• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Philippine National Police will enforce a gun ban in Negros Occidental for the duration of the Panaad sa Negros festival.
In an advisory, the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO) said the gun ban will start 12:01 a.m. of April 15 and will end 11:59 p.m. of April 21.
All permit to carry firearms outside of residence (PTCFOR) issued to licensed gun holders will be suspended on the same period, the NOCPPO said.
The week-long 28th Panaad sa Negros, dubbed as the festival of all festivals, is themed “Living the Promise.”
It will be held at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.
Panaad is the Hiligaynon word for vow or promise.
“Our theme this year will show that Panaad Sa Negros Festival continues to significantly impact the lives of our fellow Negrenses, whether in arts, fashion, performances, and many more avenues showcasing the best of Negros Occidental aptly known as the ‘Land of Sweet Surprises,’” Provincial Tourism Officer Cheryl Decena said.
The Panaad Festival’s main feature is the showcase of the local government units’ themed pavilions designed as replicas of their own municipal or city hall or the famous product they are known for.
Pre-festival events will kick off today with the Lin-ay sang Negros press presentation and talent competition, followed by a costume competition on April 14.
The festival’s grand opening on April 15 will begin with morning exhibitions and a dance competition, and will culminate in a concert hosted by the governor, accompanied by a fireworks display.
Senator Imee Marcos is expected to attend the opening ceremony of the Panaad sa Negros Festival.
Other notable festival events include the Governor’s Night on April 18 and the Lin-ay sang Negros pageant night on April 19.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said Interior and Local Government Secretary Benjamin Abalos Jr., Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri and Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito have also been invited. | GB
