Murcia, Negros Occidental – The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental recognized the Negrosanon Young Leaders Institute Inc. (NYLI) for its contribution to the successful implementation of the 2026 Panaad sa Negros Festival during the festival assessment meeting held at Mambukal Resort and Wildlife Sanctuary yesterday.
The assessment meeting gathered members of the Panaad executive and working committees, LGU coordinators, tourism officers, and partner organizations to evaluate the overall implementation of the weeklong festival and discuss recommendations for future celebrations.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson thanked all local government units, partner organizations, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of this year’s festival, while Panaad Executive Director Charina Magallanes-Tan expressed appreciation for the continued cooperation of participating groups and coordinators.
Among those recognized was Kevin Gaitan, Executive Director of NYLI, which served as the official implementing partner for Handurawan: The Panaad sa Negros Festival Youth Activities.
For the first time in the festival’s 30-year history, dedicated spaces and activities for young people were institutionalized through Handurawan, opening opportunities for youth participation, cultural engagement, and civic involvement during the festival.
Held from April 13 to 18, Handurawan featured several youth-centered activities, including advocacy talks, a youth film festival, poetry writing, reel-making competitions, Campus Journalism Day, Hinampang sang Kabataan, a youth career expo, and Negrosanon Youth Day.
The initiative also established the Youth Showroom, where 17 youth-led and youth-serving organizations across Negros Occidental showcased their advocacies, programs, and community initiatives.
Lacson earlier acknowledged the role of NYLI and youth organizations in strengthening youth participation in the province.
“I extend my deepest gratitude to our valued partner, the NYLI and stakeholders. Your unwavering support and commitment are the cornerstone of our success,” the governor said.
Gaitan said the initiative reflects continuing efforts to create meaningful spaces for young people in provincial events and decision-making platforms.
“We have come far in this fight for a seat at the table. This year, young people were given the space we once longed for and worked hard for,” he said.
NYLI said it hopes the partnership with the provincial government will continue to expand opportunities for youth participation in future Panaad celebrations and beyond.