Diverse events to perk up summer in Baguio

Aileen P. Refuerzo

BAGUIO CITY – An array of multi-faceted activities will perk up summer in this mountain resort via the “Summer Vacation (SUMVAC) in Baguio.”

Mayor Mauricio Domogan on Wednesday said various activities have been lined up for the annual summer calendar of events to entertain residents and tourists expected to flock to the city for the long vacation.

He said preparations are also ongoing to address various concerns particularly the peace and order to tackle traffic and criminality problems; utilities to address the possible water shortage and ensure smooth solid waste collection; and the tourist-oriented establishments to ensure their readiness to cater to the needs of the vacationers.

The SUMVAC committee spearheaded by the mayor and action officer Carlos Canilao has so far lined up a mishmash of religious, cultural, historical, environmental, sports and medical activities which began last March 1.

Lenten activities will topbill the calendar with religious services and Lenten presentations scheduled at the various churches from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday.
Historical activities feature the ArawsaKagitingan observance on April 9 and the Liberation of Baguio on April 27 at the Veterans Park.

Environmental treats include the Earth Hour observance on March 31.
Tourism-related activities include the search for the Lucky Summer Visitor by the Baguio Correspondents and Broadcasters Club (BCBC) on April 5 and barangay fiestas spread out from March to May.

Government-led activities include the Kafagway Summer’s Best in April; Tourism Frontliners Training, April 3 Baguio Convention Center; Lingkod Bayan, April 4 – 8; Interfaith Activities (The Past, Present and Future of Dominican Heritage and Nature Park) April 18 Dominican Heritage Hill; Jobs Fair & Labor Day Activities May 1; Sabsabong Ti Mayo and 1st Amianan Philippine International University Theatre Associations Festival May 7 -11 SM / Baguio Convention Center; Summer Break Concert May 11 Session Road; and Philippine Flag Day on May 28.

Various educational, cultural, arts, sports and theater programs are also scheduled for the whole month of April until May.