Representatives of the NEDA Regional Office Cordillera, led by Asst. Regional Dir. Apollo Edwin S. Pagano, joined the City of Baguio in celebrating its 115th Foundation Day on September 1, 2024.
With the theme, “Baguio Fusion: Tradition, Innovation, Celebration”, the celebration highlighted the city’s rich history, culture, and journey toward development since it became a chartered city in 1909.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong delivered the State of the City Address highlighting that the poverty rate in the City was reduced from 1.7 percent in 2021 to 0.8 percent in 2023, with annual inflation rate going down to 3.9 percent in 2023 from 5.1 percent posted in 2022.
These achievements reflect the City’s strong commitment to economic stability,which is aligned with NEDA’s mandate of fostering poverty alleviation and enhancing economic development. The City honored Mr. Arnel Cabanisas, Cordillera Regional Development Council’s (RDC) Private Sector Representative for Social Development, as one of the Outstanding Citizens of Baguio. Mr. Cabanisas is the Co-Chair of the Regional Social Development Committee and is a hands-on member of the Regional Project Monitoring, which expedites project implementation and project facilitation, problem solving, monitoring and evaluation to the regional and sub-regional levels.
The celebration also highlights the City as member of the Creative Cities Network recognized by UNESCO. Renowned local artists demonstrated an impressive showcase of its rich culture through an exciting show of talents.
US Ambassador MaryKay Carlson was the Guest of Honor with officials, regional line agencies, civic organizations gracing the occasion, together with the people of Baguio and its neighboring towns. **By Human Resource Unit, FAD