Solon seeks to make Burnham Park a National Heritage Park

August 7, 2018 Headlines

BAGUIO CITY – Pursuing for the cultural preservation and continued development of the city’s premier park, Congressman Mark Go authored House Bill 7966 seeking to declare the Burnham Park as National Heritage Park.
The measure, which is currently referred to the committee on tourism in Congress, also seeks to appropriate funds for the conservation and development of the park.
It mandates the Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) in coordination with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and the city government of Baguio to prepare the development plan of Burnham Park, giving priority to the conservation of the cultural heritage and historical significance of the park.
“For over a century now, Burnham Park has become a part in the progress and prosperity of Baguio City. It is named after city-planner and American architect Daniel Burnham who designed it in 1904 and has served many generations of families, both residents and tourists,” Go explained.
The Park is now composed of cluster areas which includes the Ibaloi Heritage Garden, a man-made lake, the children’s playground, the Rose Garden, the Igorot Garden, the Orchidarium, Sunshine Park, the Pine Trees of the World Park, and various picnic spots such as Picnic Grove, the Melvin Jones Grandstand, the Athletic Bowl where many athletes train and compete, and historical symbols such as the Japanese Peace Tower.
“We want to direct our country towards growth and development and I believe that preserving our rich cultural heritage like the Burnham Park, will strengthen our foundation in nation-building that would eventually benefit not only our country but also our future generations. Hopefully, Burnham Park would be added to the list of our national heritage park,” the solon said. ABN