the
standards of the National Meat Inspection
Commission.
2. Road Network
4. Cemetery sites. These include the existing public
cemetery located along Naguilian Road and the
private memorial parks along Naguilian Road,
Kias and Loakan Barangays.
The city is open to the establishment of
additional cemeteries in suitable areas to
augment the need for more resting place for the
dead. However, the proposed site and facility
shall conform with the locational guidelines/
standards of the Housing and Land Use
Regulatory Board and the requirements set by
the Department of Health.
5. Dumping Site. The dumping facility at Irisan
Barangay shall be slowly converted into an
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
Ecological Park following the provisions of RA
9003. The recently installed Composting Facility
can reduce 30 MT of garbage per day. Additional
equipments will be installed to cater to the
increasing volume of garbage until such time
that all garbage can be accommodated by the
composting facility. One of the critical aspects of
the ecological solid waste management is the
mainstreaming of poverty alleviation into the
program. Waste pickers are currently being
trained with the help of NGOs, particularly the
JV Ongpin Foundation to help in the operation of
the composting facility and convert recyclable
materials into other products.
As embodied under the Ecological Solid Waste
Management Plan, the composting facility will also
integrate methane capture that will be converted into
electricity for use by the plant as well as the
community. However, the identification of land suitable
for a sanitary landfill will still be pursued for residual
waste.
a. Inter-Municipal Linkage
The proposed circumferential road that
stretches from the Pico-Lamtang Road (La Trinidad,
Benguet) - Naguilian Road - Marcos Highway via
Asin Barangay - Balacbac-Bakakeng-Camp7-
Kadaclan, Happy Hollow Pacdal and loops to La
Trinidad provides easier access to the adjacent
municipalities of La Trinidad, Tuba, Sablan and
Itogon. (Figure VI-2. Proposed Circumferential
Road in Baguio City)
b. Growth Nodes Linkage
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

The same circumferential road passes
through the identified growth nodes and is expected
to ease the flow of vehicular traffic at the Central
Business District.
The inner circumferential road is an existing
road that passes through Bokawkan-Yandoc-Kisad-
Military Cut-Off-South Drive-Circle-Leonard Wood
Road.
funds in their conservation; major tax concessions
should be granted; and the authorities should be pro-
active in organizing their restoration. The following key
buildings are identified in the Baguio and Dagupan
Urban Planning Project as examples as worthy of
preservation and/or improvement
Baguio City Hall

3. Urban Greenscape Protected Areas

These are within the developed areas in the city.

All proposals to develop these areas should be subject to
careful vetting by the authorities. There should be a stand
against building and a strong presumption against the
cutting of trees. Height should be limited in a way that
buildings are not higher than tree covers. These are:

a. Teachers Camp
b. Club John Hay
c. Country Club
d. Forbes Park
e. Brent School
4. Cultural Heritage
The City Hall was built in 1909 at the same time as the City
The City of Baguio is of considerable historic was granted a special charter under the tutelage of American Mayor
significance. This section outlines the basis for a conservation E.J. Halsema. The original City Hall was bombed in 1945 and
policy. Public education where NGOs/POs would play a lead role subsequently restored after the war. The classical lines of the faade
shall be sustained over the years in order to create the of this institutional building and its imposing location are appropriate
necessary climate of opinion. The following are the general for its function and significance. The tower of the city hall stands out
categories of conservation action: from afar to mark and identify the building.

a. Fabric Conservation of Buildings

Diplomat Hotel
a.1 Grade One Buildings these may be
regarded as significant for the wider region or for the
nation. These need to be listed and protected by
legislation; public funds should be used to lever private

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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
The Diplomat Hotel is located at the summit of Mirador Hill.
Mirador Hill is a vantage point, which allows a birds eye view of the
entire city. The hotel was designed in classic fashion using a series of
arched windows at ground floor level and rectangular windows along
the second floor. There is an arched porte cocehere at the center of
the building with a balconied roof, which breaks the continuous series
of windows. The railings of the deck roof crown the building with
imposing regality when viewed from the lower portion of the city. The
prominent cross belies the religious origins of the building.
Unfortunately, the Diplomat Hotel was damaged by the 1990
earthquake. No rehabilitation has been completed on the building to
date and it remains closed to the public.
Little Flower Novitiate
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
The Little Flower Novitiate near the Mansion House is an
intersecting three storey building.. The rounded corners of the
building soften the overall form while the frequency of the vertical
lines provides a fragile visual rhythm. The repeated crossed detailing
along the cornice provides an interesting visual break. Canopies at
first and second levels break the regularity of the vertical lines.
Old School Buildings
There are many school buildings in Baguio City and the
adjoining municipalities. Significant among them are the Quezon
Elementary School and the North Baguio Central School.
Baguio General Hospital
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

1952-53. The elongated lines of the building are punctuated by a

porte cochere and uniformly placed simple windows. It is fronted by
a wide driveway.

