Baguio's Burnham Lake reopens after massive ₱400M makeover; attraction ready to welcome visitors again

BAGUIO CITY — One of Baguio City's most iconic tourist attractions is set to welcome visitors once again.

After nearly a year behind construction barriers, Burnham Lake will reopen to the public in time for the city's Charter Day celebration on September 1, marking the completion of the first phase of its more than ₱400-million rehabilitation project.

Residents and tourists can once again enjoy boating, sightseeing, and leisurely walks around the lake following extensive improvements aimed at restoring water quality, upgrading facilities, and preserving the historic landmark.

Although the lake is reopening, rehabilitation of Burnham Park will continue. The succeeding phases of the project will focus on improving pedestrian walkways, renovating the children's park, and upgrading the skating rink as part of the city's long-term plan to preserve and modernize one of Baguio's most treasured public spaces.

Burnham Lake was temporarily closed on October 1, 2025, to pave the way for the first phase of the rehabilitation project after years of concern over the lake's deteriorating condition.

Before the rehabilitation, the last major dredging of the lake was conducted in 2013. Since then, maintenance had largely been limited to surface cleaning and water treatment initiatives, including the city's BLUEming Project launched in 2023 to address algal blooms.

The first phase of the rehabilitation included the construction of a new retaining wall, improvements to the boat docking area, a new viewing deck, additional benches, and the removal of the old central fountain to create a safer, more attractive, and visitor-friendly environment.

For generations, Burnham Park has remained one of Baguio City's most popular destinations, drawing families, tourists, joggers, and boating enthusiasts alike. With the reopening of Burnham Lake, visitors can once again experience one of the city's most beloved landmarks—now revitalized and better prepared to serve future generations.