BY: JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR
The importance of zoning laws was the main topic of discussion during a recent community forum in Barangay Santo Tomas Proper.
For the past 20 years, Barangay Captain Alejandro Allen Agpes has witnessed significant changes in the area, including the rise of businesses and a growing population. “Land issues remain one of the biggest concerns in Baguio, and our barangay is no exception,” he said.
Residents expressed concerns about how these developments are affecting their quality of life, particularly regarding zoning regulations.
Baguio City Councilor Isabelo “Poppo” Cosalan Jr. addressed the issue during the forum. “Decisions on whether to allow high-rise buildings should be made through community consultation. The government is open to hearing what the people want,” he explained.
Zoning laws classify land use into three categories: residential, commercial, and forest reserve lands. These classifications determine what types of structures can be built in a specific area, including restrictions on condominium developments.
“Many residents worry about the rise of condominiums, as these require more water supply. We need to review existing laws to ensure they are still applicable today,” Cosalan added.
The discussion also emphasized that forest lands cannot be converted for residential or commercial use.
As part of the city’s efforts to address urban planning challenges, Baguio is currently drafting a new Comprehensive Land Use Plan (CLUP) to guide future development while maintaining a sustainable quality of life for residents.
