BAGUIO CITY – Twelve boats bloomed at Burnham Lake as they highlighted their unique designs based on Philippine mythology or folklore. The parade is one of the highlights of Panagbenga 2023, an anticipated festival for tourists and residents.
Among the twelve participants who competed for the top entries, the first place was awarded to Entry No. 5 featuring the Philippine mythology “Idianale.”
At the parade, Entry no. 5 represented Idianale—the goddess of toil and good deeds—and her spouse Dumangan, the god of an abundant crop.
Further, “The Masquerade,” a boat representing worldwide Mardi Gras celebrations, won second place, and “Ibong Adarna”, a famous Philippine folklore, won third place.
This is the 2nd time Baguio City has witnessed the ever-pleasing Fluvial Parade. The event also occurred last year, with eight boats bedecked with natural flowers and vegetation.
According to City Tourism Officer Alec Mapalo, the Fluvial Parade competition is exclusive for boat operators. However, they plan to accept establishments that are non-boat concessionaires to join the parade in the following years.
This event which aims to encourage and attract people is an initiative of the Department of Tourism and, in collaboration with Baguio LGU, Baguio Flower Festival Incorporated, at Boatsmen Association of Burnham Park.
City Mayor Benjamin Magalong said in an interview that he expects a significant development of the annual celebration of the Flower Festival with the aid and support of the government itself.
Baguio City hosts the annual Panagbenga flower festival every February. However, the celebration was suspended in 2020 due to health restrictions brought about by the pandemic.
Eventually, the return of the Grand Street Dance and Float Parade will occur this weekend after a two-year hiatus from the pandemic. This year’s Flower Festival theme is “A Renaissance of Wonder and Beauty.” This celebration honors the culture, values, and history of Baguio and the Cordilleras. It lasts for over a month with a series of activities prepared for the community to witness and join. By Graziella Kate D. Estrera
