The Heart of Baguio: Exploring City Proper

• HelloKamusta
  [ka-mu-sta]
• GoodbyePaalam
  [pa-a-lam]
• YesOo
  [o-o]
• NoHindi
  [hin-di]
• Please/You're welcomePaki
  [pa-ki]
• Thank youSalamat
  [sa-la-mat]
• Excuse me/SorryPasensya
  [pa-sen-sya]
• How are you?Kumusta ka?
  [ku-mu-sta ka]
• Fine. And you?Mabuti. Ikaw?
  [ma-bu-ti. i-kaw]
• Do you speak English?Marunong ka ba mag-Ingles?
  [ma-ru-nong ka ba mag-ing-gles]
• I don't understandHindi ko maintindihan
  [hin-di ko main-tin-di-han]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseGusto ko pong makita ang menu
  [gus-to ko pong ma-ki-ta ang me-nu]
• I don't eat meatHindi ako kumakain ng karne
  [hin-di a-ko ku-ma-ka-in ng kar-ne]
• Cheers!Tagay!
  [ta-ga-y]
• I would like to pay, pleaseGusto ko sanang magbayad
  [gus-to ko sa-nang mag-ba-ya-d]

• Help!Tulong!
  [tu-long]
• Go away!Lumayo ka!
  [lu-ma-yo ka]
• Call the Police!Tumawag ka ng pulis!
  [tu-ma-wag ka ng pu-lis]
• Call a doctor!Tumawag ka ng doktor!
  [tu-ma-wag ka ng dok-tor]
• I'm lostNawawala ako
  [na-wa-wa-la a-ko]
• I'm illMay sakit ako
  [may sa-kit a-ko]

• I'd like to buy...Gusto kong bumili ng...
  [gus-to kong bu-mi-li ng]
• I'm just lookingNagmamasid lang ako
  [nag-ma-ma-sid lang a-ko]
• How much is it?Magkano ito?
  [mag-ka-no i-to]
• That's too expensiveMasyadong mahal
  [ma-sya-dong ma-hal]
• Can you lower the price?Pwede mo bang bawasan ang presyo?
  [pu-we-de mo bang ba-wa-san ang pres-yo]

• What time is it?Anong oras na?
  [a-nong o-ras na]
• It's one o'clockAlas-una na
  [a-las-u-na na]
• Half past (10)Ala-una at kalahati
  [a-la-u-na at ka-la-ha-ti]
• MorningUmaga
  [u-ma-ga]
• AfternoonHapon
  [ha-pon]
• EveningGabi
  [ga-bi]
• YesterdayKahapon
  [ka-ha-pon]
• TodayNgayon
  [nga-yon]
• TomorrowBukas
  [bu-kas]
• 1Isa
  [i-sa]
• 2Dalawa
  [da-la-wa]
• 3Tatlo
  [tat-lo]
• 4Apat
  [a-pat]
• 5Lima
  [li-ma]
• 6Anim
  [a-nim]
• 7Pito
  [pi-to]
• 8Walo
  [wa-lo]
• 9Siyam
  [si-yam]
• 10Sampu
  [sam-pu]

• Where's a/the...?Saan ang...
  [sa-an ang]
• What's the address?Ano ang address?
  [a-no ang ad-dres]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Pwede mo ba akong ipakita (sa mapa)?
  [pu-we-de mo ba a-kong i-pa-ki-ta sa ma-pa]
• When's the next (bus)?Kailan ang susunod na (bus)?
  [ka-i-lan ang su-su-nod na bus]
• A ticket (to ....)Isang tiket (papuntang ...)
  [i-sang ti-ket pa-pun-tang]

Baguio City Proper was established as a summer capital of the Philippines during the American colonial period in 1903. The American government aimed to create a retreat from the heat of the lowlands, leading to the development of Baguio as a hill station. City planning was undertaken by architect Daniel Burnham, who envisioned wide roads and parks, which laid the foundation for the city’s layout.

Baguio City Proper has historically been a melting pot of cultures due to its strategic location. It became a hub for various indigenous groups, including the Ibaloi and Kankanaey, alongside migrants from different regions of the Philippines. This cultural fusion is reflected in the local customs, festivals, and cuisine, making Baguio a vibrant representation of Philippine heritage.

During World War II, Baguio was occupied by Japanese forces, and the city experienced significant turmoil. The historical structures and landmarks were damaged, but the city eventually rebuilt itself. Post-war Baguio saw an influx of visitors and settlers, contributing to its growth as a commercial and educational center in the region.

Baguio City's Proper is home to the Panagbenga Festival, also known as the Flower Festival, which originated in the early 1990s to celebrate the city’s floral abundance. This annual event showcases grand floral floats and street dancing, reflecting the city's rich culture and artistry, and has become a major tourist attraction, promoting local community involvement and heritage.

In recent years, Baguio City Proper has faced challenges such as urbanization, environmental degradation, and the impact of tourism. Efforts are being made to balance development with sustainability, preserving the natural beauty and cultural identity of the city. The local government and community organizations are actively involved in initiatives aimed at protecting Baguio's unique heritage and environment.

Baguio City Proper is easily accessible from various neighborhoods in Baguio. From the Burnham Park area, you can walk or take a short jeepney ride to reach the city center. If you're coming from Session Road or the Market area, these are typically within walking distance. For those coming from locations further out, such as Camp John Hay or Wright Park, jeepneys and taxis are readily available. The city is well-connected, and public transportation is efficient.

Baguio City Proper is best explored on foot, especially around the central areas like Burnham Park, Session Road, and the Market. Jeepneys are the primary mode of public transport, offering affordable rides to various destinations within the city. Taxis and ride-hailing services are also available. Bicycles can be rented in some areas, allowing for a leisurely exploration of the city's scenic spots. Note that traffic can be congested, especially during peak tourist seasons.

Baguio City is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken. Areas such as the outskirts of the city, especially near the slums, may experience higher crime rates, particularly petty theft. Always be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuable items in crowded places. It's advisable to travel in groups after dark and choose well-lit areas to walk in.

In case of an emergency, you can dial 911 for police, fire, or medical assistance. The Baguio General Hospital is the main medical facility in the city, and there are several clinics and pharmacies available for minor health issues. Ensure you have travel insurance to cover potential medical emergencies. Familiarize yourself with the locations of hospitals and police stations in the area.

Fashion: Do dress in layers due to the cool climate. Wear comfortable shoes for walking. Don't wear overly revealing outfits, especially in religious areas. Religion: Do respect local customs; it's customary to be quiet in churches. Don't take photos in places where it's prohibited. Public Transport: Do give way to the elderly and be polite. Don't engage in loud conversations or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a simple 'Hello'. Don't use overly familiar terms unless invited. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and accept food offered by locals. Don't waste food, as it's considered disrespectful.

To experience Baguio City Proper like a local, visit the public market early in the morning for the freshest produce and local crafts. Engage with vendors and try local snacks such as strawberry taho or ube jam. Attend local festivals if possible, as they showcase Baguio's culture and traditions. Use the local jeepney system for a more authentic travel experience and to interact with residents. Lastly, don't miss exploring the nearby parks and gardens, which are perfect for leisurely strolls.