Baguio: A UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts

Baguio – a UNESCO Creative City

When discussing cultural and artistic hubs, Baguio City stands out as a beacon of creativity and heritage in the Philippines. Elevated at approximately 1,540 metres above sea level, this city is known for its cool climate, vibrant art scene, and rich traditions. In 2017, Baguio was designated a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts, a testament to its unique identity and enduring craftsmanship.

This recognition positions Baguio among a global network of cities dedicated to fostering creativity as a driver for sustainable urban development. But what exactly is a UNESCO Creative City, and how does Baguio fit the bill?

What Is a UNESCO Creative City?

UNESCO Creative Cities are part of a global initiative aimed at promoting cooperation among cities that identify creativity as a strategic factor for sustainable development. The network spans seven creative fields: Crafts and Folk Art, Design, Film, Gastronomy, Literature, Media Arts, and Music. Cities that earn this title commit to sharing best practices, fostering innovation, and enhancing cultural heritage.

For Baguio, the recognition highlights its vibrant crafts and folk arts scene, deeply rooted in Cordilleran culture. By becoming a part of this network, Baguio connects with other cities around the world to exchange ideas and promote its local traditions on a global stage.

Examples of Other UNESCO Creative Cities

Baguio is in esteemed company, with cities like Jaipur, India (Crafts and Folk Arts); Paducah, USA (Crafts and Folk Arts); Berlin, Germany (Design); Parma, Italy (Gastronomy); and Sydney, Australia (Film) also recognised for their creative efforts. These cities, like Baguio, showcase how local culture can have universal significance.

A Glimpse into Baguio’s Creative Soul

Baguio’s designation as a Creative City is reflected in its vibrant spaces, artisans, and traditions. Here are some of the places that embody its spirit.

BenCab Museum

Founded by National Artist Benedicto Cabrera, BenCab Museum is a cornerstone of Baguio’s art scene. Nestled in the hills of Tuba, Benguet, a short drive from the city, the museum houses a significant collection of contemporary art, as well as traditional Cordilleran artefacts.

The museum’s various galleries display works by BenCab and other Philippine artists. Particularly noteworthy is the Cordillera Gallery, which showcases indigenous art, tools, and textiles. The museum is also home to an eco-trail and garden, adding an interactive dimension to the visit.

BenCab Museum underscores Baguio’s role as a custodian of both modern and traditional art, making it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city’s creative side.

BenCab Museum, Km 6 Asin Road, Tadiangan.
Tuesdays to Sundays 9:00am to 6:00pm (last entry at 5:30pm)
Public transport: Jeep to Asin from jeepney terminal near Baguio market.

 Image – BenCab Museum

Oh My Gulay and Ili-likha Artist’s Village

Baguio is a sanctuary for artists, and Oh My Gulay and Ili-likha Artist’s Village are two venues that perfectly capture this ethos.

Oh My Gulay, located along Session Road, is not just a vegetarian café but a creative space. The establishment is the brainchild of filmmaker and artist Kidlat Tahimik, widely regarded as the father of independent Philippine cinema. Upon entering, visitors are greeted by quirky sculptures, vibrant colours, and eclectic décor that transform a simple meal into an artistic experience.

Oh My Gulay Artist Cafe, La Azotea Building, 108 Session Road, Baguio City.
Opens daily 11:00 am to 9:00 pm

Image – Oh My Gulay

Ili-likha Artist’s Village

Meanwhile, Ili-likha Artist’s Village, also founded by Kidlat Tahimik, is an artist’s haven built around sustainability. Opened in 2014 its design incorporates recycled materials, and its layered, labyrinth-like architecture offers a visual treat. The space serves as a hub for local artists, featuring stalls that sell handcrafted goods and traditional delicacies.

Ili-likha – ili is a Kankanaey word meaning “Village” and likha is a Tagalog word meaning ‘create”

Ili-likha Artist’s Village, Assumption Road, Baguio. (350 metres from Baguio Cathedral)
Open daily from 10am to 6pm

Both spaces are excellent examples of how Baguio blends art, sustainability, and community.

Image –  Ili-likha Artist’s Wateringhole

Easter Weaving Room

The Easter Weaving Room, one of the oldest weaving centres in Baguio, is a living testament to the city’s dedication to preserving traditional crafts. Founded in 1909, this establishment specialises in handwoven textiles that highlight the intricate designs and techniques of the Cordillera region.

