Baguio basks as tourist site after Miss Universe visit

By Gaby B. Keith

BAGUIO CITY – This summer capital is now basking in popularity as tourism destination after the Jan. 18 visit of Miss Universe here with   Mayor Mauricio Domogan declaring the event a “success.”

He earlier welcomed and led a formal toast to this year’s 29 Miss Universe Candidates at gala dinner in Baguio Country Club.

Reigning Miss Universe Pia Alonzo Wurtzbach and finalist Shamcey Supsup-Lee were there with the latter serving as master of ceremonies.      

Also present were Ilocos Sur Gov. Chavit Singson, Dept. of Tourism regional director Venus Tan, city officials, Hotel and Restaurant Association of Baguio (HRAB) officers and members headed by BCC general manager Anthony De Leon, Philippine Military Academy cadets, and other guests.

Domogan said it was an honor for Baguio to be chosen one of few places in the country to be visited by Miss Universe candidates as this promoted the Summer Capital to a worldwide audience.

He thanked the HRAB and DOT for heading efforts in making this “once-in-a-lifetime” opportunity possible and a success. The mayor also commended city police for ensuring safety of contestants.

In his message, De Leon said the Miss Universe candidates’ visit was part of HRAB’s mission of making the “impossible, possible” and will continue to create and pursue projects that promote Baguio both nationally and abroad.  

He also thanked all those involved in making the visit a success.

For her part, Wurtzbach expressed their appreciation for the “very warm” reception accorded them by the people of Baguio.  

She revealed the city was one of her favorite places to visit and hopes to return soon.

The Miss Universe candidates’ visit here started with silent drill performed by PMA cadets upon landing at Loakan Airport early Wednesday morning followed by their joining a mini “Panagbenga” parade from Upper Session Road to BCC on top of flower and mask-bedecked floats representing Luzon, Visayas, Mindanao including that of BCC.

In the afternoon, the beauties engaged in tree-planting and strawberry picking activities with some trying their hand in golf.  

They also witnessed a “solar painting” demonstration by Cordilleran artist Jordan Mang-osan of the Tam-Awan Village Group of Artists.