Baguio City Ethnography

This research used qualitative research design, specifically descriptive and explanatory methods utilizing an ethnographic approach in a naturalistic setting. This was conducted by going to night clubs on a scheduled basis and by conducting key informant interviews involving various actors immersed in the Baguio City nightlife scene. The aim of this research is to look into the in-depth understanding of the phenomenon through methodological and theoretical contexts. Hence, this aim was attained through ethnography and case study.

The concern of ethnography is on “the nature, construction and maintenance of culture…with the aim of looking beyond what people say to understand the shared system of meanings we call culture” (Goulding, 2005, p. 298). Ethnography explains the ways of constructing culture through the behaviors and experiences of the members of the society. In this research, culture and its impediments lie on the concept and participation of clubbing as a

Alberto’s is a popular nightlife spot in Baguio City established in 1995 as a family business by the Pua family who originally hails from Isabela, Philippines. Alberto’s was named after the head of the family who established several entertainment businesses such as Honeymoon (1988-1990, re-established 1995-present), Club Double O or originally known as Old Orchestra (1991-present), Club Double I originally known as Ihaw-ihaw sa Bokawkan (1991-present), and Baguio Country Sounds (2009-present).

Located at Carino Street, Baguio City, Alberto’s Music Lounge has about 25 staff working every night in various parts of the establishment such as kitchen, utility, bar, and dining areas. The place has two bands with seven members playing music every night in front people that could go up to 600 during peak season and during the weekends. The management takes pride in giving great service, hospitability, and security for the customers including students, tourists, and young