Panagbenga launch set Jan. 12; opening parade still in February — Baguio PIO

Baguio City, Philippines – The country’s Summer Capital, through its information office, clarified on Friday that the scheduled launching of the 30th Panagbenga Festival next week is distinct from the opening parade.

As earlier announced, the festival’s launching is slated for Monday, January 12, alongside the regular flag-raising ceremony at the City Hall grounds.

Congressman Mauricio Domogan, who also chairs the Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI), is set to declare the official launch of the event, together with city employees, stakeholders, and officials led by Mayor Benjamin Magalong.

Launching not synonymous with opening parade

The launching takes place in January, when the BFFFI officially unveils the calendar of events and activities lined up for February, the information office explained.

“It serves as the opening salvo of the festival—featuring performances, messages from organizers and city officials, and a preview of what to expect in the calendar of events—rather than a full-scale parade or street celebration,” it added.

The opening parade, on the other hand, will take place on February 1, marking the actual start of the month-long celebrations. The event will be held simultaneously with activities in the Central Business District and other key venues across the city, the office said.

The annual Panagbenga, which comes from the Kankanaey word meaning “season of blooming,” remains one of the most anticipated and largest festivals in the country, with thousands of tourists expected to attend. It has earned recognition from the International Festivals and Events Association.

This year’s festival edition bears the theme “Blooming Without End,” marking its significant development and legacy over three decades.

Meanwhile, the Baguio City Police Office is bracing for the expected influx of tourists, with its chief expected to release a traffic scheme soon.