Ten boat floats adorned with flowers designed to depict the region’s tourist spots wowed the crowd during the 4th Panagbenga Fluvial Parade last Feb. 27 at Burnham Lake.
Eight of the ten competed in the best float contest which focused on the theme, “Historical Attractions of Baguio and the Cordilleras. They paraded around the lake with flower replicas of the local landmarks.
The event was organized by the Department of Tourism Cordillera Administrative Region (DOT-CAR) in partnership with the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) and the City Government of Baguio.
The program was graced by Mayor Benjamin Magalong and Congressman Marquez Go who both stressed on the significance of the activity.
The entries were judged based on the following criteria: creative design,floral craftsmanship, artistic merit, impact, and thematic interpretation.
Adjudged best float was “The Botanical Garden” entry of the Swan Boat team winning a cash prize of P20,000. The float showcased what the Botanical Garden represents—a “lush sanctuary that has stood as a testament to Baguio’s rich history and vibrant culture.”
Second place went to “The Axis of Baguio City” of the Golden Seahorse Boats with their representation of the Hall of Justice, City Hall, Rizal Park, Rose Garden, Burnham Park, Baguio Convention Center, and the Supreme Court of Baguio City. It received a cash prize of P15,000 for a design that “evokes balance, stability, and loftiness” while “emulating the function it serves.”
Third place winner was the “King of the Jungle: Lion’s Head” by the Blue Boat team which won P10,000. This floral boat effectively captured the “majestic gateway to the country’s Summer Capital.”
The other entries were the “Baguio Cathedral” inspired by the historical structure symbolizing “resilience and faith”; “Wright Park” showcasing “one of Baguio City’s most iconic and picturesque destinations” that offers a nature retreat and horseback riding experience; “Mines View Park” whose design echoed the observation deck of one of the most scenic destinations in Baguio, “known for its majestic panorama of the Cordillera mountains;” “Bell Church” featuring floral designs that represent a historical site celebrating “cultural diversity and religious harmony” in the region; and the “Ifugao Rice Terraces” displaying the iconic terraces that “stand as a testament to human ingenuity”.
The event also featured two non-competing fluvial floats that spiced up the parade: the “Queen of the Lake” represented by the Swan Boat of Burnham Lake—the actual boat used for rescue missions in Cagayan during Typhoon Ulysses in 2020; and the “Sergeant TOPO” and “Sargeant BA-FI,” the mascots of the Baguio City Police Office (BCPO).
Although only three entries were awarded, DOT-CAR Regional Director Jovita Ganongan expressed appreciation to all boat men, women, and their partners, who took part in the event. “All of you are winners. Your cooperation is incredibly important, and you can proudly say that you have contributed to tourism,” she said, emphasizing how this activity enhances visitors’ experiences. She also promised a “bigger, brighter, and more vibrant” parade for next year’s Panagbenga Fluvial Parade. Baguio City Public Information Office
