Almost three decades ago, Northern Luzon was hit by a devastating 7.7 magnitude earthquake that left Baguio City in ruins. It took time, but the city recovered with the unanimous help of government, non-government organizations, and individuals alike from areas around the city. From this joint action came the idea of the BLISTTDA project.
Simply put, BLISTTDA stands for a joint urban development project between Baguio, La Trinidad, Itogon, Sablan, Tuba, and Tublay Development Authority. It aims to form a sustainable regional development system that would create more job and investment opportunities, distribute resources, and provide a better quality of life and education to the communities it shelters.
Photo by David Leaño/Flickr
One key point of this project is to further develop Tublay and Itogon’s formidable eco-tourism industries. This would open up hidden gems like gorgeous falls, premiere hiking spots, and enchanting caves to the public and to more economic opportunities for the communities. Meanwhile, Tuba and Sablan are being eyed as potential university towns given their proximity to Baguio.
The spur of business opportunities in the area also makes it conducive to provide for the student’s necessities. La Trinidad, on the other hand, is already getting a head start as the agro-industrial center and vegetable trading center of the area. And last but not least, the project would help decongest Baguio City and help alleviate its problems with overcrowding, traffic, and overdevelopment.
In addition to all that, the BLISTTDA project would also allow the region to tackle problems and challenges such as waste management, disaster-risk-prevention, environmental conservation, and health concerns as one. It also can strengthen regional economic capacities by optimally utilizing each community’s characteristics and resources.
Photo by Rolly Magpayo/Flickr
Despite starting almost three decades ago, the BLISTTDA project has met several oppositions that didn’t allow it to come into fruition. Several of the concerns include the balanced distribution of development and resources and the assurance that it isn’t simply a Baguio-centric project.
Now, BLISTTDA is on its third try for passing and past concerns are being addressed. According to recent reports, the project is getting closer to being implemented now more than ever. Hopefully, if the project pushes through, it can prove that it was worth the wait.