• CHERYL G. CRUZ
This year’s Bacolaodiat Festival in Bacolod City on Feb. 20-22 is not only to celebrate culturally-rich revelries but also to recognize the sustained momentum and shared direction, festival chairperson John Stephen Sy said.
Sy, in his speech at the kickoff of the 21st edition of the festival Feb. 14 at SM City Bacolod, said “the Year of the Fire Horse reminds us that progress is never achieved alone. A strong rider and a strong horse move as one – guided by trust, strength, and a shared direction.”
“We gather today not only to celebrate the culturally-rich revelries that await us, but also to recognize the energy and sustained momentum that have brought us to this point,” Sy said, as he thanked the city government and SM Bacolod for “working in sync with a shared commitment to bring culture, business, and community to the forefront.”
“To SM City Bacolod, thank you for being our long-time partner and steadfast ally in strengthening the local Filipino-Chinese community. Thank you as well to the Bacolod City government for the support, which has fueled the Bacolaodiat Festival’s growth into one of the most anticipated and meaningful celebrations in the city,” Sy stressed. “In every lantern lit, in every drumbeat that echoes through this mall, and in every smile formed on the faces of our people, we see the fruits of enduring partnership – and you will continue to witness that as our celebration unfolds.”
Sy, Councilor Pao Sy, and SM Bacolod mall manager Julia Javellana, meanwhile, led the ceremonial banging of the gong to officially kickoff the festival, along with other Bacolaodiat Inc. and mall executives.
The mall, particularly the main atrium, has been spruced up with vibrant installations to capture the season’s lucky feels and the spirit of the Year of the Horse.
Saturday’s celebration continued outdoors at the SMile Strip, where officials formally opened Chopsticks Alley, a food market showcasing diverse Asian-inspired flavors and local food concepts.
The venue now serves as an event hub hosting daily entertainment and community activities this week of the Bacolaodiat Festival, the mall said in a press release. “The Chopsticks Alley takes on a new setting this year, drawing visitors to an accessible venue that blends open-air festivities with the convenience of nearby mall amenities.”
A lion dance performance energized the crowd, while festival mascots in Chinese-themed attire delighted families and kids with a dance number set to the official festival song.
As Bacolod prepares for the main festival days, the organizers said they hope the kickoff activities encourage residents and visitors alike to gather, explore new flavors, and experience all the lucky feels of the season. | CGC
