Philippine News Agency
Panagbenga opens with ecumenical prayer sans parade
Baguio City has cancelled the opening parade of the Panagbenga Festival and other crowd-attracting events due to the novel coronavirus threat.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong announced the cancellation of the Panagbenga Grand Opening Day Parade on Saturday, January 31, 2020, following the confirmation of the first novel coronavirus case in the country.
He stated that the cancellation is a proactive measure to protect the health of residents and visitors, prioritizing well-being over potential tourism losses.
Magalong also cancelled the Sunday pedestrianization and art activities along Session Road and the Cordillera Athletic Meet (CARAA).
The Panagbenga celebrations officially kicked off on Saturday, February 1, 2020, with ecumenical prayers and a simple program, replacing the canceled opening parade.
A decision regarding the Panagbenga events scheduled for February 29 and March 1, including the Grand Street Dance Competition and Grand Float Parade, depends on the latest developments from the Department of Health (DOH-CAR).
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