Honest Baguio Taxi Driver Returns ₱600,000 Cash Left to t he rightful owner

Honest Taxi Driver

Wowcordillera - An honest taxi driver from Baguio City is earning widespread praise after returning a bag containing more than ₱600,000 in cash that was accidentally left behind in his taxi by representatives of Total Swiss Philippines.

The incident happened during the milestone opening of the company's first-ever branch in Baguio City. After the event, representatives of Total Swiss Philippines accidentally left a bag containing over ₱600,000 in cash on the front passenger seat of the taxi.

The driver, identified as Roger Tuebas, immediately chose to return the bag instead of keeping it, despite the financial hardships many people face today.

According to Total Swiss Philippines, Sir Roger displayed remarkable honesty and integrity by doing the right thing without hesitation. The company offered him a reward as a token of appreciation, but he humbly declined, showing that his actions were motivated purely by honesty and a clear conscience.

In a message of appreciation, the management of Total Swiss Philippines, together with its Chief Operating Officer, Noel Fruto, praised Sir Roger for his exceptional character.

"This level of honesty is so rare nowadays, and it shows the true gold inside our hardworking, tireless drivers. They work day and night under heavy traffic and tough conditions, yet their morals never waver. A high salute to you, Sir Roger Tuebas! You are an inspiration not just to us, but to all of Baguio City, representing the very best of our community."

Sir Roger's selfless act has earned admiration from many and serves as a powerful reminder that honesty and integrity remain alive in the community, inspiring countless others to always choose what is right.

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Baguio Poised to Be the First PH City to Put Governance Records on Blockchain

Cordillera - Baguio City is taking a bold step forward. With its pilot of GoodGovChain, a blockchain-based governance platform, the city is signaling that transparency and accountability are not just slogans but actionable commitments. This move, championed by Mayor Benjamin “Benjie” Magalong and formalized through a memorandum of agreement with Filipino firm BayaniChain, could set the tone for how cities across the Philippines handle public trust in governance.

At its core, GoodGovChain promises something simple yet revolutionary: immutability. By recording key governance records - budgets, procurement documents, project milestones - on a blockchain, the city makes it nearly impossible for data to be tampered with. Once uploaded, the record stays, visible and verifiable to citizens who demand clarity on how funds are allocated and projects are carried out. It’s technology serving democracy in its purest form.

This matters because for decades, the Achilles’ heel of local governance in the Philippines has been opacity. Audits are delayed, procurement processes are riddled with suspicion, and citizens are often left in the dark. By embracing blockchain, Baguio is essentially saying: we welcome scrutiny, we welcome accountability. That is a refreshing, and frankly, courageous stance.

Of course, challenges remain - privacy safeguards, technical integration, and ensuring ordinary citizens can actually access and interpret the data. But even with these hurdles, Baguio’s pilot project positions the city as a trailblazer. If it succeeds, it won’t just enhance trust in Baguio’s governance - it could inspire other LGUs nationwide to follow suit.

Blockchain will not magically erase corruption. But by making records tamper-resistant and publicly accessible, it shifts the balance of power toward the people. And that, in itself, is a milestone worth watching closely.

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Baguio is among cleanest city in Southeast Asia

Cordillera - Baguio City has earned a spot among the cleanest cities with the lowest pollution levels in Southeast Asia, according to the 2024 Mid-Year Numbeo Pollution Index. This recognition showcases Baguio’s commitment to environmental sustainability and effective pollution management, setting an example for other urban centers in the region.

However, Baguio is not alone in representing the Philippines
on this prestigious list. Three other major cities in the country have also gained recognition for their environmental efforts. Davao City stands out, ranking 2nd overall, further solidifying its reputation as a clean and eco-friendly urban hub. Cebu City follows closely, securing the 10th position, while the bustling capital, Manila, claims the 14th spot. These cities, all ranking in the top 16 cleanest cities in Southeast Asia, reflect the Philippines' growing focus on addressing environmental challenges, particularly in reducing pollution and improving air quality.

