BANAUE, Ifugao (PIA) — The local government of Banaue has ordered the temporary suspension of all outdoor tourism activities as the municipality continues to grapple with the severe impact of Super Typhoon Uwan.
Mayor Donald Mongolnon issued Executive Order (EO) No. 71, which took effect on November 21, 2025, citing massive landslides, widespread destruction of property and infrastructure, and significant damage to cultural heritage sites and agricultural areas as primary reasons for the suspension.
Among the affected activities are trekking and hiking on the Banaue View Point Trail (from View Point to Bocos) and the Banaue Pula–Cambulo–Batad Trail. These trails remain unsafe due to unstable terrain, the high risk of additional landslides, and continued unpredictable weather conditions.
The suspension aims to safeguard visitors from potential hazards while recovery and rehabilitation efforts continue across affected communities.
Mongolnon also directed tourism frontliners, accommodation establishments, and barangay officials to inform visitors of the temporary restrictions and ensure strict compliance with the safety measures.
The executive order will remain in force until further notice.
Banaue, home to the centuries-old Banaue Rice Terraces, referred to as the “8th Wonder of the World,” suffered significant damage from Uwan, which battered the province from Nov. 9 to 10. The municipality was declared a state of calamity in an effort to fast-track its recovery.
In its neighboring municipality of Hungduan, clearing operations are also ongoing at one of its key tourist attractions, the Bogyah Hot Spring. The activity is being led by Barangay Baang officials, together with volunteers, residents, and police personnel.
Mayor Casan Dumulag recently issued an advisory announcing the temporary closure of Bogyah Hot Spring to allow for necessary repairs and clean-up operations. **JDP/FBR- PIA-CAR, Ifugao
