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Artemio Dumlao - Philstar.com
March 2, 2026 | 6:44pm
Performers of the 30th Panagbenga Grand Street Parade in Baguio City as taken by Neil Clark Ongchangco and posted by the Baguio Public Information Office on Facebook
Baguio PIO via Facebook
BAGUIO CITY — The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. has accepted full responsibility for injuries sustained by performers on the new artificial turf at Melvin Jones Football Field during the Panagbenga Grand Street Dance Parade.
READ: Panagbenga dancers report burned feet, artificial grass cited
Executive Committee Chairperson Anthony De Leon formally apologized on Monday, March 2, to students, teachers, trainers, and contingents who reported pain and discomfort, describing the installation as an “error in judgment.”
The artificial turf was installed to replace the previously dusty, rocky, and uneven field that had drawn complaints in past years.
“The result, however, caused harm,” De Leon said, emphasizing that the Street Dance Committee and performers were not at fault and that accountability rests solely with him.
Organizers are coordinating with affected schools to document incidents and provide assistance, while immediately reviewing safety measures and implementation protocols.
Consultations with schools, cultural practitioners, and other stakeholders are planned before similar steps are taken in future festivals.
The foundation said it will update the local government and media on its next actions, affirming that Panagbenga “belongs to the people” and that public concerns are being addressed.
