Tourism Secretary praises Baguio for post-pandemic revival

REBIRTH. The non-competing float of the City Government of Baguio is a Phoenix, a majestic bird that symbolizes rebirth, according to ancient legends, with the reigning Miss Baguio beauty queen Krishnah Gravidez during the Panagbenga Grand Floral Float parade on February 26, 2023. Photo by Ompong Tan

BAGUIO CITY – Tourism Secretary Christina Garcia Frasco praised the people of Baguio and the city’s leadership for their efforts in bringing the city back to life after a long period of dormancy due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Speaking as the guest of honor at the Grand Floral Float parade and competition on Sunday, February 26, 2023, Frasco said that Baguio’s resurgence is not merely a comeback but a stunning revival.

“After three years of hiatus because of the pandemic, Baguio is back, and what a beautiful return,” Frasco exclaimed.

“We commend the people of Baguio led by Mayor Benjamin B. Magalong in nurturing this festival as it is a true testament to the creativity and skill of our local community and definitely a must-see for anyone coming into Baguio in the month of February.”

Frasco said that Panagbenga, a major tourism driver in Northern Luzon, reflects a season of booming, and since its inception in 1996, it has played a significant role in both the national and local tourism development in the city of Baguio and the country.

“Without question, Panagbenga 2023, which started as a community endeavor, has now evolved into a world-class celebration,” Frasco said.

Frasco remarked that the festival serves as an inspiration, proving that even amidst challenging times, a vibrant and colorful future is possible.

She added that the event motivates them to organize more activities that showcase the best of Filipino culture.

“The blooming of the flowers here in Baguio represents the blooming hope post-pandemic for indeed, what we can expect especially in the tourism industry is not only a recovery of what has been lost but to add to it, to exceed our pre-pandemic numbers because our Philippines deserves nothing less,” Frasco said.

The Secretary commended Mayor Magalong and the city government officials for their innovative solutions both during and after the pandemic.

The Secretary also acknowledged the city’s sustained community cooperation, which has been a vital factor in the city’s success.

“Baguio City has become a model city in the nation’s pandemic response and especially post-pandemic, having shown the Philippines and the world how innovation as well as close community development and cooperation can truly make for a sustainable smart city,” Frasco said.

The Grand Floral Float parade and competition, which featured beautifully crafted floats adorned with fresh flowers, plants, and crops was just one of the many events that showcased Baguio’s vibrant culture and heritage.

According to Frasco, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos, Jr. has emphasized the significance of tourism during his term, making it a top priority.

She said Baguio City can look forward to a comprehensive government approach, with the Tourism Department providing full-fledged support for the growth and advancement of the city’s tourism, as well as other regions across the nation.

Frasco also announced that the Tourism Department is set to unveil the “Philippine Experience” in the near future.

The initiative aims to immerse tourists in the authentic cultural traditions of various regions in the country, showcasing not only popular tourist destinations but also festivals, cuisine, and other distinctive aspects of each locale.

“We cannot wait to bring the “Philippine Experience” here to Baguio to ensure that people from all over the Philippines and all over the world rediscover the beauty of Baguio,” Frasco said.

The Secretary conveyed her heartfelt appreciation for the opportunity to witness the blooming of the Panagbenga Festival and the gracious hospitality extended to her.

“Baguio City with all its colors, its people, its tradition, your history and heritage combined, indeed has made and will continue to make a lasting imprint on our visitors’ memories and build a positive image of your city and our country,” Frasco said.

“These aspects form part of the holistic approach to the department’s wishes to pursue tourism development and we are very happy to find in Baguio a partner in this regard,” Frasco said.### Merriam del Rosario // FNS