House approves Kennon as heritage zone
THE HOUSE of Representatives has approved on third and final reading House Bill 7502 authored by Rep. Mark Go declaring Kennon Road (Baguio City and Tuba Benguet) as National Heritage Zone and appropriating funds for its restoration, rehabilitation, conservation and development.
Kennon Road, built in 1903, is one of the three major access roads leading up to Baguio City and Benguet.
“Aside from being the shortest way going up to Baguio, it is also considered as the most scenic and the oldest mountain highway. This road was built during the American regime with the hard work of both local and foreign laborers,” Go explained.
The measure mandates the Department of Tourism (DOT), in partnership with the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), and the Department of Public works and Highways (DPWH) to coordinate with the City Government of Baguio and the Municipality Government of Tuba to prepare the necessary plans for its restoration, rehabilitation, conservation and development.
“Kennon Road played a significant role to the progress and growth of Baguio City and the Province of Benguet making it part of our nation’s historical and cultural heritage. It deserves to be recognized and preserved as a cultural heritage of the Cordillera,” Go added.
The bill will now be transmitted to the Senate for its consideration and approval.