BY: JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR
A hundred sixty thousand, that’s the estimated number of people expected to attend the major parades of this year’s Panagbenga Festival.
A large audience that politicians might want to take advantage of for campaigning in the upcoming 2025 national and local midterm elections.
The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. confirmed that some politicians have expressed their intention to join the Grand Floral Float Parade on Sunday, February 23.
Despite this, the foundation reiterated that while the festival is open to politicians, no one will be allowed to campaign.
The rules and regulations set by the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Incorporated for politicians joining Panagbenga are simple and clear, no ‘epal’ allowed.
During the parade, politicians’ movements will be limited.
They may wave, but they are not allowed to step off the floral float or shake hands with spectators.
It is also strictly prohibited to include any campaign materials in the float designs.
Authorities will closely monitor illegal campaign posters in unauthorized areas.
Meanwhile, the Commission on Elections (COMELEC) issued a reminder to candidates, especially senatorial aspirants and party-list groups.
For now, all systems go for the parades. The BFFFI will deploy personnel to ensure smooth proceedings and prevent any attempts by candidates to campaign during the event.
