Baguio tourism council aims to extend industry benefits to grassroot communities

BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) is ramping up its reach to barangays in and around the city’s central business district, with a focus on expanding the economic benefits of tourism.

BTC chairperson Gladys Vergara, spearheading these efforts, has been actively engaging with officials from 11 key barangays in the city, emphasizing “the need for equitable and inclusive growth”.

Vergara said the dialogues with barangay leaders from Upper Magsaysay, New Lucban, Lower General Luna, AZCKO, Harrison CARANTES, ABCR, Malcolm Square, Upper Market, Camp Allen, Kabayanihan, and Rizal Monument highlighted the importance of ensuring that “these areas fully capitalize on the economic opportunities generated by the influx of tourists.” 

“Your barangays are at the heart of where tourism thrives, yet the full economic potential seems unevenly tapped,” she said.

She underscored the necessity of extending development beyond the city’s central business zones.

“Dispersing growth to areas on the periphery is essential. We must leverage tourism’s influence to drive comprehensive and inclusive development across Baguio," the tourism council chair said.

Vergara also stressed the importance of ensuring that the benefits of growth reach all sectors of society.  

“Our people, particularly those in lower economic brackets, should experience the advantages of development. Equitable growth accelerates when it is shared, and those most in need should be prioritized,” she added.

The ongoing dialogues are part of the council's broader strategy to promote sustainable and inclusive economic growth throughout Baguio City, ensuring that all barangays, especially those near the central business district, benefit from the city’s thriving tourism industry.