Bacolod City – The 2025 Panaad sa Negros festival will be “apolitical.”
That was announced recently by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, as the annual festival is slated to open March 24 until March 30, while the campaign period for local candidates will also commence on March 28.
Former Governor Rafael Coscolluela, a consultant of the provincial government, earlier suggested to Lacson not to allow campaigning at the Panaad festival site, according to Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz.
Lacson said that candidates can visit the Panaad sa Negros festival site, “shaking hands with everybody and giving T-shirts, but not posters.”
“Could you imagine all the trees there having campaign materials? It is ugly,” he stressed.
The opening of Panaad sa Negros festival is usually being attended by all mayors, solons and other local officials of Negros Occidental, among others.
Lacson said the men and women behind the festival are doing their best to come up with enjoyable festivities.
This year’s festival has the theme “The Future Unfolds.”
“Panaad sa Negros has been more than just a festival; it has been a symbol of our heritage, a showcase of our resilience, and a testament to our shared aspirations,” Lacson said.
Every town and city of Negros Occidental comes together during the festival, bringing the best of their traditions, products, and stories.
“Let us embrace this opportunity to showcase the best of Negros Occidental and the Negrense and enrich the Panaad historical landscape as the festival of all festivals of the province,” Lacson said.
The provincial government has allocated P30 million for the annual festivities, including support for local government units participating in the festival. (Gilbert Bayoran via tvds photo by tvds)
Tags: bacolod, negros, occidental, panaad, festival, governor, lacson, apolitical