• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The 30th edition of Panaad sa Negros Festival ended on a high note Sunday night, April 19, celebrating not only a week of vibrant cultural showcases and festivities, but also three decades of unity among Negrenses.
In his speech at the closing ceremony, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson lauded the peaceful and successful celebration as he highlighted the collective effort of local leaders, participants, and communities across the province.
The festival once again demonstrated the resilience and creativity of the Negrense people despite the economic challenges brought about by rising fuel costs due to Middle East armed conflict, Lacson said.
The six-day Panaad sa Negros festival sales reached P23.7 million, with all recorded days from April 13 to 18 posted significant increases.
Organizers described this year’s Panaad as one of the best performing years in terms of sales.
Lacson also recognized various stakeholders, including the Sangguniang Panlalawigan led by Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso, Negros Occidental lawmakers, local chief executives, corporate sponsors, national agencies, and partner organizations such as the Philippine National Police, Armed Forces of the Philippines, and Bureau of Fire Protection for ensuring the event’s success and security.
Special recognition was given to the Panaad Task Group, security personnel, and volunteers whose efforts maintained safety and order throughout the festivities. Concessionaires and exhibitors were also acknowledged for contributing to the festival’s role as a major economic and cultural showcase.
Participants in various competitions, including the Lin-ay sang Negros candidates, were commended for their talent and for bringing pride to the province.
Lacson further said Negrenses from around the world also joined the celebration through live streams, reflecting the festival’s growing global reach.
Festival director Charina Magallanes-Tan described the 30th Panaad sa Negros as “extraordinary” and a testament to collaboration and shared purpose.
Magallanes-Tan highlighted the months of preparation behind the scenes, crediting the success of the festival to the dedication of working committees, production teams, and organizers as she also thanked Lacson and other Capitol officials for their support and leadership.
She also recognized the performers and competitors as the “heartbeat” of the festival, and praised vendors and entrepreneurs for showcasing the best of Negrense products, which contributed to the local economy.
Security teams, health responders, and volunteers were likewise commended for ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience for visitors.
Magallanes-Tan emphasized that the success of the festival serves as a reminder of what can be achieved through unity and collaboration. | GB
