Panagbenga opens with the traditional civic parade February 3, 2024.
The 28th Panagbenga Festivities kicked off with a vibrant civic parade featuring participants such as City and Barangay Officials, military units, tourism businesses, six elementary school Drum and Lyre Groups, and eight Cultural Dance groups. The annual event, promising to surpass its previous editions, commenced smoothly, drawing a warm reception from the predominantly local crowd in Baguio.
Notable highlights included impressive contingents from the prestigious Philippine Military Academy, Philippine Navy, Philippine National Police, Boys and Girl Scouts. Each of the city’s 20 districts was well-represented by barangay officials donning floral hats.
The Saint Louis University Marching Band, renowned for its performances, showcased their talent by playing the Panagbenga hymn, delighting the audience. The parade featured Baguio’s Miss Universe Philippines representative, Justine Tara, on a float, along with participants from the Miss Baguio Pageant and Miss Little Baguio contestants.
Cultural performances took center stage, exhibiting the rich heritage of the Cordilleras through the participation of eight cultural groups, namely:
- Benguet Youth Organization
- Easter College,
- Cholibes Cultural Dance Group,
- Dap-ay Cultural Dance Group,
- Turayan Cultural Dance Group,
- Ayoweng di Ganza Group,
- University of the Philippines Youth Organization, and
- Sakusak Music Ensemble.
Six elementary schools were represented by Drum and Lyre Dance Groups, including:
- Baguio Central Elementary School
- Apolinario Mabini Elementary School
- Lucban Elementary School
- Manuel Roxas Elementary School
- Tuba Central Elementary School, and
- Jose P. Laurel Elementary School
These groups later engaged in a spirited contest at the Melvin Jones Football Field to determine the region’s best.
The city’s cosplay community added a touch of creativity to the event, dressing up as their favorite heroes, anime characters, and mascots. Closing the parade were dog owners, proudly showcasing their beloved pets. The diverse and lively participation in the parade contributed to the success of the Panagbenga Festivities.
