The provincial government of Negros Occidental yesterday spearheaded the First LakBAYANIhan Fair, in partnership with the Department of Tourism- Western Visayas, with the participation of 32 local government units, including the highly-urbanized Bacolod City.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson led the opening ceremonies held at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central in Bacolod City, which was also attended by DOT regional director Cristine Mansinares, Board Members Rita Gatuslao and Pal Guanzon and Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz, among others.
The tourism fair showcased the Negrense arts, beautiful handicrafts, authentic local cuisine, and cultural festivities of the cities and towns of the province.
The activity, led by the Negros Occ. Tourism Division, is one of the tourism recovery initiatives of the provincial government, and will run until May 29.
Lacson said that Negros Occidental is one of the most gifted provinces in terms of natural and human resources with vast potential for tourism, food tourism, farm tourism, and sports tourism.
While the tourism sector was among those gravely altered and affected by the COVID crisis, it presented an opportunity for Negrenses to build capacities and innovate, he added.
“The fact that this first tourism fair since the pandemic began is widely participated by almost all LGUs including Bacolod City, is a demonstration and affirmation of our resilience,” Lacson said.
He added that the event is a good opportunity for the participants to showcase their products and tourism offerings, as well as show their talents in innovation.*
