BAGUIO CITY — The rains that soaked Baguio for more than two weeks may have caused plenty of headaches elsewhere, but for the city government, they brought an unexpected windfall — nearly P5 million worth of water for the rehabilitated Burnham Lake.

The continuous rains brought by tropical storms “Luis” and “Maymay,” along with the enhanced southwest monsoon, filled nearly three-fourths of the lake’s water requirement ahead of its scheduled reopening on 1 September 2026, according to the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO).

CEPMO chief Rhenan Diwas said the rainfall spared the city from having to source additional water to fill the lake, which forms part of the local government’s contribution to its rehabilitation.

“We were able to save around P5 million because of the rains,” Diwas said.

The water supply is part of the city’s counterpart for the initial P100-million Burnham Lake rehabilitation project funded by the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority. The project is included in the broader P400-million rehabilitation plan for Burnham Park.

With the lake nearly ready, residents and visitors are expected to once again enjoy boating activities at one of Baguio’s most recognizable landmarks.

The rehabilitation began in October last year, with completion originally targeted for March. However, unexpected issues pushed back the opening as authorities worked to ensure the facility would meet safety and environmental standards.

Among the improvements are detention tanks installed in strategic areas around the lake. These will filter incoming surface water and help maintain water quality suitable for recreational activities.

Diwas said the lake rehabilitation is now nearly complete, with the city working toward the 1 September reopening.

CEPMO is also studying which fish species could be introduced into the lake, potentially adding another attraction for visitors and boaters.

For a city that has long depended on Burnham Park as a gathering place for residents and tourists, the rainwater-filled lake offers a welcome boost — and a timely reminder that even Baguio’s wettest days can have an upside.