Councilor Vladimir Cayabas has proposed an ordinance formalizing the title of Baguio City as the Education Center of the North.
According to Cayabas, officially acknowledging Baguio as such will bolster its position as a bastion of quality and adaptive education that empowers the youth and addresses prevalent societal issues like illiteracy, behavioral challenges, and skills or competency gaps.
Cayabas said the formalization of the city’s status as an educational hub aligns with the goal of the city to provide quality education which serves as a catalyst for social progress.
“A well-educated populace is essential for the city’s economic, cultural, and political advancement,” the official stated.
Cayabas also underscored providing quality education serves as the key to realizing a city that is not only livable and inclusive but also characterized by creativity.
The ordinance gives compelling reasons for formalizing Baguio’s designation as the Education Center of the North.
Having an annual enrollment ranging from 155,000 to 165,000 students across various education levels, the city hosts over 300 private and public educational institutions and employs around 7,210 individuals.
Baguio boasts an annual enrollment of around 18,000 English as a Second Language (ESL) students from more than 60 ESL schools, resulting in an estimated gross revenue of P2.7 billion.
The city also benefits economically from students who visit as educational tourists, generating an estimated annual gross receipt of 6.2B.
Moreover, the city’s educational landscape is enriched by century-old heritage schools, a vibrant cultural environment, and the presence of the prestigious Philippine Military Academy.
Moreover, the city produces highly competent students, professionals, entrepreneurs, and graduates who consistently excel in various examinations and competitions.
The numerous pro-youth welfare programs initiated by the city government, partner academe, and civil society organizations is a testament to the city’s commitment to quality and inclusive education. These youth programs include educational assistance, job placement, mental health programs, special education initiatives, sports programs, reading camps, academic festivals, and innovative endeavors.
The proposed ordinance has been approved on first reading and referred to the city council’s committee on education, culture, creativity, and historical Research for study. – Jordan G. Habbiling
