Bacolod City and Negros Occidental Province - Compiled Threads

[Marley]

i wanna ask how tall exactly is the medium rise condo to rise in the reclamation?? coz i havent yet seen them starting to work the site.

it has 56 units with 2 buildings which is 23 uints in each building right?? In my estimate it would be a slender condominium between 6 - 7 storeys.

Kalma lang TJ. Guro 1 month pa na ma gwa ang plans kag renderings. san-o lang to gani gin announce? Daw wala pa 2 weeks ah? T ano na ga katabo sa SM City site? Na demolish na ang hotel dira nyon?

[TJ]

if its only one tower i wish they make it slender maybe 5 units each floor so that it can even be taller maybe around 11-13 storeys. :)

[Marley]

if its only one tower i wish they make it slender maybe 5 units each floor so that it can even be taller maybe around 11-13 storeys. :)

Depende na kun ano ka dlagko ang kada unit. Basi 4 bedrooms per unit? Iban nga Condominums 1 unit lang per floor sa upper floors. Pero ina ya mga super luxury unit na guid na. Pero dapat at least 12 storeys para Bacolod may high rise building na. 11 storeys kag panubo medium rise pa lang na ayon sa Emporis.

[sugarboy]

@Marley, who is the developer of this project?

[TJ]

I wish it could be even taller than that. Coz according naman sa isa ya ka source which i find more helpfull becoz they include metropolitan areas as one.

According to them a building is considered a highrise once it reaches 90m or 295ft. So i think we do not yet have highrise only medium rise. Cebu doesnt even yet have a highrise until the 40 storey buidling will be completed that will be the only and first true highrise building outside MM. And cebu way down in the list somwhere in 400.

But if you based naman sa emporis it is only 12 floors and they dont regard the height.


http://homepages.ipact.nl/~egram/skylines.html

[Dinho]

According to the press release, the developer will be Bredco itself. I just hope it won't turn up like the Bacolod Pavillion Resort and the Bowling center which remains badly maintained.

[TJ]

I heard berdco will be taken over by the gov't becoz they havent paid taxes. Is this true??

[fundraiser]

I wish it could be even taller than that. Coz according naman sa isa ya ka source which i find more helpfull becoz they include metropolitan areas as one.

According to them a building is considered a highrise once it reaches 90m or 295ft. So i think we do not yet have highrise only medium rise. Cebu doesnt even yet have a highrise until the 40 storey buidling will be completed that will be the only and first true highrise building outside MM. And cebu way down in the list somwhere in 400.

But if you based naman sa emporis it is only 12 floors and they dont regard the height.


http://homepages.ipact.nl/~egram/skylines.html

i checked your link, its 373, not somewhere at 400

[TJ]

ahh, ok i havent seen it for while coz it so down below there, seems i have 4gotten.. :lol:

[fundraiser]

any other phil city in that survey aside from ceb and mla?

[slerz]

I wish it could be even taller than that. Coz according naman sa isa ya ka source which i find more helpfull becoz they include metropolitan areas as one.

According to them a building is considered a highrise once it reaches 90m or 295ft. So i think we do not yet have highrise only medium rise. Cebu doesnt even yet have a highrise until the 40 storey buidling will be completed that will be the only and first true highrise building outside MM. And cebu way down in the list somwhere in 400.

But if you based naman sa emporis it is only 12 floors and they dont regard the height.


http://homepages.ipact.nl/~egram/skylines.html


correction: According to them a building is considered a skyscraper (not high-rise)once it reaches 90m or 295ft

>>>a high-rise building is defined as a building 35 meters or greater in height, which is divided at regular intervals into occupiable levels. To be considered a high-rise building an edifice must be based on solid ground, and fabricated along its full height through deliberate processes. The cutoff between high-rise and low-rise buildings is 35 meters. This height was chosen based on an original 12-floor cutoff, used for the following reasons: 1) Twelve floors is normally the minimum height needed to achieve the physical presence which earns the name "high-rise"; 2) The twelve-floor limit represents a compromise between ambition and manageability for a worldwide database. from Emporis.

_ _ ___ _

so Cebu has about 30 high-rises already and no skyscraper until the completion of the 40 storey Crown Regency.

[valium]

ahh, ok i havent seen it for while coz it so down below there, seems i have 4gotten.. :lol:

373rd WORLDWIDE is not that "so down below there" were talking worldwide here, not bad for a philippine city :lol:

[junax]

wow, i'm proud metro manila is no. 14 with 174 buildings above 90 meters in the whole world, very nice for a third world country... and also cebu for being no. 373 with 1 under construction 34 storeys. i think per city ang standing not per building. hopefully, mindanao can contribute at least 1 next year if the 30 storey dusit hotel in davao will push thru this 2nd quarter. kung wala lang sanang nanggugulong mga pulitiko sa MM nadadamay ang visayas at mindanao, gumagapang na sana pataas inaapakan pa, hahay!

[TJ]

correction: According to them a building is considered a skyscraper (not high-rise)once it reaches 90m or 295ft

>>>a high-rise building is defined as a building 35 meters or greater in height, which is divided at regular intervals into occupiable levels. To be considered a high-rise building an edifice must be based on solid ground, and fabricated along its full height through deliberate processes. The cutoff between high-rise and low-rise buildings is 35 meters. This height was chosen based on an original 12-floor cutoff, used for the following reasons: 1) Twelve floors is normally the minimum height needed to achieve the physical presence which earns the name "high-rise"; 2) The twelve-floor limit represents a compromise between ambition and manageability for a worldwide database. from Emporis.

_ _ ___ _

so Cebu has about 30 high-rises already and no skyscraper until the completion of the 40 storey Crown Regency.

