Baguio: The Summer Capital of the Philippines

• HelloKamusta
  [kah-mus-tah]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pah-ah-lahm]
• YesOo
  [oh-oh]
• NoHindi
  [hin-dee]
• Please/You're welcomeMangyari po
  [mang-ya-ree poh]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPaumanhin
  [pah-oo-man-een]
• How are you?Kamusta ka?
  [kah-mus-tah kah]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [mah-boo-tee. ee-kahw]
• Do you speak English?Marunong ka mag-Ingles?
  [ma-roo-nong kah mag-een-gles]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-dee koh main-tin-dee-han]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko makita ang menu, pakiusap
  [goo-stoh koh mah-kee-tah ahng meh-noo, pah-kee-oo-sap]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-dee ah-koh koo-mah-kah-een nang kahr-neh]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [tah-gai]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko bayaran, pakiusap
  [goo-stoh koh bah-ya-rahn, pah-kee-oo-sap]

• Help!Tulong!
  [too-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [loo-mah-yoh kah]
• Call the Police!Tawag sa Pulis!
  [tah-wahg sah poo-lees]
• Call a doctor!Tawag sa doktor!
  [tah-wahg sah dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [nah-wah-wah-lah ah-koh]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [mahy sah-kit ah-koh]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto ko bumili ng...
  [goo-stoh koh boo-mee-lee nang]
• I'm just lookingNagtitignan lang ako
  [nag-tee-teeg-nan lahng ah-koh]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-kah-noh ee-toh]
• That's too expensiveMahal masyado iyan
  [mah-hahl mah-syah-doh ee-yahn]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede bang ibaba ang presyo?
  [pweh-deh bahng ee-bah-bah ahng preh-syoh]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [ah-nong oh-rahs nah]
• It's one o'clockAlas-uno na
  [ah-lahs-oo-noh nah]
• Half past (10)Alas-dyes y medya
  [ah-lahs-dyes ee med-yah]
• MorningUmaga
  [oo-mah-gah]
• AfternoonHapon
  [hah-pon]
• EveningGabi
  [gah-bee]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [kah-hah-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [ngai-yon]
• TomorrowBukas
  [boo-kahs]
• 1Isa
  [ee-sah]
• 2Dalawa
  [dah-lah-wah]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-loh]
• 4Apat
  [ah-paht]
• 5Lima
  [lee-mah]
• 6Anim
  [ah-neem]
• 7Pito
  [pee-toh]
• 8Walo
  [wah-loh]
• 9Siyam
  [see-yahm]
• 10Sampu
  [sahm-poo]

• Where's a/the...?Nasaan ang...?
  [nah-sah-ahn ahng]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [ah-noh ahng address]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pweh-deh moh ah-kohng ee-pah-kee-tah sah mah-pah]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [kahy-lahn ahng soo-soo-nod nah]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang ticket (papunta sa ....)
  [ee-sahng ticket (pah-poon-tah sa)]

Before the arrival of Spanish colonizers, the area now known as Baguio was inhabited by indigenous tribes such as the Ibaloi and the Kankanaey. These tribes practiced terrace farming and had a rich cultural heritage, including various rituals, dances, and folklore that are still celebrated today.

Baguio remained largely unexplored by Spanish colonizers due to its mountainous terrain. However, Spanish explorers occasionally ventured into the area to exploit its natural resources, particularly gold and other minerals. The Spanish influence in Baguio was minimal compared to other parts of the Philippines.

In the early 20th century, the Americans saw potential in Baguio as a hill station and a summer retreat. In 1900, Baguio was formally established as a town and later became a chartered city in 1909. The Americans introduced various infrastructures, including the renowned Kennon Road, making Baguio more accessible. They also built Camp John Hay, a recreational facility for American soldiers.

During World War II, Baguio played a significant role as a strategic military location. The city was occupied by Japanese forces in 1942 and served as a base for their operations. Baguio was heavily bombed by Allied forces towards the end of the war, resulting in significant damage. The city was liberated in 1945 by American and Filipino forces.

After World War II, Baguio underwent extensive reconstruction. The city continued to develop, becoming an educational hub with the establishment of schools like the University of the Philippines Baguio and Saint Louis University. Baguio also became a popular tourist destination, known for its cool climate and scenic views.

On July 16, 1990, a devastating earthquake struck Luzon, with Baguio being one of the hardest-hit areas. The earthquake caused widespread destruction, including the collapse of several buildings and infrastructure. The disaster led to significant loss of life and prompted major reconstruction efforts. Baguio's resilience shone through as the city rebuilt and modernized in the years following the quake.

Today, Baguio is a melting pot of cultures, blending indigenous traditions with American colonial influences and modern Filipino culture. The city is renowned for its vibrant arts scene, with events like the annual Panagbenga Festival celebrating the region's floral abundance. Baguio remains a beloved destination for both local and international tourists, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Baguio, known as the 'Summer Capital of the Philippines', is located in the northern part of Luzon. The nearest major airport is Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) in Manila, approximately 250 kilometers away. From Manila, you can take a bus to Baguio, which typically takes around 4-6 hours depending on traffic conditions. Victory Liner, Genesis Transport, and JoyBus are some of the reliable bus companies operating this route. Alternatively, you can rent a car and drive to Baguio, enjoying a scenic route through the mountains.

Once in Baguio, getting around the city is relatively easy. Taxis are plentiful and affordable, and jeepneys are the most common form of public transport, offering a more local experience. For short distances, tricycles are also available. If you prefer more convenience, you can also use ride-hailing apps like Grab. Walking is a great option for exploring the downtown area, as many attractions are within close proximity.

The official currency in the Philippines is the Philippine Peso (PHP). Credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and larger stores, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments and local markets. ATMs are available throughout Baguio, especially in shopping centers and tourist areas. It's a good idea to have some small bills and coins for jeepney fares and tips.

Baguio is generally safe for tourists, but it's always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night and be cautious of your belongings in crowded places like markets and public transportation. While Baguio doesn't have specific high-crime areas targeting tourists, staying vigilant and aware of your surroundings is always beneficial.

In case of an emergency, dial 911 for police, fire, and medical assistance. Baguio General Hospital and Medical Center is the main hospital in the city, offering comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, numerous pharmacies are available throughout the city.

Fashion: Do dress in layers, as Baguio's weather can be quite cool, especially in the mornings and evenings. Avoid overly revealing clothing. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches, dress modestly and avoid loud behavior. Public Transport: Do have exact change for jeepney fares. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a smile or a polite nod. A handshake is common in more formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies like strawberry taho and ube jam. Don't refuse food offerings, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Baguio like a local, visit the Baguio City Public Market early in the morning to buy fresh produce and local goods. Attend the Panagbenga Festival in February to witness the vibrant flower parades. Explore Session Road for a variety of dining options. For a unique experience, take a leisurely stroll through Burnham Park or visit the Tam-awan Village to learn about local art and culture.