Baguio Catholic Cathedral

This is an old colonial hospital with an imposing faade, arched

entrance way and windows. The controlled simplicity of lines and the
low elevation of the building blend well with the topography. The
value of this institution, its intrinsic significance to the well-being of
the people of Baguio, the hope and relief it represents, should
encourage preservation of this complex.

Gasiaco Recoletos Seminary Building

The Baguio Catholic Cathedral and the Cross of the Saviour

was founded by the Scheut Fathers of Belgium. They took advantage
of the availability of choice sites during the formation stage of Baguio
and selected hilltop overlooking Session Road for the cathedral. The
most prominent feature of the cathedral is the two high steeples. The
cathedral has a beautiful interior, utilizing narra wood. The natural
lighting of the interior comes from stained glass windows.

The Recoletos Seminary Building is located along Asin Road Bell Tower Temple
near the junction of Quirino Highway. The building was remodeled in

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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
Bell Tower Temple is better known as the Chinese Temple. It is
located along La Trinidad Valley Road near the city limits. The
complex is an interplay of temple, bell tower and garden. There is an
interesting flight of stairs.
Convent of the Most Blessed Sacrament (The Pink Sisters
Convent)
A peaceful place with a lovely garden and remarkable chapel,
in the vicinity of General Luna and Leonard Wood Roads, where the
sisters adopt a reclusive way of life.
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
Garden Statuary
Along Marcos Highway the owner of one house has
transformed the garden with large concrete figures. It is an
interesting example of modern private sculpture in Baguio, which may
be an example for future, such individualism in the vicinity.
Various Old Houses to the East of Burnham Park
These are some of the 128 lots sold in 1908 for residential and
commercial purposes. In the area are some of the oldest and the most
pleasant timber houses in Baguio. As a whole, they constitute an
enticing area although many of the properties are in need of
restoration and renovation. Remedial work is required such as
repairing sidewalks, removing billboards and advertisements,
providing suitable street lamps, harmonizing fences, and avoiding
inappropriate new construction. The authorities could possibly ensure
that the owners qualify for aid to encourage them to restore their
houses for the benefit of the community and visitors alike. The
strategic location of these houses close to Burnham Park clearly
deserves special attention.
Other Old Houses
These generally timber board structures contribute to the hill
resort character of Baguio. Unfortunately, lack of maintenance is very
apparent. The first step in their preservation could be to catalogue all
these buildings, including ownerships, history, construction materials,
features, location and setting.
Lourdes Grotto (Dominican Hill)
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

of a horse-riding image of the hero. Also located at the park is the

Aguinaldo \museum built in likeness to a traditional Ifugao house.
This museum houses the memorabilia of General Aguinaldo.

The Mansion House

Dominican Hill gives a bird eyes view of the city. The Lingayen
Gulf at San Fernando, La Union can be seen from this vantage point
on clear days. The Jesuits constructed the famous Grotto of Our Lady
of Lourdes on Dominican Hill. The grotto can be reached by driving up
a slope or negotiating a long flight of stairs. The stairs provide an
interesting play of horizontal lines identical to the piano keyboard
effect. The stairway is topped by the venerated shrine of the grotto at
the summit.

Aguinaldo Park

The Mansion House is reserved for the exclusive use of the

President. The house faces a huge well-treed garden and an imposing
driveway. The mansion is an arched edifice of elegance.

Camp John Hay

Aguinaldo Park is located in Barangay General Luna. In the
park is a monument in honour of General Emilio Aguinaldo in the form

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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

Named after General Franklin Bell in 1929, the Bell Auditorium

is located near Scout Hill at Club John Hay. It is well-maintained,
terraced open-air amphitheater in a semi-circular valley below what
used to be the house of the Commanding General. This auditorium is
used for open-air concerts and performances and can seat a thousand
spectators.

