NEGROS Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson has lauded the “collective excellence in governance” of Sagay City.
Lacson, who was the guest speaker of the opening of 29th Sinigayan Festival at the City Public Plaza, on March 15, 2025, said that Sagay City’s consistent recognition as a Seal of Good Local Governance awardee from Department of the Interior and Local Government (DILG) is a testament of the good governance practices in the city.
“Sagay’s consistent recognition as a SGLG awardee, one of the highest distinctions given by DILG, speaks volumes of your collective excellence in governance,” he said.
Lacson also lauded the leadership of Second District Representative Alfredo Marañon III, Mayor Narciso Javelosa Jr., and Vice Mayor Leo Rafael Cueva for their “capable hands” to lead Sagay and the Second District of the province.
The festival theme for this year is “Moving Onward in Harmony,” which the governor said it reflects the resilience and unity that have driven the progress of the city over the years.
He also urged everyone to “always think of ways of how we can help the province to ensure peace and progress,” adding that the “bright tomorrow is always in our hands.”
The event was also attended by Senator Imee Marcos, city officials, together with Representative Marañon, Sinigayan Foundation President Primitivo Rivera, heads of various national government agencies, uniformed personnel, among others.
After the opening program at the plaza, Marcos along with Lacson and the city officials opened the festival villages including the Taliambong Food and Entertainment Village, Bugay-Sagay Agro-Aqua Festival Village, Dagway Sagay Village, and Livestock and Poultry Village.
Marcos also joined the gathering of barangay captains of the Casama (Cadiz City, Sagay, Manapla) district at Balay Kauswagan.
Marcos urged support from the local officials in her re-election bid and vows to campaign in the extension of terms of the Barangay and Sangguniang Kabataan officials through her Senate Bill 2816.
Marañon said that Sagay is now in the crossroads of significant milestone, which is a year away from marking three decades of the festival.
“For generations, Sagay has been renowned for its unwavering unity. We showcased this strength during our arduous journey towards achieving cityhood, surviving Covid-19 pandemic, and many other hurdles and we continue to demonstrate it as we forge ahead with impactful development and economic growth,” he said.
Javelosa also said that the festival is also an opportunity to thank the Lord for the blessings and guidance year round, and to reflect and look towards a brighter future with hope and faith.
“This festival is a reflection of the spirit of kindness and unity, a celebration of diverse cultures and traditions, and avenue to discover talents within the community,” he said. (MAP)