Silay’s Kansilay tops Panaad dance competition

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By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The Kansilay Festival of Silay City, Negros Occidental was named grand champion in the city category of this year’s Best of Festival Dances during the opening of the 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival on Monday at Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here.

The contingent representing the “Paris of Negros” bested six other groups and took home PHP 120,000 in prize money.

Named after Princess Kansilay, the warrior-heroine linked to the city’s origin story, the festival honors Silay’s heritage through dance and cultural performance, according to the Department of Tourism Western Visayas. (Facebook)

San Carlos City’s PintaFlores Festival finished first runner-up and received PHP 100,000, plus PHP 20,000 for the Best Introduction Video award.

Talisay City’s Minuluan Festival placed second runner-up and received PHP 80,000.

Kabankalan City’s Sinulog Festival came in third runner-up and got PHP 50,000.

Cadiz City’s Dinagsa Festival placed fourth runner-up and took home PHP 30,000.

Thirteen entries competed in the municipality category of the same contest on Tuesday night.

Around 30,000 people flocked to Panaad Park and Stadium during the festival opening on Monday. ( Manila Bulletin)

In his message, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson reaffirmed their shared promise that, even in the face of challenges, the people of Negros will continue to build a province where they can thrive, heritage is preserved, and the future remains bright.

“As we open this week-long celebration, let us not only showcase the best of Negros Occidental, we gather to be a part of a shared history as a people and as a province to celebrate 30 years of bringing Negrenses together,” he added.

Lacson said the festival has been an expression of Negrense identity — their stories, triumphs, challenges, culture and shared aspirations.

“It is where every story, every product, every tradition from our 32 local government units (LGUs), including this highly-urbanized city comes together to form one proud and unified Negros Occidental,” he added.

“Today, we stand in that future-stronger, more united, and more inspired by what we have achieved together, even as we continue to face challenges in a world that is never without uncertainty,” the governor said, urging Negrenses to embrace the opportunities before them.

“Let us showcase the best of Negros Occidental, not only to our fellow Negrenses but to the world. Together, let us enrich the historical landscape of Panaad sa Negros, ensuring that its legacy endures through time,” he said.

He thanked the provincial government, local officials, partners and stakeholders for their unwavering support and commitment, which he said are the cornerstones of the festival’s success.

“To my beloved Negrenses, your presence, enthusiasm, and unwavering support remain the lifeblood of this festival. This occasion reminds me of the profound privilege of serving you to devote my time and energy to the continued progress of our province,” he said.

He also expressed gratitude to organizers, partners, performers and stakeholders for their dedication, which keeps the spirit of Panaad alive.

Meanwhile, Sen. Joseph Victor “JV” Ejercito, who traces family roots to Negros Occidental, graced the occasion and lauded the province for reaching the milestone. (SunStar Publishing Inc.)

“Indi basta-basta ang 30 years! What a celebration this is!,” he said.

Ejercito noted that this year’s festival stands as a testament of who Negrenses are and where they are going.

He said it showcases the best of Negros in culture, food and talent.

“For our young people, this is also very important, that despite the challenges, we give them space to express themselves and celebrate,” he added.

“Kahit may krisis sa labas ng bansa na umaabot sa atin, hindi tayo nagpapatinag. Lumalaban tayo, patuloy na nagsi-celebrate dahil we love life. We love our people. Ipinapakita natin yan sa pagiging matatag para sa ating mga minamahal,” Ejercito said.

The senator said the festival also helps Negrenses develop business skills through seminars and fairs.

He expressed support for these efforts, saying they give people a chance to learn, improve their livelihood and find better ways to provide for their families.

“For some, this could mean starting a small sideline and growing it into a stable income. Through these, the Panaad Festival will open doors and change lives,” he said.

Dubbed the “Festival of All Festivals,” the Panaad sa Negros Festival highlights the culture, traditions and unity of Negrenses and runs from April 13 to 19, 2026.