Bacolod City – The City of Smiles

Bacolod is a vibrant city in the Philippines that offers a rich blend of history, culture, cuisine, and natural attractions. Whether you are looking for a relaxing getaway, a fun-filled festival, or an adventure in nature, Bacolod has something for you. Here are some of the best things to do and see in Bacolod, the City of Smiles.

History

Bacolod was founded in 1755 or 1756 as a small settlement by migrants from neighboring islands. It became a town in 1788 and a city in 1938. Bacolod played a significant role in the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War, as well as in the sugar industry that flourished in the province of Negros Occidental.

Another historical site worth visiting is Silay, a neighboring city that is known as the “Paris of Negros” because of its well-preserved ancestral houses and cultural heritage. Silay was once a center of arts, culture, and education in Negros, and it boasts of several museums, churches, and monuments that reflect its rich history. You can join a heritage tour to explore the architectural gems and learn about the stories behind them.

Places to Visit

Bacolod is not only a city of history, but also a city of nature. There are many places to visit in and around Bacolod that offer scenic views, fresh air, and outdoor activities.

One of the most popular destinations is Campuestuhan Highlands, a mountain resort that features various attractions such as zip lines, rope courses, cable cars, roller coasters, and themed parks. Campuestuhan Highlands is ideal for families and groups who want to have fun and enjoy the cool breeze and panoramic views of the mountains.

Another place to visit is Mambukal Resort, a natural park that offers hot springs, waterfalls, boating lagoons, butterfly gardens, and hiking trails. Mambukal Resort is also a gateway to Mt.Kanlaon Natural Park, where you can see the majestic Mt.Kanlaon, an active volcano that is the highest peak in Negros Island.

If you are looking for a beach getaway, you can head to Lakawon Island, a white-sand island resort that is about an hour away from Bacolod by land and sea. Lakawon Island is famous for its TawHai Floating Bar, the largest floating bar in Asia, where you can relax and enjoy drinks while floating on the clear blue water. You can also try other water activities such as kayaking, jet skiing, banana boating, and snorkeling.

Tourist Attractions

Bacolod is also home to some unique tourist attractions that showcase its culture and creativity.

One of them is MassKara Festival, one of the biggest and most colorful festivals in the Philippines that is held every October. MassKara Festival features street dancing competitions, parades, concerts, carnivals, and fireworks displays. The highlight of the festival is the display of masks with smiling faces that symbolize the resilience and optimism of the Bacolodnons. MassKara Festival was founded in 1980 to uplift the spirits of the people who were suffering from a tragedy and an economic crisis at that time.

Another attraction is John Paul II Tower, a seven-story tower that commemorates the visit of Pope John Paul II to Bacolod in 1981. The tower has a museum that displays photos and memorabilia of the pope’s visit, as well as a chapel and a viewing deck that offers a panoramic view of Bacolod and Guimaras Strait. The tower is also a tribute to the faith and devotion of the Bacolodnons who welcomed the pope with enthusiasm and joy.

Industries

Bacolod is known as the Philippine sugar capital because it is located in the center of the sugar-producing region of Negros Occidental. Sugar cane is the main crop grown in Bacolod and its neighboring towns and cities, and sugar mills are scattered throughout the area. Sugar is also the main export product of Bacolod, along with other agricultural products such as rice, corn, fruits, vegetables, and livestock.

Aside from sugar, Bacolod is also developing other industries such as information technology, business process outsourcing, tourism, and renewable energy. Bacolod has been recognized as one of the best places to live and work in the Philippines because of its low cost of living, high quality of life, and friendly people. Bacolod is also a hub for education, health care, and entertainment in Negros Island.

Businesses

Bacolod is a thriving city that offers many opportunities for businesses and entrepreneurs. There are many malls, markets, restaurants, hotels, and other establishments that cater to the needs and preferences of the locals and tourists alike.

One of the best places to shop in Bacolod is Negros Showroom, a one-stop shop that showcases the best products of Negros such as handicrafts, furniture, fashion accessories, home decor, food, and souvenirs. Negros Showroom is a project of the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), a group of local producers who promote and support the local industries of Negros.

One of the best places to eat in Bacolod is Manokan Country, a row of eateries that serve the famous chicken inasal (grilled chicken) of Bacolod. Chicken inasal is a local delicacy that is known for its smoky flavor and yellowish color. It is best eaten with rice, vinegar, soy sauce, and chili. Manokan Country is a must-try for anyone who visits Bacolod.

One of the best places to stay in Bacolod is Seda Capitol Central, a four-star hotel that is located in the heart of Bacolod. Seda Capitol Central offers comfortable rooms, modern amenities, excellent service, and easy access to the Capitol Building and Lagoon, one of the landmarks of Bacolod. Seda Capitol Central is also near other attractions such as San Sebastian Church, The Negros Museum, and Calea Pastries and Coffee.

Tourism

Bacolod is a popular tourist destination in the Philippines because of its diverse attractions, delicious cuisine, hospitable people, and festive atmosphere. Bacolod attracts visitors from all over the country and the world who want to experience its culture and charm.

Bacolod is easy to reach by land, sea, or air. There are buses that connect Bacolod to other cities in Negros Island such as Dumaguete and Kabankalan. There are also ferries that link Bacolod to Iloilo City and Cebu City. There are also flights that fly to Bacolod from Manila, Cebu, Davao, Cagayan de Oro, and Clark.

Bacolod is also a gateway to other destinations in Negros Occidental such as Carbin Reef, a sandbar with a marine sanctuary that is part of the Sagay Marine Reserve; Ilaya Highland Resort, a mountain resort with a flower garden, a hanging bridge, and a zipline; Church of the Angry Christ, a church with a controversial mural depicting Christ in fiery colors; and Sipalay, a coastal city with pristine beaches, caves, waterfalls, and diving sites.

Popularity

Bacolod is one of the most popular cities in the Philippines because of its reputation as a happy and friendly city. Bacolod is known for bearing the nickname “The City of Smiles” because of the cheerful disposition and warm hospitality of its people. Bacolod is also known for celebrating MassKara Festival, one of the most joyful and colorful festivals in the country.

Bacolod is also popular for its culinary delights such as chicken inasal, cansi (beef soup), piaya (flatbread with muscovado filling), napoleones (puff pastry with custard filling), and cakes from Calea. Bacolod is a food lover’s paradise that offers a variety of dishes that suit every taste and budget.

Bacolod is also popular for its natural beauty and cultural heritage that make it an attractive destination for travelers who want to discover more about the Philippines. Bacolod is a city that has something for everyone.