• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Sidlak Kadalag-an Festival of Victorias City clinched the grand slam victory in the Panaad sa Negros Best of Festival Dances 2025, while the world renowned Bailes de Luces of La Castellana, as expected, emerged as the champion in the municipal category, which was held on Monday night at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Brgy. Mansilingan, Bacolod City.
With 80 dancers, 10 characters, and 90 propsmen, the Sidlak Kadalag-an Festival powerhouse team delivered another electrifying performance, earning them their third consecutive championship in the city category, solidifying their place in the Panaad Hall of Fame.
Victorias City also achieved a back-to-back victory in the Best Introduction Video category, directed by Kurt Soberano in collaboration with Jerancy Antonio Productions.
With this historic grand slam victory, Victorias City is now exempt from competing in next year’s Panaad sa Negros Best of Festival Dances and will make its return in 2027.
Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez has been a steadfast supporter of the festival’s journey since his election in 2023, a period that saw Victorias City achieve its first victory in the Best of Festival Dances, a statement from the City Public Information Office said.
Victoriasanons, city officials, and employees rallied behind the team, making their presence felt with the loudest cheers at the stadium, with Ricky Parel Lapidante Jr. as the mastermind behind this remarkable three-peat triumph.
On the other hand, Mayor Alme Rhummyla Nicor Mangilimutan said winning the championship in the municipal category was a product of the best effort. She also recalled that during the stint of her father, Alberto Nicor, as mayor of La Castellana, the municipality also emerged as champion, not only once,but twice, in the best of festival dances.
Last year, the La Castellana’s premier Bailes de Luces dancers were named as Senior Grand World Champion – Dance Group of the World during the 2024 World Champions of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held at Westin Long Beach California, U.S.A.
Silay City, San Carlos City and Bago City were the 1st, 2nd and 3rd runners up in the city category, with Manapla – 1st runner up, Calatrava – 2nd runner up, Murcia – 3rd runner up and Don Salvador Benedicto as 4th runner up in the municipal category. | GB
