By Carla N. Cañet

The Province of Negros Occidental, through the Provincial Government, launched the 29th Panaad Festival at the Capitol Park and Lagoon on February 28, 2025.

The launching ceremony featured the presentation and sashing of the 27 Lin-ay sang Negros candidates, conducted by their respective mayors or representatives from their cities and towns.

Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson, Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, members of the Provincial Board, town and city mayors, and other officials—including Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, Ms. Charina Magallanes-Tan, Executive Director of Panaad sa Negros Festival, and Ms. Tanya Lopez of the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc.—led the launch of this year’s festival, which will take place from March 24 to March 30, 2025.

Governor Lacson stated, “Last year, we embraced the theme of ‘Living the Promise.’ This year, we move forward with ‘The Future Unfolds’—a future shaped by our unity, rich culture, and unwavering commitment to progress and one another.”

He emphasized that over the years, Panaad sa Negros has become more than just a festival; it symbolizes our heritage, showcases our resilience, and embodies our shared aspirations. “This is where every town and city in Negros Occidental comes together, bringing forth the best of their traditions, products, and stories—stories that define who we are as Negrenses,” he said.

“With just a few weeks remaining until our much-anticipated festival, I extend my gratitude to everyone working behind the scenes—the dedicated individuals who ensure that this celebration becomes a reality. Your efforts, creativity, and perseverance make this tradition possible, allowing us to make each year more remarkable than the last,” he added.

He urged everyone to “embrace this opportunity to showcase the best of Negros Occidental and its people, enriching the Panaad historical landscape as the festival of all festivals in the province and creating lasting memories for both present and future generations.”

The Governor expressed his heartfelt gratitude to Vice Governor Ferrer, the members of the Sanggunian Panlalawigan, the beloved mayors, congressmen, and partners from the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc. for their unwavering support and commitment to the success of Panaad sa Negros 2025.

“It is through our united efforts, shared vision, and sincere devotion to service that we will realize our common aspirations for Negros Occidental and our fellow Negrenses. Let us look ahead with hope and determination as we unfold a future filled with endless possibilities for Negros Occidental and its residents,” he concluded.

Vice Governor Ferrer shared his pride and excitement regarding the official launch of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival. “This event celebrates the culture of our province and its people, honoring the rich heritage and talents of Negros Occidental. I am delighted to witness the incredible journeys of the individuals who embody the spirit of Negros,” he said.

He remarked that the Lin-ay sang Negros candidates bring “stunning beauty and creative artistry as well as the strength of their community ties. Each contestant brings a unique story and passion to the stage, ready to inspire and dazzle. Let the beauty of Negros shine.”

Atty. Diaz affirmed, “We are ready for a big show in 2025. We will continue to improve year after year.”

Ms. Magallanes-Tan expressed gratitude on behalf of the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2025 Executive Committee: “As we count down to the festival of all festivals in our beloved Negros Occidental, I extend my deepest appreciation to everyone who has worked tirelessly to bring this festival to life.”

She also thanked the elected officials for their spirited participation in this year’s Panaad music video. “This time, we drew inspiration from the Avengers—because if we reflect on everything our province has gone through, we will see that our local officials, though not perfect, have been heroes to their constituents. Through their steadfast dedication, they have led their local governments and communities with strength, resilience, vision, and genuine compassion. Let us give our local officials a big round of applause for their unwavering commitment to public service and their undeniable love for our fellow Negrenses.”

Additionally, she congratulated the Lin-ay sang Negros candidates: “This sashing ceremony marks the beginning of your journey that goes beyond the stage. You now carry the pride of your respective LGUs, embodying the strength, culture, and aspirations of your communities. We admire your dedication and your commitment to inspiring and representing the best of Negros Occidental.”

She also expressed heartfelt gratitude to the performers and former Lin-ay winners who graced the event, stating that their talents provide a glimpse of the excitement awaiting attendees at the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2025 this coming March.

Ms. Lopez said, “We are honored and grateful to be the official partner of the Province for Panaad 2025 with special focus on the culture and the arts. We embraced this opportunity especially now that we have groundbreaking policies and developments for arts and culture in our country such as the Philippine Creative Industries Law, the Cultural Mapping Law and Initiatives in Creative Placemaking. These efforts made possible through collaborations with esteemed institutions such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, the National Commission for Culture and the Arts, the British Council and the Department of Trade and Industry. The Province of Negros Occidental, being the forefront of these efforts affirms in NTFI’s commitment to fostering creative expressions.

The 27 Lin-ay sang Negros candidates during their sashing rites held at the launch of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival held at the Capitol Park and Lagoon on February 28, 2025.

Governor Bong Lacson and Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer with the Lin-ay sang Negros 2024 queen and her court, (standing in front) with the 27 Lin-ay candidates for 2025.

Ms. Charina Magallanes-Tan, Executive Director of Panaad sa Negros Festival.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson

Vice Governor Jeffrey P. Ferrer

Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, II, Provincial Administrator

Ms. Tanya Lopez, Executive Director of the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc.

Victorias City Sidlak Kadalag-an Festival – Best of Festival Dances Competition 2024 Champion performed during the launching of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival.

Cadiz City 2024 Folk Dance Competition Champion performed at the launching of the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival.