Panagbenga fest continues to drive economic growth, tourism in Baguio

BAGUIO CITY – The annual Panagbenga Festival continues to boost Baguio City’s economy, generating income from various sources while attracting tourists and supporting local businesses.
Anthony De Leon, chairman of the Executive Committee of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc., during a press conference on Thursday, reported that in 2024, the foundation remitted PHP6 million in taxes to the city government.
“We comply with tax regulations and remit payments after the event,” he said.
The festival generates revenues through special business permits issued to vendors participating in the monthlong Panagbenga Market Encounter and the weeklong Session Road in Bloom, which hosts about 450 stalls.
These stalls showcase a wide range of products from micro and small enterprises nationwide.
Local businesses also take part, offering food, beverages, and services. Small vendors selling fish balls, barbecue, hotdog, and milk tea, as well as artisans selling woven fabrics and processed food, benefit from the increased foot traffic.
De Leon highlighted how Panagbenga has become a major event for Benguet’s flower growers, as the festival’s iconic floral floats require extensive arrangements and labor.
“A large float costs around PHP500,000, considering the flowers and workforce needed to create it,” he said.
“The festival has helped Baguio recover economically since the 1990 earthquake. We organize an event that benefits many, and it’s important to continue supporting it.”
Department of Tourism – Cordillera Administrative Region Director Jovita Ganongan, meanwhile, underscored Panagbenga’s significant role in boosting tourism and consumer spending on accommodations, food, and transportation.
She noted that packed bus stations and increased traffic during key events indicate strong tourist turnout.
“This is a good problem because it means income is flowing, benefiting businesses and workers alike,” Ganongan said. **Liza Agoot