Bago city: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. lauded Bago City in Negros Occidental in the celebration of its 60th Charter Anniversary, which Malaca±ang declared a special non-working holiday, on Thursday. The component city just south of Bacolod, led by Mayor Marina Javellana-Yao, held its first Bugana Festival street dance and stage competition in the afternoon to showcase the 'abundance of harvest, culture and faith' of Bago and its people.

According to Philippines News Agency, the President encouraged Bago City to continue progressing by investing in its people, developing robust infrastructure, and adopting innovation to generate employment and safeguard the welfare of its residents. He acknowledged the city's achievements over the past six decades, highlighting advancements in local governance, economic opportunities, and public services.

The President also praised the city for its resilience and industrious spirit, which have fostered local pride and earned respect throughout the region. He described the diamond anniversary as a celebration of Bago's rich history and a testament to the benefits the city provides daily, such as safer neighborhoods, stronger families, and thriving businesses.

During her message at the Manuel Y. Torres Memorial Coliseum and Cultural Center, Javellana-Yao expressed her honor in leading Bago City during this significant time. She emphasized the city's progress and the importance of the Bugana Festival as a tribute to Bago's 60th Charter Anniversary.

Mayor Javellana-Yao described the diamond milestone as more than just a chronological marker, noting that the city's 60-year history is defined by courage, sacrifice, and love for their land. She affirmed the unbreakable spirit of the Bagonhon people, which remains joyful and resilient despite past challenges.

Bago City has faced significant hardships, including being directly affected by the eruption and continued unrest of Kanlaon Volcano, as well as the devastation caused by Typhoon Tino (Kalmaegi) in November last year.