RECOGNIZING the need for an environment-friendly source of energy, the City Government adopted solar lighting system in its premier park.

Just recently, the residents of Baguio witnessed for the first time the lighting of solar-powered lamps at the view deck of the Burnham Lake.

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The ceremonial lighting is a demonstration of the planned lighting of the entire park, which will be inaugurated in June this year.

Along with the demo lighting is the signing of a memorandum of understanding (MOU) between the City Government, the US government, Jaime V. Ongpin Foundation, Solar Power Inc., and Benguet State University.

Mayor Reinaldo Bautista Jr. said the city first sought the help of the Philippine Efficient Lighting Market Transformation Project (PELMTP) and asked them to showcase a possible project between the Philippine and American governments.

He then went through negotiations with other countries regarding the introduction of alternative energy sources like wind and sun, the US' solar energy source was chosen by the City Government.

"Since the park is designed by Architect Daniel Burnham we felt that the best way to introduce American technology as a gift to the Filipino people and particularly for Baguio City in its celebration of its 100 years," Bautista added.

The project is estimated to cost $50,000 (P2.5 million).

US Ambassador Kristie Kenney, meanwhile, said: "Our support here is technical. It's not always the money. Our project is bringing everyone together."

The demo lamps used in the launching are sponsored by Sun Power, a private solar manufacturing firm based in California. They will also be providing the lamps to light the lake's surroundings.

The lamps work by converting the sunlight into electricity by means of solar cells, which are stored in a battery for use later in the night. Two batteries last for three and a half hours, when fully charged.

Bautista said aside from the solar lamps to be displayed in Burnham Park, the City Government is also negotiating with three other countries.

First, with the Spanish government for a tramline which is planned to be two kilometers long. Second is with the Czech Republic for hydro energy generation and the Korean government for waste incinerators. (Interns Jonna Mae Cheri Balba, Margareth Ann Yabes, and Ace Rumbaoa)