Local traditions and culture in Baguio City – Culture

Baguio City Local Customs

Baguio City is known as the summer capital of the Philippines, and has a rich cultural history. Learn about Baguio City local customs while you experience its traditions and culture.

Baguio Cathedral and The Bell Temple

Our Lady of Atonement is a Catholic church in Baguio City and is considered to be one of the most photographed buildings in the city. There are more than 100 cathedral steps you must climb if you want to take part in the mass, but you can park your vehicle on the church grounds. The Bell Temple is a Chinese temple located in the city, and if you visit be sure to respect the local customs by following posted signs prohibiting camera use or eating while touring the temple.

Food

Spanish influence is evident in much of Filipino cuisine. You can purchase canned desserts (like Pinipig, a rice dessert) at the small shops or pick out fresh vegetables at the vegetable markets. An interesting meal in Baguio City is “balut,” which is a fertilized bird egg which is allowed to “grow” a bit before it is eaten.

Panagbenga Flower Festival

The Panagbenga Flower Festival is celebrated every fourth week of February and is a thanksgiving celebration for Mother Nature. Colorful floats travel down the streets and local tribes dance in native costumes. The Microtel Inn is an idea hotel from which to view the parades.

Ifugao Tribe

The Ifugao Tribe of Baguio City built the famous rice terraces more than 2,000 years ago. Descendants of the Ifugao Tribe wear traditional dress of colorful woven textiles and headdresses. Some members sell woodcrafts or food, while others are happy to pose for a photograph (but make sure you ask permission before taking a picture).

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about local customs in Baguio City.