March is Festival Month for Negros Occidental

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — A series of festivals is set to take place throughout March in the province of Negros Occidental, showcasing its rich culture and traditions.

The highlight of the month is the much-anticipated Panaad sa Negros Festival 2025, which will run from March 24 to 30 at the Panaad Park and Stadium. Dubbed the “Mother of All Festivals,” the event was officially launched on Feb. 28, 2025, at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon.

Other festivals include the Sinigayan Festival in Sagay City, scheduled for March 15 to 19, and the Kadalag-an Festival in Victorias City, which will take place from March 19 to 23.

The municipality of Moises Padilla will hold its Hinuptanan Festival from March 22 to 25, while Himamaylan City will celebrate its Himaya Festival from March 31 to April 6.

Sipalay City will host its Burangoy Tourism Kite Festival from March 19 to 22, followed by the Burangoy Festival on March 23. Meanwhile, Ilog town will hold its Kisi-Kisi Festival from March 21 to 25.

During the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2025 launch, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed excitement and anticipation for the upcoming celebration.

“With great excitement and anticipation, we officially launch Panaad sa Negros 2025!” Lacson said.

He noted that last year’s theme, “Living the Promise,” has evolved into this year’s theme, “The Future Unfolds,” which reflects the province’s unity, rich culture, and commitment to progress.

“Over the years, 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.

The governor emphasized that the festival brings together every town and city in Negros Occidental, highlighting their unique traditions, products, and stories that define the Negrense identity.

“With just a few weeks until our much-anticipated festival, I extend my gratitude to everyone working behind the scenes—the dedicated men and women who ensure that this celebration becomes a reality,” he added.

Lacson encouraged everyone to embrace the opportunity to showcase the best of Negros Occidental and enrich the Panaad’s historical significance as the “festival of all festivals” in the province.

He also expressed his gratitude to Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, the members of the Sanggunian Panlalawigan, mayors, congressmen, the Negros Cultural Foundation, Inc., and all stakeholders for their unwavering support.

“It is through our united efforts, shared vision, and sincere devotion to service that we will realize our shared vision for Negros Occidental and our fellow Negrenses,” he said.

Lacson concluded by urging everyone to look forward with hope and determination, envisioning a future filled with endless possibilities for Negros Occidental and its people.