Organizers of the Baguio Flower Festival, known as Panagbenga, are considering barring Senator Imee Marcos and actor Mark Lapid from future editions of the event due to alleged violations of its no-campaign policy.
In a Daily Tribune report, Baguio Flower Festival Foundation Inc. (BFFFI) Executive Committee Chairperson Anthony de Leon stated that the festival had set clear guidelines against political campaigning as early as January 6, 2025. However, Marcos and Lapid reportedly disregarded these rules during the Grand Float Parade on February 23.
Marcos was seen riding a float alongside several celebrities and later stepping down to speak with the media, while Lapid, son of Senator Lito Lapid, was part of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) float. Both were accused of violating event regulations.
BFFFI Chairman for Life Mauricio Domogan confirmed that an investigation is ongoing, and the matter will be taken up during the board of trustees’ meeting. He emphasized that all participants are expected to follow festival rules, which prohibit politicians from stepping off floats, interacting with the crowd, or distributing campaign materials.
If found in violation, the strictest penalty would be a ban from future participation in Panagbenga’s grand parades. Organizers reaffirmed their commitment to keeping the festival a non-partisan celebration for the public, especially with the upcoming 2025 elections.
