Panaad Fest still a go amid nCoV outbreak

By Dolly Yasa

Bacolod City – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson on Tuesday led the launching of the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2020 with the theme “The Future is Now” on April 20-26, 2020 at the Panaad Park and Stadium.

But Lacson said he will not hesitate to cancel the event amid the 2019 novel coronavirus (nCoV) outbreak.

Still, he said that the outbreak will not dampen the spirit of the Negrenses in celebrating the annual event.

Philippine health officials have pushed for the cancellation of major events to avoid the spread of the virus.

“As far as we know, for now, there is no local transmission, so let us have a positive mindset that this celebration will happen,” Lacson said in the press conference after the launching.

Panaad sa Negros Festival 2020 will showcase the best of the 32 localities in the province.

Lacson said that the ongoing rehabilitation of the Panaad Stadium for the hosting of the 2021 Palarong Pambansa will not subdue the celebration.

With Lacson during the launching were Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer and other provincial government officials.

Colonel Romeo Baleros, Negros Occidental Police Provincial director, said around 1,000 policemen will be tapped to ensure peace and order during the festivities.

Colonel Inocencio Pasaporte, commander of the Army’s 303rd Brigade, said reservists will also augment the police.