By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Coca-Cola FEMSA corporate affairs representative Rommin Diaz urged the provincial government of Negros Occidental to reconsider their decision after they were banned from participating in the 24th Panaad sa Negros Festival, which runs from April 22 to 30.
In a statement released by Diaz, he said it is unfortunate that the provincial government has decided to ban Coca-Cola products from the celebration.
He said the company has been one with the province in celebrating the event for over 20 years by helping enrich the festivities.
“Though we will miss this chance to serve the people of Bacolod, we remain hopeful that our partnership with the provincial government will remain robust,” Diaz said.
He added they also duly respect the decision of the provincial government, as they both continue to share the spirit of Panaad by providing people the promise of a good life.
Previously, United Sugar Producers Federation of the Philippines, Inc. (USPFP) President Manuel Lamata said Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. banned the sale of Coca-Cola products at the festival site.
Lamata also stated the governor has requested the Provincial Board to pass a resolution to ban the company from participating./WDJ