BACOLOD City – A series of major events is set as this city celebrates this year’s “Mga Adlaw sang Paghanduraw” from June 12 to 20.
The celebration is anchored on City Ordinance No. 616, series of 2012, which institutionalizes the commemoration of significant historical events in Bacolod.
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez earlier issued Executive Order No. 10, reconstituting the organizing committees for the celebrations of Philippine Independence Day (June 12) and Rizal Day (June 19), in accordance with law and tradition.
Since 2019, the city has also been commemorating the signing of its cityhood charter on June 18, by virtue of Republic Act No. 11146, series of 2018 known as “An act declaring June 18 of every year a special non-working holiday in the City of Bacolod, Province of Negros Occidental, to be known as the ‘Bacolod City Charter Day’”.
In line with City Ordinance No. 494, series of 2009, the prestigious Banwahanon Award will be given on June 18 during the Charter Day celebration. This award recognizes exemplary Bacolodnons who have made significant contributions to the city.
Another important date is June 20, which marks the historic transfer of the capital of Negros Occidental from Himamaylan to Bacolod.
To institutionalize the commemoration of these events, the city government enacted the “Mga Adlaw sang Paghanduraw” ordinance, aiming to encourage active public participation in memorial activities, under the leadership of government officials.
Secretary-to-the-mayor Atty. Marty Go said that organizing committees for all events are already in place. Nominations for the Banwahanon Award are currently open.
In addition, the Be the Change Award, based on City Ordinance No. 1042, will also be presented on June 18. Nominations for this award are likewise being accepted. The award honors citizens who exemplify integrity, civic responsibility, and acts of kindness that inspire others.
A Barangay Festival Dance Competition will also be held on the evening of June 17 as part of the celebration highlights./PN
