Baguio – the word evokes vivid images and blissful memories among the pine trees, the smell of fresh strawberries and the stunning sight of majestic highlands as I remember how the cool mountain breeze gently touches my face. It often rains in Baguio, all year round I can imagine. But the drizzles never seem to dampen one’s longing for this lovely place. Its morning and afternoon mist which often comes with the rain only add to its beauty and mystique.
Sad to say, the beauty and mystique of Baguio is slowly withering away. Rapid urban growth is taking its toll on the environment and natural charm.
Sad to say, the beauty and mystique of Baguio is slowly withering away. Rapid urban growth is taking its toll on the environment and natural charm.
Massive urbanization is taking its toll on Baguio's environment.....and natural charmAnybody who takes the air-con bus from Metro Manila to Baguio would have an idea of how I feel. If the bus takes the Marcos Highway route to Baguio, the rider will surely see the name of a popular local fast food chain placed in the edge of a mountain as you near the city limits. The pristine beauty of the province of Benguet’s mountains in many places is now marred with commercialism and unsightly graffiti. When you row a boat in the middle of the lake in Burnham Park you feel far way from the hustle and bustle, the sights and sounds of Metro Manila until you look up and see the enormous SM sign at the top of Session Rd.
As I again traveled to Baguio for the conduct of the second procurement trainers training under the European Commission – Office of the Ombudsman Corruption Prevention Project last April 15 to 21, I can’t help but feel concerned about the future of a city I learned to love.
That is why I consider it quite an experience to have this week long training in a place that reminds us about the Baguio of old. I’ve been to Baguio several times but due to the exclusive nature of the Baguio Country Club (BCC), this is the first time I’ve really seen and stayed in this prestigious social establishment for the rich and famous.
Founded in 1905 by the colonial Americans, it was inaugurated the following year and registered as the Baguio Country Club Corporation in 1907. The Americans made the area of Baguio their place of rest and recreation due to similarities with their country’s climate. The invading Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War occupied the club and used it for their own officials. At the end of the war in 1945, it served as the headquarters of the commanding general of the 33rd Division of the United States Armed Forces. And it was only in 1957 that the BCC had its first Filipino Club President.
Though the country’s First Family has its official residence at the white Mansion, they often come to the BCC when in town. I’m assuming at least one of them is a member, considering that they all have the resources to be part of this club.
If I had the resources I’d probably consider applying to be a club member, not because I like playing golf but rather because of the ambiance and prestige it brings out. Actually, I like Camp John Hay a lot more than BCC as it has a lot more to offer than just golf. In terms of facilities, amenities and things to do, Camp John Hay’s Manor, based on my personal experience, has more, newer and better ones to offer while also retaining the old and classic Baguio atmosphere.
Still, I liked my stay at the Baguio Country Club. It’s something I always wished I could have shared with my family members. Who knows? Maybe someday I get to stay there again – with my family.
Visit Baguio and help preserve its natural beauty and rich cultural legacy for all generations to appreciate and to cherish.
As I again traveled to Baguio for the conduct of the second procurement trainers training under the European Commission – Office of the Ombudsman Corruption Prevention Project last April 15 to 21, I can’t help but feel concerned about the future of a city I learned to love.
That is why I consider it quite an experience to have this week long training in a place that reminds us about the Baguio of old. I’ve been to Baguio several times but due to the exclusive nature of the Baguio Country Club (BCC), this is the first time I’ve really seen and stayed in this prestigious social establishment for the rich and famous.
Founded in 1905 by the colonial Americans, it was inaugurated the following year and registered as the Baguio Country Club Corporation in 1907. The Americans made the area of Baguio their place of rest and recreation due to similarities with their country’s climate. The invading Japanese Imperial Army during the Second World War occupied the club and used it for their own officials. At the end of the war in 1945, it served as the headquarters of the commanding general of the 33rd Division of the United States Armed Forces. And it was only in 1957 that the BCC had its first Filipino Club President.
Though the country’s First Family has its official residence at the white Mansion, they often come to the BCC when in town. I’m assuming at least one of them is a member, considering that they all have the resources to be part of this club.
If I had the resources I’d probably consider applying to be a club member, not because I like playing golf but rather because of the ambiance and prestige it brings out. Actually, I like Camp John Hay a lot more than BCC as it has a lot more to offer than just golf. In terms of facilities, amenities and things to do, Camp John Hay’s Manor, based on my personal experience, has more, newer and better ones to offer while also retaining the old and classic Baguio atmosphere.
Still, I liked my stay at the Baguio Country Club. It’s something I always wished I could have shared with my family members. Who knows? Maybe someday I get to stay there again – with my family.
Visit Baguio and help preserve its natural beauty and rich cultural legacy for all generations to appreciate and to cherish.
BCC's modern rooms are cozy enough for my standards
The view of BCC's golf course from my room's view deck
The lighting in this picture wasn't enough but it does give a good view of the building's left wing
More pictures of the greens....
...and fairways
BCC's right wing dining area
One side of the BCC's massive structure
What's Baguio without its multi-colored flowers?
The sunflowers of Baguio
The sunflowers of Baguio
The Country Club by night fall
The BCC has adequate facilities and amenities for its members and guests
Tenpin bowling at the BCC
The procurement training participants are in session
PNKY has an outlet inside the BCC complexI definitely recommend PNKY's Ube jam!
It's a crossover between Good Shepherd's fine ube and Tantamco's chunky course texture.
You'll ask for more!
Training participants and organizers pose for the "class" picture
The Baguio Country Club turned 100 last 2005If you happen to be a guest at the BCC, don't forget to buy their famous raisin bread for your loved ones and treat yourself to a Cuppa Treat (last picture)! You may still be able to get one of those BCC cetennial coffee mugs while enjoying this creamy indulgence!
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