Riding up the Summer Capital

Jonathan Loy “Jay” Estira, a high teller counter of the Bank of the Philippine Islands at the General Luna, Baguio branch has always loved to bike – from the first time he rented a bike in Burnham Park, until he progressed to three wheelers, bicycle motocross (BMX), mountain bikes—and nowadays, road bikes.

“For my family, activities like biking were considered a luxury. So what I did was work as a part time staff in Burnham Park, and negotiated to borrow a bike and ride it for two to three hours around the city as my pay,” Jay shares. “It’s so satisfying and empowering to use your own energy to propel yourself to new scenic places and uncharted trails.”

Saddle up and join Jay, who is also a member of WeAreAyala Business Club (WAABC) Baguio, as he takes us through his pre-biking routine, his favorite stops, and routes around Baguio.

Jay shares how he gets ready before he hops on his bike:

1. I load up on carbs, protein, and water.
2. I double check my bike condition—assessing the tires and brakes, and cleaning them.
3. Pack up my must-haves: glasses, sunscreen, money, water bottle, and energy drinks.
4. My bike freak groupmates and I discuss the route, stopovers, flight time, and meet-up points to ensure a safe and fun ride.

Jay’s recommended stops around the Summer Capital of the Philippines:

1. Arteos Café. A favorite resting spot among biking and running enthusiasts, this café along Ambuclao Road offers not just excellent cordillera blends but also excellent views of Mt. Pulag and Mt. Ulap.
2. Lolo Cancio’s. Located further up Ambuclao Road, this resting spot offers Filipino comfort food and locally made ice cream as well as a stunning view of Ambuklao Dam.
3. Tan-aw sa Alang Coffee Shop. This small and cozy nook in Begis, Tuba, Benguet offers freshly brewed coffee paired with a slice of homemade banana or raisin bread. It also showcases a panoramic view of the Cordillera mountain range.

Explore the north by following these trails:

1. Start from Baguio, ride to Atok’s highest point at a 7,400 feet elevation above sea level, then head back to Baguio.
2. Start from Baguio, ride to Ambuklao dam, then head back to Baguio.
3. Start from Baguio, ride to Kennon Road, Marcos Highway, then head back to Baguio.

“My favorite routes are not considered hidden but by their level of difficulty, expansiveness, and the effort they require, they make the ride truly memorable. Topped off with changing sceneries and weather conditions like glistening mountain ranges, green lakes, and temperatures dropping between 7 to 8 degree Celsius—you’re definitely in for an unforgettable natural high.”

Watch out for WeAreAyala Business Club (WAABC) Baguio activities coming soon!