BY JEN BAYLON
BACOLOD City – Festivities for the much-anticipated 28th Panaad sa Negros Festival 2024 will officially commence this Monday, March 18.
Cheryl Decena, Provincial Tourism Officer of Negros Occidental, expressed readiness for the launch at 4 p.m. at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City.
“We are ready for the launch this Monday. Like in past years, we’re inviting mayors, vice mayors, regional and national guests, tourism officers, and stakeholders. We are anticipating a significant turnout as we have been building excitement with our various partners and activities each year,” Decena said.
The introduction and sashing ceremony of Lin-ay candidates, along with performances by past winners, are set to take place on Monday as well.
A distinctive juncture of this year’s Panaad is its collaboration with the Multi-Sectoral Alliance for Development (MUAD), a farmers association.
Decena elaborated on this partnership as a part of their commitment to food security, in line with the Abanse Negrense initiative.
The theme for this year’s Panaad is “Living the Promise,” which aims to showcase how Negrenses have lived up to their promises in the past Panaad sa Negros Festivals.
Panaad, which means “vow and its fulfillment” in Hiligaynon, symbolizes unity among the local governments in Negros Occidental and has become a cherished tradition among Negrenses.
Recognized as the “Festival of All Festivals,” the Panaad sa Negros Festival features a captivating cultural show that highlights the best festivals from the participating cities and municipalities, drawing thousands of visitors each year./PN
