How the Kennon Road Temporary Closure Impacts Your Baguio Getaway

If you’re planning a trip to Baguio City in early 2025, prepare for potential travel disruptions as Kennon Road, one of the main access routes to the Summer Capital of the Philippines, has been temporarily closed. The closure, which began on 1 Jan 2025, is due to ongoing efforts to clear debris from a fire that occurred near Camp 6 in Tuba, Benguet, during the early hours of the new year.

What we know about the Kennon Road temporary closure

Kennon Road, a scenic and historic thoroughfare, connects Baguio City and Benguet Province to the lowlands of the Cordillera Administrative Region (CAR). Its closure poses a significant challenge for motorists, tourists, and residents relying on this vital route. Travelers are advised to consider alternate routes such as Marcos Highway or Naguilian Road, though these may result in longer travel times.

The announcement of the closure was made through an advisory signed by Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong, who also serves as chairperson of the Metropolitan Baguio City, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, and Tublay (MBLISTT) Development Authority. According to the advisory, the decision was made to expedite the safe removal of debris left by the fire.

“Kennon Road will be temporarily closed to all motorists effective 1 January 2025. This is to expedite the clearing of debris resulting from the fire in Camp 6, Tuba, Benguet, in the early hours of 2025,” the advisory stated. The directive will remain in effect until it is annulled, revoked, or superseded by subsequent MBLISTT Council issuances.

This closure marks a shift in the management of Kennon Road. With the deactivation of the Joint Inter-Agency Task Force (JIATF) Kennch, oversight has been transferred to the MBLISTT Council, which now serves as the governing body for this critical infrastructure.

The fire at Camp 6, located in Sitio Camp 6, Camp 4, Tuba, was promptly responded to by city officers, including the Baguio City Fire Station. While no details about the extent of the damage have been released, the need for thorough debris clearing underscores the importance of safety along this route.

Also read: Baguio City Congestion Fee Currently in the Works

For now, travelers heading to Baguio are urged to plan their journeys carefully and stay updated on the latest traffic and road condition advisories. The temporary inconvenience may add some extra time to your trip, but with proper planning, you can still enjoy the sights and cool climate of Baguio City.

Featured image credit: PNC via Canva Pro