Existing Landmarks

There are a number of existing statues and landmarks,

which are listed below:

1. Roundabout Camp John Hay

2. Roundabout Baguio General Hospital
3. Oblation Statue in University of the Philippines College
Baguio
4. Sacred Heart of Jesus image of Jesus at the top of
Camp John Hay was established in 1903 under Major General J. Session Road
Franklin Bell as a summer retreat for the enlisted men of the U.S. 5. Drinking Horse at Abanao Street
Army due to the perpetually cool weather. Through the years, under 6. Dead Soldiers Monument in Harrison Road
succeeding commanding officers, the camp was developed to provide 7. Aguinaldo Park equestrian statue
cottages, hospital dormitories, a golf course, tennis courts and
recreation hall. There are also some interesting buildings that are not
considered to be of specific heritage value but they do have
Camp John Hay has witnessed the unfolding of history. Baguio some visual prominence in the city:
grew in concert with this camp. It was the last stronghold of the
resistance, particularly the 45th Infantry and Companies A and B of the 1. Baguio Convention Center
Philippine Scouts. During the occupation of the Japanese, it was used 2. Holy Family Church at Bakakeng
as a concentration camp. Camp John Hay was the site of surrender of 3. Saint Vincent Church on Naguilian Road
the Japanese forces under General Yamashita at the residence of the 4. Iglesia ni Cristo Church on Magsaysay Avenue
High Commissioner on 3rd September 1945. Plans to intensify the 5. The Church of Crusades at Pacdal
uses in the Club without sacrificing its character are currently being 6. The Buddhist Temple with an imposing image viewed
discussed. from the City Market
7. St. Joseph Church in Pacdal
The Main Club is the central feature and originally 8. Maharlika Livelihood Center, despite its unsightly
accommodated vacationing US Army servicemen. After the camp was facade is actually the center of most economic and
transferred to the Government of the Philippines, the club was commercial transactions.
converted to a first class hotel.

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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
a.2 ) Grade Two Buildings these may be regarded
as significant at the local level only. Since the Philippines is not
a rich nation, it seems advisable to focus scarce public funds
only on Grade One buildings.
b. Character Conservation
Buildings are not isolated objects. They often
gain importance from their setting, which may be an
ensemble of buildings, spaces, groundscape, trees etc.
The real issue is to conserve the character of the
totality. From this arises the idea of Conservation
Area. This plan has identified significant areas for
preservation. Boundaries should be determined
including key features for protection and desired actions
and design characters. A detailed Heritage Plan shall
be pursued by the City Government.
SPECIAL AREAS OF SIGNIFICANCE
1. Session Road
2. Leonard Wood Road
3. South Drive
4. Kennon Road
5. Marcos Highway
6. Irisan
Session Road
Establish Session Road as promenade area to
limit pollution levels in the Central Business District. A
thorough study should be undertaken inasmuch as the
proposal will affect the traffic flow in the Central
Business District.
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
Commercial Buildings in these areas should be
encouraged to landscape the rooftops to increase GHG
sequestration.
Leonard Wood Road
Greenbelts along this area should be protected
and further enhanced.
South Drive
Maintain natural forest cover and bar massive
developments in the area
Kennon Road
Pursue and support the declaration of Kennon
Road as a Heritage Area. Massive tree planting activity
is necessary in the area to prevent erosion and improve
air ambient quality.
Marcos Highway
Planting of trees of medium height along
roadside should be implemented to protect the
panoramic vista at the same time control erosion
within that area.
The New Land Use Plan has identified portion
along this area as Commercial C2. Commercial
activities as identified in the plan shall strictly comply
with the provision of adequate parking spaces and
other pertinent laws. Auto repair, welding and related
activities shall be contained within the lot boundaries
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

