Baguio City, popularly known as the summer capital of the Philippines, rests on a plateau in the Mountain province, about five hours by land from Metro Manila. There are local flights too.
First established for the R&R of American soldiers during the colonial period, the Philippine government has reclaimed control over Camp John Hay several years ago. While many say that John Hay lost its splendour after the turnover, that’s only one way of looking at it. Yes, Baguio City is now highly populated but that would have happened with or without the turnover.
The following photos were taken a couple of years ago when we spent a few days there with friends.
Camp John Hay
The first time I saw this structure back in 2001, it was a clubhouse. I was attending a corporate planning seminar at the nearby Asian Institute of Management (AIM) Conference Center and over lunch at this architecturally-impressive clubhouse, I asked the manager if it was made from local pine trees cut from Camp John Hay itself. “No, ma’am,” he said, “they’re Canadian pine trees.” It’s now a hotel and conference center.
{ 4 comments… read them below or add one }
Lisa 10.23.06 at 3:50 am
You came to Baguio “a couple of years ago” and didn’t tell me?!
The site on which this building stands used to the Main Club, a beautiful historical structure (2nd WWII Japan Surrender Documents were signed there), that was “characteristically” torn down by the private “developer.”
In its place, they have built a huge and heavy structure that blocks a majestic view of the Cordillera mountains that could be seen from where you stood to take the photo.
Sigh.
But, hey, nothing beats our “naturally airconditioned” city. With clear blue morning skies, foggy afternoons, tree-lined walks, it can still be as romantic as you want it to be.
Sassy 10.23.06 at 6:31 pm
heyyyy, look who dropped by. We went to Alfredo’s on the way home but you were still asleep hahahaha
Lisa 10.24.06 at 9:05 am
It’s because I work on the websites all night at the office — you so inspire me, girlfriend.
Keep up the good work!
Sassy 10.27.06 at 12:14 am
Still an owl, huh? LOL