Despite the inclement weather caused by the southwest monsoon, tourists and Baguio residents celebrated the reopening of Burnham Park Lake on September 1, 2026. The event was held in conjunction with the 117th Charter Day celebration of Baguio City. **Photo by neimless_skills
Accountability being determined for justice
Efforts to clear issues surrounding the bullying case involving minor students in the city have helped ease tensions, clarify the heavily criticized punishment and dispel misinformation on claims of possible reprisals and tribal involvement, Mayor Benjamin Magalong said.
The mayor said the dialogue conducted today, Aug. 31, 2026, with the victim’s family together with elders of the Kalinga community provided an opportunity to clarify issues surrounding the incident, particularly amid misinformation and disinformation circulating online.
The mayor said one of the important outcomes of the meeting was the clarification that there was no plan for members of the Lubo tribe or other groups from Kalinga to come to Baguio to retaliate over the incident.
He said leaders of the Lubo tribe themselves gave assurance that no such reprisal would happen.
“(Nalaman natin na) wala ring katotohanan ‘yung lumalabas na balita na papunta rito ‘yung ibang miyembro ng mga Lubo tribe o kaya isang tribo sa Kalinga para bumawi,” the mayor said.
He emphasized that the dialogue demonstrated how open communication and peaceful engagement can help prevent tensions from escalating.
The mayor said the talks also clarified concerns regarding the five-day suspension imposed on the students involved. He explained that this was only an initial action by the school’s Child Protection Committee and that the case remains subject to further proceedings including an appeal as clarified by Pinget National High School principal Johnny Kidian.
The committee will consider the evidence gathered by the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO) and the City Social Welfare and Development Office (CSWDO) as well as the video and the victim’s testimony in determining the appropriate action.
The mayor assured the Kalinga community that the police investigation is being conducted fairly and in accordance with proper procedures.
He said the BCPO, CSWDO, Mental Health Unit of the City Health Services Office, barangay officials and the Department of Education are working together to address the case.
The mayor also appealed to the public to allow the authorities to resolve the matter rather than fuel anger through comments or unverified reports.
He acknowledged the strong emotions generated by the video, saying he could personally relate to the experience of being bullied.
“I understand,” he said, recalling that he himself experienced bullying and continues to remember its emotional impact.
However, he urged the public to allow the proper authorities to determine accountability and administer justice.
“Sana bigyan na lang po natin ng pagkakataon ang ating mga awtoridad na i-address at i-resolve po itong mga kaso ng bullying dito sa Lungsod ng Baguio,” he said.
The mayor said the city will also continue looking into other bullying incidents and develop proactive measures to prevent youth violence and similar cases from recurring. **Ariel Biala, Kemm Olarte and Aileen Refuerzo