BACOLOD City – Intermittent rains failed to dampen the sky over Bago City, Negros Occidental on New Year’s eve. Over 35,000 revelers gathered at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Sports Complex to witness the 12th edition of the “Lights of Bago.”
Mayor Nicholas Yulo said the 26-minute fireworks show highlighted the need for awareness on human immunodeficiency virus and acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (HIV/AIDS).
“Bago City’s fireworks display was a meaningful one. There seems to be an alarming trend of the disease affecting our youth so an increased awareness is needed,” Yulo added.
Negros Occidental is reported to have one of the highest cases in the country, and Bago ranks second in the province, he noted.
Yulo the city government has thought of using the popularity of the annual event for this cause as he expressed optimism that the musical fireworks show will convey the message to the audience.
He added that aside from putting Bago on the tourism map, the “Lights of Bago” also symbolizes hope for a brighter year awaiting every Bagonhon.
This year’s latest edition was themed “A Rhapsody of Colors and Diversity,” featuring nine greatest hits of British rock band Queen during the fireworks display./PN
