• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The week-long celebration of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival ended with a “resounding success”, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said during the closing rites yesterday.
At the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, Lacson rallied the Negrenses to continue carrying forward the spirit of unity and progress that the festival embodies.
Sales in the first six days of the festival was pegged at P11,749,876, according to data provided by the organizers.
On the sixth day, sales reached P2,776,153, of which the bulk of income came from the pavilions of various local government units in the amount of P1,709,127.
The first day sales totaled P1,859,306; second day – P1,603,710; third day – P1,295,228; fourth day – P1,954,520; and fifth day – P2,260,959.
“The future unfolds before us — filled with opportunities, challenges, and the promise of an even brighter tomorrow,” the governor said.
Lacson thanked Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer and members of the Provincial Board, local chief executives, security forces, exhibitors, concessionaires, working committees, among others, who contributed to the continued success of the festival.
“As the curtains close on our 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival, we take this moment to reflect on the incredible journey we have shared throughout the past week. Time moves swiftly, but the memories, achievements and renewed commitments we have strengthened during this festival will remain with us as we step forward into our future filled with promise”, Lacson said.
“Each moment of this festival has been a testament to the strength, creativity, and unity of the Negrenses,” he added.
Lacson also said the participants in the different competitions, including the Lin-ay sang Negros candidates, have brought inspiration and pride to the province.
“Your performances have not only entertained but have also reflected the vibrant culture, artistry, and unwavering spirit of the Negrense people,” he said.
In her speech, festival director Charina Magallanes-Tan thanked the local chief executives for their unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of their cities and municipalities, which has made the festival an inspiring testament to the unity and progress of the province.
“To our performers and competitors, you are the heartbeat of Panaad. Every performance, every competition, and every display of skill and creativity has reaffirmed that our province is a powerhouse of talent and potential,” Tan also said.
“To the vendors, concessionaires, and entrepreneurs, thank you for bringing life to the Panaad Park and for sharing the best of Negrense products and flavors. Your hard work and resilience inspire us, and your success is a testament to the thriving entrepreneurial spirit of our people,” she added.
Magallanes-Tan acknowledged as well “the working committees, Panaad Task Force, production teams, and every individual who contributed their time, energy, and expertise”.
“Your tireless efforts have made all the difference. You have turned ideas into reality, challenges into achievements, and expectations into now our unforgettable experiences,” she concluded. | GB
