Baguio brings blue lighting in public spaces

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines — Seeking to blend urban planning with mental health advocacy, the city government has launched Project BLUE or Baguio’s Lifeline for Urban Emotional-wellness, introducing blue lighting in public spaces to create a safer and more supportive environment for both residents and visitors.

The local government said the first set of blue lights has been installed at the O-shaped overpass along Harrison Road, a busy pedestrian corridor frequented by commuters, workers, students and tourists. 

City officials hope the calming illumination will help foster a greater sense of security and emotional wellbeing, especially during nighttime.

The project takes inspiration from similar initiatives in Japan, where blue lights have been used in public spaces and transportation hubs as part of broader strategies aimed at reducing stress, discouraging self-harm and enhancing public safety. 

More blue lights are expected to be installed in strategic areas across the city in the coming months, signaling Baguio’s commitment to innovative and compassionate approaches to suicide prevention, public safety and urban wellbeing.