The city government will open its Arboretum to the public on Oct. 19, offering visitors a chance to reconnect with nature through forest bathing, bird watching, and other outdoor activities.

The City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) said the arboretum, located beside Teachers Camp and near the Baguio Botanical Garden, features lush greenery and tree-lined walkways.

CEPMO head Rhenan Diwas said on Wednesday that the city has partnered with the Haring Ibon Foundation to offer bird-watching tours.

“Mayroon tayong cultural and bird watching. Mayroon pong private partner ang city doon, which is the Haring Ibon Foundation na magpo-provide po ng bird-watching tour sa mga mag-a-attend (The city will offer cultural and bird-watching activities, with the Haring Ibon Foundation providing tours for interested visitors),” Diwas said.

The opening will feature the unveiling of the Baguio Arboretum Gallery, developed in collaboration with the city government. The gallery will showcase bird species found in Baguio City and the Cordilleras, as well as trees and other plant species in the arboretum.

Diwas said the facility could also serve as a venue for conservation, education, research, and nature appreciation.

Located beside the Botanical Garden, the arboretum will be accessible through the same designated entrance, with no additional admission fee, he added.

The area was developed into an arboretum during the pandemic as the city sought more outdoor and nature-based activities to support mental well-being. Its opening was postponed several times due to damage caused by heavy rains.

Under City Ordinance 18-2016, entrance fees for tourists are PHP110 for adults and children aged 13 and above, and PHP27.50 for children aged 12 and below. Senior citizens and persons with disabilities are entitled to a 20 percent discount.

For Baguio residents, the fees are PHP55 for adults and PHP27.50 for children and students aged 13 and above, senior citizens, and persons with disabilities. Children aged 12 and below may enter for free.

The city government has been developing parks and tourist attractions to expand recreational options, including for repeat visitors.

The walkway around Burnham Park Lake is undergoing improvements after showing signs of damage following its reopening on Sept. 1.

The Rose Garden and Children’s Park are next in line for development, while work on the Baguio Athletic Bowl complex is ongoing. (PNA)