Negros Occidental came alive with vibrant colors and cultural pride as Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson officially launched the 29th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Capitol Lagoon and Park on Friday afternoon, February 28.
Lacson, in his speech, emphasized that the festival is an opportunity to celebrate the best of Negros Occidental and its people, further strengthening Panaad’s reputation as the ‘Festival of All Festivals’ in the province.
Set to take place from March 24 to 30 at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Bacolod City, this year’s festival carries the theme “The Future Unfolds.”
Lacson said that the province’s future is shaped by the unity of its people, its deep-rooted culture, and a relentless commitment to progress and collective growth.
Beyond being a celebration, Panaad sa Negros has long stood as a testament to the resilience, heritage, and shared aspirations of Negrosanons.
It serves as an annual convergence of towns and cities across the province, each showcasing their unique traditions, industries, and stories, reinforcing a strong cultural identity.
Sashing
The highlight of the launch was the sashing of the 27 candidates vying for the prestigious Lin-ay sang Negros crown.
The pageant, a beloved festival tradition, recognizes the intelligence, beauty, and advocacy of Negrense women representing their respective localities.
Here are the 27 Lin-ay sang Negros candidates for 2025 as posted by Digicast Negros:
- Bacolod City – Akeisha Nicole V. Nuarin
- Bago City – Tisha Alyanna R. Perocho
- Binalbagan – Jewel Maxine S. Vasquez
- Cadiz City – Ericka J. Verwin
- Calatrava – Rheana T. Loquinario
- Candoni – April Joy G. Florendo
- Cauayan – Princess Michaila B. Togonon
- Don Salvador Benedicto – Jeremae P. Pacino
- Escalante City – Jalice L. De Carvalho
- Himamaylan City – Jorelyn V. Cabatac
- Hinigaran – Susmita Angelique E. Ramos
- Hinoba-an – Justine Joy P. Redocto
- Ilog – Maxine Louise D. Martin
- Isabela – Lyrain T. Dela Torre
- Kabankalan City – Jay Belle B. Ramos
- La Castellana – Chermaine Faith P. Semillano
- Manapla – Julianah Cassandra D. Makilan
- Murcia – Chelzy Jallienne V. Subaldo
- Pontevedra – Samantha Faye C. Rendon
- Pulupandan – Shara Marie A. Tombocon
- Sagay City – Rochelle A. Cabanyog
- Silay City – Mialyn P. Baldonado
- Sipalay City – Merian Paulynne F. Gajardo
- Talisay City – Patricia Ysabel P. Enriquez
- Toboso – Chattea J. Cajucson
- Valladolid – Justine Sherain F. Inson
- Victorias City – Jada Biaxyl Celeste
As the festival approaches, Panaad sa Negros promises to be a grand showcase of talent, craftsmanship, and unity, reaffirming its role as a cultural beacon for the people of Negros Occidental and beyond.*
Reymund Titong is a Filipino journalist steadily building his voice in the field of news reporting, driven by a commitment to tell meaningful and relevant stories.
He serves as a correspondent for Rappler, maintains a personal blog on Medium, and is the communications officer of Hope Builders Organization Negros Island.