Yup, i said that also before seems i forgot.. :lol: it is a skyscraper not a highrise... so a highrise should be what?? 12 floors?? 8?? 10?? i remember someone said 9 or 10... i cant really recall im tired of browsing the previous thread :sleepy:

[TJ]

wow, i'm proud metro manila is no. 14 with 174 buildings above 90 meters in the whole world, very nice for a third world country... and also cebu for being no. 373 with 1 under construction 34 storeys. i think per city ang standing not per building. hopefully, mindanao can contribute at least 1 next year if the 30 storey dusit hotel in davao will push thru this 2nd quarter. kung wala lang sanang nanggugulong mga pulitiko sa MM nadadamay ang visayas at mindanao, gumagapang na sana pataas inaapakan pa, hahay!

its not 34 storey in cebu but 40 daw... very niceee :) maybe i can see negros and bohol from there.

Coz on top the tallest building in iloilo they say around the right conditions of weather you can see Mt. Kanloan from up there.

[Dinho]

wow, i'm proud metro manila is no. 14 with 174 buildings above 90 meters in the whole world, very nice for a third world country... and also cebu for being no. 373 with 1 under construction 34 storeys. i think per city ang standing not per building. hopefully, mindanao can contribute at least 1 next year if the 30 storey dusit hotel in davao will push thru this 2nd quarter. kung wala lang sanang nanggugulong mga pulitiko sa MM nadadamay ang visayas at mindanao, gumagapang na sana pataas inaapakan pa, hahay!

It's good that Manila is on the "List", though I think it has been acheived at the expense of the rest of the country. In the USA, the top corporate HQ's are located in many different cities. There is many financial hubs and the capital is not located in the main financial and educational center. Most of the world's best countries are like that. Australia has Canberra for its seat of government while Melbourne and Sydney are competing financial centers. Brazil has Brasilia as its capital while it has Rio de Janiero, Sao Paulo and so many other cities serving different functions. I think the same is true for South Africa, and Canada.

It really is time to move the capital out of Manila and transfer it into a small centrally located town where the government will not have to worry about riots by the masses and security. I would suggest Mabini in Central Negros. It really is a nice place located up in the mountains and right at the heart of the country. It is also located between Negros Occidental and Oriental. I don't think Cebu would be an ideal place since CEbu itself is the second main financial center and is densely populated. Iloilo is also very densely populated and most towns are located too close to each other. A low population will mean a less volatile atmosphere as there will not be too many people to gather to mount a huge riot. That's just my idea. It will be a bit expensive to do this but it just might be a cure to our countries' problems. It seems that we have been having too many coups and revolutions already and it is not likely to stop soon as our people do not know how to choose a good leader and they are so easily convinced by manipulators and opporunists.

[Dinho]

its not 34 storey in cebu but 40 daw... very niceee :) maybe i can see negros and bohol from there.

Coz on top the tallest building in iloilo they say around the right conditions of weather you can see Mt. Kanloan from up there.

Tallest building in Iloilo would be eight storeys only I think. I don't think you could see Iloilo even from the top of PNB in Bacolod. It's just too far. According to Emporis a high rise would be a building that is 12 storeys and up. 6 - 11 storeys would be medium rise and as mentioned earlier, a skyscraper should be at least 30 storeys and above.

[rustyboi]

correction: According to them a building is considered a skyscraper (not high-rise)once it reaches 90m or 295ft

>>>a high-rise building is defined as a building 35 meters or greater in height, which is divided at regular intervals into occupiable levels. To be considered a high-rise building an edifice must be based on solid ground, and fabricated along its full height through deliberate processes. The cutoff between high-rise and low-rise buildings is 35 meters. This height was chosen based on an original 12-floor cutoff, used for the following reasons: 1) Twelve floors is normally the minimum height needed to achieve the physical presence which earns the name "high-rise"; 2) The twelve-floor limit represents a compromise between ambition and manageability for a worldwide database. from Emporis.

_ _ ___ _

so Cebu has about 30 high-rises already and no skyscraper until the completion of the 40 storey Crown Regency.

that's correct slerz. Metro Manila and Metro Cebu are the only urban centers that have a "defined skyline" in the Philippines. Davao, though still on its infancy, it is fast shaping up. i hope their 30-storey hotel gets built soon. when can we expect Bacolod city and other cities to have a defined skyline? :D any vision or target year from the respective local gov'ts? :)

[TJ]

Tallest building in Iloilo would be eight storeys only I think. I don't think you could see Iloilo even from the top of PNB in Bacolod. It's just too far. According to Emporis a high rise would be a building that is 12 storeys and up. 6 - 11 storeys would be medium rise and as mentioned earlier, a skyscraper should be at least 30 storeys and above.

You cant see iloilo from pnb becoz there is no tall mountain near there... but in iloilo in right conditons on top probably the 8 storey hotel my friend said kan-laon is visible but only the tall mountains the low lands are not.

[TJ]

It really is time to move the capital out of Manila and transfer it into a small centrally located town where the government will not have to worry about riots by the masses and security. I would suggest Mabini in Central Negros. It really is a nice place located up in the mountains and right at the heart of the country. It is also located between Negros Occidental and Oriental. I don't think Cebu would be an ideal place since CEbu itself is the second main financial center and is densely populated. Iloilo is also very densely populated and most towns are located too close to each other. A low population will mean a less volatile atmosphere as there will not be too many people to gather to mount a huge riot. That's just my idea. It will be a bit expensive to do this but it just might be a cure to our countries' problems. It seems that we have been having too many coups and revolutions already and it is not likely to stop soon as our people do not know how to choose a good leader and they are so easily convinced by manipulators and opporunists.

And as a symbol of reform and change i would like to see that malacanang palace demolished and totaly destroyed becoz that has been the palace of shame that is a symbol of failures, corruption, lost hopes and hardships to the people and make a new pariliamentaty and palace in the new capital and they need not to be expensive and grandues kung anu lang ang kaya sana.

