The Market Monitor Minding the Nation's Business
Beyond its cool climate and scenic beauty, Baguio City is more than a premier tourist destination and home to over 366,000 residents. Baguio City has also shown a strong commitment to sustainability and progress, with its local government consistently championing projects aimed at creating a livable, inclusive and creative environment for its Baguio 2043 vision.
Towards this vision, the Baguio LGU has embarked on a lighting project that not only enhanced the city’s visual charms but also propelled significant progress across various sectors.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong recounted that the LGU used to pay P4.9 million a month for its traditional streetlights. But when they switched from high-pressure sodium lamps (HPS) to low-wattage LED lights, not only did it generate significant savings for Baguio, but it also resulted in more safety and security for people due to better illumination.
“Ang vision namin, Baguio 2043—a liveable, inclusive and creative Baguio,” Mayor Magalong said.
“When we transitioned to LED, mas maliwanag pa … ang binabayaran nalang natin (ay) umaabot ng P1.5 to P1.6 million as compared sa P4.8 million. Ang savings naming is around P30+ million a year sa lighting pa lang,” he added.
Baguio’s picturesque views, bustling night markets and city activities added another layer of attraction with the help of reliable and appealing lighting.
Visitors took notice, describing a better experience with just a touch of the power of effective lighting.
“This is my second time roaming around the Baguio Night Market,” shared Sophia, a Balikbayan tourist. “The first time I went here, it was not well-lighted. So, I think it’s better na ganito siya kaliwanag. Kasi mas maayos siya and better experience siya for visitors.”
Local businesses also felt the benefits of the improved lighting system. Lighting, while often overlooked, holds a profound power to transform experiences and environments, making them better.
“One of the things we are proud of here in Baguio is that there is no corruption,” Mayor Magalong shared. “That’s why our principle of good governance is very strong. And you have to make sure also that there’s due diligence in choosing the right brand.”
“We have to make sure that our suppliers are so aligned with our principle of good governance as well. That’s why for me, I would rather go for Philips because we have already tested it,” he added.
The project in Baguio indeed serves as a powerful testament to how intelligent lighting can foster progress and create a better future.