By CESAR JOLITO III

The continued increase in fuel prices is expected to affect tourism activity in Negros Occidental, including attendance at the upcoming 30th Panaad sa Negros Festival in April, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said.

Lacson noted that higher transportation costs may discourage domestic travel, particularly among local tourists who typically drive to destinations across the province.

He cited Don Salvador Benedicto town as an example, saying weekend visits to the mountain resort town could decline as fuel expenses rise.

The governor also raised concern over a possible drop in visitors from outside Negros Occidental during Panaad, scheduled from April 13 to 19.

The weeklong celebration, considered the province’s premier cultural event, traditionally draws crowds from various parts of the country.

Despite the expected impact on out-of-town arrivals, Lacson expressed optimism that residents of Bacolod City will continue to support the festival in large numbers./CJ, WDJ