The report assesses pollution levels in urban areas by considering factors like air quality, water pollution, and waste management. Baguio, with a pollution index score of 72.9, distinguished itself for having relatively lower air pollution compared to other cities in Southeast Asia. The city's dedication to preserving clean surroundings, enforcing anti-pollution regulations, and implementing sustainable urban practices has contributed to securing its notable position on the list.

The inclusion of multiple Philippine cities on this list highlights the nation’s ongoing efforts to promote sustainable urban living and improve environmental conditions across its metropolitan areas. Through initiatives aimed at waste reduction, improved public transportation, and increased green spaces, these cities are setting a positive example for others in the region to follow.

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FROM SCRATCH TO SNAPS: CORDILLERAN PHOTOGRAPHER KARL PATACSIL'S RISE

Cordillera - Karl Patacsil’s journey from a hesitant content creator to a renowned photographer in Baguio is nothing short of inspiring. Back in 2012, armed with his first DSLR camera, he began creating videos that barely got views. Overwhelmed with self-doubt and embarrassment, he quit vlogging for years.

After graduating, Karl worked in his mother’s market business, feeling stuck in a monotonous routine. Despite trying various side hustles, he faced bankruptcy and quit his job, hoping for a fresh start.

In 2020, with nothing but determination, Karl returned to content creation and freelancing in photography. He pushed himself out of his comfort zone, posting daily and experimenting with street photography. Slowly but surely, his work gained traction—his videos started reaching millions of views.

Despite facing criticism, Karl upgraded his gear, refined his skills, and built a team. Today, Karl Patacsil Films is a well-known name in Baguio, recognized for its creative and inspiring content. At just 26, Karl’s story is a testament to perseverance, resilience, and the power of showing up every day, no matter the odds. Now, through Iconic Studio, he’s creating a space where others can express themselves freely and confidently, just as he once dreamed

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Baguio in talks with Japan for establishment of Zippar - Self-Driving Ropeway Car

Photo Courtesy || Our Japan

Cordillera - The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) and Japanese firm Zip Infrastructure Co. Ltd. and  are exploring possibilities of putting up a self-driven cable car system called Zippar in Camp John Hay, Baguio City.

Zippar technology seeks to provide an alternative transportation system that can ease traffic congestion and provide better accessibility to the residents and visitors.

The technology is advance that it offers a versatile design that allows riding in curves and branches while remaining automated and driven from a control center.

It promises to enhance urban mobility, reduce traffic congestion, and promote environmentally sustainable transportation solutions thus creating a seamless and efficient transport system within the city. 

Photo Courtesy || Our Japan

The Zippar system comprises self-propelled, battery-powered gondolas that use cables to transport people and freight, effectively supplementing existing major transportation infrastructure.

Each gondola, built from a used Japanese electric vehicle (EV), can hold up to 12 people and run on steel rails and cables, allowing for more intricate routes and lower costs.

The ability to build lines over existing roads without the need for additional land development makes Zippar a particularly attractive option for urban areas where conventional transport is challenging.

This is perfect for Baguio City where traffic congestion is the main problem inside the main business hub and some tourist spots like Sessions Road, Burnham Park and Igorot Stone Kingdom. 

Having a Zippar cable system on this routes can greatly reduce traffic woes of commuters and motorists. 

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Baguio ranks first among richest cities outside Metro Manila

Photo Courtesy || Jimzpics Photog

Cordillera - Baguio City was hailed as the wealthiest city outside Metro Manila according to the Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) released by the Philippine Statistics Authority (PSA). It means Baguio residents has higher income earning compared to the average national income of Filipinos.

As per the data release by PSA, the city's average Gross Domestic Product (GDP) per person reached P420.016 surpassing the average of P178,751.

GDP measures the growth of the economy per person in a particular area. It is use to determine how wealthy or poor an area is.

Following in the list of top 10 wealthiest cities are Cagayan de Oro in the 2nd spot, Lapu-Lapu City, Iloilo, Bataan, Cebu City, Laguan, Mandaue, and Batanes. 

Baguio City, nestled in the mountainous region of the Philippines, stands out as the wealthiest city in the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Known for its cool climate, stunning mountain landscapes, and rich cultural heritage, Baguio City attracts both local and international tourists.