[Dinho]

that's correct slerz. Metro Manila and Metro Cebu are the only urban centers that have a "defined skyline" in the Philippines. Davao, though still on its infancy, it is fast shaping up. i hope their 30-storey hotel gets built soon. when can we expect Bacolod city and other cities to have a defined skyline? :D any vision or target year from the respective local gov'ts? :)

Bacolod will soon be having its first real high rise... I hope. No news about it yet though and they really should use the most advanced and toughest building technology since it will be built in the Reclamation area.

[TJ]

Yeah, specially we are prone to earthquakes too and we have an active volcano nearby.

[lochinvar]

"It really is time to move the capital out of Manila and transfer it into a small centrally located town where the government will not have to worry about riots by the masses and security. I would suggest Mabini in Central Negros. It really is a nice place located up in the mountains and right at the heart of the country. It is also located between Negros Occidental and Oriental. I don't think Cebu would be an ideal place since CEbu itself is the second main financial center and is densely populated. Iloilo is also very densely populated and most towns are located too close to each other. A low population will mean a less volatile atmosphere as there will not be too many people to gather to mount a huge riot. That's just my idea. It will be a bit expensive to do this but it just might be a cure to our countries' problems. It seems that we have been having too many coups and revolutions already and it is not likely to stop soon as our people do not know how to choose a good leader and they are so easily convinced by manipulators and opporunists."

I wish it's that simple. Where is the economies of scale in Mabini? Whether we like it or not, to operate a government, we need the bureaucrats as well as the technocrats. Take for granted that the infrastructure facilities are already well laid (which is really going to be very prohibitively expensive), where will the capable workers be coming from?

[Dinho]

"It really is time to move the capital out of Manila and transfer it into a small centrally located town where the government will not have to worry about riots by the masses and security. I would suggest Mabini in Central Negros. It really is a nice place located up in the mountains and right at the heart of the country. It is also located between Negros Occidental and Oriental. I don't think Cebu would be an ideal place since CEbu itself is the second main financial center and is densely populated. Iloilo is also very densely populated and most towns are located too close to each other. A low population will mean a less volatile atmosphere as there will not be too many people to gather to mount a huge riot. That's just my idea. It will be a bit expensive to do this but it just might be a cure to our countries' problems. It seems that we have been having too many coups and revolutions already and it is not likely to stop soon as our people do not know how to choose a good leader and they are so easily convinced by manipulators and opporunists."

I wish it's that simple. Where is the economies of scale in Mabini? Whether we like it or not, to operate a government, we need the bureaucrats as well as the technocrats. Take for granted that the infrastructure facilities are already well laid (which is really going to be very prohibitively expensive), where will the capable workers be coming from?

It will be a very expensive thing, but it will be well worth it. Mabini is up on the mountains but most of the area is flat. The climate is cool but not as cold as Baguio. The people will have to move there from Metro Manila and wherever else they are from. The bureaucrats and technocrats will have to move where the government is moving. It can be done but it will be with some sacrifice. I think they will like the place as soon as everything has been well laid out already. It has been done by other countries at a time when they were not yet as wealthy as they are today. Only difference is the goods and materials are a lot more expensive now.

[Dinho]

From the Center - 030806 - Daily Star
with Rolly Espina OPINIONS

I hardly had ever taken up the cudgels for Sammy Palanca and BREDCO. After all, his lawyers are a match to the best the city can throw at him.

But, because of the climate of uncertainty for the business circle of Bacolod, I beg to warn the city's negotiators that they are embarking on a very dangerous move when they demand for the adjustment of the original P800,000 per annum payment to the city for Bredco's operation of the port.

The first question to be asked - how much did the city spend for it? In short, how much has it invested to develop what once was an area under water into one that today is the favorite destination of inter-ocean vessels in Negros Occidental.

The point is simple. That was the amount stipulated in the CRRA. Second, if there is going to be any upward adjustment, that must be based on the inflation rate or consumer price index.

It is unconscionable for the city to demand P17.5 million which is based on its computation of BREDCO's gross income. Does that mean that they don't want BREDCO anymore to pay its creditors for the money it had borrowed and invested in the reclamation area?

The city government's principle is sure to dampen the enthusiasms of foreign investor in plunking their money on projects in the city.*

[chymera00]

"It really is time to move the capital out of Manila and transfer it into a small centrally located town where the government will not have to worry about riots by the masses and security. I would suggest Mabini in Central Negros. It really is a nice place located up in the mountains and right at the heart of the country. It is also located between Negros Occidental and Oriental. I don't think Cebu would be an ideal place since CEbu itself is the second main financial center and is densely populated. Iloilo is also very densely populated and most towns are located too close to each other. A low population will mean a less volatile atmosphere as there will not be too many people to gather to mount a huge riot. That's just my idea. It will be a bit expensive to do this but it just might be a cure to our countries' problems. It seems that we have been having too many coups and revolutions already and it is not likely to stop soon as our people do not know how to choose a good leader and they are so easily convinced by manipulators and opporunists."

I wish it's that simple. Where is the economies of scale in Mabini? Whether we like it or not, to operate a government, we need the bureaucrats as well as the technocrats. Take for granted that the infrastructure facilities are already well laid (which is really going to be very prohibitively expensive), where will the capable workers be coming from?
go Federal na lang, hehe :)

[lochinvar]

I've been anxiously waiting for the day when the Philippines would go federal. That will be the day when the economies of all the region will take off without further hindrance from the central government. All the region can plan their own projects, transact their own projects, build their own projects, without concurrence from the national capital region. Each region can build their own expressways, central Visayas can build their dream bridges, Ilocos can take care of their problemmatic Farinas, Misuari can lay asphalt in the entire island of Jolo for his vision of a giant airport and so forth.

