Manila: The Baguio Flower Festival Foundation, Inc. (BFFFI) has issued an apology and accepted full responsibility for injuries, including wounds and burns, that street dance performers may have suffered during the two grand parades of the 2026 Panagbenga held over the weekend.
According to Philippines News Agency, Anthony De Leon, chairman of the BFFFI Executive Committee, acknowledged the serious concerns raised about 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 stated.
He emphasized that as the Executive Committee chairperson, he takes full responsibility for the incident, and assured that 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 the intolerable heat from the artificial grass, which was initially laid to prevent dust.
De Leon announced that an immediate review of the decision, safety assessment, and implementation is underway. Additionally, he committed to consulting with stakeholders, including 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 added.
Mayor Benjamin Magalong commented that the turf was introduced with good intentions but acknowledged that new implementations are never perfect. He promised that the BFFFI would extend help to those affected. Dr. Celia Flor Brillantes, the city health officer, reported that the medical team attended to at least seven patients who suffered foot burns during the parades. However, she noted that it could not be confirmed if these were caused solely by the artificial turf, as many performers walked barefoot on the hot pavement from Session Road to Melvin Jones.
Contingents had previously been advised to have dancers wear footwear as protection against the cold morning pavement and subsequent heat.
