Melo Villareal
Old Diplomat Hotel: Heritage Hill and Nature Park Garden in Baguio City
The Diplomat Hotel, located atop Dominican Hill in Baguio City, Philippines, is a historic building with a rich and tragic history. Originally built as a rest house and seminary in 1911, it was later converted into a school and eventually a hotel. Despite its picturesque location, the hotel has been abandoned for decades and is known as one of the most haunted places not only in Baguio City but throughout the Philippines.
The Diplomat Hotel by patrickroque01 via Wikimedia cc
The hotel’s tragic history is rooted in its use as a military base during World War II. In 1945, Japanese soldiers used the hotel as a concentration camp where they tortured and killed prisoners of war.
After the war, the hotel was restored and used as a seminary, then as a hotel, until it was abandoned in the 1980s. Since then, it has become a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers, with many claiming to have witnessed paranormal activity on the premises.
Despite its eerie reputation, the Diplomat Hotel remains a popular tourist destination in Baguio City. The local government has initiated rehabilitation efforts, which began in April 2022, with a 15 million Philippine pesos grant. The rehabilitation aims to preserve the hotel’s historical significance and restore it to its former glory.
History of Diplomat Hotel
The Diplomat Hotel was originally built in 1913 as a vacation house for Dominican friars. It was later converted into a seminary, and then a school, before it was finally developed into a hotel in 1973.
Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park
The Diplomat Hotel is situated in the Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park, which was once a part of Baguio’s Dominican Hill Retreat House. The retreat house was established by the Dominican friars in 1911 and served as a place for rest and contemplation.
World War II and Kempeitai
During World War II, the Japanese forces occupied the Philippines, and they used the Diplomat Hotel as a garrison and headquarters for the Kempeitai, the Japanese military police. The hotel was heavily bombed by the Americans during the war, and it was left in ruins.
Liberation of the Philippines
After the liberation of the Philippines in 1945, the Dominicans rebuilt and renovated the Diplomat Hotel. It was then used as a school and a seminary before it was developed into a hotel in 1973.
Diplomat Hotels, Inc and Tony Agpaoa
In 1973, Diplomat Hotels, Inc. acquired the property and developed it into a hotel. The hotel was owned by Antonio Agapito “Tony” Agpaoa, a prominent businessman and politician in the Philippines. The hotel was known for its luxurious accommodations and stunning views of Baguio City.
In 1987, Tony Agpaoa was assassinated, and the hotel was closed down. Since then, the Diplomat Hotel has been abandoned and has become a popular destination for ghost hunters and thrill-seekers.
Despite its tragic history, the Diplomat Hotel remains an important landmark in Baguio City. Its stunning architecture and rich history continue to attract visitors from all over the world.
Architecture and Features
Hotel Design
Diplomat Hotel was designed by Fr. Roque Ruaño, O.P., in 1911. The hotel’s architecture blends Spanish Colonial and Neo-Gothic styles, and it served as a rest house and seminary before being converted into a school and, eventually, a hotel. The building’s unique design and historical significance make it a popular tourist destination.
Rooftop Views
One of the most notable features of Diplomat Hotel is its stunning rooftop views. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains from the hotel’s rooftop terrace. The terrace is also a popular spot for taking photos and watching the sunset.
Fountain
Another notable feature of Diplomat Hotel is its beautiful fountain. The fountain in the hotel’s courtyard is a popular spot for taking photos and enjoying the peaceful surroundings. The fountain adds to the hotel’s charm and historical significance.
Parking
Diplomat Hotel offers ample parking for guests, making it a convenient option for those traveling by car. The hotel’s parking lot is on the grounds and easily accessible from the main entrance.
Supernatural Claims
The Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City has long been associated with supernatural claims. Many visitors have reported eerie experiences and ghost sightings in the hotel. This section will explore some of the most commonly reported supernatural claims.
Haunted Stories
The Diplomat Hotel is said to be one of the most haunted places in the Philippines. Many guests have reported hearing strange noises and experiencing unexplained occurrences. Some have even claimed to have seen apparitions of nuns and priests wandering the hotel halls. The hotel’s haunted stories are a popular topic among paranormal enthusiasts.
Headless Apparitions
One of the most famous stories associated with the Diplomat Hotel is that of the headless apparitions. According to legend, during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines, several nuns and priests were beheaded by Japanese soldiers on the hotel grounds. Many visitors have reported seeing headless apparitions wandering the hotel halls.
Psychic Surgeon
One of the most interesting claims associated with the Diplomat Hotel is that of the psychic surgeon. According to some reports, a psychic surgeon once performed healing sessions in one of the hotel’s rooms. The psychic surgeon is said to have performed surgeries with his hands, without the use of any medical instruments. While there is no concrete evidence to support this claim, it remains a popular topic among those interested in the supernatural.
Diplomat Hotel Today
Tourism
The Diplomat Hotel, located atop Dominican Hill in the City of Pines, Baguio, Philippines, is a popular tourist attraction. The abandoned structure has gained notoriety for its supposed haunted reputation, attracting thrill-seekers and paranormal enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the ruins and take in the scenic views of the city from the hilltop location.
Restoration and Preservation
In April 2022, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines granted 15 million Philippine pesos for the rehabilitation of the Diplomat Hotel. The local government has initiated efforts to restore and preserve the historic site, with the goal of transforming it into a cultural hub. The restoration process aims to maintain the building’s original architecture and features while adding modern amenities to attract visitors.
Frequently Asked Questions About Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City
1. What is the Diplomat Hotel in Baguio City?
The Diplomat Hotel is a historic landmark located on Dominican Hill in Baguio City. Officially known today as the Baguio City Heritage Hill and Nature Park, the abandoned structure is one of the city’s most recognizable heritage sites. It was originally built as a retreat house for Dominican priests and nuns and later became a hotel in the 1970s.
