BACOLOD City — The Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival 2026 delivered not only a feast of flavors but also substantial economic benefits for local entrepreneurs, with vendor sales rising by more than 38 percent compared to last year.
Councilor Celia Flor, chairperson of the Sangguniang Panlungsod Committee on Markets, expressed satisfaction over the festival’s strong performance, citing significant increases in sales across its three major venues — SM City Bacolod, The Upper East by Megaworld, and Ayala Malls Capitol Central.
Held from May 29 to 31, the annual festival generated total sales of P3.29 million, a marked increase from P2.37 million recorded in 2025. The figure represents an additional P914,005.32 in earnings and a growth rate of approximately 38.55 percent, despite this year’s event running for only three days compared to five days last year.
Flor said the results underscore the festival’s growing role in supporting local businesses, particularly chicken inasal vendors and small-scale entrepreneurs.
“The festival provides an important platform for vendors to showcase their products, expand their customer base, and increase their income,” she said.
According to Flor, around 80 to 90 percent of participating vendors were chicken inasal sellers, while the remaining stalls offered street food and local delicacies. Sales were monitored and recorded nightly by the city government at all three festival sites.
She also attributed the event’s success to favorable weather conditions. Last year’s festival encountered poor weather, which affected sales and prompted organizers to extend the celebration by an additional day.
Flor likewise welcomed the introduction of new activities, including the festival’s float parade, which received positive feedback from stakeholders, particularly vendors from Manokan Country.
She said several vendors have already expressed interest in joining future float parades and suggested expanding the parade route to allow more residents and visitors to enjoy the spectacle. This year’s parade was confined to a single festival venue.
The strong sales performance and enthusiastic public participation highlighted the continued growth of Bacolod’s signature festival, further strengthening the city’s reputation as the home of the world-famous chicken inasal.
With increased visitor engagement, thriving local businesses, and new attractions added to the festivities, the Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival 2026 once again showcased the city’s vibrant culinary culture and tourism potential. /PN
