Baguio kicks off centennial countdown

BAGUIO CITY — This vacation capital and premier tourist destination is kicking off its centennial celebration today.

Known as "Kafagway" during the olden times, this mountain abode is turning 100 years old in 2009 yet but this early, the city folk are in a celebratory mood to "commemorate the past, celebrate the present and envision the future," said Baguio Centennial Commission chairman Joseph Alabanza.

This morning, the ringing of church bells across the city and fireworks will signal the kickoff rites for the 1,000-day countdown for the centennial.

As the sun rises today, runners bearing "Baguio’s Torch" symbolizing the enduring light guiding the highland dwellers will pass through the historic Major Lyman W. Kennon Monument at the viewdeck along Kennon Road, the site of the Philippine Commission Session on Gov. Pack Road, and the monuments of American Justice George Malcolm and Daniel Burnham.

The run will end at the Baguio City quadrangle where Alabanza, Rep. Mauricio Domogan and acting Mayor Reinaldo Bautista Jr. will receive the torch in solemn rites.

At the ceremonies, city officials will unveil Baguio City’s centennial logo that captures the celebration’s theme — "Fostering a Culture of Caring."

White doves symbolizing "peace and solidarity" will be released at the end of the kickoff activities at the city quadrangle, said veteran newsman Nars Padilla, executive director of the Baguio Centennial 2009 rites.

A flower-bedecked float in honor of the Baguio pioneers will be released at the Burnham Park’s lake, while trees will be planted at the park as part of the "Countdown 1000 Tree of Life."

Padilla said a 1,000-day countdown billboard will also be unveiled at the foot of Session Road, the city’s main thoroughfare.