The 30th Panagbenga Festival Parade kicks off under overcast skies on Sunday in the Summer Capital. Photos by Primo Agatep
BAGUIO CITY — Despite the chilly and overcast weather, thousands flocked to the opening parade of the 30th Panagbenga Festival, centered on key themes of cultural preservation, unity, and boosting local tourism.
As early as 6 o’clock on Sunday (Feb. 1), people from all walks of life lined up along the historic Session–Harrison Road to witness the Cordilleran heritage drum and lyre competition and street dancing, marking a vibrant, community-driven celebration.
As the cold breeze filled the air, Marita Hinz, one of the countless spectators, lifted her phone to take photos while guarding her family’s front-row spot along the roadside. She watched as the Tuba Central School Drum and Lyre Corps delivered a synchronized stomp symbolizing strength and unity.
It was her first time to watch the festival in person. “I’m so happy to be here in Baguio,” she said, as the performers raised their hands—not in war, but to signify that the peace pact is now the law of the land. The chant Salidumay expressed love, unity, and celebration.
“Indeed, what the world needs now is peace,” Hinz added with a smile, as other spectators listened to dong-dong ay—a phrase from a traditional folk song meaning “let us all unite” or “let us be merry despite hardships,” symbolizing hope, unity, and resilience.
The message connects to the festival’s enduring spirit and reflects the city’s resilience, strength, and continuous growth after challenges.
Tuba was the first to perform among the six entries in the elementary group, which also included drum and lyre corps from Pugo Central School. Depicting the rugged hills of Pugo, La Union—the Gateway to the Highlands—the performance showcased the rhythm of a people grounded in strength, unity, and tradition. Carried by the pulse of the drums, the journey ascended to where cultures meet, connect, and grow.
The crowd was also amazed by Baguio Central School’s performance, “The Ever-Blooming Malaysian Mums,” symbolizing steadfast growth, endurance through tragedy, rebirth, and the promise of good fortune and happiness as they bloom profusely. In unity, balance, and strength, Panagbenga continues to bloom without end.
As the parade progressed, cheers from the crowd grew louder, delighting spectators as 11 cultural groups from nearby towns took to the streets.
Performers, dressed in full native costumes, danced to the rhythm and beat of the ganza, a cultural symbol and traditional musical instrument of the Cordillerans.
In fact, a number of visitors camped overnight at Burnham Park, braving the Summer Capital’s chilly weather. Some locals gathered with relatives from nearby towns, turning the celebration into what was, in essence, a family reunion—sharing stories and memories together.
For this year’s Panagbenga, it was truly an experience to remember.