This Week in Negros (March 18 to 24, 2018)

Rain showers and thunderstorms continue to surge in Negros Occidental. Minimum temperature will be at 26 °C (78.8 °F), while maximum temperature will be at 30 °C (86 °F). It is recommended to bring caps, umbrellas, or jackets to protect oneself from the rain. It is also advisable to secure gadgets by wrapping them with resealable plastic. The weather will be unpredictable, but tourists can still enjoy Sinigayan Festival activities.

Sinigayan Festival is an annual thanksgiving in honor of St. Joseph, the patron saint of Sagay City. On March 18, Saot para sa Dunang Manggad will be held. It is a street dance competition to advocate the preservation of their natural resources. Because of this, there will be a road closure on some parts of Western Nautical Highway between 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. Expect moderate traffic in going to Sagay City during this time.

While celebrating Sinigayan Festival, one can enjoy a taste of crunchy squid rings. Squid rings are one of the favorite snacks of the locals. It is made from thin slices of squid flesh which is deep fried until cooked. Squid rings cost PhP50 (50 grams) and PhP90 (90 grams). A pack of spicy squid curls is at PhP70 and squid bits are at PhP110. Squid rings can be bought at local manufacturers and pasalubong (take-home gift) shops in Sagay City.

One highlight of Sinigayan Festival is the transformation of their public plaza to villages. There are three villages in the public plaza namely the Agro-Aqua Festival Village, Dagway Sagay Arts and Culture Village, and Tali-ambong Food and Entertainment Village. This is a go-to destination for tourists and locals every Sinigayan Festival because of the diversity that the place offers. There is also a livestock and poultry fair exhibit located beside the Sagay City Hall.

* All photos/images from I love Sagay