[Dinho]

I've been anxiously waiting for the day when the Philippines would go federal. That will be the day when the economies of all the region will take off without further hindrance from the central government. All the region can plan their own projects, transact their own projects, build their own projects, without concurrence from the national capital region. Each region can build their own expressways, central Visayas can build their dream bridges, Ilocos can take care of their problemmatic Farinas, Misuari can lay asphalt in the entire island of Jolo for his vision of a giant airport and so forth.

That's right Chy... Go federal and move the capital out of Metro Manila. It is a very volatile place due to congestion...

[TJ]

Maybe bacolod or somewhere in negros is the right place because it is centered between iloilo and cebu and it is also centered in the heart of the country. :)

But my fear is MM manila will progress due to that at tayo naman dito ang mamimiligro dahil dito na naman pupunta ang gulo pang politika sa atin rehiyon. hayyy ano ba to... wala na ba talaga pag-asa ang pinas??? :(

[Jimbu]

Maybe bacolod or somewhere in negros is the right place because it is centered between iloilo and cebu and it is also centered in the heart of the country. :)

But my fear is MM manila will progress due to that at tayo naman dito ang mamimiligro dahil dito na naman pupunta ang gulo pang politika sa atin rehiyon. hayyy ano ba to... wala na ba talaga pag-asa ang pinas??? :(

The concom had recommended to transfer the capital to Clark and renamed it New Manila. Clark will get it if ever the capital is transferred because of the vast lands the government owned there and most of the government planners reside in Luzon. They also plan to build high speed train from Manila to Clark and also fastrack the development of DMIA.

For me I don't care where the capital is as long as we'll get federalized. This is the only way to decentralize progress. We should have a system where our regions will have power to spend on what they earned and not always beg from the capital it's share.

[Askal82]

If the country has to go Federal, the capital of the new government shouldn't be in any major city in the Philippines. It should be built entirely on a different town or borrowed a portion of a town. This would cost a fortune but the advantage of this would be to keep away from the influence of the major cities. Just take Washington D.C. for example. It is only a piece of land taken from the states of Virigina, Maryland and Delaware for the purpose of providing the seat of power for the federal government. It seems that we have the same idea with Lochinvar. :)

[TJ]

Clark seems to be a nice place.. but what about Mt. pinatubo??

[TJ]

Also federalism will mean the pork barrel will no longer exist right??? bad news to the corrupt scum indeed that will be. :lol:

[Dinho]

If the country has to go Federal, the capital of the new government shouldn't be in any major city in the Philippines. It should be built entirely on a different town or borrowed a portion of a town. This would cost a fortune but the advantage of this would be to keep away from the influence of the major cities. Just take Washington D.C. for example. It is only a piece of land taken from the states of Virigina, Maryland and Delaware for the purpose of providing the seat of power for the federal government. It seems that we have the same idea with Lochinvar. :)

yUP. EXACTLY WHAT I HAVE IN MIND. THAT'S WHY I SUGGESTED MABINI IN THE CENTRAL PHILIPPINE ISLAND OF NEGROS. THE TOWN ITSELF COULD BE DECLARED INDEPENDENT OF NEGROS OCCIDENTAL AND ORIENTAL AS IT IS SITUATED ON A SEMI PLATEAU UP IN THE MOUNTAINS OF CENTRAL NEGROS. THE TOWN IS ALSO LOCATED AWAY FROM THE VOLCANOES OF NORTHERN AND SOUTHERN NEGROS. THE ADVANTAGE OF LOCATING IT AWAY FROM MAJOR CITIES IS THAT THE GOVERNMENT WILL BE ABLE TO FUNCTION PROPERLY SINCE IT IS IN A SEMI ISOLATED PLACE. ISOLATION IS NOT EXACTLY WHAT A DEMOCRACY SHOULD BE BUT IN THE PI'S CASE, IT IS DEFINITELY ESSENTIAL AS OUR POPULATION CAN BE EASILY MANIPULATED AND GOADED BY PROMINENT PEOPLE.

LIST OF COUNTRIES WITH A PURPOSE BUILT GOVERNMENT CAPITAL
USA-WASHINGTON D.C.
AUSTRALIA-CANBERRA
BRAZIL-BRASILIA
PAKISTAN-ISLAMABAD
S. AFRICA?
CANADA?

MOST OF THESE COUNTRIES' GOVERNMENTS ARE AT LEAST STABLE - JUST IMAGINE IF PAKISTAN'S CAPITAL IS LAHORE OR KARACHI... THEIR CURRENT PM MIGHT HAVE BEEN ASSASINATED MONTHS AFTER HE TOOK OVER BECAUSE OF HIS POLICIES.

[FrancisXavier]

Why dont they just reclaim an area in Manila bay, connected to Luzon with a huge suspension bridge.

[Askal82]

Also federalism will mean the pork barrel will no longer exist right??? bad news to the corrupt scum indeed that will be. :lol:

No, not necesarilly. In US (Federal) they do have pork barrel believe me or not :okay:. In fact, pork barrel even originated from them. I guess that tradition was carried over to Philippine political tradition starting from the days of the commonwealth.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pork_barrel

Isn't it funny where our government patterned this system of patronage politics?

[Dinho]

Why dont they just reclaim an area in Manila bay, connected to Luzon with a huge suspension bridge.

That would be an even more expensive and pointless solution as people could easily overpower any guards at the gates if they want to. Reclaiming land would also mean the the fabled sunset on Manila Bay would be gone too. Reclaiming too far out to sea could be problematic too as has been experienced by the Japs at the Kansai International Airport which is still slowly sinking despite all the technology and their engineering expertise.

[Askal82]

^^ If Philippines have enough money, I would suggest building an underwater tunne to preserve the sunset view of Manila bay andl facilitate quicker means of transportation between Clark and Manila. The risk however, are earthquakes.

