Monday, February 28, 2005
Baguio dances the Panagbenga rhythm


LIKE bees in quest for the sweet nectar of flowers, people flocked to the city's main thoroughfares to witness "Flower Power," this year's Panagbenga street dancing competition.

The parade kicked off from the Upper Session Road and ended at Burnham Park Athletic Bowl where participants gave their final performance.

The competition was divided into three categories - high school, college and open. A total of 18 groups from various schools, companies and organizations performed for both tourists and local enthusiasts.

Tourism head Benny Alhambra said the success of the event was a manifestation of the "faith and competence of our people to the city".

Mayor Braulio Yaranon felt the same. He said that despite the meningococcemia scare, people are still excited about the Flower Festival.

To ensure the safety of residents and tourists alike, the Baguio City Police was also placed under red alert. PO3 Joseph Filog said, however, they were only expecting petty crimes such as pickpocket.

Still, the police warned the tourists in their assigned vicinities that they have to be vigilant to avoid being victimized by lawless groups.

Volunteers of the Baguio City Emergency Medical Services were also deployed for first aid and other medical emergencies that may arose.

The parade reached the Athletic Bowl safely and without any major accidents that took place. The program ended with a fireworks display at about 7p.m.

The winners would be announced during the Panagbenga closing program next week. Grand winners for each category would receive P50,000. Second and third placers, on the other hand, would receive P30,000 and P20,000 respectively. All the other participants would receive consolation prizes of P10,000 each.(Jose Paolo dela Cruz, Marie Angeline Santos/UP Baguio interns)