September 1st of 2009 is the centennial foundation of Baguio as a chartered city. The charter, penned by then young lawyer George Malcolm, paved the way for the explosion of Baguio as a top tourist destination with its cool weather.

The Baguio Centennial Commission whose theme of "Fostering a culture of caring" I hope would champion the cause of restoring the old Baguio to its glory, reversing the urban decay caused by overpopulation and most importantly, restoring the status of Baguio as the role model of being the clean and green city in the Philippines.

The year-long celebration is a tribute to the Builders of Baguio who were symbolically awarded as the following,

• Baguio Elementary School (Institution);
• Eusebius Halsema for Individual (Posthumous);
• Wakat Suello for Family; and
• Former Mayor Francisco Alafriz Paraan for Individual (Living).

It’s also a tribute to the men and women who shaped Baguio whose names are enshrined at the Wall of Recognition and Remembrance at the newly named Centennial Park (formerly known as the Botanical Garden).

Like other cities whose development is steeped with conflicts like the issue of ancestral lands, Baguio City has been run over by the onslaught of the American conquest, the imminence of law and government and the evolution of a cityhood. And just like any other city, Baguio is faced with opportunities and challenges particularly the delicate, balancing act of preserving the environment with the demands of a burgeoning city.

With that, Baguio deserves a green and clean centennial celebration. Here’s a toast to another hundred years of success. Happy Baguio Centennial !!!