BACOLOD CITY – Bago City in Negros Occidental is celebrating its 59th cityhood anniversary amid the threat of Kanlaon Volcano.
The city kicked off festivities on Feb. 10 with the opening of the Agro-Industrial, Cultural, and Educational Trade Fair at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center that will bring more opportunities for farmers and Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs).

MAYOR Nicholas Yulo (left) and Vice Mayor Ramon Torres open the Agro-Industrial, Cultural, and Educational Trade Fair at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center in Bago City, Negros Occidental on Monday, Feb. 10, to officially start the city's 59th Charter Anniversary celebration. (Photo via CityBridge)
Mayor Nicholas Yulo cited the city’s significant progress over the past 59 years and reflected on the leadership of past officials and the dedication to public service.
“Fifty-nine years is no joke, especially when you see how our city has progressed since 1966,” Yulo said.
He added that after several decades and transition of leaders, the city is committed to the same vision and dedication to public service.
Yulo urged the people to continue making a positive impact and embrace the values that have made the city strong – collaboration, innovation, and commitment to excellence.
The event with the theme “Celebrating 59 Years of Strength and Prosperity: Surmounting Challenges, Cultivating Hope” is being held from Feb. 3 to March 1 with a variety of pre- and post-charter activities.
Yulo and Vice Mayor Ramon Torres noted the importance of safety amid the Kanlaon Volcano threat.
Certain events have been simplified and adjusted following Executive Order No. 3, Series of 2025, which regulates night activities within the city.
“We really have to see to it that our people are being kept safe as public safety will always be the priority of the local government unit,” Torres said.
The month-long celebration will conclude with the Charter Day Palipay and Pasadya on March 1.