Baguio City Inaugurates 3 Solar-Powered Tourist First-Aid Booths

BAGUIO CITY — The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has turned over three solar-powered Tourist First Aid Booths to the Baguio City government, marking the launch of a project aimed at improving emergency response for tourists and residents. This initiative seeks to provide immediate medical assistance and enhance the city's appeal as a safer and more resilient tourism destination. According to the Baguio City Public Information Office, the three booths, each valued at P4.7 million, were installed at Burnham Park, the Botanical Garden, and Bayan Park. These facilities are equipped with first aid kits, automated external defibrillators (AEDs), pullout stretchers, and closed-circuit television (CCTV) cameras. TIEZA Chief Operating Officer Mark Lapid stated that Baguio was chosen as the first recipient due to its strong partnership with TIEZA and the city government’s commitment to improving tourist safety. These facilities are the first of their kind established under TIEZA’s initiative and are expected to serve as a model for similar installations in other tourism destinations. Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong explained that the booths are designed to respond to medical emergencies, including hypertension, stroke, and fainting spells. The city has an integrated emergency response system that allows police personnel to be dispatched in an average of seven minutes, while medical responders can reach tourist areas within 12 to 15 minutes. The city is also considering requesting additional booths for other major parks and tourist spots, including Sunshine Park and Wright Park. The project is a joint initiative of TIEZA, the Baguio City government, the Department of Tourism, and the Department of Health, aiming to strengthen emergency preparedness and improve safety for both visitors and residents.