• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Victoriasanons may expect a grandest 27th Kadalag-an Festival this year, with star-studded performances, thrilling events, and non-stop festivities, according to Mayor Javier Miguel Benitez.
Benitez, accompanied by members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, headed by Vice Mayor Abelardo “JunB” Bantug, led the grand launching of 27th Kadalag-an Festival on March 5, at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City.
The 12 candidates vying for the crown of Sidlak Kadalag-an Queen 2025 were also presented to the media.
Benitez said the festival highlights on March 19 to 23, with the first ever Midnight Victory Run and fireworks ‘salubong’ on March 20, the eve of Charter day celebration.
It will bring together runners, fitness enthusiasts, and festival goers for an exhilarating countdown to the much awaited charter day on March 21.
The event will culminate in a grand fireworks display, welcoming a new year of progress and unity for Victorias City, according to the mayor.
For the first time, Benitez said the Sidlak Music Festival is taking the center stage as one of the grandest musical events in the Kadalag-an Festival, bringing together the best of the best in the music industry, for an unforgettable night of electrifying performances.
Attending the festival are Piolo Pascual and Sam Concepcion, KC Montero, Wacky Kiray and Alexa Miro, actor comedian Nico Antonio Michael Pangilinan, JM and Fyang from Pinoy Big Brother, Zack Tabudlo and famous bands from Metro Manila, including Itchyworms and Imago, among other entertainers.
The Kadalag-an Queen 2025 coronation night is slated on March 21. The theme for this year’s pageant aims to shine a spotlight on the various projects and achievements of Victorias City in the past three years.
Vying for the crown are Natasha Francinn Myles Soriano. Kristine Claire Catapang, Rushane Flor Dequito, Anya Jezella Arnaez, Amie Liza, Noor Tarek Hammoud, Cristine Jane Inao, Princess Raiza MaE Dazo, Sherilou Ann Generales, Ginel Apolinario, Gianne Preces Boyero, and Juliana Rose Penetrante.
From March 8 to 16 will highlight various sport events, showcasing local talents in football, chess tournament, sepak takraw, boxing, basketball, and drag racing.
This year’s festivities bring an exciting mix of sports, music, and stellar performances, making it the grandest Kadalag-an Festival yet, he added.*
