After 2026 Panagbenga fireworks mishap, Ibaloy healing rites set to help victims recover

Baguio City, Philippines – Following the fireworks blast that injured eight individuals during the closing ceremony of the Panagbenga Festival 2026, an Ibaloy healing ritual is scheduled to be performed later this week for the victims.

The Incident

Spectators were enjoying the fireworks display on Sunday evening at Burnham Park’s skating rink area when a stray pyrotechnic device landed on the styrofoam matting near the victims and exploded.

An initial report from the Baguio City Police Office states that seven of the injured are tourists from Pangasinan, including a three-year-old and a 26-year-old from Bukig, Bonuan; a 17-year-old and a 50-year-old from Fernandez Street, Dagupan City; two adults from Bonuan, Dagupan City; and an 18-year-old from Calasiao.

A 47-year-old resident of Lower Quezon Hill, Baguio City, is also among those who were hurt.

One of the victims, who was filming the fireworks show at the time, sustained an injury to his right shoulder, while the others suffered injuries to various parts of their bodies.

The injured individuals were immediately rushed to medical facilities for treatment, while personnel from the PNP Scene of the Crime Operatives processed the area.

Authorities said the investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances that led to the explosion.

Statement from BFFI

In a statement released on Monday, the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFI) expressed its support for the ongoing investigation and assured the public that it will continue working with concerned agencies to review and strengthen safety protocols for future events.

The organizing body said the fireworks display was conducted by a licensed professional operator, who has already reached out to the affected individuals and is committed to covering their medical expenses.

“We extend our concern to those who were injured and wish them a full and speedy recovery… We thank the public for their understanding and assure everyone that the safety of festival-goers will always remain a priority,” the foundation added.

Conduct of healing ritual ‘Selsi’

Following the incident, City Councilor Jose M. Molintas said a “Selsi,” an Ibaloy healing ritual, will be conducted to pray for the urgent recovery of those affected.

The indigenous rite will be held on Friday, March 13, at the Ibaloy Park.

Other untoward incidents during festival period

To recall, dancers in this year’s grand street dancing competition suffered burns and blisters after performing barefoot on the artificial turf set up at the grounds of Melvin Jones.

In another incident, a six-year-old child accidentally released the handbrake of a van parked at the Upper Session Road, causing the vehicle to crash into vendor stalls and injuring three people – a stall owner, a worker, and a customer.