The Hodgepodge

  A Journey Through Heritage and Fantasy Entrance to Tam-awan Village Our day started early, the crisp mountain air of Baguio awakening our sense of adventure. As the mist lifted and the sun peeked over the pine-covered hills, we made our way to our first destination— Tam-awan Village , a sanctuary of art, culture, and tradition. Nestled in the highlands, the village felt like stepping back in time, offering a glimpse into the indigenous Cordilleran way of life. As we entered Tam-awan, we were immediately captivated by the traditional Ifugao huts and Kalinga houses, their architecture an ode to a simpler yet meaningful existence. The intricate wooden beams and thatched roofs were a testament to the Cordillera people’s ingenuity, blending with the natural surroundings as if they were a part of the landscape itself. Walking through the village felt like an immersive history lesson, each hut whispering stories of ancestors who once called these mountains home. The village was alive wi...

Located on the eastern side of Baguio City along C.P. Romulo Drive, The Mansion is not just one of the city’s most iconic landmarks but also the official summer residence of the President of the Philippines. Older than the city itself, this grand structure was originally built in 1908 during the American Occupation to serve as the summer home for the U.S. Governor-Generals. The architecture of The Mansion was designed by the renowned American urban planner and architect Daniel Burnham, who was also responsible for designing the city layout of Baguio and Manila. The actual construction, however, was supervised by Governor General William Cameron Forbes and Architect William E. Parsons. Governor Forbes, who had a deep admiration for Baguio, named the residence "Mansion House" after his family’s summer home in New England. A Place of Historic Significance The Mansion was nearly destroyed during World War II in 1945, during the battle for the liberation of the Philippines. Presid...

Baguio Cathedral, officially known as the Our Lady of the Atonement Cathedral, stands majestically on a hill overlooking the bustling streets of Baguio City. This iconic church, with its striking architecture and vibrant stained glass windows, is one of the city's most visited landmarks and a significant place of worship for both locals and tourists. Construction of the cathedral began in 1909 under the supervision of American architect and engineer, William E. Parsons. The cathedral was completed in 1920 and was initially made of bamboo and nipa. In 1936, the current structure was built with reinforced concrete, resulting in a stunning Neo-Gothic design that is both unique and captivating. Baguio Cathedral is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of the resilience of the Catholic community in the region. The church was used as a refuge during World War II and has since played a significant role in the spiritual life of the people of Baguio. The cathedral is easily recogniz...