• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The weeklong celebration of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival ended a “resounding success,” Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson declared.
Lacson, who led the festival closing ceremony last night at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, rallied Negrenses to continue carrying forward the spirit of unity and progress that the festival embodies.
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 Sangguniang Panlalawigan, local chief executives, security forces, exhibitors, concessionaires, and 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 that the participants in different competitions, including Lin-ay sang Negros candidates, have brought inspiration and pride to the province of Negros Occidental.
Your performances have not only entertained but have also reflected the vibrant culture, artistry, and unwavering spirit of the Negrense people, he added
You are the true embodiment of what Panaad stands for – the past, present, and unfolding future of Negros Occidental, Lacson further said
In her speech, festival director Charina Magallanes-Tan, thanked local chief executives for their unwavering commitment to showcasing the best of their cities and municipalities, which made the festival an inspiring testament to 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.
To 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, Tan concluded.*
