Senator JV Ejercito Honors Negrense Heritage at 30th Panaad Festival Opening
Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito, whose mother, former San Juan mayor Guia Gomez, hails from Negros, attended the grand opening of the 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City on April 13, 2026. The event, captured in a photo by Merlinda A. Pedrosa and published on April 14, 2026, marked a significant celebration of Negrense identity and community spirit.
Celebrating Negrense Culture and Unity
In his address during the Monday afternoon ceremony, Senator Ejercito underscored the festival's profound importance. "The Panaad Festival 2026 stands as a testament of who we are as Negrenses, and where we are going. It showcases the very best of Negros," he declared. He elaborated that the festival highlights the region's rich culture, delectable food, and exceptional talent, providing a vital platform for expression and celebration, especially for the youth facing various challenges.
Fostering Economic Growth and Livelihood
Beyond cultural festivities, Senator Ejercito emphasized his support for initiatives that enhance business skills among Negrenses. He noted observing numerous seminars and fairs within the province's programs, which he believes are crucial for empowering residents. "I support all of these, which I believe will give our people a chance to learn, improve their livelihood, and to find better ways to provide for their families," he stated. He added that such opportunities could help individuals start small sidelines and grow them into stable incomes, ultimately opening doors and changing lives through the festival's broader impact.
Official Endorsements and Community Engagement
During the event, Senator Ejercito also engaged with local officials, including a meeting with Pulupandan Mayor Miguel Antonio Peña, along with municipal employees and barangay health workers, reinforcing his commitment to grassroots connections. Meanwhile, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, who rang the bell to officially inaugurate the festival, echoed sentiments of unity and pride. "Panaad Festival has been an expression of our identity as Negrenses -- our storied past, triumphs, challenges, culture and of course, our shared aspirations," he remarked. He highlighted that the festival brings together stories, products, and traditions from all 32 local government units, forming a cohesive and proud Negros Occidental.
A Week-Long Celebration of Unity
Governor Lacson urged participants to embrace the opportunities presented by the festival, showcasing the best of Negros Occidental to both local communities and the global stage. The festival, themed "Panaad sa Negros: 30 Years of Bringing Negrenses Together," is set to run until April 19, 2026, serving as Negros Occidental's premier "festival of all festivals." This week-long event aims to enrich the historical landscape of Panaad sa Negros, ensuring its enduring legacy for future generations.
