NEGROS Occidental – Bago City marked a significant milestone on February 11 with the opening of this year’s Agro-Industrial, Educational, and Cultural Trade Fair at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center, as part of its 60th Charter Anniversary celebration.
Led by Mayor Mayette Javellana and other city officials, the event formally launched the festivities scheduled from February 5 to 27 under the theme “Better, Brighter Bago @ 60.” The city’s charter day will be observed on February 19.
In her message, Mayor Javellana emphasized that six decades of cityhood have been shaped by perseverance, shared dreams, and a deep love for the city.
“As we near the 60th Charter Anniversary of our beloved Bago City, we gather not only to open this trade fair but to celebrate the very soul of Bago — our culture, our people, and the best that Bago can offer the world,” she said.
The mayor noted that the celebration comes alive through the Bugana Festival, Bago’s thanksgiving for abundance. She said the trade fair reflects the city’s richness in harvest, culture, faith, and community spirit.
“Abundance of hope and love flows from the hard work and strong spirit of every Bagonhon,” Javellana added.
Vice Mayor Jake Patrick Torres described the trade fair as a reminder of the importance of unity and collaboration.
“We should work together so that our city can reach even greater heights,” he said.
The opening ceremony featured a banner-raising led by city officials and barangay leaders. Among the key guests were Negros Occidental Fourth District Board Members Nicholas Yulo and Paula Alonso, city councilors, Association of Barangay Captains (ABC) President Jovito Gahaton, SK Federation President Julianae Lavadia, department heads, partner-agency representatives, and exhibitors.
The Agro-Industrial, Educational, and Cultural Trade Fair showcases Bago City’s agricultural innovations, educational initiatives, and cultural heritage, highlighting the progress and promise of the city as it celebrates six decades of cityhood./PN
