With 2 years left in final term, Magalong says: “I have to be dispensable” as systems, not politicians, must define Baguio’s future

BAGUIO CITY, Philippines – With only two years left in his current and final term, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said his administration’s most important legacy should not be tied to his name or political leadership, but to government systems and programs that can continue even after he leaves office.

Magalong made the statement during his State of the City Address (SOCA) on Tuesday, September 1, which coincided with Baguio City’s 117th Charter Anniversary, as he reflected on the remaining two years of his administration and the kind of government he hopes to leave behind.

In his address, Magalong said the city must look beyond the accomplishments of the present administration and focus on reforms that can continue through political transitions.

“I, as the local chief executive, have to be dispensable. What must persist are institutionalized programs and projects that are not associated with any political figure, but interwoven with Baguio’s DNA that will ensure sustainability,” Magalong said.

Magalong explained that his administration has focused on building systems that can remain effective even without a particular mayor in office.

He said this direction is anchored on the city’s long-term vision of a livable, inclusive and creative Baguio, supported by reforms in governance, digital services, environmental management, water security, disaster resilience and leadership development.

Merit, not politics

Magalong also emphasized his decision to move away from selecting government officials based on political connections, saying appointments and promotions should instead be based on qualifications, performance and character.

He said he has waived his authority to personally select individuals for several key positions and instead allowed appropriate boards and selection bodies to make the decisions.

“Ever since I became mayor, I waive my right to select who gets appointed or promoted. I leave that to the decision of the placement and selection board,” Magalong said.

He stressed that government employees should earn their positions through merit and should not feel indebted to a political leader for their appointment.

“You earn your position based on merit. You do not owe it to the mayor,” he said.

Magalong said he hopes this mindset will remain in City Hall even after his administration ends, describing it as one of the most significant legacies he wants to leave behind.

Building systems that last

The mayor pointed to the city’s continuing efforts to strengthen its systems, including the Performance Governance System, ISO-certified processes, Emerging Leaders Program, digital government platforms and open-data initiatives.

These programs, he said, are intended to make government more organized, transparent and accountable rather than dependent on individual personalities.

Magalong also highlighted the city’s long-term efforts in waste management and water security, including its circular economy program and studies aimed at addressing Baguio’s projected water supply needs.

He said these initiatives are part of a broader effort to prepare the city for challenges that may emerge long after the current administration.

“We are not perfect”

While highlighting his administration’s accomplishments, Magalong also acknowledged that the city government has made mistakes and that some things could have been done better.

“I admit with humility that this administration is not perfect. We have our own errors. We have our own mistakes,” he said.

He said the important thing is for government to learn from its shortcomings and continue improving the way it serves the public.

Magalong added that even when faced with difficult decisions, his administration has tried to base its actions on data and evidence and to do what it believes is best for the city.

A Baguio beyond one administration

Magalong said the ultimate measure of his administration should be the condition of Baguio when he and his officials eventually leave office.

“We have only two years left in this administration. My only hope is that when we leave, we leave a Baguio that you can be proud of,” he said.

He credited the people of Baguio for helping the city government implement its programs through their participation, cooperation and feedback.

As the city moves toward its long-term vision for 2043, Magalong called on residents to continue demanding better governance and helping raise the standards of public service.

“Let us continue to raise the standard, continue to demand better from government and from ourselves,” he said.

For Magalong, the goal is not simply to leave behind projects completed during his term, but a stronger institution and a culture of public service that can continue serving Baguio beyond his administration.