The three-day Bacolaodiat Festival launched yesterday with an opening ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC). In his speech, Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed gratitude to the Filipino-Chinese community for their invaluable contributions to Bacolod’s success. “The reason for having this Bacolaodiat Festival is for us to unite, to celebrate, and to showcase Bacolod City. That is the reason why together with all the city officials we thank our Filipino-Chinese community brethren for all the support that you have been doing for Bacolod City.” The mayor emphasized that the festival is a humble way of showing appreciation for the community’s work in the city. John Stephen Sy, chairman of the Bacolaodiat Festival, highlighted the event’s deeper significance. “It has become a vital bridge connecting our local community with its deep Filipino-Chinese heritage. Bacolaodiat festival is a season of renewal, it serves as a time to cast away the shadows of the past and embrace the hope of good fortune,” he explained. Former Senator Ana Dominique “Nikki” Marquez-Lim Coseteng shared insights during the keynote address, expressing hope that the positive relationship between Filipino and Chinese communities would flourish not only in Bacolod but across the Philippines. “China is our next-door neighbor, separated only by a sea. I wish for this world to remain peaceful, sustainable, and friendly for future generations to build upon,” she said. The opening day concluded with a ceremonial lighting of festive displays and the unveiling of the “Walls of Fortune” mural, symbolizing hope and community spirit. The festival runs from February 20 to 22, with more cultural displays and activities planned throughout the weekend. TODAY’S ACTIVITIES (FEBRUARY 21) AT BCGC – 5:00 PM – Lantern Dance Competition – 6:00 PM – Young Royals of the Middle Kingdom – 8:00 PM – Lantern Dance Competition – 9:00 PM – Merzci’s Siopao Eating Contest – 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM – Nightly Entertainment FINAL DAY ACTIVITIES (FEBRUARY 22) AT BCGC – 4:00 PM – Chinese Cosplay Invasion – 7:00 PM – Bacolaodiat Festival Closing Ceremony – 7:30 PM – Fireworks Display: Symphony of Lights and Sparks – 9:00 PM – Merzci’s Siopao Eating Contest – 9:00 PM – 12:00 AM – Nightly Entertainment (Bacolod City Communications Office)