Visitors can watch weavers in action as they work on traditional looms, creating everything from colourful fabrics to home décor. This immersive experience not only allows you to appreciate the skill involved but also provides an opportunity to purchase authentic Cordilleran crafts.

The Easter Weaving Room plays a crucial role in sustaining local craftsmanship and supporting indigenous communities, such as the Igorot, Ifugao, Kankaney, and Paracelis, aligning perfectly with Baguio’s UNESCO designation.

Easter Weaving – 2 Easter Road, Baguio
Open Monday to Saturday 8am to 5 pm

Image – Easter Weaving

Session Road and Perfecto – Carantes Street

Session Road, the city’s main thoroughfare, is more than just a commercial hub—it’s a reflection of Baguio’s dynamic culture. Lined with restaurants, cafes, and shops, it’s a place where modernity meets tradition. Many establishments here showcase local art, from mural-clad walls to curated craft stores selling handmade goods.

Closed every Sunday to traffic. Street Artists and Performers rule making it perfect for everyone including families with children to safely wander along and enjoy the lively atmosphere.

Not far from Session Road lies Perfecto-Carantes Street, a rising hotspot for creative expression. This street is becoming a canvas for local artists, with murals and installations that highlight themes ranging from environmental awareness to cultural pride. Walking these streets, one gets a sense of the creative energy that flows through the city.

Image – Linda Alisto

Tam-awan Village

For a deeper dive into Cordilleran culture, Tam-awan Village is an essential stop. Designed as a model of a traditional Cordilleran village, this artist’s haven offers a glimpse into indigenous life through its reconstructed huts, art exhibitions, and workshops.

Tam-awan also serves as a gathering place for artists, hosting events and residencies that aim to foster cultural exchange. Visitors can participate in activities like sketching sessions, traditional storytelling, and even planting rice, making it an educational and immersive experience.

Tam-awan is a local word meaning “Vantage Point”.

The village is a reminder of Baguio’s commitment to preserving and sharing its indigenous heritage, further solidifying its status as a UNESCO Creative City.

Tam-awan Village – 366 C Pinsao Proper, Baguio
Open daily from 8am to 6pm

 The Ifugao Woodcarvers Village

Just outside the city center, the Ifugao Woodcarvers Village is a great place to observe the intricate wood carvings that the region is famous for. You can watch local artisans carve everything from small figurines to large sculptures, and even purchase handcrafted wooden items as souvenirs.

Ifugao woodcarvers are acknowledged to be the best among Cordillera tribes. During the 1960s, a lot of them settled in this village along Asin Road. Here you can find giant statues of Igorot tribesmen, saluting Indians and the infamous ‘man with a barrel’  

The Ifugao Woodcarvers Village – Asin Road, Baguio

Image – Wanderlog

The Broader Impact of UNESCO Recognition

Being recognised as a UNESCO Creative City has far-reaching implications for Baguio. It raises the city’s global profile, attracting not only tourists but also investors and collaborators interested in its creative industries.

On a local level, the designation has inspired initiatives aimed at safeguarding traditional crafts and supporting the livelihoods of artisans.
Moreover, this recognition challenges the city to balance development with the preservation of its cultural and natural resources. As Baguio continues to grow, its identity as a Creative City serves as a guiding principle for sustainable urban planning.

To Wrap Up

Baguio’s status as a UNESCO Creative City for Crafts and Folk Arts is more than just a title—it’s a reflection of its rich cultural identity and commitment to creativity. From iconic spaces like Oh My Gulay and the BenCab Museum to the living traditions at the Easter Weaving Room and Tam-awan Village, the city offers a multifaceted experience that resonates with both locals and visitors.

As part of the global Creative Cities Network, Baguio demonstrates how local heritage can have international relevance. By blending traditional crafts with contemporary innovation, it stands as a vibrant example of how art and culture can shape a city’s future.

Whether you’re exploring the artistic spaces of Ili-likha or marvelling at the craftsmanship in Easter Weaving Room, Baguio invites you to immerse yourself in a community where creativity thrives at every turn. And that’s what makes it truly extraordinary.

Image – Linda Alisto

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