One of the key factors contributing to Baguio's wealth is its thriving tourism industry. The city is home to a variety of attractions, including Burnham Park, Mines View Park, and the Botanical Garden, which draw in visitors year-round. 

Additionally, Baguio's reputation as a culinary destination, with its diverse array of restaurants and street food stalls, adds to its economic prosperity.

Another important source of wealth for Baguio City is its education sector. The city is home to several prestigious universities and colleges, including the University of the Philippines Baguio and Saint Louis University, attracting students from across the country and beyond.

Furthermore, Baguio's economy benefits from its status as a center for commerce and trade in the region. 

The city's bustling markets and shopping centers, such as Session Road and the Baguio City Market, are popular destinations for both locals and tourists alike.

Overall, Baguio City's wealth can be attributed to its vibrant tourism industry, thriving education sector, and robust commercial activities. As the city continues to grow and develop, it is likely to remain a key economic powerhouse in the Cordillera region.

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Baguio, Cordillera students are top English speakers in the country

Photo Courtesy || Ar jay

Cordillera - The city of Baguio emerged as the top English-speaking and -listening city in the Philippines, according the 2023 English Proficiency Index released by the international education company EF Education First.

Baguio garnered a score of 619 which surpasses the high-scoring cities like Dumaguete and Davao.

Meanwhile the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR) topped the English-speaking and -listening regions in the Philippines, surpassing the previous high-performing regions like Eastern Visayas and Davao.

Senator Sherwin Gatchalian, chairman of the Senate Commitee on Basic Education commended Baguio and Cordillera region and the country should learn their best practices to boost learner's English proficiency.

"Congratulations to the learners and teachers in Baguio and CAR for their outstanding performance in the recent international assessments. There's a lot to learn from them to improve the performance of students in all parts of the country when it comes to English proficiency...," Senator Gatchalian said.

CAR stands out as one of the top-performing regions in the 2022 edition of the Program for International Student Assessment (PISA). 

Alongside the National Capital Region (NCR) and Region 4A, CAR boasts one of the highest proportions of students meeting the minimum proficiency in reading. 

The 2022 PISA outcomes indicate that two out of five students in CAR have attained at least the minimum proficiency level in reading.

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Baguio City is Fastest Growing Economy in Cordillera, Followed by Kalinga

Photo Courtesy || Csharp Production

Cordillera - In a remarkable economic surge, Baguio City has emerged as the frontrunner in the Cordillera Administrative Region's (CAR) thriving economy. 

The latest data reveals that in 2022, all provinces and Highly Urbanized Cities (HUCs) in CAR experienced growth, with Baguio City leading the pack with an impressive 11.3 percent growth rate. 

Following closely were Kalinga and Abra, boasting growth rates of 9.3 percent and 9.2 percent, respectively.

The economic landscape of CAR, with a total value of PHP 337.66 billion, witnessed Baguio City dominating with a substantial 45.9 percent share. 

Benguet and Kalinga secured the second and third spots with 23.3 percent and 8.0 percent shares, respectively.

Breaking down the economic sectors, the agriculture, forestry, and fishing sector in CAR reached PHP 28.12 billion, with Benguet leading with a substantial 44.5 percent share. 

In terms of industry, the region reported PHP 83.90 billion, and Baguio City emerged as a juggernaut, contributing 49.1 percent to the region's industrial output. 

The service sector, totaling PHP 225.64 billion, also saw Baguio City taking the lead with a commanding 50.0 percent share.

Looking ahead to 2023, the Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) compilation is set to encompass 82 provinces and 17 HUCs across 16 regions in the Philippines. 

These promising economic indicators highlight Baguio City's pivotal role in steering CAR's economic growth and position it as a key player in the national economic landscape.

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Baguio city named one of the top destinations with the best scenic mountain views in Asia

Microsoft Travel

Cordillera - Baguio City, located in the northern part of the Philippines, has been named one of the top destinations with the best scenic mountain views in Asia, according to Microsoft Travel. This recognition comes as no surprise to those who have had the pleasure of visiting the city, often referred to as the "Summer Capital of the Philippines."

