By MERLINDA A. PEDROSA
“May this gathering inspire us to strengthen our love for our city, deepen our commitment to public service, and reaffirm our belief that Bacolod’s brightest future will be achieved when we move forward, stronger together.”
This was stressed by Bacolod Acting Vice Mayor Caesar Distrito in his opening remarks during the city’s 88th Charter Day celebration yesterday.
Distrito said the occasion is more than a commemoration of the day Bacolod became a chartered city.
“It is a celebration of our shared history, our collective achievements, and the enduring spirit of resilience, unity and progress that continues to define the Bacolodnon people,” he said.
He added that, through the years, Bacolod has overcome challenges, embraced opportunities and steadily moved forward through the hard work, dedication and cooperation of its people.
Distrito emphasized that the Bacolodnons are reminded of the powerful message embodied in the city’s slogan: “Stronger Together.”
“These two words capture the very essence of Bacolod’s success. Our greatest achievements have always been made possible when government, communities, businesses, civic organizations, and ordinary citizens work hand in hand toward a common goal. Together, we have faced adversity, recovered from challenges, and built a city that continues to grow and thrive,” Distrito said.
Meanwhile, Councilor Homer Bais said Bacolod has stood as a symbol of resilience, unity and progress for 88 years.
“We honor our rich heritage and look forward to a brighter future for all Bacolodnons,” he said.
In his message delivered by Carmeli Bantug, Bacolod Lone District Representative Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said that, from its humble beginnings as a small settlement that sought higher ground for safety, Bacolod has continually risen above challenges and transformed them into opportunities.
“Our ancestors built a thriving community, cultivated industries that fueled our growth, and faced every chapter of history with courage from the victories of the Negros Revolution to the hardships that inspired the birth of the MassKara Festival,” he said in a message.
“The Bacolod we know today is the result of countless individuals who chose to believe in a brighter future. It is a city built not only by leaders and institutions, but by hardworking families, farmers, workers, entrepreneurs, educators, and young people who continue to shape its destiny,” he added.
Hope despite every challenge
Benitez noted the same spirit that gave birth to the MassKara Festival remains alive in every Bacolodnon.
“It is the spirit of perseverance in difficult times, optimism in the face of uncertainty, and the unwavering belief that tomorrow can always be better than today,” Benitez said.
He said it is this spirit that has carved Bacolod its place as the City of Smiles — not because life has always been easy, but because the people have chosen hope despite every challenge.
“I am proud to stand alongside all those working to ensure that Bacolod’s next chapter is even brighter: One that is marked by inclusive growth, sustainable progress and opportunities that leave no Bacolodnon behind,” he added.
The parade started at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol Lagoon and Lizares Street with the participation of city officials led by Mayor Greg Gasataya, employees, different barangays, government agencies, uniformed personnel, the Boy Scouts and Girl Scouts of the Philippines as well as the private companies and organizations in the city./MAP, WDJ