BAGUIO CITY – Eight (8) elementary school contingents with their well-coordinated steps and flower-themed, environment-inspired recycled accessories and backdrops, will join the grand street dancing parade on Feb. 24.
Baguio’s Josefa Carino, Emilio Aguinaldo, Dominican-Mirador, Baguio Central, Manuel L. Quezon, Mabini, Jose P. Laurel elementary schools and Tuba Central School from Benguet were proclaimed contestants for the main event. Eleven (11) schools joined the parade from Panagbenga Park to Athletic Bowl, Burnham Park, last Thursday, Feb. 1 for the traditional opening parade and program and elimination round.
Presidential spokesperson for Human rights Herminio “Harry” Roque graced the occasion with a report on President Rodrigo Duterte’s plans for Baguio including the province of Benguet and the nation as a whole, through legislation including free waterworks for farmers and universal medical and health care.
Mayor Mauricio Domogan who welcomed the participants emphasized on the marked improvement of the festival, citing the opportunity for thanksgiving; a show of the unique Cordillera culture, unity through private and public partnership; and the sustenance of the tourism industry. He earlier joined other sectors in ecumenical prayers for the success of the flower festival, with him rendering the Uggayam, at the Panagbenga park.
“We couldn’t possibly celebrate the (Baguio Flower) festival of such magnitude without the efforts of everybody, including the school children,” the mayor said. He also acknowledged the efforts towards the success of the festival, of board of trustees present, including Environmentalist Dr. Julie Cabato and Architect Joseph Alabanza, among others.
The Panagbenga is the only registered and recognized local member of the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA), with attendance from local and foreign tourists, the city’s chief executive said.
Congressman Marquez Go who said the Baguio Flower Festival’s grandeur overwhelms, delivered his message anchored on the Baguio Hymn,
Experts on culture, music and aesthetics: Edward Calica, Miguel Villacrusis, Ferdinand John Balanag, Sherwin Santiago, Virchel Gonzales were judges of the opening parade, including Normita Pablico, Jeddahn Rosario and Jocelyn Floresca for the field presentations.
Participants from districts 13, 19, 20 and 8 also joined the street dancing.
City officials opened the Baguio Blooms exposition and exhibition along Juan Luna and Lake Drive, Burnham Park immediately after the program at the Athletic Bowl.
The theme for this year’s festival, on its 23rd edition is, “Celebrating Culture and Creativity.”**juliegfianza
