Baguio City’s Panagbenga Festival has long been celebrated for its vibrant display of floral artistry. This year, in its fourth staging under the Department of Tourism – Cordillera, the tradition expanded its horizons with the recently concluded Panagbenga Fluvial Float Parade.
Held on February 27, 2025, at Burnham Lake, the event transformed the serene waters into a canvas of color and creativity, highlighting the city’s heritage and natural beauty.
The parade featured eight intricately designed floats, each representing iconic tourist destinations in Baguio and the Cordillera region. These floating masterpieces paid homage to landmarks such as the Lion’s Head on Kennon Road, the historic Baguio Cathedral, the lush Botanical Garden, and the ancient Ifugao Rice Terraces in Banaue. Each float was adorned with locally sourced flowers, showcasing the region’s horticultural prowess and commitment to sustainability.
Fluvial Parade Competing Entries
- Entry #1 Blue Boat – King of the Jungle (Lion’s Head)
- Entry #2 Golden Seahorse Boats – The Axis of Baguio City (City Hall and environs)
- Entry #3 Yellow Boat Rental – Baguio Cathedral
- Entry #4 Swan Boat – Botanical Garden
- Entry #5 Pontoon Boat – Wright Park
- Entry #6 Cheri Recreational Park – Mines View Park
- Entry #7 Ogena Boats – Bell Church
- Entry #8 Boboy’s Boat Rental – Ifugao Rice Terraces
Non-Competing Entries
- Entry #1 Queen of the Lake (Swan Boat)
- Entry #2 SGT TO-PO and BAFI (Baguio City Police Office)
Emerging as the highlight of the event, the Botanical Garden float, crafted by the Swan Boat team with its lush representation of one of Baguio’s most cherished sanctuaries. This float earned the grand prize, reflecting the team’s dedication to capturing the essence of the Botanical Garden’s beauty.
The Golden Seahorse Boat’s depiction of the “Axis of Baguio City,” featuring landmarks like City Hall and Burnham Park, secured second place. Meanwhile, the Blue Boat’s rendition of the iconic Lion’s Head, titled “King of the Jungle,” claimed third place, paying tribute to the enduring symbol that has welcomed visitors since the 1970s.
The fluvial parade, now in its fourth year, is a collaborative effort between the Department of Tourism-Cordillera, the city government, and the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. This year’s theme, “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” symbolized the city’s socio-economic partnerships with its international sister cities. The event not only celebrated Baguio’s natural and cultural landmarks but also underscored the city’s commitment to fostering global connections and promoting tourism.
The success of the Panagbenga Fluvial Float Parade is a testament to the creativity, collaboration, and community spirit of Baguio City. As the festival continues to evolve, it remains a vibrant celebration of the city’s heritage, resilience, and blossoming future.
