By CESAR JOLITO III

Each local government unit (LGU) in Negros Occidental will receive a P500,000 subsidy from the provincial government for this year’s 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival set for April 13 to 19.

Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz II confirmed that Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has signed the necessary documents for the release of the financial assistance.

The subsidy marks an increase from last year’s P400,000 allocation, reflecting the province’s push to further strengthen participation in what is considered the “Festival of Festivals” of Negros Occidental.

According to Diaz, the financial assistance is intended to help cities and municipalities defray expenses for their contingents and presentations during the week-long celebration.

In a move to further highlight the province’s rich and diverse cultural heritage, Diaz earlier announced that the municipal and city festival dance competitions will be held separately this year.

The change aims to give more focus to the distinct identities and traditions of participating LGUs.

The provincial government is also ramping up efforts to increase youth engagement in the annual festivities.

It has partnered with Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute Inc., a youth-led civil society organization focused on mentorship and youth representation, to encourage stronger participation from younger Negrenses.

To further boost public interest, the province plans to bring in top performers for the celebration.

Around 20 percent of the total festival budget has been earmarked for local and national artists.

A total of P50 million has been allocated for the 2026 Panaad celebration, with funds distributed among various committees tasked with organizing the event.

Diaz underscored the importance of careful planning and prudent resource management to ensure the success of the milestone 30th edition of the province’s mother of festival./CJ, WDJ