With the vibrant Baguio Flower Festival, Panagbenga, just around the corner, tourism authorities in the Cordillera region are issuing a crucial warning to all visitors. They are strongly advising tourists to book their stays exclusively with accredited establishments to avoid falling victim to accommodation scams.
Official Advisory to Secure Your Stay
Department of Tourism Cordillera Director Jovita Ganongan emphasized the importance of due diligence in a phone interview on Monday, January 20, 2026. She directed the public to the official DOT website to verify the accreditation status of any hotel, restaurant, destination, or tour service they plan to use.
"They can check on the Department of Tourism’s website if they are accredited by the DOT," Ganongan stated. She explained that accreditation signifies the business has met the department's prescribed service standards and holds all necessary permits from the local government, legitimizing their operation.
Ganongan assured that legitimate operators would not engage in fraudulent activities designed to deceive tourists. The common scam involves travelers paying a deposit or the full accommodation fee in advance, only to discover upon arrival in Baguio that their booking does not exist, leaving them stranded and out of pocket.
Applying Common Sense and Official Resources
Echoing the warning, Baguio City Mayor Benjamin Magalong advised the public to apply common sense when evaluating offers. "Kailangan ng common sense. Kung napaka imposible ng ino-offer posibleng scam yan (They need to apply their common sense and if the offer is impossible, then it could be a scam)," the mayor cautioned.
He highlighted the grim reality for victims, noting that it is rare for them to recover their lost money once a scam has been executed. To provide a safe and reliable alternative, Mayor Magalong recommended using the official Baguio Visita website for legitimate accommodation referrals and bookings.
How to Ensure a Safe Panagbenga Experience
To fully enjoy the spectacle of Panagbenga without hassle, officials recommend a simple checklist:
- Verify before you pay: Always cross-check your chosen hotel or service on the DOT's official online accreditation list.
- Use trusted portals: Book through the Baguio Visita platform or the establishment's verified official website or front desk.
- Be skeptical of deals that seem too good to be true: Extremely low prices or pressure to pay via unconventional methods are major red flags.
- Secure proper documentation: Ensure you receive a formal booking confirmation with contact details from the accredited establishment.
As Baguio prepares to welcome thousands for its iconic flower festival, this advisory serves as a vital reminder for travelers to prioritize their safety and security by planning wisely and booking only with recognized and accredited partners.
