This Week in Baguio (June 20 to 26, 2016)

The Glad to Be Green project started operation on June 10, 2016 and now gives free rides at the central business district of Baguio. G2BG is a non-profit organization that aims to mitigate climate change impact through the use of solar-powered technology.

The four-wheeled, 14-seater Green Bus is mounted with solar panels which charges the vehicle as it runs through the city’s main thoroughfares. It runs at a top speed of 50kph and can cover 120kms before needing a recharge. The battery can be charged in two hours and run another 120kms.

Also part of the Glad to Be Green Project is the solar trike that can sit 10 people comfortably.

The project was given a two-month tech demonstration permit as part of the city government’s push to be the first solar city in the country.

On Wednesday, June 22, Baguio City, through its City Disaster Risk Reduction Management Council (CDRRMC), will have a citywide earthquake drill in compliance with the directive of the Department of Interior and Local Government (DILG). Baguio is joining the 2nd Quarter 2016 Nationwide Simultaneous Earthquake Drill (NSED) where the drill will teach and make citizens practice how to “duck, cover, and hold.”

For the week’s weather forecast, the minimum temperature in the city will be 17°C and the maximum is pegged at 22°C, just like in the summer. However, it will be cloudy for most of the week with a chance of thunderstorms, especially in the afternoon, owing to the start of the rainy season. Bringing of an umbrella is necessary as scattered rain showers and occasional strong rain are expected in various areas throughout the week. Temperature is expected to go lower come July to August as more rains and thunderstorms come during these months.

Baguio is a mountainous area so those looking forward to mountain trekking can save this idea for another day. Landslides can occur especially along Kennon and Halsema Roads. Fog may become thick making road trips dangerous. However, those already in the city may enjoy the view of foggy mountains from their hotel or inn windows or coffee shops such as Cafe in the Sky.

As summer season ends and less tourists travel to Baguio, there is also a reduction of number of commuters in the city. However, during the election season (May) and up to present, Baguio has seen many road repairs happening in the city. Main thoroughfares such as Harrison Road and Abanao Street have one side of traffic reduced by a lane span due to excavations. Classes have also opened so students have replaced the number of tourists in the current population of commuters. Hence, traffic will be as heavy as it was in the peak season, but especially during rush hour.