Diplomat Hotel The Dominican Hill Retreat House

The Dominican Hill Retreat House has a history that is deeply intertwined with both spirituality and tragedy. Originally built in 1913, the retreat house was constructed atop a hill in Baguio City's scenic landscapes as a peaceful sanctuary for the Dominican Order friars. The building was intended as a place of solace and reflection, a serene environment amidst the cool climate of the Philippine City of Pines. However, its tranquil purpose was overshadowed by the turmoil of war and violence, making much of its history far from peaceful.

During World War II, the retreat house took on a drastically different role when it became a haven for refugees fleeing the Japanese invasion. As the war intensified, the building turned into a refuge for civilians seeking safety from the occupying forces. Unfortunately, the house’s sanctuary status was short-lived, as it was soon overtaken by the Kempeitai, the Japanese secret police notorious for their brutal actions. The once peaceful haven became the site of unspeakable atrocities, as the Kempeitai committed horrific acts of violence, including mass executions, torture, and sexual assaults. In one of the darkest chapters, the Kempeitai even decapitated several nuns and priests, leaving behind a scarred and haunted past.

After the war, in the 1970s, the once dilapidated structure was transformed into the Diplomat Hotel, a grand and sophisticated establishment that stood as a symbol of the city's recovery and progress. The hotel became a popular spot, known for its luxurious features and its strategic location with panoramic views of the city. However, by the 1980s, the Diplomat Hotel was shut down and eventually abandoned. The hotel’s once-glorious walls began to crumble, and the structure fell into further disrepair. Over time, the building became infamous not only for its history but also for its eerie reputation.

The ruins of the old hotel gained notoriety as one of the most haunted sites in the Philippines. The dilapidated building, with its grey and faded red walls, became the subject of numerous folklore and ghost stories. Many locals and visitors reported seeing disturbing headless apparitions at night and hearing strange noises, including screams, crying, and banging on doors. These unsettling experiences led to the belief that the building was inhabited by the restless spirits of those who perished in its grim history, forever trapped within the crumbling walls. The stories of hauntings have only added to the chilling allure of the site, making it a destination for those intrigued by the supernatural.

Despite its grim reputation, the Dominican Hill Retreat House has recently entered a new phase of life. The building, with its dark past, is currently under rehabilitation by the national government and is being transformed into a Heritage and Nature Park. This restoration effort aims to preserve the structure's historical and cultural significance while turning it into a more accessible site for both locals and tourists. The hotel’s two floors have been cleaned and remodeled, and the west wing has been repurposed as an event space, offering a unique venue for various activities. The accessible roof deck now offers visitors a stunning, panoramic view of the city and its surrounding landscapes, providing a serene escape amidst Baguio's cool, mountain air.

While the building's eerie reputation still lingers, it has become a place where people can experience both the beauty of the location and the mystique of its haunted past. Visitors can explore the blend of historical significance and natural beauty, while still feeling the echoes of the darker chapters of its history. Today, the site offers a unique fusion of peace, reflection, and curiosity, making it a fascinating destination in Baguio City, where one can delve into the city's rich, if at times unsettling, heritage.