Benguet

The area that is now the province of Benguet was originally inhabited by the Ibalois and Kankanaeys. The Spanish did not succeed in conquering Benguet, although they were aware of the Igorot gold mines in the area. The first major Spanish incursion was in 1620 in the La Trinidad Valley. Several gold mines were held but abandoned six years later. It was in the 19th Century that Spanish finally established a presence in the area. Benguet was first created as a district of the new La Union province in 1846 but was separated in 1854. The Americans established civil government in 1900. Benguet became a sub-province of the old Mountain Province in 1908 until 1966. During the 1930s, mining companies setup to work the gold mines in the area. During WWII, Benguet was the scene of fierce battles between the Japanese Imperial Army and Igorot guerrillas and Americans in the days of liberation in 1945.

Baguio City

The history of Baguio City starts in 1900 with the arrival of the Americans. Architect Daniel H. Burnham, an urban planner, was commissioned by the American governor to lay down the plans for what is present day Baguio City. With the establishment of the American civil government in 1900, Baguio City (then a town called Kafagway) was named as the Benguet capital. It became a chartered city on September 1, 1909. The city was devastated in World War II and again on July 16, 1990, this time by a powerful earthquake. Baguio City lost the title of Benguet provincial capital to La Trinidad but has gained the title of regional centre of the Cordillera Administrative Region.

Baguio City Cathedral

Baguio City Cathedral. The cathedral is on a hill and overlooks the city below. From this point, there is a good view of Baguio City. (November 2002)

A view of Baguio City, also known as the Summer Capital, the City of Lights and the City of Flowers in the Philippines. (November 2002)

Because of the altitude of Baguio City, there is a cool breeze. This breeze is sometimes referred to as Baguio's natural air-conditioning. (November 2002)

Burnham Park

Burnham Park is within the central part of the city. There is a large pool where a boat can be rented and one can just row around the pool for a while. (November 2002)

Botanical Gardens

The Baguio Botanical Gardens. At the entrance, it is not unusual to see native Igorots. A pony ride for youngsters is another common occurrence. (November 2002)

Within Baguio Botanical Gardens, there are model huts with different names and styles. Huts like these are used by indigenous people throughout the Cordillera Administrative Region. (November 2002)

Wright Park

The Pool of Pines in Wright Park. Further into the park there is an area for horse ridding, hence the alternative and incorrect name of Ride Park. (November 2002)

Two Igorots dressed in their native clothing willing to pose for a photograph for a fee (P5 each or P10 for both). The Cordillera Administrative Region is home to quite a number of indigenous people. (November 2002)

Mansion House

The Mansion House is the official summer residence of the president. This is as close to the Mansion House as one is permitted to go. (November 2002)