BAGUIO, Philippines – City officials summoned the boat concessionaires in Burnham Lake to a meeting following the sudden hike in boat rental fees – from 250 to 450.

In response, the city LGU issued an order to all concessionaires to charge only ₱250 per boat for a 30-minute ride.

“Burnham Park boat concessionaires are authorized to charge only the existing rate of ₱250 per boat for a 30-minute ride, regardless of boat size,” according to Baguio City PIO

According to the City Environment and Parks Management Office (CEPMO), any rate increase must undergo the approval of the city council.

“Diwas reminded the concessionaires that no rate increase has yet been authorized, as this still requires approval of the city council,” according to Baguio City PIO

The CEPMO explains that there is an earlier agreement allowing the potential rental adjustments, but that depends on the upgrade and is still necessary to undergo city council’s approval.

“There was an earlier agreement for rental fee adjustment, but this is on condition that they will comply with the boat upgrading requirement and secure the city council’s approval,” according to Baguio City PIO

Out of the nine boat concessionaires, only two have complied with the boat upgrading requirement.