Thousands are expected to attend the opening of the 25th Panaad sa Negros Festival, which officially kicks off today, April 14, with opening ceremonies beginning at 4:00 p.m. at the Panaad Park and Stadium in Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City.

Both Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. and Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson are expected to deliver welcome messages.

In addition, Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) Assistant Secretary for External and Legislative Affairs Ricojudge Janvier Echiverri will serve as guest of honor and speaker.

Prior to opening rites, a thanksgiving mass will be celebrated that morning, at 8:00 a.m., on the second floor of the Panaad Stadium, followed by ribbon-cutting ceremonies for various festival exhibits.

At 2:00 p.m., the Panaad Motorcade is expected to travel from the Provincial Capitol Lagoon to the festival site.

That evening, following the opening ceremony, the Best of Festival Dance Competition will take place.

GMA Kapuso Night then takes place, featuring appearances by Kapuso stars Mike Tan, Martin del Rosario, Kate Valdez, and Enrico Cuenca.

Events close with a fireworks display.

Meanwhile, with regard to security, Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO) director, Police Senior Superintendent Francisco Ebreo, reminded the public a gun ban is currently declared for Barangay Mansilingan.

He also noted, sharp objects and bladed weapons are prohibited in the festival site.

Approximately 1,072 combined personnel from the Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), and volunteer anti-crime groups will be deployed to secure the event./DGB, WDJ