EIGHT TOURIST DESTINATIONS SHINE IN 4TH FLUVIAL PARADE AT BURNHAM LAKE

March 8, 2025 Community Billboard

The “Axis of Baguio” float (Golden Seahorse Boat) won second place in the 4th Panagbenga Fluvial Parade, on February 27, receiving a P15,000 cash prize.

Photo by Zaldy Comanda/ABN

BAGUIO CITY

With the theme “Blossoms Beyond Boundaries,” the eight boats participating in the 4th Panagbenga Fluvial Parade at Burnham Lake, Baguio City, on February 27, shone with the colorful colors of various types of flowers and
ornamental plants. The audience was enthralled by the participants’ portrayal of eight tourist destinations of the Summer Capital of the Philippines, including the famous Ifugao Rice Terraces. The Department of Tourism-Cordillera, as organizer, intended to showcase to the audience the famous tourist destinations in the Cordillera region through the fluvial parade so that tourists can continue to enjoy it.

The first to parade on the lake was the King of the Jungle (Lion’s Head), located at Camp 6, Kennon Road, Baguio City. Built in the 1960s and opened to the public in 1972, it now serves as a stopover for tourists before heading into the city. The second was the “Axis of Baguio” float which includes the City Hall, Hall of Justice, Rizal Park, Rose Garden, Burnham Park, Baguio Convention Center and Supreme Court in Baguio City. The Baguio City Hall, with
its magnificent location and setting, has been a central part of Baguio’s cultural heritage since before the city’s founding in 1909.

The third was the “Baguio Cathedral” float with its bright pink facade, twin spires and intricate stained glass windows, this historic church is not only a place of worship but also a symbol of stability and faith. The “Botanical Garden”, known by many names over the years, including Imelda Park and Centennial Park, in celebration of Baguio’s 100th anniversary, this verdant sanctuary stands as a testament to Baguio’s rich history and vibrant culture.
The Botanical Garden is now known as the Home of “Adopted Park”, as it is home to Internationals and Locals
who have maintained their park, which serves as an attraction.

Fifth is “Wright Park” which is one of the most iconic and beautiful destinations in the city; “Mines View Park” floats in one of Baguio’s most visited and scenic destinations; “Bell Church”, the historic site stands as a testament to the cultural diversity and religious harmony prevalent in the region. Eighth is the “Ifugao Rice Terraces” located in Banaue, Ifugao, carved into the mountains over 2,000 years ago by the indigenous Ifugao people, these stunning terraces stand as a testament to human ingenuity, resilience and deep respect for nature.

After judging, the judges presented the Botanical Garden (Swan Boat) as the 1st place winner, which received a cash
prize of P20,000; second place went to the Baguio City Hall (Golden Seahorse Boat), which received a prize of P15,000; and the Lion’s Head (Antony’s Boat), which received a prize of P10,000. The fluvial floats parade
was a project of the DOT-Cordillera in collaboration with the city government and part of the activity of Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc., for the Panagbenga Festival.