Baguio's inclusion in this prestigious list can be attributed to its stunning natural landscapes, which are a testament to the city's unique geography. Perched at an altitude of approximately 1,540 meters (5,050 feet) above sea level, Baguio City offers visitors a picturesque setting with panoramic views of the Cordillera Central mountain range.

One of the most iconic attractions in Baguio is the Mines View Park, which provides a sweeping vista of the surrounding mountains and the mining town of Itogon. The nearby Botanical Garden and Tam-awan Village further enhance the mountain experience with their beautiful gardens and traditional Cordillera architecture.

Baguio City's cool and refreshing climate, even during the hottest months of the year, make it a popular destination for both local and international tourists seeking respite from the lowland heat. Visitors can also enjoy the vibrant culture, rich history, and delectable local cuisine of the Cordillera region.

In addition to Baguio, Da Nang inVietnam, and Luang Prabang in Laos, have also been recognized for their spectacular mountain views, showcasing the incredible natural beauty that Asia has to offer. These three destinations undoubtedly stand out as must-visit places for anyone looking to experience the best in scenic mountain landscapes.

Baguio City in Cordillera region is one of the most popular tourist destination in Luzon.

Here are the list of Top Tourist Spots in Baguio City you can include in your Baguio travel itinerary.

Burnham Park

Session Road

Baguio Night Market

Baguio Cathedral

Baguio Museum

Baguio Botanical Garden

Igorot Stone Kingdom

Bell House

Camp John Hay

Tam-awan Village

Lourdes Grotto

Mines View Park

Diplomat Hotel

Mirador Heritage Park

Lion's Head Kennon Road

Baguio City Cathedral

The Mansion

Baguio City Market

Wright Park

Panagbenga Park

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Honest Baguio Taxi Driver Returns Lost Wallet with Cash and Cards to American Resident

Photo Courtesy || Baguio Chronicle

Cordillera - A Seattle native, Bruce Baskin, left his wallet in a Baguio taxi and worried it was lost forever. 

The wallet contained important cards and thousands of pesos. 

Baskin canceled his cards and thought he might have to deal with identity theft.

READ ALSO:  What do tourists say about taxi drivers in Baguio City 

To his surprise, honest taxi driver William Cargolio found the wallet and personally returned it hours later. Everything, including the cash and cards, was intact. 

Baskin and his partner believe it was a miracle and credit the taxi driver's honesty and the city's honest reputation. 

READ ALSO: Baguio City is home to the most honest taxi drivers in the Philippines

Baskin expressed gratitude, saying this act of kindness might not have happened in America.

source || Baguio Chronicle https://web.facebook.com/baguiochronicle

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Baguio's HRAB Unveils Gigantic Wedding Cake to Celebrate 16th Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Weekend

Photo Courtesy || Baguio City PIO

Cordillera - The Hotel and Restaurant Associations of Baguio (HRAB) marked a sweet milestone in celebration of the 16th Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Weekend on September 2 at the SM Baguio Atrium. 

In a jaw-dropping spectacle, HRAB unveiled the city's largest wedding cake ever seen.

This monumental confectionery masterpiece stood as a testament to Baguio's thriving culinary artistry. Crafted by 25 professional pastry chefs and 40 students, the four-layered wedding cake soared to nearly forty feet in height, with measurements of 24 feet by 18 feet (base), 18 feet by 14 feet (second layer), and 14 feet by 10 feet (third layer).

The cake's grandeur was not just for show; it was meant to be savored by the community. 

A whopping 12,000 slices of this culinary wonder were distributed among residents, mall-goers, tourists, and visitors, featuring a delectable array of flavors, including Red Velvet, Chocolate Truffle, Banana, Carrot, and Blueberry Vanilla.

In the spirit of unity and celebration, 11 lucky couples also exchanged vows in a mass wedding ceremony officiated by Mayor Benjamin Magalong, coinciding with the 114th Baguio Day Anniversary celebration.

The unveiling of this massive wedding cake was a momentous occasion led by HRAB President Mr. Anthony De Leon, HRAB Chairman Mr. Jeff Ng, Congressman Mark Go, Mayor Benjamin Magalong, Mrs. Arlene Magalong, DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovi Ganongan, and special guest Her Excellency Marykay L. Carlson, US Ambassador to the Philippines. 

