BAGUIO CITY – The tranquil waters of Burnham Lake transformed into a floating spectacle as the 4th Fluvial Parade took center stage at 10 AM, bringing this year’s Panagbenga Festival theme, “Blossom Beyond Boundaries,” to life.
What started as an innovative addition to the Grand Floral Float Parade four years ago has now flourished into a much-anticipated event, featuring intricately designed boats that celebrate the cultural and historical beauty of Baguio and the Cordillera region.
This year’s parade featured eight competing floats and two non-competing entries, each adorned with fresh blooms and crafted with remarkable artistry. Every boat paid tribute to an iconic landmark, turning Burnham Lake into a floating map of Baguio’s heritage sites. Among the standout entries were:
King of the Jungle – a striking lion’s head tribute to the famous Lion’s Head along Kennon Road. Swan Boat’s Botanical Garden – showcasing the floral visuals of Baguio’s Botanical Garden. Golden Seahorse’s Axis of Baguio City – representing the heart of the city and its vibrant tourism hubs. Mermaid’s Boat – Mines View Park – inspired by the panoramic views of Benguet’s mining sites. Ogena Boats – Bell Church Boat – reflecting the intricate and colorful architecture of Bell Church. Yellow Boat – Cathedral Church Boat – honoring the historic and grand Baguio Cathedral. Boboy’s Boat – Banaue Rice Terraces – a tribute to the world-renowned rice terraces of Ifugao. Pontoon Boat – Wright Park – capturing the charm of Baguio’s famous horseback riding destination.
Beyond the creative and artistic expression, the event highlighted the tireless efforts of the craftsmen, florists, and boatmen who dedicated hours to making these floats a reality. Their dedication to preserving and innovating tradition is the true heart of the celebration.
Regional Director of the Department of Tourism-Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) Jovita A. Ganongan emphasized the significance of enhancing local experiences. “When we say we want to provide quality experience for our visitors, it is meant to enhance what we already have. Our boating activity in the City of Baguio is now more vibrant. So we invite our visitors, even our public, to experience Panagbenga by riding our boat here at Burnham Park.”
As the parade came to a close, anticipation filled the air as the winners were announced. Taking home first place was Swan Boat’s Botanical Garden, Golden Seahorse’s Axis of Baguio City followed closely in second place, and securing third place was Blue Boat’s King of the Jungle: Lion’s Head.
In a conducted interview after the event — the woman behind the winning entry was Ma’am Vivan Celso, proprietress of Burnham Park’s Swan Boats, whose generosity saved lives during the aftermath of Typhoon Ulysses in November 2020. She lent four pontoon boats and a swan boat to Cagayan, helping transport residents stranded by massive floods.
More than just a spectacle, this monumental event is a tribute to nature’s beauty and a call to preserve it for generations to come. By John Hermarc P. Villanueva and Julianna Mallari
