Cadiz Rooftop Farming Wins at Panaad 2025

BACOLOD CITY – Cadiz City stood out at this year’s Panaad sa Negros Festival, winning Best Local Government Unit (LGU) Booth in the City Category for its sustainable rooftop farming initiative, besting 12 other component cities across Negros Occidental.

The Cadiz Pavilion impressed with its eco-conscious architectural design, showcasing the city’s strong commitment to sustainability.

At the heart of the pavilion was an innovative rooftop farming system, where rice paddies and green leafy vegetables flourished.

The design reflected the city’s vision of integrating food security with green, eco-friendly practices.

The rooftop farm transformed the pavilion into a living model of sustainable agriculture and urban greening, proving how cities can maximize space for food cultivation and environmental stewardship.

The rice paddies and vegetable garden symbolized Cadiz’s agricultural roots and its proactive stance on climate action and food resilience.

This standout feature made the Cadiz Pavilion more than just an exhibit—it became a thriving emblem of sustainable progress.

Cadiz was also recognized for its compliance with Republic Act 9003, or the Ecological Solid Waste Management Act.

The city showcased its innovative “Waste to Worth, Shoot for Circular Economy!” program, which allowed visitors to trade plastic bottles for points redeemable for Cadiz-made products from local micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs).

The Solid Waste Management (SWM) Corner at the pavilion gave participants the chance to shoot a bottle, earn points and win a reward.

Paul Jesaz Aguirre of the City Environment and Natural Resources Office was awarded Best Active SWM Focal Person and Best Focal Person in Implementing SWM Innovations and Waste Diversion Activities.

Cadiz also took home several other awards:

• Champion – Pop Dance Competition
• 1st Place – Panaad Basketball Tournament (17-Under)
• 3rd Runner-Up – Latin Dance Competition (Juvenile Category)
• 4th Runner-Up – Best of Festival Dances Competition
• Top 10 Finalist – Lin-ay sang Negros 2025

Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr. said these achievements affirm that Cadiznons are competitive, persevering and capable of leadership across the province.

He added that Cadiz continues to shine as a symbol of excellence and sustainability.