BAGUIO CITY — Panagbenga Executive Committee Chairperson Anthony R. De Leon has admitted a lapse in judgment and issued a public apology after several street dance performers sustained injuries while performing on artificial turf installed at Melvin Jones during the Panagbenga Grand Street Dance Parade, one of the marquee events of the festival’s 30th edition.
The issue surfaced after members of participating contingents complained of blisters and foot injuries following their performances, with some performers reportedly experiencing trauma due to the unfamiliar surface.|
In an official statement released Monday and coursed through Panagbenga official and Baguio Country Club representative Andrew Pinero, De Leon accepted full responsibility for the decision to install the artificial turf.
“As Executive Committee Chairperson, I take full responsibility for this incident,” De Leon said. “Our Committee for the Street Dance Parade and the performers are not at fault. The responsibility to ensure a safe and culturally respectful performance environment rests with me.”
De Leon, who also serves as general manager of Baguio Country Club, acknowledged the concerns raised by performers, schools, and cultural groups, stressing that the festival’s leadership should have prioritized both safety and cultural integrity.
He said the festival organizers have begun coordinating with affected schools and contingent leaders to document reported injuries and extend appropriate assistance. An immediate review of the decision-making process, safety assessments, and implementation of the turf installation is also underway.
Moving forward, De Leon committed to broader consultations with schools, cultural practitioners, and other stakeholders before adopting similar measures in future Panagbenga events.
“To our performers, schools, families, and the people of Baguio and the Cordilleras: We acknowledge the serious concerns raised regarding the artificial turf used at Melvin Jones during the Grand Street Dance Parade,” the statement read. “To the students, teachers, trainers, and contingents who experienced pain, injury, and distress, I apologize for this error in judgment and take full responsibility.”
Emphasizing the community roots of the festival, De Leon said Panagbenga ultimately belongs to the people of Baguio and the Cordilleras.
“We hear your concerns, we accept accountability, and we will act accordingly,” he said, asking for patience and understanding as the foundation works on corrective measures and commits to providing updates on its next steps.