Baguio City Warns Tourists Against Accommodation Scams Amid Panagbenga Festival
As the Panagbenga Festival 2025 draws thousands of tourists to Baguio City, local authorities have issued a strong warning against fraudulent accommodation bookings. With the surge in visitors, reports of scam rentals have increased, prompting officials to take action to protect both tourists and legitimate business owners.
Rising Cases of Fake Bookings
According to the Baguio City Tourism Office, numerous complaints have surfaced about travelers falling victim to bogus transient houses and fake online listings. Unsuspecting tourists have been duped into sending deposits for non-existent accommodations, only to find themselves stranded upon arrival.
City officials have identified common red flags in these scams, such as:
- Unbelievably low rental prices compared to market rates
- Listings with limited or stolen photos
- Lack of proper business permits or accreditation
- Social media pages with newly created accounts and few reviews
Government’s Action Against Fraud
To counter these fraudulent activities, Mayor Benjamin Magalong has ordered stricter monitoring of rental properties and transient accommodations. The Public Order and Safety Division (POSD), in coordination with the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO), is actively tracking down illegal operators and shutting down suspicious online listings.
The city government is also encouraging tourists to use the Baguio VISITA (Visitor Information and Travel Assistance) system, which lists accredited hotels, transient homes, and homestays to ensure safe and verified bookings.
How to Avoid Accommodation Scams
Authorities advise tourists to follow these safety measures when booking accommodations:
- Check accreditation – Only book through Baguio City’s official tourism website or accredited platforms.
- Verify listings – Cross-check property details, contact numbers, and business permits.
- Beware of unrealistic prices – If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
- Use secure payment methods – Avoid direct bank transfers to personal accounts; opt for verified payment gateways.
- Read reviews and testimonials – Look for consistent and genuine feedback from previous guests.
Tourists Urged to Report Scams
Victims of fraudulent bookings are encouraged to report incidents to the Baguio City Tourism Office or Baguio City Police through the following channels:
- Baguio City Tourism Office: Official Website
- Baguio City Police Hotline: +63 74 442 1211
- Baguio VISITA Helpdesk: visita.baguio.gov.ph
Final Thoughts
As the Panagbenga Festival 2025 continues to showcase the beauty and culture of Baguio City, ensuring the safety and comfort of tourists remains a top priority. Visitors are strongly advised to remain vigilant and book only through legitimate platforms to avoid falling prey to scams. By staying informed and cautious, tourists can fully enjoy the Grand Float Parade, street performances, and Baguio’s cool mountain ambiance without any hassle.