BAGUIO CITY – Authorities in Baguio are considering a plan to place utility and communication lines underground as part of efforts to improve safety, reduce visual clutter and modernize the city’s infrastructure.
Councilor Edison Bilog has proposed an ordinance that would establish an underground utility network, replacing overhead cables that have long contributed to tangled wires across the city skyline.
Under the proposal, electric, telecommunications and cable lines would gradually be relocated below ground. The measure seeks to enhance the city’s appearance while reducing risks posed by dangling wires and damaged utility poles, particularly during storms and accidents.
Bilog said the initiative would support Baguio’s long-term urban development goals and strengthen public safety standards. He noted that the project could also improve the reliability of utility services and make maintenance work more efficient.
The proposal envisions coordination among the city government, utility providers and other stakeholders to determine technical requirements and funding arrangements. Similar plans have been discussed in previous years, with studies showing that an underground system could help address recurring issues involving overhead wires and poles.
If approved, implementing rules and a phased rollout strategy would be formulated to guide the transition to the underground network, with priority areas expected to be identified by local authorities.