2. Where is the Diplomat Hotel located?
The Diplomat Hotel is located along Diplomat Road on Dominican Hill in Baguio City, Benguet. It sits on elevated ground, offering views of parts of Baguio City and the surrounding mountains.
3. Why is the Diplomat Hotel famous?
The landmark is famous for its fascinating history, distinctive architecture, panoramic views, and numerous ghost stories. Its World War II history, subsequent abandonment, and eerie appearance have made it particularly popular among visitors interested in history and dark tourism.
4. Is the Diplomat Hotel really haunted?
The Diplomat Hotel is widely considered one of the most haunted places in the Philippines due to stories linked to its World War II history. Visitors and paranormal enthusiasts have reported seeing apparitions and experiencing unexplained sounds and sensations. These are local accounts and paranormal claims, not scientifically established facts.
5. When was the Diplomat Hotel built?
Construction of the original building began in 1913 and was completed in 1915. At that time, it was known as the Dominican Hill and Retreat House rather than the Diplomat Hotel.
6. What was the Diplomat Hotel before it became a hotel?
Before becoming a hotel, the building served as a retreat house for members of the Dominican Order. It was briefly used as a school and later became a refuge center during World War II. The Japanese military eventually occupied the property during the war.
7. When did it become the Diplomat Hotel?
The property was acquired by Diplomat Hotels, Inc. in the 1970s and remodeled into a 33-room hotel. It operated under the management of Antonio Agapito “Tony” Agpaoa, a Baguio businessman and faith healer. The hotel eventually ceased operations after his death in 1987.
8. Can tourists still go inside the Diplomat Hotel?
Access to the interior has been restricted, and recent visitor reports indicate that tourists can no longer freely explore the abandoned building. Rehabilitation work and concerns about the structure’s condition have affected access. Visitors should follow current rules and posted restrictions rather than attempting to enter closed areas.
9. Is there an entrance fee to the Diplomat Hotel?
Entrance fees and visitor policies have changed over time. Some recent travel guides have listed fees of around PHP 10 for adults and PHP 5 for children, while older visitor reports mention free admission. Because the property is undergoing rehabilitation and access rules may change, it is best to verify the current fee before visiting.
10. What are the opening hours of the Diplomat Hotel?
Published visitor information commonly lists daytime hours, often around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM. However, current listings and visitor reports are inconsistent, particularly because the property is undergoing rehabilitation and access to the building has changed. Check the latest local information before planning your visit.
11. How do you get to Diplomat Hotel from Baguio City proper?
The easiest option is usually to take a taxi and tell the driver you are going to the Diplomat Hotel or Dominican Hill. Public transportation is also available in the Dominican Hill area, although a taxi or private vehicle is generally more convenient for first-time visitors.
12. Is Diplomat Hotel worth visiting?
Yes, especially if you are interested in Baguio’s history, heritage architecture, photography, or the city’s more unusual attractions. Even with restrictions on entering the old structure, the surrounding Dominican Hill area and its historical significance make it an interesting stop on a Baguio itinerary.
13. What can you do at Diplomat Hotel?
Depending on current access restrictions, visitors can admire the historic exterior, take photographs from permitted areas, learn about the property’s history, enjoy the elevated views, and explore the surrounding heritage park. The property has also been used for cultural, artistic, and tourism-related activities.
14. Can I take photos at Diplomat Hotel?
Photography has traditionally been one of the main reasons visitors come to the site. However, visitors should remain within designated areas and respect restrictions around the historic structure, particularly while rehabilitation and preservation work is ongoing.
15. Is Diplomat Hotel suitable for children?
Families can visit the surrounding heritage area, but parents should be mindful that the property has a dark World War II history and that the old structure may have restricted or unsafe areas. Children should not be allowed to enter cordoned-off sections or climb on deteriorated structures.
16. What is the best time to visit Diplomat Hotel?
A daytime visit is generally preferable, particularly because the site’s history and architecture are easier to appreciate in natural light. Visiting earlier in the day can also provide better conditions for photography and sightseeing.
17. Is Diplomat Hotel still a functioning hotel?
No. The Diplomat Hotel is no longer operating as an accommodation property. The abandoned building is now part of the Baguio City Heritage Hill and Nature Park, also referred to as Dominican Heritage Hill and Nature Park.
18. Is Diplomat Hotel a historical site?
Yes. The property has been recognized as an important historical and heritage site. The city government declared it a historical site in 2013, and it received National Historical Site status from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2014.
19. Why does the Diplomat Hotel have a large cross?
One of the building’s most recognizable features is the large cross positioned on the upper portion of the structure. It reflects the property’s Dominican religious origins and has become one of the landmark’s most photographed features.
20. Should I include Diplomat Hotel in my Baguio itinerary?
If you enjoy heritage sites and unusual attractions, Diplomat Hotel is worth considering. Its combination of religious history, World War II stories, abandoned architecture, panoramic scenery, and folklore gives it a very different character from Baguio’s more conventional tourist attractions.
Baguio City Travel and Tour Packages
To help you plan your visit to Baguio, we have listed places and other unique activities in Baguio City. We also listed some of the best travel deals, tour packages, excellent flights, and accommodations.
Searching for the best hotels, resorts, and affordable flights in the nearby Cities? Check out our list of cheap Baguio City hotels and resorts via Agoda, or you may also see available Airbnb properties in the city.
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Also read:
- Got Nothing to Do? Try Ghost Hunting in Baguio City!
- The Top 10 Haunted Places in the World
- True Travel Tales: Haunted Hawaii
- Top 12 Best Things To Do in Dominican Republic
- Binondo Church: Minor Basilica of San Lorenzo Ruiz
