"Oh, Baguio, haven for all people..."

Those opening words of the Baguio Hymn paint a picture that generations of residents and visitors have come to embrace. Cool weather, towering pine trees, breathtaking views and a vibrant culture have made Baguio one of the country's most beloved destinations.

For many tourists, that is the only side they see.

But every city has another story, and Baguio is no exception.

Behind the postcard-perfect scenery are problems that residents confront every day. They are issues that rarely make it into tourism campaigns but deserve just as much attention.

The city's aging sewage system, built decades ago, is struggling to keep pace with rapid urban growth. Environmental experts have repeatedly warned that outdated sanitation infrastructure poses long-term risks to rivers, watersheds and public health.

Public infrastructure also remains under pressure. Schools continue to face shortages in facilities, while delayed infrastructure projects contribute to worsening traffic congestion and overcrowded public spaces.

Housing has become another growing concern. As tourism expands and more people migrate to the city for work and education, affordable housing becomes increasingly scarce. Many families face rising rental costs, land disputes and limited opportunities for secure shelter.

Even basic mobility has become a daily challenge. Road congestion has become part of everyday life, while several pedestrian improvement projects remain unfinished long after their intended completion dates.

Public safety issues continue to evolve as well. Authorities have warned about the emergence of marijuana-laced vape products reaching students, while neglected public infrastructure, including damaged drainage systems, has caused preventable accidents.

Beyond the city proper, labor advocates have also raised concerns about workplace safety, alleging that some companies continue operations during emergencies despite the risks posed to employees.

None of these realities erase Baguio's beauty.

In fact, they make preserving it even more important.

Tourism fuels the local economy, but development cannot revolve around visitors alone. A city cannot truly thrive if its residents bear the hidden costs of overcrowding, environmental degradation and inadequate public services.

Baguio deserves praise for its natural beauty and cultural heritage. It also deserves honest conversations about the problems that threaten its future.

A truly world-class city is not measured only by the number of tourists it attracts, but by the quality of life it provides to the people who call it home.

Only when both visitors and residents can enjoy a clean, safe and sustainable Baguio can the city truly live up to the words of its hymn — a haven for all people.