The Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival (BCIF) 2025 surpassed expectations with an income of P2.4 million over five days – out performing its 2023 and 2024 figures of P1.9 million and P1.8 million, respectively, despite the rain.
Held from May 21 to 25, this year’s festival showcased Bacolod’s globally recognized chicken inasal through a series of flavorful and festive activities at The Upper East by Megaworld, SM City Manokan Country, and Ayala Malls Capitol Central, a press release from the Bacolod City Tourism Office said Tuesday, May 27.
One of the most anticipated highlights was the BCIF Arena Dance Competition, where seven barangays competed. The 1st place winner was Barangay Mansilingan, while in 2nd place was Barangay Mandalagan and in 3rd place was Barangay Tangub.
Other key festival events included the Chicken Inasal Spread Competition, Grilling and Cooking Workshops, Food Fests with nightly entertainment, the San Miguel Beer Pairing and Tasting Night, the BCIF Chicken Inasal Cook-Off, and the Chicken Inasal Photo Exhibit Competition at Citadines Bacolod City, which captured striking stories behind Bacolod’s favorite dish.
As part of its annual tradition, the festival also gave back to the community.
About 500 beneficiaries from institutions such as St. Vincent’s Home for the Aged, St. Ezekiel Monastery, Bacolod Girls and Boys Home, Social Development Center and Holy Family Home, received food and chicken inasal as a gesture of solidarity and love, the press release said.
“We will do our best to make the BCIF even bigger in the years to come. We hope to secure the support of the stakeholders. The festival is a celebration of our identity and pride”, Chief Tourism Operations Officer Ma. Teresa Manalili said.
Bacolod City led by Mayor Albee Benitez through the Bacolod City Tourism Office mounted the event in partnership with Headrush Events headed by Ryan Saez, the press release said.
The Bacolod City Tourism Office press release also cited the support of councilors Celia Flor, Jason Villarosa, Claudio Puentevella and Jude Thaddeus Sayson.*