Baguio City Gears Up for Panagbenga 2024 with New Innovations

Baguio – The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) and the city government have officially launched the preparations for the 2024 Panagbenga, a major festival in Baguio and the Cordillera Administrative Region. Freddie Alquiros, President of BFFFI, announced during a press conference that the upcoming festival, themed ‘Celebrating Culture, Embracing Innovation,’ will feature several new elements. According to Alquiros, the festival aims to be more affordable to increase participation.

According to Philippines News Agency, One significant change is the separation of the cultural presentation from the grand street dancing parade, allowing a dedicated day for locals and tourists to appreciate the region’s culture through dance. Alquiros noted the high interest in the cultural category of the street dancing parade, which emerged during the pandemic, and mentioned plans for a sub-category for high school participants. The festival, scheduled to start on February 3 next year, is seen as a celebration of the community’s resilience, unity, and tradition. Anthony de Leon, chair of the festival’s executive committee, emphasized that the innovations will focus on promoting tourism and eco-friendly activities. The Panagbenga, now in its 28th year, symbolizes the enduring spirit and traditions of the community.