April 28, 2026 – Mayor Benjamin Magalong reiterated the need to construct a proposed bypass road connecting Quezon Hill Road 1 to Magsaysay West Service Road, stressing that it is essential for improving the city’s disaster resiliency.
Magalong said the city government has conducted several consultations with residents and barangay officials from Quirino Hill, noting that support for the project has been “overwhelming.”
He explained that the road is part of Baguio’s long-term resiliency strategy, which focuses on the city’s ability to adapt, absorb shocks, and respond to emergencies.
The mayor emphasized the risks faced by communities relying on a single access road, particularly during disasters such as fires, landslides, or road blockages. He said the proposed bypass road would serve as an alternate route for emergency responders and residents in affected areas.
He also clarified that the project will be located at the edge of the Buyog Watershed and is the result of thorough planning. Only minimal tree cutting is expected, and additional developments such as a daycare center and a rainwater catchment basin are included in the plan. City officials assured the public that environmental safeguards will be implemented.
The Department of Public Works and Highways – Baguio City District Engineering Office reported that only five trees will be affected by the project, three of which are fruit-bearing and two are alnus trees. No residential structures will be fully demolished, although minor impacts on nearby properties may occur.
Earlier, the Environmental Management Bureau – Cordillera Administrative Region (EMB-CAR) confirmed that the 218-meter road project is located outside protected areas and is classified as a Category D project, meaning it is expected to have minimal and short-term environmental impact. In a letter dated April 6, 2026, EMB-CAR Officer-in-Charge Regional Director Engr. Jean Borromeo said the project is not covered by the mandatory Environmental Impact Assessment process.
The agency added that potential impacts such as dust, noise, and soil disturbance during construction can be mitigated through standard measures like proper waste disposal, dust control, and erosion management.
Magalong assured residents that the city will protect the watershed, including through the construction of a rainwater harvesting facility to help address water supply concerns.
Barangay officials expressed support for the project, led by West Quirino Hill Punong Barangay Anselm Tao-ing, who said the road would help decongest traffic and improve connectivity to nearby areas such as La Trinidad. Upper Pinget Punong Barangay Pablo Pawi emphasized the need for better emergency access, while Middle Quirino Hill representative Larry Dayatan noted its potential to boost tourism in the area. Lower Quirino Hill’s Anselma Mayao underscored the importance of safe passage, especially during past fire incidents. ** Aileen P. Refuerzo
