Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES
Quezon City

Eighteenth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILL No.__1341

Introduced by HON. MARK O. GO

EXPLANATORY NOTE

‘The Philippine Constitution mandates the State to conserve, develop, promote and popularize
the nation's historical and cultural heritage and resources, as well as artistic creations. It further
provides that all the country's artistic and historic wealth constitutes the cultural treasure of the
nation and shall be under the protection of the State.

‘The Burnham Park is one of the most famous parks situated in the very heart of the City of
Baguio. Amidst the city’s many twisting roads and rolling hills, Burnham Park is distinct for its
geometrically and symmetrically designed stretch of levelled ground. Named after city-planner and
American architect Daniel Burnham who designed it in 1904, Burnham Park has served many
generations of families, both residents and tourists.

After several design improvements made over the years, the park is now composed of the
following cluster areas: The Ibaloi Heritage Garden, a man-made lake, the children’s playground, the
Rose Garden, the Igorot Garden, the Orchidarium, Sunshine Park, the Pine Trees of the World Park,
and various picnic spots such as Picnic Grove, the Melvin Jones Grandstand where various events
are held, the Athletic Bowl where many athletes train and compete, and historical symbols such as
the Japanese Peace Tower.

For over a century now, Burnham Park has become a part in the progress and prosperity of
Baguio City. Indeed, Burnham Park deserves to be recognized as a cultural heritage park.

In realizing our common vision tostrengthen our foundation, we need to preserve our rich
cultural heritage for our next generations. Having said this, it is hoped that this measure will merit
approval in declaring Burnham as National Heritage Park.

In view thereof, passage of this bill is eamestly sought.


Republic of the Philippines
HOUSE OF REPRESENTATIVES

Quezon City

Eighteenth Congress
First Regular Session

HOUSE BILLNo._1341

Introduced by HON. MARK 0. GO

AN ACT DECLARING BURNHAM PARK LOCATED IN THE CITY OF BAGUIO A
NATIONAL HERITAGE PARK AND APPROPRIATING FUNDS FOR ITS
CONSERVATION AND DEVELOPMENT

Be it enacted by the Senate and House of Representatives of the Philippines in Congress
assembled:

SECTION. 1. Declaration of Policy. — It is hereby declared the policy of the State
to protect, preserve, and conserve the nation’s cultural heritage, its properties and history, and the
ethnicities of local communities.

SEC. 2. A National Heritage Park. — The Burnham Park, located in the City of Baguio, is
hereby declared a national heritage park. As such, its development shall be prioritized by the
Department of Tourism (DOT) and Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA),
in coordination with the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and the City
Government of Baguio, and shall be subject to the rules and regulations governing the development
of national heritage parks.

SEC. 3. Development Plan. — Within six (6) months after the approval of this Act, the DOT,
TIEZA, NHCP and the City Government of Baguio shall prepare the development plan involving the
conservation and/or maintenance of the appropriate facilities which shall enhance the identified
areas: Provided, That said development shall ensure the preservation of the cultural heritage and the
historical significance of the identified areas.

SEC. 4. Appropriations. -The Secretary of the DOT, the Chairperson of NHCP, and the Chief
Operating Officer of the TIEZA shall include in their respective programs the implementation of this
Act, the funding of which shall be included in the annual General Appropriations Act and from
internally generated funds of the DOT.

SEC. 5. Implementing Rules and Regulations. Within sixty (60) days after the effectivity
of this Act, the DOT, TIEZA, NHCP and the City Government of Baguio shall formulate the
necessary rules and regulations for the effective implementation of this Act.


SEC. 6. Repealing Clause.— Alll laws, decrees, executive orders, letters of implementation,
rules and regulations or parts thereof inconsistent with any provision of this Act are hereby repealed,
modified, superseded or amended accordingly.

SEC. 7. Effectivity - This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the
Official Gazette or in a newspaper of general circulation.

Approved,