BACOLOD City – Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez affirmed that this year’s Bacolaodiat Festival from January 31 to February 2 was successful despite complaints from several residents.
It was earlier reported that residents were complaining because of the temporary road closures along Lacson Street, particularly from 5th to 13th Lacson streets, from January 28 to February 3.
Earlier on January 26, the North Capitol Road was also temporarily closed in preparation for the festival.
Mayor Benitez said full road closures were implemented to accommodate the festival’s main stage, food kiosks, activity hubs, and other exciting attractions.
“They [residents] were asking that the [road] closure will be scheduled during weekends,” the mayor said, adding that he will convey their concerns to the City Council.
He added: “We will take that into consideration .We will find ways to shorten it. But of course we will also consider what the public has to say, particularly the revelers joining the festivities.”
Meanwhile, the Granadianz regained the championship title in the 2025 Bacolaodiat Festival’s street and lantern dance competition.
Granadianz has an impressive 16-year streak joining the competition.
JOJAJU and The Luminaries were named first runner-up and second runner-up, respectively.
The top three finalists returned to the SM City Bacolod stage on February 2, each showcasing performances that blended tradition and the rich Filipino-Chinese heritage that Bacolaodiat upholds
The event served as a fitting conclusion to one of Bacolandiat’s most anticipated competitions, reinforcing its significance as a platform for contemporary expression and cultural celebration./PN
