Negros Occidental province launched on Tuesday afternoon the return of the Panaad sa Negros Festival after a three-year hiatus due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

Set from April 17 to 23 at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan here, the 27th edition of the “festival of all festivals” is themed “The Promise Renewed.”

“Panaad” is the Hiligaynon term for “vow” or “promise”.

In rites held at the Capitol Lagoon and Park here, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said Negrenses are extremely grateful that through God’s favor and grace, they can gather to launch the year’s most awaited event.

“This year’s festival is more than just the resumption of the festival we were compelled to abandon during the pandemic. This is the commemoration of our province’s resilience, perseverance, hope and faith after all we went through for the past three years,” Lacson said.

Speaking before Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, other provincial officials, and city and municipal mayors, the governor said he is confident the Panaad Festival will be “a huge success and will mark the revival of better and brighter days” for the province and its people.

Cheryl Decena, festival executive director, said the province will offer “a week of festivities, culture, arts and a showcase of the very best” of Negros Occidental.

“It is expected to be bigger, brighter and even more memorable. It is three years in the making and we are fully committed in bringing you an event worthy of your time and attention,” she added.

The Panaad Festival features the traditional festival dances competition and the Lin-ay Sang Negros beauty pageant as among the major activities, and this year, an event called the “Best of Negros Products” will be one of the highlights.

The themed pavilions of all 32 cities and municipalities of the province, including the capital Bacolod City, will be showcased once again.

Each structure is designed either as replicas of their own municipal or city hall, or their famous products. (PNA)