BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – President Aquino has primed government’s effort to preserve Baguio and Boracay as “national assets” of the country.
Aquino directed Interior Secretary Jesse Robredo, Environment Secretary Ramon Paje, Tourism Secretary Ramon Jimenez and Justice Secretary Leila de Lima in a March 27 memorandum to create a comprehensive environment zoning plan for the purpose of conserving both assets.
Baguio Vice Mayor Daniel Fariñas and the local council were touched by the President’s gesture.
The President’s memorandum stated that present-day Baguio, the summer capital of the Philippines, is very different from the Baguio known before and that it has lost its rustic charm.
In calling for support for the memorandum of the President, the vice mayor hopes to reiterate the vision of the City Council for “quality legislation reflective of the aspirations of the people for a better quality of life in a clean and green environment.”
The President also aired concern over Boracay’s continuing degradation.