GSIS pursues Baguio Tree Park, blends conservation with sustainable development

Baguio City- In support of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.’s push for environmentally sustainable and climate-resilient development, the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS) is advancing plans to develop a Baguio Tree Park on a 3.36-hectare property near Burnham Park, combining environmental conservation with responsible management of government assets.

The proposed project aims to preserve Baguio City’s iconic pine trees while transforming the property into a public green space that promotes wellness, recreation, and sustainable economic activity.

The property, located along Government Center-Military Cut-Off Road near the intersection of Upper Session Road and North Drive, was previously reclassified by the City Government of Baguio from Government-Institutional to Park and Gardens, limiting its allowable uses and prompting GSIS to seek legal relief.

Following discussions between GSIS and the Baguio City Government under Mayor Benjamin Magalong, the property was reclassified as Government-Recreational-Commercial 2A, with GSIS committing to preserve the existing pine trees and prohibit tree cutting within the site. The agreement paved the way for the archiving of the legal case previously filed by GSIS.

Building on this partnership, Mayor Magalong proposed converting about 16,000 square meters of the property into a Tree Park featuring elevated walkways, landscaped open spaces, and a modest open-air amphitheater for community, wellness, and recreational activities. The city government also provided GSIS with conceptual plans and technical designs for the project.

GSIS President and General Manager Wick Veloso said the proposed Tree Park demonstrates how environmental protection and responsible asset management can complement each other.

“The proposed Baguio Tree Park reflects GSIS’ commitment to sustainable development, responsible stewardship of public assets, and meaningful collaboration with local government units. By preserving the site’s natural environment while creating opportunities for public enjoyment and economic activity, we are creating lasting value for our members, pensioners, and the community,” Veloso said.

Aside from preserving Baguio City’s pine forest environment, the project is expected to support the city’s sustainable development initiatives, discourage illegal occupancy and encroachment, provide additional recreational spaces, enhance the long-term value of the property, and generate recurring income through carefully planned micro-retail components without compromising the site’s ecological character.

GSIS said it will continue working closely with the Baguio City Government and other stakeholders to ensure that the proposed Tree Park protects the city’s natural heritage while delivering long-term social, environmental, and economic benefits for future generations.