Baguio City has
been the “Summer Capital of the
Philippines” since 1904 after the declaration of the Philippine Commission on
a session held at Old Baden-Powell Hall—atop the famous Session Road. Five years later, in September 1909, the
Philippine Assembly incorporated Baguio (from “Ibaloi” name, “bagiw” means
moss) as a chartered city. Subsequently, Baguio City celebrated its centenary on
September 1, 2009.
Unknown to others, Baguio was formerly known as “Kafagway”(or
wide open place)—a small “Rancheria”(settlement) where the local inhabitants
such as “Ibalois” and “Kankaneys” dwelled way back. Mateo Cariño, one of the head
men in Benguet, owned majority of the lands in Kafagway. Back in the day, Cordillerans
were so resilient against intruders—such as Spanish and Americans—as evident in
their customary way of life and traditions. Cordillerans cultures remain intact
and well preserved to date.
Session Road in 1915 |
Today, Baguio is
the seat of Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR).
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