Banaue, Ifugao temporarily suspends trekking and hiking activities after widespread destruction brought by Super Typhoon Uwan

Banaue, Ifugao – Visitors to Banaue are urged to avoid outdoor tourist sites as the municipal government has suspended such activities for safety purposes following the widespread destruction caused by Super Typhoon Uwan, leaving at least five people dead.

The typhoon also left the town with damaged houses, stores, and vehicles as well as public utilities, mostly destroyed by mudslides and flash floods. Banaue also experienced severe disruption of power and water services.

In Executive Order No. 71, Series of 2025, Banaue Mayor Donald L. Mongolnon cited massive landslides and damage to properties, infrastructure, cultural heritage sites, and agricultural areas as the main reasons for suspending all outdoor activities in the municipality.

Mongolnon, who also chairs the Municipal Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office (MDRRMO), emphasized that the order prohibits trekking and hiking due to unstable terrain and the increased risk of further landslides.

The prohibited areas specifically include the Banaue Viewpoint Trail (Viewpoint to Bocos) and the Banaue Pula–Cambulo–Batad Trail.

Taking effect on November 21 and remaining in force until further notice, the initiative aims to protect visitors from potential hazards while recovery and rehabilitation efforts continue in the affected areas.

“In view thereof, outdoor tourism activities in the municipality of Banaue, particularly trekking and hiking at the Banaue Viewpoint Trail (Viewpoint to Bocos) and the Banaue Pula–Cambulo–Batad Trail, are hereby temporarily suspended to ensure the safety of visitors from unsafe and unstable trekking trails, inclement weather, and the ongoing recovery and rehabilitation activities in said areas,” the EO reads.

Banaue is a major hub and iconic destination for Cordillera tourism. The town is famous for its rice terraces (Banaue Rice Terraces), considered the “8th Wonder of the World,” as well as the Batad Rice Terraces (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and the Tappoyah Falls, among other tourist attractions.