The Sangguniang Panlungsod (City Council) of Baguio has raised procedural, environmental, and social concerns over the proposed Quirino Hill–Pinget bypass road project, citing its location within a critical watershed and the need for full compliance with environmental laws. The project, historically proposed as early as the 1980s, lies along the boundary of Baguio City and La Trinidad, and aims to provide an alternate route connecting the two barangays.
The project has a budget allocation of P23,961,343.31 and has been released under the DPWH budget in 2025 with a two-year validity. The initial budget, prepared based on the DENR-approved alignment, was allocated through the initiative of former Congressman Mark Go to fund the road opening connecting Pinget and Quirino Hill barangays.
A drone presentation showed two proposed alignments: a straight “red line” and a curved “yellow line” following existing pathways.
The straight alignment, approved by DENR in 2015, would require cutting 21-24 trees including pine, coral, and avocado trees. DPWH representatives assured that tree-cutting permits would be secured and environmental safeguards addressed. The straight alignment, while shorter, involves deeper and more challenging terrain, increasing construction complexity and cost.
In contrast, the curved line, although longer, affects fewer trees and will require lesser funding as it follows existing pathways.
Bidding and Procedural Concerns
The project underwent bidding in 2025, with Jaben General Contracting and Engineering Services emerging as the winning contractor, despite several clearances and endorsements not being fully secured. Councilor Vladimir Cayabas questioned this, noting that the project was bid out before a formal City Council resolution and other required documentation were in place which is contrary to standard protocol where approvals should precede bidding.
According to DENR records, the DPWH submission lacked a formal application form under DENR AO 2022-01, proof of payment for administrative fees, a Non-Status Certification, a GIS-generated map, a certified Certificate of No Overlap from the NCIP, a Land Status Certification, an agency resolution designating Ms. Marilou Jay Sta. Maria as DPWH’s representative for the Gratuitous Specialist Permit (GSUP), and the required LGU endorsement through a City Council resolution.
DENR representatives clarified that all documents were ready to submit except the LGU endorsement/resolution which the City Council must provide for completion of the review.
Environmental and Social Concerns
Councilor Jose Molintas stressed that the City Council and the public were not properly informed that the road crosses a critical watershed. He highlighted the need for prior social acceptability and public consultation before proceeding, suggesting alternative routes or even a flyover to minimize environmental impact.
Councilor Edison Bilog echoed concerns about cutting 21-24 trees, noting potential effects on the city’s water supply, and emphasized that detailed methodologies to protect the watershed should accompany future submissions.
Councilor Yuri Weygan raised concerns about the sequence of LGU endorsement and DENR evaluation. He said the City Council’s endorsements should be informed by expert environmental assessment.
Councilor Peter Fianza pointed out that the Buyog Watershed, declared under Proclamation No. 93 of 1992 by former President Fidel Ramos, still encompasses approximately 19 hectares. Portions already excluded for occupancy leave about 7.2 hectares remaining which could shrink to around four hectares if a 2021 bill converting part of the land to alienable and disposable status is approved.
Fianza questioned whether road construction in such a reduced watershed area could be justified.
Vice Mayor Faustino Olowan suggested canceling the current bid and re-bidding the project to allow for potential adjustments or additional funding from current Congressman Mauricio Domogan. The Council also resolved to include stakeholders such as Baguio Water District and the Baguio Regreening Movement in subsequent consultations.
Community Support and Safety Considerations
Sangguniang Kabataan Federation President John Rhey Mananeng highlighted the road’s importance for student safety, noting that 200-300 students pass through the area daily, often during typhoons. The road would also provide quicker access for fire trucks responding to emergencies in Upper Pinget. Mananeng cited that initial excavation work began in 2015, reflecting longstanding local support.
West Quirino Hill Punong Barangay Anselm Tao-ing emphasized the barangay’s role as an evacuation area and highlighted the benefits of reduced traffic congestion and improved connectivity to Trinidad and other barangays. Upper Pinget Punong Barangay Pablo Pawi reinforced the importance of emergency access for Upper Pinget, Middle Quirino Hill Punong Barangay Larry Dayatan pointed out improved tourist access to Middle Quirino Hill’s view deck, and Lower Quirino Hill Punong Barangay Anselma Mayao stressed safe access for residents during past fire incidents.
DPWH representatives assured that residential structures would not be fully demolished, although minimal impacts may occur to certain structures adjacent to the road. Relocation plans for the Pinget Daycare costing to P10 million have been discussed, with alternative public land identified if DENR does not approve the initial site.
City Council Action
Given these concerns, the City Council a resolution requiring DENR-EMB-CAR, in coordination with DPWH-BCDEO, to submit an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for the project and requesting full compliance with environmental laws and regulations. The resolution also directs copies to concerned barangays of District 8 for information and appropriate action. **Jordan G. Habbiling
