BY: JOSE ROBERT INVENTOR

Every year, thousands eagerly anticipate the grand and colorful Panagbenga Festival.

But with the election season underway, there’s a risk of politicians using the festival for their campaigns.

Before this could happen, Federico Alquiros, president of the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI), addressed the issue.

Federico S. Alquiros, President of the BFFFI, strongly expressed, “We do not need your cash, we do not need your sponsorship. We maintain that there is no campaigning in Panagbenga.”

This statement followed a request from a candidate for the 2025 midterm elections. While Alquiros did not reveal whether the candidate was from the local or national level, he shared their decision.

“We declined their request. They can put up a float, provided there are no campaign materials, shirts, or anything of that sort. If they can’t agree, they are free to back out,” said Alquiros.

While there won’t be arrests, the BFFFI promises strict monitoring during the parade to ensure that campaigning and self-promotion (“epal”) are prohibited.

Atty. Mauricio Domogan, Chairman of the BFFFI, advised, “Take pictures of those who break the rules, shaking hands, taking photos on the sidelines, and publish them.”

Engr. Bonifacio Dela Peña, City Administrator, mentioned, “The bottom line is this: it’s up to the people. Don’t vote for those who break the rules.”

Residents and festival-goers are advised to plan their routes carefully as major roads, such as Session Road and Harrison Road, will be closed for the parade heading toward the Melvin Jones Grandstand.

Themed “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” the month-long celebration promises a vibrant spectacle.