A wave of color, music and cheers swept through Baguio on March 1 as 30 vibrant floats rolled out for the Grand Float Parade of the Panagbenga Festival. From Session Road to Harrison Road and down to the Melvin Jones Football Ground, the city bloomed in a spectacle of petals and pageantry.
Marking its 30th year, Panagbenga, or the “season of bloom,” embraced the theme of enduring growth and renewal. Streets turned into a living garden as thousands of fresh flowers formed dazzling patterns, towering figures and imaginative scenes that drew applause from residents and visitors alike.
A Tribute in Petals
Leading the celebration, the Baguio City government unveiled a commemorative float honoring the festival’s milestone and the Year of the Fire Horse. White and maroon chrysanthemums shaped into galloping horses pulled a wooden carriage, evoking the city’s early days. Sunflowers and red roses glowed under the sun, symbolizing strength and resilience.
The Department of Tourism–Cordillera Administrative Region brought regional pride to the streets with a “Love the Philippines” float adorned with endemic blooms and performers in traditional Cordilleran attire. Hall of Fame awardee Baguio Country Club energized the crowd with a K-pop-inspired design that blended modern flair with Baguio heritage.
SM Prime Holdings added depth to the celebration with a float reflecting on the city’s recovery from the 1990 earthquake, highlighting renewal through a serene Mother Nature figure rising above stylized terraces.
Creativity in Full Bloom
Small and medium category entries added playful charm and artistic flair. Radiowealth Finance Company incorporated sustainable materials, while other participants featured floral infinity symbols, bees and sunflowers, and cultural tributes. Wright Park Hotel showcased sculptures symbolizing rebirth, and food brands like Chowking, KFC and Mang Inasal delighted spectators with highland-inspired creations.
A Grand Floral Finale
Large floats from International Pharmaceuticals Inc., the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority, McDonald's, Sunsilk, Jollibee and Chooks-to-Go brought bursts of color and whimsy to the route.
As the final float passed, cheers echoed across the city, capping a jubilant celebration that proved Panagbenga at 30 is not just a festival, but a joyful tradition in full, flourishing bloom.
