Experiencing Baguio's Panagbenga

MANILA, Philippines - Everybody’s friend, Freddie Alquiros, a staunch believer of living life to the fullest, graciously invited a group of Cebuanos to experience and witness Baguio’s annual street dancing and flower festival popularly known as Panagbenga.

While it is always a pleasure to get away and explore exciting destinations such as Baguio, we were not prepared for the heartwarming hospitality that greeted us upon arrival.

We were billeted at The Manor, located at the lush greens of Camp John Hay. Nestled within 246 hectares of beautiful prime land, the four-story structure, with its sprawling, well-manicured, landscaped gardens, is a splendid presentation of the city’s natural beauty and bounty.

The 177 rooms, including 52 well-appointed suites,  are equipped with modern amenities such as  WI-FI internet access, cable TV,  a well stocked refrigerator, electronic-in-room safe and   handsome furnishings. Simply not to be missed is The  Manor’s Le Chef Restaurant at the ground floor that serves contemporary dishes masterfully prepared by renowned Chef Billy King .

With skinny jeans, light weight jacket and cameras on hand, we trooped to Session Road for the Grand Street Parade. We met up with Damaso Bangaoet, the  Father of Panagbenga, Anthony de Leon and Freddie Alquiros, chairman and co-chair respectively, of the much anticipated event.

In their crisp grey and white dress uniforms, the cadets of the Philippine Military Academy led the street dancing parade and band exhibition.  In colorful costumes, steady and rhythmic forward walk, dozens of marching bands and instrumental musicians   participated, as well.

It was over much too soon but our excitement mounted as the much-anticipated grand float parade was just hours away.

Staged every year since 1995, the Panagbenga has grown from a local institution to an international event that’s just as fabulous but on a smaller scale as other flower festivals such as California’s Rose Parade in Pasadena and the Bollenstreek in Holland.

The spectacular floats made from every imaginable petals, seeds and roots were grand and colorful. The number of people who have come together for this once a year event certainly exceeded everyone’s expectation.

The winners were as follows: Float category – SM City Baguio and Samsung tied for first place; the Department of Tourism came in second, and San Miguel Brewery Red Horse – third. In the drum and lyre contest, Santa Teresita School of Tabuk, Kalinga and Baguio Central tied for first place followed by Mabini Elementary School – second and Doña Nicacia Puyat Elementary School – third.

When we left the following morning, Freddie gave us a warm big hug. We knew then that we would be back.