KASAYSAYAN NG BAGUIO CITY

Summary

The history of Baguio City, formerly the community of Kafagway, traces its development from its early struggles with Spanish colonization to its transformation into a vibrant city. Originally settled by the Ibaloy and Kankanay tribes, Baguio experienced cultural clashes and natural disasters. Over time, it became a key destination due to its cool climate and strategic location, drawing settlers and tourists alike. Under American colonial rule, the city's infrastructure was significantly modernized, with the famous Kennon Road completed in the early 1900s. The city witnessed key events like the Japanese occupation and later recovery, making it a rich historical and cultural hub in the Philippines.

Takeaways

• 😀 The Spanish government made multiple attempts to occupy Baguio, starting from Captain Juan de Salcedo's efforts in 1572.
• 😀 Baguio City was once called Kafagway and was home to native tribes like the Ibaloy and Kankanay, who used animal skulls and herbal medicine in their daily lives.
• 😀 The city of Baguio was officially named on September 9, 1909, and became the capital of the Benguet region.
• 😀 Baguio's cool climate and beautiful surroundings attracted settlers and later became known as the summer capital of the Philippines.
• 😀 Baguio was developed under American rule with the help of urban planner Daniel H. Burnham, who designed its modern layout based on Washington, D.C.
• 😀 The construction of Kennon Road in 1900 made it possible to travel to Baguio, and it was one of the most expensive projects of the Insular government.
• 😀 The Baguio Cathedral, completed in 1936, was an important historical site, also serving as an evacuation center during World War II.
• 😀 Baguio was heavily damaged during the Japanese occupation, and the fight against Japanese forces ended in the city on April 27, 1945.
• 😀 Baguio was the site of the infamous Yamashita Treasure excavation in 1970, a topic that sparked intrigue and research efforts among locals.
• 😀 The Lion's Head, carved in 1972 by Cordilleran artist Anselmo Bayag Dayag, became a symbol of the Lions Club of Baguio and is a major tourist attraction.

Q & A

What was the original name of Baguio City?

Baguio City was originally called Kafagway, a name derived from the native Ibaloy and Kankanay tribes.

Who were the early settlers of the area now known as Baguio City?

The early settlers of Baguio City were the native Ibaloy and Kankanay tribes.

Why is Baguio City known as the 'Summer Capital of the Philippines'?

Baguio City is known as the 'Summer Capital of the Philippines' because of its cool climate, making it a popular destination during the hot summer months.

What was the significance of Don Manuel Shid Nahel in the history of Baguio?

Don Manuel Shid Nahel was associated with the early governance and the establishment of La Trinidad as the center of Benguet province during the Spanish era.

What was the role of Daniel H. Burnham in Baguio City's development?

Daniel H. Burnham was an urban planner who created the design for Baguio City's beautification and modernization in the early 1900s.

How did the construction of Kennon Road impact Baguio City's accessibility?

The construction of Kennon Road, completed in 1905, greatly improved Baguio City's accessibility, making it easier to reach the city from lower regions of the Philippines.

What were some of the challenges in building Kennon Road?

Challenges in building Kennon Road included frequent landslides, bad weather, and problems with workers, which resulted in budget overruns and delays.

What historical event caused significant damage to Baguio City in 1990?

In 1990, Baguio City was struck by a magnitude 7.7 earthquake, followed by an aftershock, causing widespread destruction and loss of life.

What role did Camp John Hay play during the Japanese occupation?

During the Japanese occupation, Camp John Hay served as both a garrison and a concentration camp, and it was the site of battles during the liberation of the city.

How did Baguio City contribute to the Philippine struggle during World War II?

Baguio City was the headquarters of General Tomoyuki Yamashita during the Japanese occupation. It was also the site where the Japanese surrendered to American and Filipino forces in 1945.