A GRAND motorcade kicks off the celebration of the 88th Charter Day of Bacolod City on Thursday, June 18. (Bacolod City Communication Office)
BACOLOD CITY – This highly-urbanized city celebrated its 88th Charter Day on Thursday, June 18, by paying tribute to the resilience, dedication, and aspirations of its people.
This year’s celebration with the theme “Bacolod Stronger Together” highlighted the city's continued progress rooted in the collective efforts of its citizens.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the Charter Day is not only a commemoration of Bacolod’s cityhood, but also a tribute to the commitment of the people to service, excellence, and community-building that has helped shape the city into one of the country’s most dynamic highly urbanized cities.
A grand mobile parade kicked off the celebration, featuring city officials, employees, national government agencies, barangays, civil society organizations, volunteer groups, schools, and uniformed personnel.
A major highlight of the celebration is the Ang Banwahanon Awards 2026, which will honor individuals and organizations whose leadership, service, compassion, and dedication have made a meaningful impact on the community.
Negros Occidental third district Rep. Javier Miguel Benitez will be the keynote speaker for the ceremonies.
The awards recognize Bacolodnons and groups who embody the true spirit of being Banwahanon through selfless service, civic responsibility, and contributions to the welfare and development of the city.
A Charter Day Job Fair was held at SM City Bacolod.
The celebration will continue on Friday, June 19, with the city’s first-ever Festival of Dances at the Bacolod City Government Center. The competition will feature eight groups composed of employees from various city government offices and departments.
Performances will be inspired by the city's festivals, traditions, and barangay culture, aimed at promoting camaraderie, teamwork, creativity, and cultural appreciation among public servants while celebrating the rich heritage of the city's communities.
Charter Day commemorates the signing of Commonwealth Act No. 326 by President Manuel L. Quezon on June 18, 1938, which officially created the City of Bacolod. It is also a special non-working holiday in the city through Republic Act No. 11146.