It was a day that truly celebrated Baguio's hospitality, creativity, and love for all things delicious.

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Meet Lola Veronica: 65-year-old Female Taxi Driver of Baguio City for 11 Years

Photo Courtesy || Karl Patacsil Films

Cordillera - In an industry historically dominated by men, Lola Veronica, a 65-year-old registered nurse, has shattered stereotypes and proven her mettle as a trusted taxi driver in the city of Baguio for nearly 11 years. 

Known as the "Queen of the Road" in Baguio, she has also achieved the distinction of being the first lady taxi driver on the city's popular ride-hailing app.

Lola Veronica's journey from nursing to taxi driving was driven by her desire for both income and adventure. 

She felt the thrill of travel while cruising the city's streets, but it hasn't always been smooth sailing. 

Photo Courtesy || Karl Patacsil Films

She openly acknowledges that skepticism has greeted her career choice, with some passengers expressing doubt about a woman's ability to drive professionally.

Despite the initial hesitations of passengers, Lola Veronica remains steadfast in her belief that being a taxi driver is an honorable profession. 

She has not only broken gender barriers but also showcased that dedication and competence know no gender boundaries. 

Her story serves as an inspiration to others, encouraging women to pursue their dreams in male-dominated fields and to challenge societal norms. 

Lola Veronica has truly become a symbol of empowerment on Baguio's roads, proving that women can steer their way to success in any industry.

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Color Dancing Fountain at Upper Wright Park, BC set to open by September 1, 2023

Photo Courtesy || Baguio City PIO

Cordillera - Baguio City, known for its picturesque landscapes and cool climate, is all set to unveil its newest tourist attraction – the Color Dancing Fountain, located at Upper Wright Park. This vibrant water display is sure to captivate both locals and tourists alike.

The Color Fountain is a part of the city government of Baguio's rejuvenation project for Upper Wright Park, aiming to enhance the beauty of the area and provide a delightful experience for visitors. Scheduled to open on September 1, 2022, just in time for Baguio's charter day anniversary celebration, the fountain promises to add a touch of magic to the already enchanting city.

One of the main draws of the Color Fountain is its mesmerizing display of colorful water illuminated by a spectacular lighting system that delights the senses. The dynamic and ever-changing hues evoke a sense of wonder and joy, making it an instant hit with people of all ages.

Tourists and locals alike will find themselves drawn to the Color Fountain as it provides a perfect backdrop for memorable photos and videos. Families can gather around, capturing precious moments together against the kaleidoscope of colors. Additionally, the fountain's location at Upper Wright Park offers a beautiful view of the city, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and reflection.

The Color Fountain is expected to boost tourism in the area, attracting more visitors to Baguio City and contributing to the local economy. Its unique and captivating nature will likely encourage tourists to extend their stay and explore other attractions in the city, promoting a positive impact on various businesses in the hospitality and tourism sectors.

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Honest Taho Vendor in Baguio City Returns Bag with Large Sum of Money

Photo Courtesy || Manuelito Bonifacio FB

Cordillera - Manuelito Bonifacio, a dedicated taho vendor in Baguio city, has captured hearts with his incredible act of integrity and kindness. 

While going about his daily taho sales, Manuelito noticed an abandoned bag near his vending spot at Lion's Head along Kennon Road. 

As time passed and no one claimed it, curiosity led him to investigate further, revealing a significant amount of money inside, cellphone and ATM cards.

Driven by a profound sense of responsibility, Manuelito promptly reached out to the bag's owner using the identification cards discovered within. 

When questioned about his decision, he humbly shared, "Taking the money never crossed my mind. All I desired was to return the bag to its rightful owner, fearing the consequences of karma. The ability to do good for others is my ultimate reward."

Expressing deep gratitude, the bag's owner thanked Manuelito for his extraordinary kindness and even offered a reward in appreciation. 

Yet, true to his humble nature, Manuelito gracefully declined, content with the satisfaction of making a positive impact. 

