• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Despite economic challenges, the 30th edition of Panaad sa Negros festival, which saw the participation of all 32 local government units of the province, concluded on a high note on Sunday night, 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 economic challenges brought about by the fuel crisis, due to the armed conflict in the Middle East, Lacson said.
The six-day Panaad sa Negros festival sales reached P23.7 million, with all days from April 13 to 18 posting significant increases compared to last year. 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 solons, local chief executives, corporate sponsors, national agencies, and partner organizations such as the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), 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. Likewise, concessionaires and exhibitors were 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, in her speech during the closing ceremony, described the 30th Panaad 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 Governor Lacson, Vice Governor Alonso, board members, and Provincial Administrator Atty. Ray Diaz for their support and leadership.
She also recognized 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.
The Panaad sa Negros Festival, often referred to as the “Festival of Festivals,” remains one of the most significant cultural events in Negros Occidental, celebrating identity, heritage, and community spirit, she stressed.*
