Bacolod opens 4th Rum Festival with grand kickoff

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY – Bacolod is celebrating its fourth annual Rum Festival, running from August 10 to 18.

City officials, led by Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez and executives from Tanduay Distillers Inc., the festival’s major sponsor, officiated the kickoff ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) on Saturday afternoon.

During the opening rites, Councilor Em Ang, who authored the ordinance declaring the third week of August as Rum Festival week, said the event aims to promote tourism, showcase artistic talent, preserve culture, and enhance cultural appreciation.

“We are proud of how the festival has evolved over the five years since its inception—overcoming many challenges and growing bigger each year,” Ang said.

Ang highlighted that the Rum Festival is becoming one of the city’s most sought-after festivals.

“Together, we have built a celebration that not only honors heritage but also paves the way for future generations to appreciate and cherish,” she added.

The councilor emphasized the festival’s role in preserving culture and boosting the local economy.

Ang noted that creating festivals aligns with the local government’s vision to explore ways to maximize the city’s creative talents and resources for socio-economic growth and cultural development.

Given that sugarcane, the main ingredient in rum, is a primary product of Negros Occidental, and that the country’s largest rum distillery is located here, Ang said it’s fitting to promote Bacolod by highlighting its local products.

She stressed that the rum industry provides livelihoods for many Bacolodnons and Negrenses, contributing significantly to the city’s and province’s economy.

This year’s weeklong celebration features a masterclass on rum appreciation, including lessons on how to use rum in cocktails and food.

The Rum Festival returned last year after a two-year hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.