• CHERYL G. CRUZ
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the 5th Bacolod Rum Festival from Aug. 28-30, in partnership with Tanduay Distillers Inc., is more than just a series of events but a celebration of sugarcane and rum heritage.
“From the fertile fields of Negros to the distilleries that transform sugarcane into world-class spirits, rum has sustained our economy, flavored our festivities, and inspired our creativity for generations,” he said at the media launch of the festival Aug. 13 at the Bacolod Government Center lobby.
The mayor stressed that the economic and tourism impact of the festival is undeniable. “Every parade, every tasting, every culinary showcase brings visitors to our hotels, our restaurants, our shops, and our transport services. This festival strengthens Bacolod’s image as a vibrant, creative, and welcoming city, a place where heritage and modernity come together in the most festive way.”
This year’s theme, “Natatagong Galing”, perfectly reflects the spirit of Bacolod and the Filipino people, Gasataya said. “Through this festival, we give our artists, our dancers, our chefs, and our craftsmen a stage to shine. We show the world that Bacolod is not just a place of smiles, but a place of passion, resilience, and artistry.”
Councilor Em Ang, who authored City Ordinance 898, or the Rum Festival, said at the launching that she is happy that the revelry is creating not only tourism and economic activities, but also promotes art and culture.
“The festival was borne out of our intention to promote Bacolod outside as home of the world’s number one rum, as the city where our proudly Philippine-made rum products are made,” And, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Culture and Arts, explained. “We now find ourselves witnessing the 5th Rum Festival celebration, witnessing it getting bigger every year.”
Gasataya said that, in just five short years, what began in 2019 as a bold new idea has grown into one of Bacolod’s signature cultural events. “It has brought together our people, our visitors, and even the world’s attention to the artistry, hospitality, and vibrancy that make Bacolod truly unique.”
He acknowledged that this success is built on the strong partnership between Tanduay Distillers Inc. and the City of Bacolod, and the unwavering support of the community.
Councilor Jason Villarosa, chairperson of the SP Committee on Tourism, clarified that the festival is not exclusive to Tanduay Distillers. But it is this company, which has a plant in Murcia, that has been extending its full support to the city.
All activities will be held at the Bacolod Government Center grounds, with the opening ceremonies and rum appreciation night set on Aug. 28. The food park will also open from Aug. 28 to 31, while a motorcade expected to be graced by Tanduay ambassadors Derek Ramsey and Julia Barreto; the parade and street dance competition; and a music festival, featuring Amiel Sol, Zack Tabudlo, Robledo Timido, and the Mayonnaise band are scheduled on Aug. 30.
“From August 28 to 30, we invite everyone to experience the lively street parade and dance competitions, the culinary showcases pairing local dishes with premium rum, and the world-class rum tastings that honor our city’s proud tradition,” Gasataya said. | CGC
