Baguio City is once again considering the implementation of a congestion fee within city limits to address worsening traffic conditions and environmental concerns. The proposal, announced through a Facebook post by the Baguio City Public Information Office, suggests a P250 fee for private cars entering the central business district.
This initiative, presented during a public consultation on June 5 by the Metro Pacific Tollways Corporation (MPTC), aims to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions. Under the plan, public transportation vehicles such as jeepneys, along with vehicles driven by senior citizens, persons with disabilities, emergency response vehicles, and on-duty uniformed personnel, will be exempt from the fee.
RELATED GUIDE: Best Alternate Routes To Baguio (Driving Guide)
The proposal has sparked mixed reactions among residents and stakeholders, with some praising the initiative for its potential environmental benefits and improved traffic management, while others express concerns about its impact on commuters and local businesses. The public consultation process continues as the city seeks to balance various interests and achieve a consensus on the way forward.
Loading...
The local government emphasized that the proposed congestion fee is part of a broader strategy to enhance urban mobility. "The corporation envisions a Singapore-like transport system in Baguio where the riding public can monitor road conditions in real-time using mobile applications as well as book or reserve parking spaces prior to arrival to lessen the amount of time and petroleum consumed going around looking for possible parking sites," read the Facebook post.
Additionally, the proposal includes the establishment of a smart traffic command center to monitor road conditions and swiftly address road accidents by dispatching responders as needed. This integrated approach is seen as a "holistic solution to not only traffic but improving overall mobility," according to the MPTC.
Baguio City Administrator Bonifacio Dela Peña confirmed that discussions are underway to finalize the terms and conditions of the proposed project. The congestion fee, if implemented, is expected to not only ease traffic congestion but also contribute additional revenue to the local economy.
By drawing parallels with Singapore’s advanced transport system, the MPTC and Baguio City government are optimistic that these measures will foster disciplined driving and a more sustainable urban environment.
In 2022, Baguio tried to improve mass transportation with TWG. They also accepted proposals for cable car transport in the city. Both ideas were not in sight yet.
ATTRACTIONS TO SEE IN MANILA
Klook.comThe proposal has sparked mixed reactions among residents and stakeholders, with some praising the initiative for its potential environmental benefits and improved traffic management, while others express concerns about its impact on commuters and local businesses. The public consultation process continues as the city seeks to balance various interests and achieve a consensus on the way forward.
THINGS TO DO IN BAGUIO
If you plan to visit Baguio City, here are top activities you shouldn't miss:
- Go for a walk along Session Road and find a restaurant
- Visit and explore Botanical Garden
- Get your selfies at Wright Park and The Mansion
- Be amazed at Mines View Park
- Go to Good Shepherd Convent and buy your favorite Ube Jam
- Find the best deals at Baguio Night Market
- Go shopping at SM City Baguio, the mall without AC
Check out my Baguio Travel Guide and my list of 25 Tourist Spots to Visit in Baguio City!
WHERE TO STAY IN BAGUIO
Here are some of the many top hotels with Certificate of Authority to Operate (CAO) from the Department of Tourism in Baguio:
- Cedar Peak Condominium - Check Rates & Availability
- Austrianne Residences - Check Rates & Availability
- Hotel Veniz – Session - Check Rates & Availability
- V Hotel and Apartel - Check Rates & Availability
- Elmar Cabin - Check Rates & Availability
You may also check the full list of hotels and lodging in Baguio. I also wrote Top10 hotels in Baguio on a separate blog.
For directions and bus schedules, check out my Manila to Baguio guide. For those who are driving to Baguio, you may check the fastest way to Baguio. Read my COMPLETE BAGUIO TRAVEL GUIDE to know more about Baguio City.
No comments
Let us know your thoughts!