BAGUIO CITY — While the tourism industry continues to significantly rise from the impacts of the pandemic, the chief of the Baguio Tourism Council (BTC) said it is also best to focus on the health of the elderly as well as the health workers and residents in the barangays.

BTC chairperson Gladys Vergara saw the need to address the plight of the senior citizens of Baguio following their visit to some of the barangays of Baguio City. She said that as recognition of their great contributions to society, they should be provided with improved healthcare access, financial support and provision of spaces.

Vergara said that when these senior citizens were at their younger age, they have done their part in the development of the socio-economy of Baguio City. She said it is only right to repay them.

The tourism chief also said that to ensure better health services, the needs of the barangay health workers should be addressed. Vergara said that it is true that they are receiving small benefits but she stressed that there should be a stronger legislation that will provide appropriate and legitimate benefits for community workers.

“This is in addition for better social health support for all sectors and in advancing Universal Healthcare Act and Social Pension Law,” she added.

Vergara also reiterated their advocacy for a sustainable and eco-friendly solution through the promotion of solar and renewable energy in various barangays of the city. This is part of the “Glad to be Green” pushing for solar-powered lighting for a safer and more sustainable community and as contribution to the global effort in addressing the challenges of climate change.