Now marking its 21st year, the Bacolaodiat Festival has solidified its status as a cornerstone of Bacolod’s tourism and a vital engine for local economic growth.
During the festival’s grand opening at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) grounds on Friday afternoon, Feb. 20, organizers and city leaders celebrated two decades of Filipino-Chinese synergy.
“It is my profound pride and honor to welcome everyone to this vibrant celebration,” said Festival Chairperson John Stephen Sy during his opening address.
“The Bacolaodiat Festival has evolved into more than just an annual event; it is a vital bridge connecting our local community with its deep Filipino-Chinese heritage. Beyond its cultural depth, it has grown into one of Bacolod City’s premier tourism drivers, inviting the world to witness the warmth and hospitality that define us.”
The 2026 edition, celebrating the Year of the Fire Horse, was officially kicked off by city officials led by Mayor Greg Gasataya and the board of Bacolaodiat Incorporated.
Mayor Gasataya expressed his gratitude to the Filipino-Chinese community, noting that their contributions have been instrumental in transforming the “City of Smiles” into a world-class cultural destination.
Former Senator Anna Dominique “Nikki” Marquez-Lim Coseteng, the event’s guest of honor and keynote speaker, lauded the enduring partnership between the private sector and the City Government.
She highlighted how the festival serves as a powerful platform for showcasing the shared values and resilient cultural fabric of the Tsinoy community.
Sy added: “At its heart, Bacolaodiat fosters a sense of togetherness and cultural harmony. From the rhythmic beat of the dragon dances to the glowing beauty of our lantern parades, this collective celebration reinforces our bond as one Bacolodnon family.”
CEREMONIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The ceremony was marked by the traditional Lighting of Incense, led by Mayor Gasataya, Senator Coseteng, and representatives from prominent Filipino-Chinese family associations.
The ancient ritual officially ushered in the festivities, followed by the formal opening of the Imperial Village and the Ceremonial Lights On of the BCGC grounds, which transformed the venue into a luminous landscape of lanterns.
The opening program featured a high-energy exhibition of Dragon and Lion Dancers, a sophisticated musical performance by the String Virtuosi ensemble, and a graceful Lantern Dance display.
Joining the ceremony were Vice Mayor Claudio Jesus Raymundo “Kalaw” Puentevella, Councilors Jude Thaddeus Sayson, Roberto “Bobby” Rojas, and Homer Bais, along with Bacolaodiat Inc. officials Alfredo Barcelona, Odette Ong-Gomez, Michelle Chua, Caryn Keng Seng, Karla Sayat, and Mila Ong.
The 21st Bacolaodiat Festival continues its vibrant celebration through Sunday, Feb. 22, transforming Bacolod City into a hub of Filipino-Chinese heritage and a rich array of cultural artistry.*
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