Baguio’s Holy Week 2026: Fuel Crisis Triggers Sharp Tourism Drop
Baguio City experienced a paradox during the 2026 Holy Week celebration. While Mayor Benjamin Magalong reported a peaceful and orderly atmosphere, the city’s economy took a significant hit. A surge in fuel prices, driven by the ongoing crisis in the Middle East, deterred thousands of travelers from visiting the “Summer Capital of the Philippines,” leading to a dramatic decline in tourist arrivals.
Tourism Plummets Amid Rising Fuel Costs
The impact of skyrocketing petrol and diesel prices was immediate and severe. Data from the Baguio Tourism Council revealed a sharp decline in tourist arrivals, dropping by 40 to 50 percent. Mayor Magalong noted that the high cost of motoring deterred many traditional visitors who usually flock to the mountaintop city during this peak season.
This downturn was mirrored in the city’s accommodation sector. While some high-end facilities showed brief spikes—hotels in Camp John Hay recorded 100 percent occupancy on Maundy Thursday and Fine Friday—those numbers crashed to 60 percent by Black Saturday. Accommodation facilities across Baguio reported a similar 40 to 50 percent decline in bookings.
The Silver Lining: Traffic and Public Order
Despite the economic strain, the lower volume of visitors provided some relief for local residents and city infrastructure. The city saw significantly lighter traffic flow compared to previous years, reducing the usual gridlocks that plague Baguio’s streets during the summer peak. There was less pressure on the city’s water supply, which often becomes insufficient when tourists arrive in droves.
Public safety as well remained high. Between March 31 and April 5, the city recorded only five crime incidents. According to Mayor Magalong, most of these were theft cases and physical injuries, along with one alleged rape case involving a suspect from Manila that remains under investigation.
Economic Outlook and Future Projections
The city administration is now bracing for a continued economic slowdown. Mayor Magalong expects tourist numbers to dip even further over the coming weeks, with projections suggesting a possible decline of up to 60 percent.
While the current economic context differs from previous years, the Mayor expressed confidence in the city’s resilience, citing lessons learned during the pandemic period to help Baguio manage the financial hit.
- Tourist Arrivals: Dropped by 40% to 50% due to Middle East-driven fuel price hikes.
- Hotel Occupancy: Overall bookings fell by 40% to 50%; Camp John Hay occupancy dropped from 100% to 60% by Black Saturday.
- Public Order: Only five crime incidents recorded from March 31 to April 5.
- Infrastructure: Lighter traffic and reduced pressure on the city water supply.
- Future Forecast: Tourist numbers may drop by as much as 60% in the next few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why did tourism drop in Baguio during Holy Week 2026?
Tourism declined primarily because of skyrocketing petrol and diesel prices caused by the crisis in the Middle East, making it too expensive for many tourists to drive to the city.
How did the fuel crisis affect local hotels?
Most accommodation facilities saw a 40% to 50% drop in bookings. Even top-tier locations like Camp John Hay saw a sharp decline in occupancy immediately following Good Friday.
Was the city safe during the holiday break?
Yes, the city remained generally peaceful. Only five crime incidents were reported between March 31 and April 5, consisting mostly of theft and physical injuries.
As Baguio navigates this economic challenge, the city continues to balance the need for tourism revenue with the benefits of reduced congestion and improved resource management for its residents.
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