[Dinho]

^^ If Philippines have enough money, I would suggest building an underwater tunne to preserve the sunset view of Manila bay andl facilitate quicker means of transportation between Clark and Manila. The risk however, are earthquakes.

I really don't think they should even consider a new capital in Luzon. A more central location is more workable.

[FrancisXavier]

That would be an even more expensive and pointless solution as people could easily overpower any guards at the gates if they want to. Reclaiming land would also mean the the fabled sunset on Manila Bay would be gone too. Reclaiming too far out to sea could be problematic too as has been experienced by the Japs at the Kansai International Airport which is still slowly sinking despite all the technology and their engineering expertise.
Manila bay is wide. of course if they are to reclaim, presicely not in front of Manila. Maybe somewhere in cavite part. But the beaches, oh, can't be... But not in front of Manila coz it's just too deep for reclamation. even japan would have a hard time.

[TJ]

^^ If Philippines have enough money, I would suggest building an underwater tunne to preserve the sunset view of Manila bay andl facilitate quicker means of transportation between Clark and Manila. The risk however, are earthquakes.
:lol:

[TJ]

Why dont they just reclaim an area in Manila bay, connected to Luzon with a huge suspension bridge.

- :lol:

[TJ]

Why dont they build a sky palace 3 times taller than the eiffer tower with anti-gravity elevators and can float away in case there would be a people power or coup attempt.

- :lol:

[Dinho]

Why dont they build a sky palace 3 times taller than the eiffer tower with anti-gravity elevators and can float away in case there would be a people power or coup attempt.

- :lol:

Very funny TJ!

[kyle@1008]

^^ I agree with the sky palace idea.... how about adding ray shielding....!! then we can hire mangkukulams and albularyos to sorround the place with curses.... and priests to summun the saints to protect the place... magic and technology combines....

oh and hi guys..... I'm alive....

[Dinho]

^^ I agree with the sky palace idea.... how about adding ray shielding....!! then we can hire mangkukulams and albularyos to sorround the place with curses.... and priests to summun the saints to protect the place... magic and technology combines....

oh and hi guys..... I'm alive....

Enough of this. I already created a new Thread for that topic. What's new in Bacolod Kyle?

[TJ]

ohhh finaly good news they resume the construction of the highway now they have more workers and equipment than last time. Maybe it will take this kind of bad things to happen for arroyo to wake up and set things right. nyahaha!!!

[Dinho]

ohhh finaly good news they resume the construction of the highway now they have more workers and equipment than last time. Maybe it will take this kind of bad things to happen for arroyo to wake up and set things right. nyahaha!!!

Which highway is that? There is supposed to be a new highway to the Silay-Bacolod International Airport which begins before the Honda Showroom in Talisay City. Are you referring to this one?

[Dinho]

Visayan Daily Star - Bacolod City, Philippines Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Bacolod gov't center
to be built in Taculing
BY CHRYSEE SAMILLANO
Taculing is it.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia yesterday signed Executive Order No. 6 ordering the construction of a city government center in Brgy. Taculing, Bacolod City.

The Executive Order is based on Sangguniang Panlungsod Resolution No. 96 dated Jan. 26, 2006, "declaring the inadequacy of the present City Hall site and declaring the need for a another site to augment the present site. "

Leonardia also furnished yesterday the SP a copy of the order, including the final report of the City Hall Committee recommending the city-owned lot in Brgy. Taculing, with an approximate area of 5 hectares as the site of the proposed government center.

In recommending the Taculing lot over other properties offered either for sale or donation, the committee headed by City Administrator Lorendo Dilag, based its decision on the criteria of accessibility, minimal cost of development, substantial area, availability of transportation and communication facilities, proximity to government offices and other relevant considerations.

Leonardia said that, based on the Local Government Code of 1991, when the move is for the transfer of the seat of government of a local government unit, a public hearing is required and a vote of two-thirds of all the members of the SP. However, when the move is for the establishment of a government center, there is even no need for any legislative action, he said.

Leonardia said that, after the SP had declared the need for a new government center, he can now exercise his prerogative to choose what he believes is the best site for such a project. He said this will go through the SP and it will be the body to give him the authority to avail of a loan or to pass an appropriation ordinance for the construction of the government center.

In choosing the Taculing site, Leonardia said, he believes the principle to be applied is "let us not make the people go to the government, but let the government go to the people."

Leonardia said the city will retain the public use and services of the present City Hall since the property has a conditional donation. He said this means that the City Mayor's Office and other offices will be retained but the bulk of the services will be done in the new government center.

During a caucus with the SP members yesterday, Leonardia appealed for their cooperation so they could construct the government center, which he said, would be a fitting gift and legacy for the people of Bacolod. He said their target is to have the project ready before their term ends.

Leonardia said he foresees that the construction of a new government center in Taculing will somehow upgrade the value of the properties in the area and will improve the vicinity. "I predict some of it will become commercial areas, and that will still benefit the city," he said.

Dilag said the city can also improve the roads and construct arterial roads along the Taculing site.*CGS

I don't like this. I don't like what the current mayor is doing. Seems like all his decisions are going to be bad for the city on the long run.

[Dinho]

Visayan Daily Star - Bacolod City, Philippines Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Win-win solution
with Bredco urged
BY CHRYSEE SAMILLANO
The Bacolod City government and the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. should continue to negotiate and explore all possible avenues towards a win-win solution, Transportation and Communication Assistant Secretary Ricardo Tan said yesterday.

Tan's sentiment was also shared by businessman Harish Nandwani, who said he believes that the government and business sector should sit down together and join forces and think of the city and its people.

Meanwhile, Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Roberto Montelibano said he believes the decision of the city to take over the management and operation of the Bacolod port creates a wrong impression to the business community. The business community prefer businesses ran privately because they have seen government run business down the ground, he said. "Even if the city owns the port, I would like to see that it is ran by the private sector, " he added.

