By Liza Agoot
BAGUIO CITY – The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) said it is taking full responsibility for wounds and burns possibly suffered by street dance performers during the two grand parades of the 2026 Panagbenga over the weekend.
Anthony De Leon, chairman of the BFFFI Executive Committee, issued an apology and acknowledged the serious concerns raised regarding the artificial turf used at Melvin Jones Field during the Grand Street Dance Parade.
“To our performers, schools, families, and the people of Baguio and the Cordilleras: We acknowledge the serious concerns raised regarding the artificial turf used at Melvin Jones during the Grand Street Dance Parade. To the students, teachers, trainers, and contingents who experienced pain, injury, and distress, I apologize for this error in judgment and take full responsibility,” De Leon said in a statement.
“As Executive Committee chairperson, I take full responsibility for this incident.”
He said the foundation is coordinating with affected schools and contingent leaders to document incidents and extend necessary assistance.
One elementary street dancing group reportedly sought to halt their performance to allow students to wear footwear due to intolerable heat from the artificial grass, which was laid to prevent dust.
De Leon said they are conducting an immediate review of the decision, safety assessment, and implementation. He committed to stakeholder consultation with schools, cultural practitioners, and concerned sectors before adopting similar measures in future festivals.
“Our Committee for the Street Dance Parade and the performers are not at fault. The responsibility to ensure a safe and culturally respectful performance environment rests with me. Panagbenga belongs to the people. We hear your concerns, we accept accountability, and we will act accordingly,” he said.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong said the turf was introduced for a good purpose, but noted that new things are never perfect. He assured that the BFFFI would extend help to those affected.
Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, city health officer, said the medical team attended to at least seven patients who suffered from foot burns during the parades. However, she noted that it could not be ascertained if these were caused solely by the artificial turf, as many performers walked barefoot on hot pavement from Session Road to Melvin Jones.
Contingents had earlier been advised to have dancers wear footwear as protection from the cold morning pavement and later heat. (PNA)
