“Move the Dead?”: Debate erupts over planned tomb relocation for Baguio Road Project

Baguio City, Philippines – Public debate continues to intensify following reports that a majority of families and relatives of individuals buried at the Baguio City Public Cemetery have expressed support for the proposed relocation of affected tombs to give way for the construction of an access road leading to the Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) facility in Barangay San Luis.

Despite growing approval from affected families, the proposal remains controversial among residents and netizens due to cultural, emotional, and heritage concerns surrounding the transfer of human remains.

According to City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO) Head Rhenan Diwas, through the Baguio City Public Information Office (CPIO) on May 21, most affected families are willing to support the proposal provided that proper relocation areas are identified and enough time is given for traditional rituals and family preparations.

Diwas added that consultations with families are still ongoing, while funding for the proposed access road project is being considered for inclusion in next year’s city budget.

Meanwhile, online discussions continue to draw mixed reactions, with many netizens expressing concern over cultural sensitivity and respect for the deceased.

“How inconsiderate. Baguio proudly claims to be a ‘heritage’ and ‘character’ city, yet it seems unable to extend the same respect and sensitivity to sacred and memorial spaces such as our cemeteries,” one commenter said.

Another netizen wrote: “Ang daming pwedeng gamitin na lot kung bakit diyan pa sa mga nanahimik na. Sana lang maging maayos ang lahat at matapos na ang problema sa sementeryo.”

The proposed relocation stemmed from the city government’s plan to improve access to the new male and female dormitories of the city jail, which authorities said require a direct road connection for transportation, emergency response, and operational purposes. Existing access routes were reportedly found inadequate for the planned facility.

However, the issue became more complicated due to heritage concerns involving decades-old tombs that may be protected under national cultural preservation laws, requiring approvals from concerned cultural agencies before any relocation can proceed.

While city authorities view the project as a necessary infrastructure development aimed at easing congestion and improving public services, the proposal continues to divide public opinion as concerns over heritage preservation, cultural sensitivity, and respect for the dead remain at the center of the debate.