Now that we have a good port, lets keep a balance and leave it to the courts to decide on the issues, Montelbano said.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia, however, said, "I don't think there is a reason for the businessmen to be apprehensive since the city is simply going after its own interest, being the owner of the port."
Leonardia said there is no instance where one can say that the city has persecuted anybody. This is just a matter of implementing a contract between the city and BREDCO, he said. There is no cause for the business sector to worry since the city is willing to listen to them, he added.

Leonardia said he signed an Executive Order creating a council to work on the economic and business growth of Bacolod which will be headed by Bro. Rolando Dizon. "We are trying our best to be friendly with the business community because we believe that, as business grows, Bacolod will also grow," he said. "It is an important sector to us and I assure them that that we will try to make the city more business-friendly," he added.

Leonardia said that is why the city has established a "one-stop-shop" at the Bays Center for the renewal of business permits. He said he believes it is one of the first to be implemented in the country. Even the concept of coming up with a government center where almost all government offices can be located, is also a step towards making the city business-friendly, he said.

Nandwani said he believes BREDCO president Simplicio Palanca did an amazing job in building the port. If the city intends to get the port, it should compensate BREDCO, he said. If this situation arose, it is obviously because the contract was flawed and city officials then only have themselves to blame, he said.

The contract signed between the city and BREDCO in 1961 states that the port is to be owned by the city.

Leonardia said he does not question the performance of Palanca and the city is giving him the credit for pursuing the project. "I even admire him for what he has done, but it so happens that the port area belongs to the city, " he said, citing the contract terms.

Everybody is entitled to his own opinion because many of the issues are in the stage of academics, but the reckoning will come when realities seep in, Leonardia said.*CGS

If they insist on taking over the port right now, I think it will be very bad for the city. I do not think that the supposed violation of the contract is enough reason to take over the facility for which Bredco invested heavily. This action is similar to what China did back in the 90's. McDonald's largest restaurant had a long contract but the Chinese government decided to rescind the contract ofr the simple reason that it owns the land and that a new developer wanted to build a big mall at the site. Thing is this would be unfair and would ruin the reputation of Bacolod to potential investors.

[Dinho]

Visayan Daily Star - Bacolod City, Philippines Wednesday, March 15, 2006

Win-win solution
with Bredco urged
BY CHRYSEE SAMILLANO
The Bacolod City government and the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. should continue to negotiate and explore all possible avenues towards a win-win solution, Transportation and Communication Assistant Secretary Ricardo Tan said yesterday.

Tan's sentiment was also shared by businessman Harish Nandwani, who said he believes that the government and business sector should sit down together and join forces and think of the city and its people.

Meanwhile, Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry president Roberto Montelibano said he believes the decision of the city to take over the management and operation of the Bacolod port creates a wrong impression to the business community. The business community prefer businesses ran privately because they have seen government run business down the ground, he said. "Even if the city owns the port, I would like to see that it is ran by the private sector, " he added.

Now that we have a good port, lets keep a balance and leave it to the courts to decide on the issues, Montelbano said.

Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia, however, said, "I don't think there is a reason for the businessmen to be apprehensive since the city is simply going after its own interest, being the owner of the port."
Leonardia said there is no instance where one can say that the city has persecuted anybody. This is just a matter of implementing a contract between the city and BREDCO, he said. There is no cause for the business sector to worry since the city is willing to listen to them, he added.

Leonardia said he signed an Executive Order creating a council to work on the economic and business growth of Bacolod which will be headed by Bro. Rolando Dizon. "We are trying our best to be friendly with the business community because we believe that, as business grows, Bacolod will also grow," he said. "It is an important sector to us and I assure them that that we will try to make the city more business-friendly," he added.

Leonardia said that is why the city has established a "one-stop-shop" at the Bays Center for the renewal of business permits. He said he believes it is one of the first to be implemented in the country. Even the concept of coming up with a government center where almost all government offices can be located, is also a step towards making the city business-friendly, he said.

Nandwani said he believes BREDCO president Simplicio Palanca did an amazing job in building the port. If the city intends to get the port, it should compensate BREDCO, he said. If this situation arose, it is obviously because the contract was flawed and city officials then only have themselves to blame, he said.

The contract signed between the city and BREDCO in 1961 states that the port is to be owned by the city.

Leonardia said he does not question the performance of Palanca and the city is giving him the credit for pursuing the project. "I even admire him for what he has done, but it so happens that the port area belongs to the city, " he said, citing the contract terms.

Everybody is entitled to his own opinion because many of the issues are in the stage of academics, but the reckoning will come when realities seep in, Leonardia said.*CGS

If they insist on taking over the port right now, I think it will be very bad for the city. I do not think that the supposed violation of the contract is enough reason to take over the facility for which Bredco invested heavily. This action is similar to what China did back in the 90's. McDonald's largest restaurant had a long contract but the Chinese government decided to rescind the contract ofr the simple reason that it owns the land and that a new developer wanted to build a big mall at the site. Thing is this would be unfair and would ruin the reputation of Bacolod to potential investors.

[TJ]

DInho the highway is the one starting from airport in tangub... the work resume but with only slighty added worforce and equipment and to me it is still not sufficient. The Highway is only barely a km long after 4yrs of construction im really upset with this project of our president aroyyo. Unlike erap he completed the highway from bacolod to murcia in less than a year which is approx 12km and has many workers and equipment and machines. Arroyo borrowed a lot of money greater than all presidents combined between ramos,cory and erap to fund for projects and this is the result of it?? what a shame... korakot si GMA at mga cronies nya katulad ni MONICO PUENTEBELIA!!! na di marunong magpatakbo ng isang probinsya kasi ang alam ay nag sing along local TV at mag coduct ng nonsense nyang monico cup na kasali pa ako.. nyahaha!! pero other than that he has really done nothing anything significant at all... palitan na natin yan si MONICO sa next election.

