BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Benjamin Magalong assured the people that security and safety plans remain in place for the expected influx of tourists this holiday season here.

According to Magalong, the city government does not see the need for major changes in the overall security and safety framework for the holiday season, noting that the plan has been effective in previous years.

"We still have our security and safety plan. We are not radically or dramatically changing our implementation concept. There are only minor revisions and refinements to it when necessary," Magalong stated.

He said that although tourism in general has declined nationwide due to economic challenges, he still expects an influx of tourists to this city due to the cool climate.

"Many other places have opened, and tourism has declined throughout the Philippines," he explained, citing economic factors as a major reason.

He cited the country's slowing economic growth, noting that Gross Domestic Product (GDP) growth slowed from 5.5 percent in the second quarter to four percent in the third quarter.

“What I fear is that the fourth quarter will be even slower," he said, adding that boosting GDP growth remains a challenge heading into next year.

The mayor said that economic performance is driven by three main factors – consumer spending, government spending or investment, and exports and imports.

He said the slowdown in government spending, especially on infrastructure projects affected by alleged anomalies, has an impact on the economy.

"When government spending drops significantly, especially on infrastructure, everything is affected," Magalong said. "The economy is suffering, many people are struggling, so instead of spending on travel, they are becoming more careful with their spending. Hotels are expensive now."

Despite these challenges, the mayor said the city remains vigilant and committed to ensuring the safety of residents and visitors during the holiday season, while closely monitoring developments that could affect tourism and the local economy.

With the expected surge in tourists and visitors in the coming days, Magalong appealed to the public, especially non-residents, to help maintain cleanliness in the city by properly disposing of their garbage and adhering to local regulations.

He said that as the Summer Capital sees an increase in people this holiday season, Magalong urged visitors to respect the city's rules and culture of cleanliness.

"To our visitors, please follow our regulations here in Baguio City. If there are no trash cans available, please take your garbage with you. Don't leave it anywhere."