Magalong orders Burnham Lake review, mandates boat upgrades

BAGUIO CITY — Mayor Benjamin Magalong ordered a technical review of ongoing infrastructure works at Burnham Lake after flagging concerns over structural integrity during a citywide project inspection on May 4.

Accompanied by department heads, Magalong expressed dissatisfaction with the quality of metal works and the lake’s foundation.

He directed an immediate assessment to reinforce the base of the iconic waterway, which is currently undergoing Phase 1 of a four-stage rehabilitation plan slated for completion by June 2026.

Beyond the physical infrastructure, the mayor issued a mandate for boat concessionaires to overhaul their fleets.

Operators must replace aging or poorly maintained vessels with high-quality, preferably new units that align with updated safety and aesthetic standards.

“The primary objective of these inspections is to ensure that city projects are properly implemented and strictly supervised to meet high-quality standards,” Magalong said, emphasizing that the move also promotes fiscal accountability for taxpayer-funded projects.

The inspection tour extended to several other key sites:

• • Ibaloi Park: Progress is reportedly steady, but Magalong ordered landscaping to be prioritized for a November 2026 opening. He also instructed the widening of the park entrance for safety and warned concessionaires to improve facility cleanliness.

• • Buyog Watershed: The city has terminated the contractor for the rainwater harvesting facility after geological instability left the project only 30% complete. A re-bidding process is underway, with a new completion target of late 2026 or early 2027.

• • Athletic Bowl: Officials adjusted the completion date to June 14 following minor construction delays.

• • Health Centers: Inspections at Pacdal and Loakan revealed a need for upgraded medical equipment and birthing facilities to secure “Yakap” accreditation.

Magalong noted that while the city’s 16 health centers currently meet demand, Baguio’s 1.4% population growth rate will necessitate further expansion within the decade.