Sir Manuelito Bonifacio is a true embodiment of honesty and virtue.

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WATCH: Baguio bet for Miss Universe PH, Krishnah Gravidez shows the beauty of Baguio

Photo Courtesy || Erjohn Dela Serna

Cordillera - Filipino beauty queen and model, Miss Krishnah Marie Gravidez is the official representative of the city of Baguio in the Miss Universe Philippines 2023 pageantry.

The 21-year-old young and fresh Gravidez was among the top 40 delegates for the Miss Universe PH. She shares her story in the new episode of HER STORY by Empire Philippines in YouTube.

Photo Courtesy || Krishnah Gravidez

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Cordilleran from Baguio City has Higher IQ than Einstein?

Photo Courtesy || Jozef Maynard Borja Erece

Cordillera - A proud Cordilleran from Baguio city is being hailed as genius, a polymath, a child prodigy, profoundly gifted and extremely talented.

When he was a kid, the Psychology Center in New Zealand conducted an IQ test for Jozef Maynard Borja Erece and the result showed he exceeded the IQ level of 160 using the Wechsler Intelligence Scale for Children III (WISC III). 

The WISC III also showed Jozef verbal IQ scale was off the charts and his full scale IQ score was also beyond the standard IQ scores.

Jozef also took the Wechsler Individual Achievement Test II (WIAT II) and the result indicated that his performance and achievement was at very superior level against his age group.

The Education psychologist and lead educators who conducted that test concluded that Jozef is profoundly gifted with an IQ beyond the 160 limit.

Who is Jozef Maynard Borja Erece

Jozef Maynard Borja Erece is a young legal prodigy from the Philippines, New Zealand, and Australia, who is considered the youngest person in the world to be admitted to the legal profession. 

He completed a Bachelor of Laws from the University of Southern Queensland and a Graduate Diploma in Legal Practice from the Queensland University of Technology in 2015. 

At the age of 18, he was admitted to the roll of barristers and solicitors by the Supreme Court of Queensland in a widely publicized ceremony held at Brisbane City Hall. 

He is also recognized as the youngest law graduate in the history of Australia, New Zealand, and the Philippines.

Jozef is also a book author, an accomplished basketball player and taekwondo jin. 

Jozef is the son of Dr. Maynard Victor Erece who went to Magsaysay Elementary School in New Lucban, Baguio city and worked as a criminal lawyer, prosecutor and an educator. 

Her mother, Dr, Josephine Ana Borja Erece, a medical doctor by profession went to St. Louis Center and graduated as valedictorian. 

The city government of Baguio has passed a resolution to recognized and commend Jozef for giving honor to the city and the country as the youngest law graduate and practicing lawyer in the world.

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Cordilleran genius from Baguio becomes the youngest law graduate in the world, at age 18

Photo Courtesy || Jozef Maynard Borja Erece / everybodywiki

Cordillera - A Filipino-New Zealand-Australian gifted child becomes the world's youngest law graduate at the age of 18. 

Jozef Maynard Borja Erece, a proud Cordilleran is arguably the youngest person ever admitted to the legal profession and youngest law graduate in the history of Australia, New Zealand and the Philippines.

Mr. Erece was born in New Zealand in 1996 to Filipino parents and was recognized as a gifted child. 

By the age of 3, he was already reading, and by 11, he was in high school, graduating as Valedictorian in 2011 from St. Peter's Catholic School in Cambridge. 

In 2011, he was offered a spot in Stanford University's Institutes' Program, a special course for gifted youth, but declined the opportunity. Instead, he chose to attend the University of Southern Queensland in 2012, where he completed his Bachelor's degree in Law in just three years.

Jozef is the son of Dr. Maynard Victor Erece who went to Magsaysay Elementary School in New Lucban, Baguio city and worked as a criminal lawyer, prosecutor and an educator. 

Her mother, Dr, Josephine Ana Borja Erece, a medical doctor by profession went to St. Louis Center and graduated as valedictorian. 

Jozef Maynard Borja Erece is known for his exceptional abilities, being called a genius, polymath, and child prodigy. 

He has received widespread recognition for his achievements and his journey has been widely covered by the media. 

