By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – Amid the looming threat of Kanlaon volcano’s eruption, the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2025 will be launched on Friday, Feb. 28, at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon.
This year’s festival, themed “The Future Unfolds,” will take place from March 24 to 30 at the Panaad Park and Stadium.
Along with the official launching of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival, Friday’s program will also feature the sashing ceremony for the Lin-ay Sang Negros 2025 candidates.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz recalled how residents affected by Kanlaon’s activity spent the yuletide season in evacuation centers.
“These are the times when we can bring back the spirit of joy to the people,” he said. “Life is full of hardships and challenges.”
The provincial government has allocated PHP30 million for the annual festivities at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City, including support for local government units.
“Even in darkness, we need a little spark of light. In sadness, we need a little joy to perk up everybody,” Diaz added.
The Office of Civil Defense has identified Panaad Park and Stadium as a possible evacuation site for about 37,000 La Castellana residents in case of a Kanlaon eruption.
“We want to celebrate the unity of the province and showcase to the entire country what we can accomplish if we work together,” Diaz said.
“We will try to give you the best show this 2025, hoping that all aspects go well, including the situation with Mt. Kanlaon,” he added.
Each participating town and city in Negros Occidental will receive PHP400,000 in assistance, while Lin-ay sa Negros contestants will be given PHP50,000 each.
Dubbed the “Mother of All Festivals” in Negros Occidental, the Panaad sa Negros Festival features booths from all local government units at Panaad Park and Stadium, where they showcase their top products and cultural heritage.
This year’s executive director is Charina Magallanes Tan, head of the Provincial Public Information Office.