[sugarboy]

^^ didn't you hear TJ? the new spelling of the cong's name is MONEY-KO

[blueguy]

Sana the problem with BREDCO ma solve na in time for the opening of SM City Bacolod. Baka ma turn off yung mga investors...The local city officicials must avoid too much politicking...

[sugarboy]

^^ nice avatar van! :okay:

[blueguy]

^^ nice avatar van! :okay:

Thanks! Its my logo

[lewdsaint]

The twin falls of Kipot
Text by Janice V. Busil
Photos by A. Chris Fernandez

Negros Occidental was indeed bestowed with numerous natural wonders. Each of its component has a charm of its own. In Bago City alone, there are approximately 23 tourist destinations and three major festivals. Points of interest range from archaic historical houses, rich fauna and tundra, and panoramic man-made resorts. The city has three major festivals: the Babaylan Dance Drama, a festive pre-Hispanic reenactment of the rituals performed by the legendary guardians of spirit, comes back to life on the 19th day of February; the San Juan de Bautista, a fluvial parade commemorating the discovery of Bago City and the Feast of St. John the Baptist, happens every 24th of June; and the Al Cinco de Noviembre, a celebration of independence from the Spanish conquerors, where canons are on parade every 5th of November. The city is quite popular too for the marvelous Kipot Twin Falls.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/kipot1.jpg

In the heart of the peaceful Barangay of Mailum in the municipality of Bago lies the identical beauties of Kipot. Donated by the former Vice-Mayor Romualdo S. Araneta and family, the site has attracted local and foreign tourists alike.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/kipot2.jpg

The 220 steps of stairs wind into the side of a hill and finally ends on the foot of the falls. Rails were installed to aid the visitors for a more secure and less tiring hike. Cottages made out of organic materials occupy the sides of the stairs. A viewing deck on the upper part of the hill was designed for the physically-challenged individuals.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/kipot3.jpg

The falls lie amidst the hundreds of green trees. Separated by a giant piece of rock, the falls splits into two mirror images. Its clear waters pours into the gigantic rocks whipping it with coolness and vitality.

The rhythm that it creates becomes an echo of spirituality and a sonata of life. The water from the falls flow idly into a rocky stream washing the impurities off. From afar, the Kipot Falls resembles a long white and shimmery mane of mother nature.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/kipot4.jpg

The place is ideal for recollecting the everlasting memories of the past. The calm environment can inspire musicians and poets alike. The sluggish flow of water down into the stream helps enlighten the confused mental faculties while the heavenly view of the cascades brings the lens enthusiasts into a limitless nirvana of angles. On the other hand, the viridian woods becomes a precious emerald in the eyes of ecological fanatics.

The four cottages serve as a temporary living sanctuary for the guests. At PhP 300.00 per day, these cottages can accommodate families and friends. The five picnic huts strategically placed on the lateral to the stairs cost at PhP 100.00 a day. A ten pesos entrance fee allows the students and the Bagueño to frequently see the majestic beauty of Kipot.

http://i40.photobucket.com/albums/e248/lewdsaint/kipot5.jpg

A store on the top, near the entrance, functions as a quenching refuge for the visitors after the sweaty and calorie-burning trip.

The Kipot Twin Falls is owned and managed by the Local Government of Bago City under its Tourism Affairs Division headed by Miss Rosseni G. Mina, Senior Tourism Operations Officer, together with Bago City Mayor Janet E. Torres. Inquiries are entertained by calling the Bago City Tourism Office at (034) 4610-164 and (034) 4610-540.

Rekindle your dying spirit and invirogate your weakening flesh. Take part to see and celebrate the enchanting beauty of Kipot Twin Falls.

Link : http://www.thenewstoday.info/2006/03/24/the.twin.falls.of.kipot.html

[lewdsaint]

First condo in city to boost local tourism
By Roberto L. Bacasong

THE first condominium to be built at the reclamation area will provide jobs and employment for the people of Bacolod.

Bacolod business mogul Simplicio Palanca said the construction of the Horizon Tower would boost the tourism landscape in the city.

Palanca, president of the Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. (Bredco), said the Horizon Tower will house 56 condominium units of sizes varying from 43 sq.m. to 57 sq.m.

Architect Victor Costales said once this imposing tower is completed, it would be the tallest structure in the city with its eight floors plus a landscaped roof deck.

Costales said an extensive use of glass for the building would ensure an unobstructed view of both the sea and the mountains towards the east.

From the proposed design and building plans, the ground floor would be dedicated for commercial use, to provide all the services and conveniences for the unit owners.

While the building footprint is only 500 sq.m., the design allows for a geometrically planned park on the rear of the building, which includes a prominent sculpture and groves of ornamental trees with picturesque rock gardens and waterfalls.

The lobby would be clad entirely in glass to illustrate wide spaces and use Zen-inspired interior design motifs.

Palanca said the condo construction will cost millions of pesos and will be funded by the Bredco management.

The condominium is due to be completed within this year.

SM-Bacolod is also expected to be completed before the city's yearly Masskara Festival in October.

The Reclamation area, said Palanca, is really a conducive place for high-rise condo because it offers an added bonus like the beautiful sceneries of the Guimaras Strait on the seaside portion and Mounts Silay and Kanlaon on the eastern side.

He added that condo residents would also have an easy access to shopping at the SM-Bacolod, which would be located beside the proposed condominium structures.

Link : http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bac/2006/03/18/bus/first.condo.in.city.to.boost.local.tourism.html

[sugarboy]

Thanks! Its my logo

you're an architect van?

[TJ]

with all the hype it's only 8 floors...geeezz :(

[lewdsaint]

Go Western Visayas!!!!

