The first-ever Tour of Negros is now officially open with a ribbon-cutting ceremony led by Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and Himamaylan Mayor Rogelio Raymund Tongson at the SM City Mall, today 21 March 2021.
Tongson, during his pre-launch address, said that “we are lucky to be able to still hold this event” which will be held 6 April to 9 April 2021. Still, he said, the event is not an excuse not to observe health protocols, given the recent rise in the number of cases after travel protocols loosened up.
“This is a unity ride… a show of strength not only for Himamaylanons but for all Negrosanons,” Tongson said.
“We should still observe health protocols,” he said, adding, “if during the tour, you feel any symptoms of any kind, do not treat that as an ordinary flu. Opt not to join the tour instead.”
Meanwhile, Bacolod Vice-Mayor El Cid Familiaran, who represented Mayor Evelio Leonardia, commended the effort of the Himamaylan LGU in organizing the event.
“Bicycling,” he said, “is for everyone, for the young, and the young-at-heart.”
He added that bicycling promotes camaraderie and road discipline.
The first tour came at the heels of the Tour of the Fireflies 2021, also hosted by Himamaylan, an event that was done in honor of medical frontliners, for clear air, and safer streets.
