BACOLOD CITY – The 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival kicked off in this city on Monday, March 24.
GOV. Eugenio Jose Lacson leads the opening of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City on Monday, March 24. (Glazyl Masculino)
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer, other provincial officials, and local chief executives of cities and municipalities graced the opening at the Panaad Park and Stadium witnessed by a crowd of 5,000.
Lacson said that the festival, with the theme “The Future Unfolds” is a declaration of a collective vision, a testament to the unwavering belief in the unbounded potential of Negros Occidental and its people.
“It is heartening to see how this festival continues to unite every Negrense in pride and joy,” he said.
Lacson said that they are not merely celebrating the present but unveiling the future.
“This year, we look forward with anticipation and excitement, as we are set for an inclusive celebration like no other,” he said.
The Panaad sa Negros has always been more than a festival. It is a dynamic canvass of the heritage, resilient spirit, and shared aspirations of the people of Negros, Lacson said.
Lacson said that the festival is a venue for the 32 local government units (LGUs), including Bacolod City, to proudly showcase their unique treasures, traditions, products, and stories that define the very essence of being Negrense.
“Our culture is a treasure that must be discovered by the world and rediscovered by ourselves.”
Ferrer said that the festival’s theme reflects how the present actions shaped the future of Negrenses who he called a symbol of resilience and positivity and continuously overcome challenges in life, livelihood, and natural calamities.
Charina Magallanes-Tan, Panaad sa Negros 2025 executive director, said that the festivity is a gathering that showcases the soul of the province. “This year, we take that spirit and project it forward into a future bringing with possibilities.”
Tan said that this year, people will see how the province celebrates agricultural bounty while exploring sustainable practices and the vibrancy of arts and culture amplified by creative energy of Negrense artists.
The 27 candidates for Lin-ay sang Negros 2025 were presented during the opening ceremony. The “mother of all festivals” of Negros Occidental ends on March 30.