Written by Dr. Michelle Ranges
In collaboration with Dr. Stacy Haynie Ayson
Photographs courtesy of BAEL Interns
The University of Baguio’s BA English Language (BAEL) program has built a strong and enduring partnership with Baguio City Hall, working hand in hand with the City Legal Office, the City Tourism and Special Events Office, and the Public Information Office. Established in 2010, this collaboration has grown from a simple practicum initiative into a dynamic engagement, enabling BAEL students to immerse themselves in governance, communication, and cultural work while contributing to the city’s mission of public service.
From teamwork to task work—BAEL interns showing unity in the field and focus at the desk, turning learning into action.
Partnerships for the Goals are strengthened by uniting academic institutions and government offices in pursuit of shared impact. It supports SDG 4: Quality Education by transforming classroom learning into practical training, and it advances SDG 8: Decent Work and Economic Growth by preparing students for professional life, cultivating adaptability, competence, and civic responsibility. It also contributes to SDG 17: Partnerships for the Goals by demonstrating how academic institutions and local government units can facilitate further learning and academic enrichment outside of campus.
Over the years, BAEL interns have become integral to City Hall’s day-to-day operations. At the City Legal Office, they have assisted in drafting and proofreading documents, encoding mayor’s resolutions, preparing case files, and transcribing meetings. These tasks honed their attention to detail and gave them a first-hand view of the city’s legal and governance processes.
From parades and cosplay to street art and cultural fairs—BAEL interns at City Hall assist in bringing Baguio’s vibrant community events to life.
At the City Tourism and Special Events Office, interns have supported the execution of community programs and cultural events, written promotional content, and served as marshals during major city activities. By participating in public gatherings and celebrations, they witnessed how cultural identity and tourism initiatives strengthen community pride and civic life.
Meanwhile, at the Public Information Office, students have been immersed in the fast-paced world of media and public communication. They covered major events such as Baguio Day celebrations, the Bonsai competition, Family Month video series, Mr. Baguio pageant, Elderly Filipino Month programs, and Korean Friendship Week. They produced articles, captions, and photo stories, learning the discipline of journalistic writing and the resilience required in live event coverage—even under challenging conditions like rain or tight deadlines. Through their work, they amplified the city’s stories, helping connect government programs to the public.
The impact of this collaboration is visible on both sides. Supervisors consistently commend UB interns for their strong work ethic, adaptability, and meaningful contributions to their assigned offices. Students, in turn, affirm that the experience equips them with clarity in career direction, confidence in professional settings, and an appreciation for teamwork and public service. For City Hall, the presence of interns has added vital support during peak periods, enriched cultural and tourism projects, and strengthened communication with the public.
Fourteen years since it began, the UB–City Hall partnership continues to thrive. More than just a practicum program, it has become a shared journey of education and service—one that shapes globally competitive graduates while enriching the city’s capacity to serve its people. Truly, in BAEL we excel—with Baguio City Hall, we serve and prevail.
