Panagbenga bans politicos in future parades for rule breaches

Baguio's Panagbenga festival organizers have banned politicians from participating in future parades following unauthorized political activities during Sunday's float parade.

Senator Imee Marcos and party-list candidate Diwata were among those who violated rules by using floats for campaigning, distributing campaign materials, and wearing campaign colors.

Panagbenga co-chair Anthony de Leon stated that despite repeated warnings weeks prior, politicians like Senator Marcos continued their unauthorized activities during the event.

Marcos rode a float with the words 'Ilocos Norte: I'm In,' which organizers say did not comply with strict prohibitions against campaigning. The foundation has yet to receive an official explanation or apology from groups who violated guidelines.

The National Commission on Indigenous Peoples criticized Diwata for his anti-IP gimmick involving traditional attire and demeaning gestures, though the NCIP acknowledged that it likely was not intended to demean or degrade indigenous peoples.