The Sangguniang Panlungsod on Wednesday, January 18, unanimously approved a resolution declaring Megaworld’s Kevin Tan honorary mayor of Bacolod City from January 20 to 22 during the Bacolaodiat Festival to usher in the Chinese New Year.
Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez had requested the SP to declare Tan honorary mayor because of Megaworld’s significant contributions to the business landscape of Bacolod City.
Megaworld is developing two townships in Bacolod – the 34-hectare The Upper East near the Bacolod Government Center, and the 50-hectare Northill Gateway at the boundary of Bacolod and Talisay City.
The business tycoon was also declared an adopted son of Bacolod by the SP on Oct. 12, 2022.
Meanwhile, five contingents will participate in the 18th Bacolaodiat Festival – Lantern Dance Competition to be staged at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) and The Upper East on Saturday, January 21.
This year’s selected contingents will be street dancing starting at 4 p.m. from The Upper East going to BCGC where they will present their first lantern dance performance for judging. A second performance will then be held back at The Upper East, a press release from the organizers said.
The participating lantern dance groups this year are: Jojaju, Granadianz, Wild Rhythm, CHMSU Alijis and Choice Force.
Repeat performances from the top three lantern dance groups and the announcement of winners will be held at SM City Bacolod, 2 p.m. on January 22.
Bacolaodiat Inc. will also award this year’s grand winner with a cash prize of P100,000.
Meanwhile, the costumes and lanterns from these dance groups will be on display at the Ayala Malls Capitol Central starting Thursday, January 19.*