Panagbenga fest skeds set

By Julie G. Fianza

BAGUIO CITY - All projects at Burnham Park being implemented by the Department Of Public Works and Highways should be completed before the opening of Panagbenga 2014, Mayor Mauricio Domogan said during his weekly press con Wednesday.

There is repeated assurance from DPWH Baguio District Engineer Ireneo Gallato, that projects for national roads are completed as scheduled, (before Feb. 1) and if not, these shall be deferred, the mayor said. Work for deferred projects start after March 2, the closing date for Panagbenga 2014, the mayor added. 

Opening ceremonies for the 2014 Baguio Flower Festival will be on Feb. 1 at the Panagbenga Park near Camp John Hay gate, with elementary pupil-participants in the drum and lyre competition parading down Session Road to Athletic Bowl, Burnham Park.

About a dozen elementary schools have registered for the contest which is expected to draw crowds along the main thoroughfares up to Burnham Park. More schools, even those from neighboring areas are expected to sign up, as preparations and rehearsals go on.

The Market Encounter; Landscaping Exhibition and Exposition, also commences on Panagbenga opening day at Lake Drive, and goes on until closing date.

The crowd-drawer street dance and colorful flower-filled grand float parade is scheduled on Feb. 22 and 23; a weekend. Session road shall be open for promenaders from Feb. 24 up to closing date.

All activities are anchored on Panagbenga 2014’s there, “Inspiring The Community For a Greener Tomorrow.” 

According to Mayor Domogan, the city contributes P4 million to the festival, which earlier was divided between the city and the congressman’s fund. He also shall suggest to the city council a legislative measure for a 2% sales tax on goods during the occasion.

He said the city government fully supports the 19th version of Panagbenga with its funding, the mayor said, “Sayang naman if we do not sustain the festival.”