Overview: A Cold Christmas to Remember in Benguet
La Trinidad, Benguet, recorded a Christmas-season low of 12.1°C early Sunday, December 28, 2025, marking the coldest temperature of the year so far in this highland province. The reading surpasses the previous season low of 12.4°C set on December 4 in the same locality. The unusual chill adds another layer of drama to a year that has seen shifting weather patterns across the country, and it arrives just as many residents prepare for Christmas celebrations and the New Year.
Why Benguet Gets So Cold
Benguet’s elevation at the Cordillera Central makes it one of the cooler places in the Philippines. At around 1,100 to 2,000 meters above sea level in towns like La Trinidad, the air is thinner and temperatures naturally dip during the dry season and at night. Local meteorologists attribute the recent 12.1°C reading to a combination of high pressure systems, clear skies, and light winds that allow ground heat to escape after sunset. While this is a seasonal low for Benguet, it’s also a reminder of how geography shapes climate in highland communities that rely on a temperate climate for farming and tourism.
Impact on Residents and Daily Life
Low temperatures have immediate effects on daily routines. In Benguet, where vegetable farming, cut flower production, and agritourism are integral to the local economy, farmers monitor frosty mornings closely. Cold snaps can influence crop quality, irrigation needs, and harvest timing. Many households prepare for chilly mornings with warmer clothing, layered blankets, and efficient heating when possible. Community centers and schools may adjust schedules or provide advisories during especially cold periods. For tourists and local visitors, the cooler air adds a distinctive charm to the Christmas ambiance, encouraging scenic drives and early-morning market visits.
Historical Context: A Trend or an Anomaly?
Extreme cold events in Benguet are not unprecedented, but each low is a reminder of variable climate. The current season’s 12.1°C reading compares with historical lows that have occasionally dipped below this threshold, albeit rarely during December. Meteorologists stress the importance of long-term climate data to understand whether such chills are part of a broader pattern or short-term fluctuation. The Philippines’ climate is characterized by monsoon influences and regional microclimates, with the Cordillera region often serving as a bellwether for cooler conditions in the country’s highlands.
What to Expect as the Year Ends
Forecasts suggest that temperatures in Benguet may fluctuate in the coming days, with nights likely remaining cool and mornings crisp. While the 12.1°C mark is notable, it should not be treated as a sign of persistent extreme cold—more a temporary phase driven by favorable atmospheric conditions. Local authorities usually issue advisories about frost-like conditions on crops, urging farmers to protect sensitive plants and consider row covers or other protective measures. For residents and visitors, packing warm layers, hats, gloves, and comfortable footwear remains sensible as the region enjoys its scenic winter landscape.
Practical Tips for Staying Comfortable
- Dress in layered clothing to adapt to temperature swings between morning chill and daytime mildness.
- Farmers and gardeners should monitor frost risks and use simple frost protection methods as needed.
- Hydration and skin care matter in cold, dry air; keep moisturizing routines and hydrate regularly.
- Tourists should plan morning excursions to enjoy misty hillsides and silvery dawn landscapes while staying warm.
- Check local weather advisories for any frost alerts or agricultural wind chill warnings.
If You’re Planning a Visit
La Trinidad and nearby towns offer a unique winter-like atmosphere in the Philippines during December. The cooler climate is an invitation to experience festive markets, pine-scented streets, and seasonal produce. While packing, travelers should include light thermal wear for evenings and early mornings, and be prepared for rapid weather changes typical of high-altitude locales.
Bottom Line
The record 12.1°C temperature in Benguet this December underscores the region’s vulnerability to cold snaps while highlighting the enduring charm of the Cordillera’s highlands during the Christmas season. Whether you’re a farmer watching the frost, a resident planning for winter comfort, or a traveler seeking scenic winter landscapes, Benguet’s chill is a seasonal feature worth embracing and preparing for as the year ends.
