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BACOLOD CITY — The provincial government of Negros Occidental launched on Friday the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Capitol Lagoon and Park, led by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer.
Lacson said "The Future Unfolds" is this year's festival theme.
PANAAD LAUNCH Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer (center) lead the launching of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Capitol Lagoon and Park on Feb. 20, 2025. They are joined by the 27 candidates vying for the Lin-ay sang Negros crown. CAPITOL PIO PHOTO
The future of the province, he said, "is shaped by our unity, our rich culture, and our unwavering commitment to progress and to one another."
"Panaad sa Negros has been more than just a festival; it has been a symbol of our heritage, a showcase of our resilience, and a testament to our shared aspirations," the governor said.
Every town and city of Negros Occidental come together during the festival, bringing the best of their traditions, products and stories.
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"Let us embrace this opportunity to showcase the best of Negros Occidental and the Negrense and enrich the Panaad historical landscape as the festival of all festivals of the province," Lacson said.
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz, meanwhile, recalled how residents affected by the recent unrest of Kanlaon Volcano spent the yuletide season in evacuation centers.
"These are the times when we can bring back the spirit of joy to the people," he said, adding that "Life is full of hardships and challenges."
The provincial government has allocated P30 million for the annual festivities, including support for local government units.
Each participating town and city in Negros Occidental will receive P400,000 in assistance, while Lin-ay sa Negros contestants will be given P50,000 each.
The festival will be held at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City from March 24 to 30.
The highlight of the launching, meanwhile, was the introduction of the 27 candidates vying for the prestigious Lin-ay sang Negros crown.
The pageant, a beloved festival tradition, recognizes the intelligence, beauty and advocacy of Negrense women representing their respective localities.
The Panaad sa Negros Festival will also feature booths from all local government units at Panaad Park and Stadium, where they showcase their top products and cultural heritage.
This year's executive director is Charina Magallanes Tan, head of the Provincial Public Information Office.
The festival took its name from "Panaad," the Hiligaynon word for vow or promise.
