Baguio city: The city government is planning to reopen Burnham Lake in August as repair and rehabilitation efforts are nearing completion. Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced on Tuesday that the project is approximately 90 percent finished, and the reopening will coincide with the introduction of new boats that adhere to updated safety standards.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mayor Magalong emphasized that existing boats that do not meet safety standards must be replaced. "We will not allow them to return if they just repaint their boats. We want new ones, safer ones, and with new designs to match the lake's new features," he stated in an interview. He warned that operators who fail to comply with the city's safety requirements could lose their permits to operate. Only boats that are safe, modern, and compliant will be permitted to operate in Burnham Lake.

Burnham Lake has been closed since October 2025 for repairs. The project was initially scheduled for completion in May but faced delays due to a fuel crisis that increased construction material costs and prolonged rains that slowed the work. The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority has allocated PHP500 million for the rehabilitation of Burnham Park, starting with Burnham Lake and the athletic bowl. Future phases of the project include the development and upgrading of the Children's Park, Rose Garden, skating rink, and surrounding areas.