In full bloom

Good memories last a lifetime. Traveling to sought-after destinations is always something to look forward to and more often than not they become treasures of unforgettable experiences that create a mark and sometimes even a milestone in our lives.

The city of Baguio is one of those endearing places that will always be close to my heart. Looking back at my childhood, I remember spending our weeklong family vacations during the summer, enjoying the cold mountain weather, horseback riding at Wright Park, having ice cream and hanging out at Camp John Hay, biking and riding the boat at Burnham Park or simply strolling up and down Session Road. Back then I would oftentimes bump into schoolmates and friends with their families who, just like us, took a break from the school or city life. The fun-filled memories of family bonding in this remarkable vacation haven are never-ending stories to be told.

Baguio is coming full circle as the summer capital of the Philippines. This year, the city creates a landmark in Philippine history as it celebrates its much-awaited whole year round centennial celebration. Welcoming the beginning of the series of festivities in 2009 is the renowned Panagbenga. Now on its 14th year, the successful weekend event was a merrymaking fete like no other. For a first timer, the event was quite an overwhelming and unforgettable experience. Hosting our stay was the crown of the Cordilleras, The Manor at Camp John Hay. The entire press delegation (numbering to around 37) was welcomed by the managing director Heinrich Maulbecker, general manager Ramon Cabrera and Panagbenga 2009 co-chairman Frederico Alquiros. They hosted a celebratory cocktail and dinner party that was graced by US Ambassador Kristie Kenney and well-respected Mayor Peter Rei Bautista. Drinks overflowed and were matched by a gastronomical feast prepared by no less than the one and only Billy King.

The next day began at 7 a.m. as the group headed to Session Road. To our surprise we saw a multitude of spectators –– both local and foreign tourists. There was a great feeling of anticipation and excitement before the parade started. This kind of warmth sliced through the cold mountain air. The Grand Street Parade of schools and universities was a fantastic display of color with the thrilling sound in every cheer –– rhythm of beating drums and harmonious symphony of energies. Hundreds and hundreds of smiling faces filled the streets; they marched and danced along the way as they were dressed in spectrums of vivid hues.

Highlighting the event was the Panagbenga Float Parade held early morning last Sunday. More than 20 distinctly colorful floats were in full bloom, filled with outstanding expositions of floral arrangements. I was amazed by the amount of work and effort put in to produce these astounding masterpieces. Mesmerized by the beauty of the sight, I couldn’t help but realize that all of this wasn’t just about having an event or party.  

Panagbenga is a celebration of life. It is a celebration of Filipinos as one people. It paints a remarkable experience of life, of our rich culture. The festival presents an extraordinary energy that embodies a prized tradition that will go on from generation to generation. The event lives and breathes the spirit of a community, coming together, united as one. Old practices serve as inspiration to create the new; the hands of the unforgotten past have passed the torch to the arms of the future. Though geographically our country is divided into regions and separated by thousands of islands, the essence of Panagbenga encourages the building of communities, creation of festivities and celebrations, and the development and promotion of rural areas. More importantly, it’s a reflection of the Philippines yesterday, today and a look into tomorrow.

(Special thanks to the management and staff of The Manor at Camp John Hay, and also to Ms. Rosary and Ika Ysmael.

(E-mail the author at mymultiplechoice@yahoo.com)