As the rest of the country creates its localized guidelines based on COVID-19's spread, Baguio City’s Local Government decided to shift to the stricter General Community Quarantine (GCQ) in the first few days of February. The Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) likewise had shifted to GCQ due to a recent surge of cases.

Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong emphasized the need to uphold IATF guidelines to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. However, he acknowledged that there needed to be more clarifications from the IATF, as tourism had been allowed in some areas under GCQ.

Limited Tourism In Baguio City

As of February 9, Baguio City hotels and other accommodation establishments have been allowed to accommodate some leisure tourists despite being under GCQ. This is under the provision that proper health and safety protocols for distancing and contact tracing were followed, to minimize potential infection while allowing economic activity through tourism.

Enforcement of these rules has been patchy, with a recent notorious incident going viral on social media for failing to enforce distancing and limited numbers in a social gathering at the birthday party of eventologist Tim Yap. While the responsible parties paid fines for breaking the rules, it begs the question of how strictly the local government unit can act to protect its citizens against the recklessness of visitors – especially as Mayor Magalong himself had appeared, ostensibly to help promote tourism as an honored guest from the city.

Choosing Between The City’s Economy And Its Public Health

Undoubtedly, regulations still need to find the right balance between allowing enough commercial activities and restricting contact amongst the public. With more cases of the UK strain of the coronavirus appearing in Mountain Province, many have speculated on social media that there may already be cases of this more infectious strain in Baguio City.

This only provides more reasons to close borders and be vigilant about areas where lots of people can gather. Until an official report confirms its presence within the city and what steps can be taken to control it, Baguio City may well continue to try its best to remain as close to IATF guidelines for GCQ provinces and cities as it can to reduce the chances of spreading the disease further.

With Mayor Magalong still holding on to his position as the COVID-19 tracing czar despite the controversy over the birthday superspreader event, it may be an opportunity to revisit how the city has managed its own infection statistics. It is also a chance to look at how viable it would be to open other establishments such as gyms, churches, and salons, where many people will come into contact and potentially spread the disease.

Baguio City could potentially choose to adhere to the stricter guidelines that all other areas under GCQ are expected to follow, instead of using their concession for some leisure tourism, as this will go a long way towards lowering the active cases and preventing new strains from entering the city and endangering its population. Until then, people are encouraged to minimize contact, wear proper safety gear, and constantly wash their hands.

The City of Pines isn’t just a summer destination anymore – more and more people are looking for a condo in Baguio City, where they can stay for the long haul to work or take a vacation all year round! With its proximity to La Trinidad’s strawberry farms, multiple parks, and incredible art museums, it’s definitely a great place to put down some roots.

Looking for a house in Baguio City or a condo in Baguio City won’t be easy on your own. Consider getting the help of real estate agents in Baguio City for this task – they'll know where all the prime locations are, if there will be pricing issues, or how you can turn the property into an investment as well! Here are some prime considerations if you’re getting a condo or a house there.

Will there be room for parking?

If you’re planning to get around and out of Baguio City in your car, you need to consider if your property will provide a garage or parking space. If it doesn’t come with the house or condo, you need to factor in the additional cost of this feature.
How far is the property from convenient spots?

The closer a house or a condo is to Baguio’s city center and commercial properties like malls, the higher the prices tend to be. If you don’t mind commuting or driving for a bit longer, consider buying or renting a place that’s a little bit off the beaten track for long-term savings – not to mention some extra peace and quiet!
How many people do you see staying in the house or condo?

Is this a home, or a vacation spot? Do you envision taking your family or your friends here? Those considerations will require you to make space for certain items. Maybe you need more room in the kitchen or living room because you’ll be eating meals together every day. Remember: the more square footage you want for your condo or house, the more expensive it will be.

Are you planning to make this an investment property?

If you’re not planning to stay in the house or condo permanently, you need to consider how much its maintenance will be and if you’re going to lease it out or turn it into a vacation home.

Because so many vacationers flock to Baguio in the summer, you’re guaranteed to see interested renters around that season. Talk to real estate agents in Baguio City to find out what features are most likely to attract potential renters – this will help you decide which condo or house in Baguio City to buy.


Whether you’re aiming to settle down in this lovely, cool city, or scouting for an investment property that can help you build your nest egg, it’s smart to keep these things in mind when you’re looking at real estate in Baguio City. With so many attractions, things to do, and a bustling city life that locals and tourists enjoy, it’s a good place for real estate. Have a look at available developments and see if one fits what you’re looking for!