Panaad gets bigger, better, grander

This is the observation made by Senator Cynthia A. Villar as she graced this year’s edition of Panaad sa Negros, which was held recently at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.

“If we talk about festivals, Panaad has really made its mark, and it is one of the major festivals in our country. That’s why people come to watch it. This is a good opportunity to showcase the best of your province,” said Villar, who is the Guest of Honor and speaker during the opening ceremonies of the 26th edition of the week-long festivities. She also lauded the Negrenses for their continuing efforts to showcase the best of Negros Occidental in the event.

“Your rich culture and tradition, as well as your talents, are the reasons why this festival is getting more popular each year, and is drawing an increasing number of tourists,” Villar pointed out, adding that festivals, like the Panaad sa Negros, is much more than merry-making and festivities.

On the other hand, Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo C. Marañon Jr. said, the 26th edition is one of the most successful celebrations of the province, as he expressed his appreciation to Senator Villar for gracing the event.

“Panaad is also a good venue for the younger generation to take part in traditional activities, and for them to realize that they have so much to be proud of,” Villar added, while citing this year’s theme “Beyond a Promise – A Legacy.”

According to the lady senator, the Negrense culture and tradition should continue, with the young people taking the lead.

“We want the young ones to take the lead in the future. You have so much to celebrate and be proud of. Your culture, heritage, and history – then and now – as you have showcased in various products, performances, and highlights of this celebration,” she said.

After visiting some of the 32 themed pavilions of each city and municipality of Negros Occidental, including that of Bacolod City, Villar cited the importance of the different products exhibited and sold during the event, saying that these can provide livelihood opportunities for the Negrenses.

According to Marañon, the different local government units in Negros Occidental have considerably improved their respective

Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo C. Marañon Jr. (center), together with Vice Governor Eugenio Jose V. Lacson (third from left), Negros Occidental Provincial Tourism officer and Panaad head Cristine Mansinares (second from left), and other guests at the ceremonial ribbon cutting of the exhibit at the 26th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City.

Marañon is shown with Provincial Agriculturist Japhet Masculino (left) and RUFMSC head Ramon Uy Sr. (center) during the opening of the Panaad Organic Village where the different organic produce of Negros Occidental are displayed.

The entrance leading to the Panaad Organic Village. At right are some of the organically-grown fruits sold inside the village.

Villar shares a light moment with Marañon following her arrival at the Panaad Park where she served as the guest of honor and speaker during the event.

Different organically-produced food items are available inside the Sagay pavilion.

The booth of Harbest Agribusiness Corporation selling quality seeds and various agricultural products at the Panaad Organic Village.

Dried fish from the town of E.B. Magalona.

The different rice varieties which are available at the Organic Village.

Native bananas are also offered for sale at the organic village.