Peaceful grand opening parade of Panagbenga 2023
BAGUIO CITY – (February 1, 2023) After almost three years, the flower festival took a break due to the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) throughout the country, and now some restrictions have been somewhat relaxed, declaring Baguio City mayor Benjamin B. Magalong has been given the opportunity to hold the opening of the 27th year of the Baguio Flower Festival or the Panagbenga 2023.
After the Interfaith Community Prayers held at Panagbenga Park, South Drive, the parade was start at 8 AM. The Philippine Military Academy band led the parade followed by the SLU High School and College marching band.
The lineup of the City Government of Baguio, city officials, and Department head led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong with his wife Ma’am Arlene, Congressman Mark Go and his wife Ma’am Sol, Vice-Mayor Faustino Olowan together with the councilors.
The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. Board of Trustees, officers, and working committees led by the Chairman for Life BFFFI, Atty. Mauricio G. Domogan, HRAB President Anthony R. De Leon, DOT – CAR Regional Director Jovi Ganongan, PIA – CAR Regional Director Helen Tibaldo.
The Society of Outstanding Citizens of Baguio is led by SOCOB President Art Tibaldo and the past awardee Ms. Dona Digna S. Rosario.
There are three elementary school drum and lyres entries, cultural performing groups are Amamong Chi Umili, Bicas Di Litagwan, Bunak Shi Shuntog, Easter College, Kafagway, Pinsao National High School, UP Youth Organization, Igorot Treasures International and Benguet TV Cultural group.
Also, the special participation presented the candidates of the Little Ms. PANAGBENGA 2023, led by Ms. Mariver “Vell Watson” Agayas – CEO / Organizer, the Baguio COSPLAY Community.
With the participation also of the Liga ng mga barangays, Civic, and volunteer Organizations.
The ribbon cutting ceremonies and opening of the Baguio Blooms Market Encounter led by mayor Magalong with the city officials followed by the Panagbenga Scapes: Professional Landscaping Exhibition and Competition at Melvin Jones Football Grounds.
The three competing entries for the Drum and Lyre – Elementary Category performed and followed inspirational messages from our local officials.
The SLU College and High School Marching Band, led by Ms. Marivic Macadaeg cap the day’s events, as they render a special band drill performance on February 1, 2023. The theme for this year 2023: “A Renaissance of Wonder and Beauty”
The Panagbenga Festival through the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) is a proud member of the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA) – The premiere Association Supporting and Enabling Festival & Event Professionals Worldwide. ### Photos by: Mario Oclaman // FNS
