BAGUIO CITY – Mayor Mauricio Domogan last week expressed elation over the Baguio Flower Festival or Panagbenga’s membership to the International Festival and Events Association (IFEA).
The mayor announced the good news during the regular media forum. “This is an honor and a distinction for the city’s Panagbenga, the certification being a first in the country,” the mayor said.
A certification from IFEA arrived Jan. 26 and its validity lasts until 2017, it was known.
The certification cites the Baguio Flower Festival as a “member in good standing, adhering to the ethical standards of conduct outlined by the IFEA with all rights and privileges pertaining thereof.”
The IFEA, a not-for-profit organization was founded in 1956, in Boise, Idaho, USA. Its target audience “includes all those who produce and support quality celebrations for the benefit of their respective ‘communities.’” The IFEAs’ “primary focus is identifying and providing access to the professional resources and networks that will, as stated in the mission, inspire and enable those in our industry to realize their dreams, build community and sustain success through celebration.”
“The IFEA exists to serve the needs of our entire industry, all those who share our core values of excellence & quality; the sharing of experience, knowledge, creativity and best practices; and the importance of “community” building both locally and globally,” it was known from IFEAs’ official website.
Panagbenga, a kankana-ey word for “a season for blossoming,” started in 1995 with schoolchildren being the main players. The festival grew to be a crowd-drawer with its rich cross-culture month-long celebration, and blooms from local, national and even foreign suppliers.
Now, on its 21st year, the celebration expects more tourists during the main events: the streetdancing and float parade on Feb. 27 and 28./Julie G. Fianza
