Hello there! It's me, Mae!
I hope you all are doing well. To start with, let me give an idea for you to know what Panaad sa Negros Festival is. It's all about showcasing the products and rich culture of 32 LGU’s within the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines and celebrated within 2 weeks at Bacolod City Panaad Park and Stadium. With the theme of 2025: "The future unfolds". It is considered as the mother of all festivals. Where you can find some food and stuff that is coming from far away cities and towns.
This is my once in a year experience together with mama, little sister, and another younger sister.
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First stop, Bacolod City pavilion. From there you can find iconic smiling mascaras and the famous sweet delicacy of Bacolod —piaya♥️.
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Second stop, Don Salvador Benidicto. I couldn't resist buying fresh pineapple and topped with some spicy salt. It tastes so sweet and as a pineapple lover, I was in heaven! So yum!
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Third stop, Toboso. It is known for their "Sag-ahan Festival" . Sag-a means "to take or catch fish with the hands" —a celebration of thanksgiving and gratitude for the blessings and abundance of the area, particularly its fishing industry.
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Fourth stop, Calatrava. They are known for their "Lilas Pandan Festival" —a blossoming celebration in the Municipality of Calatrava rightfully recognizing the pandan not just in its contribution to the local economy but also in bringing Calatrava to the world. As you can see in the picture, I've had a picture with the monkey statue that is featured also in their location that has a monkey sanctuary, which is a place where monkeys are protected and can live freely.
Last stop, Sipalay City. This is where I was born, so we simply couldn’t skip it. Visiting this place kinda feels like discovering the true Jewel of the Sugar Island. Well, nothing beats the real place which is Sipalay City.
As soon as I entered, the first thing that caught my eye was the Barongoy fish sculpture, creatively made from recycled plastics. It felt like a warm, artistic welcome to a place that knows how to turn trash into treasure. Where in fact, Sipalay is known for their "Barongoy Festival"
which offers tourists a glimpse of the simple life of Sipalaynons through thanksgiving for bountiful harvests of “barongoy” or flying fish from the sea.
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Then, they had real beach white sand and my little sister was happy playing in it hahaha. Those silly smiles prove that she also misses the fine white sand of every beach in Sipalay.
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Along the outside walls, I noticed plenty of posters displaying the Republic Act on Solid Waste Management. It made me proud to see how Sipalaynons are taking real steps to protect Mother Nature. I even got to take part in their “War on Waste Sipalay” interactive board, where visitors can leave messages and pledges about the city’s fight against waste. It’s a simple yet powerful way to raise awareness and involve everyone in the cause.
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Next, they showcased their local food and products—most of which are inspired by the bounties of the sea. There was also a tourist map on display to guide anyone planning to explore Sipalay City. Just below the map, you’ll find highlights of the city’s top tourist attractions, including caves, beaches, and more.
Truly, it makes me proud to be a Sipalaynon. Even though I was raised in Bacolod City, my heart still beats for the beauty of Sipalay. It’s a breathtaking place—one that you have to visit not just to see, but to feel. Sipalay has a soul, and once you’re there, you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
There’s so much more to explore at the Panaad sa Negros Festival booths, but we wrapped it up here. My little sister was already tired and on the hunt for something to eat haha. This family bonding may have been a bit tiring, but it was definitely worth it. Until then, see you next year at the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2026!
Hoping to see you all again! Bye bye!❤️