BACOLOD City – For the safety of festival-goers, a total of 1,015 security forces were deployed for the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival.
The festival will officially open this Monday afternoon at Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here.
Led by Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson, the sendoff ceremony for the members of the Security Committee and Site Task Group (SSTG) Panaad Festival 2025 was held at Panaad Park Stage on Saturday, March 22.
Police Colonel Rainerio de Chavez, director of Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office (NOCPPO), presented the security forces composed of the members of the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), medical team, and the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management (DRRM) Office.
De Chavez, who also serves as the commander for SSTG, said that security is a shared responsibility and he calls for everyone’s cooperation in making the festival safe, peaceful and successful.
“In behalf of our deployed personnel, we commit to uphold peace and order throughout the entire celebration,” he added.
For his part, Gov. Lacson promised this year’s festival will be extraordinary.
“Building on the success of our previous years’ festival, the upcoming Panaad Sa Negros Festival 2025 promises to be an extraordinary celebration,” said the governor.
This year, he said that they have expanded the lineup of the activities to create a more vibrant and unforgettable experience for all attendees.
There will be concerts, contests, and captivating local government unit (LGU) pavilions to attract festival-goers, he said.
The governor also expects a significant influx of visitors eager to join in the festivities, as they prepare for this larger gathering.
“It is imperative that we prioritize safety to enhance the integrity of our festival, and we want our festival-goers to not only fell secure but also to truly enjoy the festivities we have prepared,” Gov. Lacson said.
He added: “The PNP and all other forces play an indispensable role. Your commitment in maintaining order, managing crowds, preparing for emergencies and ensuring public safety is crucial in creating an atmosphere where everyone can celebrate without worry.”
The Panaad Festival, known as the mother of all festivals in Negros Occidental, will culminate on March 30./PN
