The Americans planned Baguio with Washington, DC as its inspiration. Session Road no doubt then was planned after Pennsylvania Avenue NW. Baguio holds the honor (perhaps) as being the first place the Japanese bombed in December 1941, with Camp John Hay as the target, followed by a Japanese regiment occupying the city. The prime buildings on Session Road were occupied by the Japanese, and General Yamashita held court at his headquarters. Finally in April 1945 the American Army advanced from Bauang to liberate Baguio.
The Cathedral on Kampo Hill (later known as Mount Mary) was completed in 1936 by Belgian missionaries. It is no accident that it was built on the highest point of Baguio proper. It was used as a wartime shelter and evacuation center during the bombing. Many built temporary housing around the cathedral, spilling the population over to Session Road.
Photo: pacificwrecks.com
Baguio Cathedral (Our Lady of the Atonement) in Baguio
US Army vehicles displaying Japanese flags meet civilians
Credit: Carl R. Thien Date: April 27, 1945
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