and should not utilize sidewalks for such activities as al

well as for parking.
Irisan
The following shall govern in the measurement of
the building heights.
Planting of trees along roadside should be
implemented to protect the panoramic vista at the
same time control erosion within that area. 1. Floor to floor distance shall be three (3) meters
minimum distance.
2. Building heights shall be measured from the crown of
5. Proposed Development Controls the road or alley fronting the property.
3. In cases where the buildable portion of the lot is higher
a. General Development Controls
than the road, the building height shall be measured
from the established natural grade line.
1. Building Heights
4. In cases where the road fronting the property is an
Generally, the provisions of the upgrade or down grade road, the building height shall
National Building Code and its be measured from the crown of the road located at the
Implementing Rules and Regulations middle of the front width of the lot.
particularly Rule XVIII are observed. 5. In cases where the lot is a through lot, the height of the
However, sub-section 2.4.5 of Rule XVIII building shall be measured from the road of higher
states that one of the considerations in elevation.
the height of buildings/structures is the
provision of land use plans and zoning
ordinances. Section 13 of the Zoning
b. Specific Development Controls
Ordinance provides the following building
heights:
1. Landscape Regulations
Table VI 143. Building Heights
1.1 New buildings should provide
ZONE HT. NO. OF REMARKS
adequate facility for rainwater
(MTS.) STOREY
capture for flushing, watering of
R1 13.5 4 Additional attic floor
plants and cleaning, especially
allowed that the city usually experience a
R2 19.5 6 Inclusive of Attic Floor water shortage.
R3 19.5 6 -do-
C1 19.5 6 1.2 Housing plots fronting roads
C2 19.5 6 should be required to plant at
C3 19.5 6 least three trees of low height at
Industrial 37.5 12 maturity and further encourage
Institution 19.5 6 them to include in their landscape

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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN
the planting of native plants to
preserve biodiversity in the City.
1.3 Owner of Buildings along the
Central Business Districts that no
longer allows planting of trees
along roadsides should be
encourage to green their roof tops
to improve air ambient quality in
the area.
1.4 Housing plots that require fencing
must have uniform design and
standards.
1.5 Preservation of natural drainage
ways and strict enforcement of
easement as provided under the
Nation Building Code.
1.6 Designation of billboard areas as
well as policies that limits the
sizes of billboards/signs must be
enacted. Signs and billboards in
commercial buildings must be
located in one area uniformly
sized.
1.7 Public utility companies must be
required to place the wires
underground to preserve the
natural aesthetics of the city.
2. Heritage
2.1 Grade One Buildings should be
totally protected by law from
demolition or alteration without
Baguio Citys Comprehensive Land Use Plan, 2002-2008
permission. Action to demolish,
alter or rebuild these buildings
and all sites, and trees in
conservation areas should be
notified to the City Council
beforehand, which would then
have two months to negotiate with
owners a mutually acceptable
resolution. Failing this, the owner
could proceed as he wished,
subject to the provisions of
pertinent laws, rules and
regulations.
3. Building Character and Architectural
Design
3.1 Adopt a green template policy that
will integrate energy efficiency in the
design of all types of structures within the
city and provision of rainwater capture.
4. Reforestation/Tree Cutting
4.1 Cutting of trees in forest,
watershed reservations and parks
shall not be allowed save under
the provisions provided under
Ordinances Numbered 54-87, 5-
90, 301-58, and 44-88.
4.2 Strict implementation of the
requirements before the issuance
of occupancy permits which
requires the planting of 10 tree
seedlings.
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 CHAPTER VI - LAND USE PLAN

4.3 All public lands should be declared

for public purposes and developed
as parks, open spaces, rest area,
save from valid vested rights.
4.4 Manage and maintain regenerated
and natural forest for slope and
soil protection and to increase
CO2 sequestration to improve air
ambient quality in the City.
5. Air Quality
5.1 Promote the use of alternative
Fuels through partnerships with
the transport sector.
5.2 Provide greenbelts to increase
CO2 sequestration and protect
pedestrians from the hazards of
vehicle emissions.
5.3 Only clean fuels will be promoted
in the City.
6. Land and Building Management
6.1 No construction of land and building
development shall be allowed
which will unnecessarily
contribute to the flooding of the
area, or deterioration of its
physical environment unless
provided with appropriate flood
and erosion mitigation, drainage
system and other safeguards.
6.2 All construction of building having
a height exceeding three (3)
storey including basement is
covered by the scope of Philippine
Environmental Impact Statement
System hence, shall secure first
an Environmental Compliance
Certificate with the Environmental
Management Bureau prior to the
processing of its building permit.

5.4 Establish greenbelts or green

corridors to increase CO2
sequestration in the CBD.

5.5 Support the declaration of the

BLIST as an Airshed as well as the
policies that will be formulated by
the governing board of the BLIST.

5.6 Rationalize traffic scheme in the

City to reduce pollution load at the
Central Business District.

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