READ ALSO: Dexter Santos Valenton: First Aeta to pass the Criminologist Licensure Exam

His gifts and talents have been the subject of research by experts in the fields of gifted and talented education, psychology, neurology, and child development.

The city government of Baguio has passed a resolution to recognized and commend Jozef for giving honor to the city and the country as the youngest law graduate and practicing lawyer in the world.

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Baguio World Class Toilets win ASEAN Public Toilet Award

Photo Courtesy || Neil Clark Ongchangco

Cordillera - Two World Class Toilets of Baguio city located in Botanical Garden and Wright Park bagged the "ASEAN Public Toilet Award' from the prestigious 2023 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Tourism Standards Awards. 

This is the first time the city government of Baguio which managed the toilets were able to won the award. 

The Baguio toilets passed the four main criteria which recommend how a public toilet must be operated and maintained. 

These are Design and Environmental Management Safety, Amenities and Facilities, Cleanliness, and Safety.

The ASEAN Tourism Standard Task Force has laid down the Public Toilet Standard to ensure the quality, comfort, safety, and proper waste management of  public toilets at tourist spots within the region. 

"A basic yet vital component in the tourism industry that can make or break the tourist experience is when the tourist has to use the toilet," it said. 

The awarding ceremony will be conferred next month at the Marriot Yogyakarta Hotel, Indonesia.

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Baguio - Cebu Direct Flights expected to begin by December

Cordillera - Tourists from Cebu can now visit the summer capital by air this December as the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines (CAAP) and Philippine Airlines (PAL) are fast-tracking the rehabilitation of the Loakan Airport, according to the Baguio City Information Office. 

Capt. Stanley Ng, PAL presidents and CEO said during the stakeholder's meeting at the Baguio Country Club that they will be ready to fly their newest Bombardier Q400 turboprop and dual-class airplaine when safety audit of the Loakan Airport is done.

PAL is planning a four times a week flight, a 9:20 AM departure from Cebu and arrival by 11.20AM in Baguio city. A return flight is also expected by 1:20 PM on the same day, according to Bud Britanico, PAL vice president for sales.

Mayor Magalong expressed his gratitude to the Department of Transportation under Secretary Jaime Bautista for its commitment in improving the airport and helping the city government's economic recovery efforts.

Magalong is hopeful that the opening of the Loakan Airport will spur economic recovery of the city and would also encourage other airline companies like Cebu Pacific to cater air travel to the city.

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Cordilleran artist wins 2 Gold Medals, 1 Bronze in 25th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts in California

Photo Courtesy || Jefferson R. Coronado via Highlandtribune

Cordillera - A Cordilleran artist from Baguio brought honor to the city when he bagged 2 gold medals and one bronze medal during the recently concluded 25th Annual Championship of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held in Anaheim, California U.S.A. from July 22 - 30, 2022.

Jefferson R. Coronado, a resident of Hillside barangay in Baguio took home two gold medals in WCOPA broadway category and the original work category. 

He also won bronze medal in the group production category together with Team Philippines including a semi-finalist pin.

Coronado, an alumnus of Saint Louis University-Glee Club and a vocalist of Baguio's premier pop/jazz band was among the 60 Filipinos who competed in the event which was participated by 60 countries across the globe.

READ ALSO: Igorot BJMP officer bags 3 Gold Medals in Jiujitsu

Meanwhile, the city government of Baguio City has passed a resolution congratulating and commending Jefferson R. Coronado for bringing pride to the city.

"With such world-class and top-brass accolades, it is just but fitting and proper to award this commendation to Jefferson Coronado for his excellent achievement that has brought pride and glory to the City of Baguio," the resolution states.

READ ALSO: Cordilleran cop wins Gold and Silver medals in World Police and Fire Games 2022

WCOPA is an international competition program for seasoned and up and coming performers and entertainers held every year and judged by "Hollywood" industry professionals.

During the competition, Philippine team bagged a total of 265 awards and medals with 38 gold, 59 silver, and 85 bronze and 44 semifinalist medals, eight grand finalist medals, one scholarship, 29 division winner plaques, and one extraordinary national director plaque.

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