Saturday, March 25, 2006
Dev't council defines tourism market for W. Visayas

"WE'VE GOT what you are looking for." This is the banner of the Tourism Action Plan 2010 of Western Visayas as presented by Department of Tourism Regional Director Edwin Trompeta.

The action plan garnered the unanimous nod of the Regional Development Council (RDC) during its first quarter regular meeting held recently in Iloilo City.

Trompeta said Western Visayas has everything what foreign and local tourists are looking for.

The region is also positioning itself as the festival capital of the Philippines.

The RDC approval was in recognition of the important role of tourism in the economic development of Western Visayas and as an important asset and enhancer of the quality of life of the people.

Tourism Action plan 2010 was prepared by the Department of Tourism in cooperation with the RDC-Western Visayas and the Canadian Urban Institute.

A common Western Visayas Tourism Action Plan until 2010 would serve as a blueprint to coordinate and communicate the initiatives that were undertaken by the tourism industry in the region for the past years.

Trompeta said the hub of the tourist attraction in Western Visayas region would still be Boracay and the other provinces would revolve around it.

Antique and Aklan province would be developed as nature-based eco-tourism and adventure sites.

Capiz will be promoted under the cupflowers, seafood, marine, and adventure attractions.

Negros Occidental and Bacolod City will be for adventure, culture, and heritage tourism and as site for meetings and conventions.

Iloilo will be marketed for its cultural heritage and as venue for conventions, conferences, and meetings.

Trompeta said they intend to work on the tourism support services under the lines of policy and communication support.

Target markets will be both foreign and local markets.

He also revealed that they are targeting the East Asian markets like Korea, Japan, Taiwan, China and Hongkong. Though the bulk of our tourists come from the North Americas at present.

Western Europe, Australia and New Zealand markets will also be tapped, he said.

Trompeta said they are proposing two taglines in marketing Western Visayas: "Festival Capital of the Philippines" and "We've Got What You Are Looking For". (EASD)

[lewdsaint]

Sugar agency confident to hit sugar prod'n target for 05'-06'By Erwin Ambo S. Delilan

THE Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) is confident of hitting the 2005-2006 sugar production target before the current crop year ends.

In a forum held at the Business Inn in Bacolod Friday, SRA Administrator James Ledesma disclosed that an estimated production of sugar for current crop year is about 2,023,605 metric tons.

As of March 5, he said, production has reached 1,502, 353 MT making only a remaining balance of 521,252 MT.

"We will hit the target," Ledesma told the industry leaders and other sugar producers in the province.

For demand and supply, Ledesma said, current inventory reveals that raw sugar for crop year 2005-2006 summed up to 154,000 MT plus the projected production reached a total of 2,172,584 MT.

But if domestic consumption of 1,900,000 MT will be subtracted to it, available stocks will be 272,584 MT. If the US quota of 216,438 MT will be subtracted, the yearend balance will be 56,146 MT.

Ledesma said, in order to make our yearend stock balance reach 106,146 MT, we need to import of about 50,000 MT by June or July.

"It's tight but not short," he stressed.

He also explained why there is an increase in the year-end stock balance. He said it is because there's an increase on the US quota that initially reached 137,000 MT or an increase of about 80,000 MT.

Meanwhile, with regards to the sugar price situation, Ledesma said, millgate price for bidded refined sugar is at P1,200 per Lkg, wholesale price is P1,745.20/Lkg and retailed price is P38.20/kilo.

For raw sugar, millgate price is also P1,200/lkg, whose sale price is P1,303.00/lkg and retail price at P29.36/kilo.


Link : http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bac/2006/03/25/bus/sugar.agency.confident.to.hit.sugar.prod.n.target.for.05.06..html

[lewdsaint]

250 Murcia families to get housing
By Roberto L. Bacasong

AT LEAST 250 families from Murcia town, some 16 kilometers away from Bacolod City, will get their own houses built on a lot that will be awarded to them soon.

The project is part of the continuing efforts of the Gawad Kalinga to foster partnerships with government and non-government organizations.

Gawad Kalinga is a civic organization that aims to provide homes to the poor and homeless Filipinos.

Tony Meloto, Gawad Kalinga president, 85 percent of Filipinos are classified as informal settlers, a term referring to those who build homes in lands they do not own.

His group has vowed to address these problems.

Just Friday, he and Vice President Noli De Castro signed a memorandum of understanding during the cornerstone laying ceremony in Barangay Salvacion.

Murcia Mayor Esteban Coscolluela witnessed the event.

The project is part of the Kabayan Housing Program.

"We firmly believe that Filipinos should not be a squatter in their own country," Meloto said.

The five-hectare property is divided into two sections, with 3.5 has. intended for the Murcia town employees and 1.5 has. for the GK project. A total of 253 housing units are to be constructed in the area.

Meanwhile, De Castro, chairman of the Housing and Urban Development Coordinating Council (HUDCC), said it is the first time that a local government unit gambled its Internal Revenue Allotment (IRA) just to pursue the housing project with partnership from the Pag-ibig Fund.

De Castro said the housing program is one of the projects of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Coscolluela, on the other hand, said he wants to fight the homelessness in his town.

"God has been good to all of us. I want to assure my constituents that their government officials are working together," he said.

The local chief executive said he admires GK dedication in their housing projects.


Link : http://www.sunstar.com.ph/static/bac/2006/03/25/news/250.murcia.families.to.get.housing.html

[overtureph]

Iloilo: From textile to sugar country
Ambeth R. Ocampo
Looking Back
The Philippine Daily Inquirer


WHEN my teenage niece offers to prepare her father's coffee, I take note of the quantity of sugar and cream added to the steaming mug of brewed coffee, comparing this with the way my mother prepared coffee for my father -- two teaspoons freeze-dried imported instant coffee in boiling water, garnished with an eighth of a teaspoon of sugar. Descended from a long line of diabetics I understood my father's caution. Failing numerous times to get the right amount of sugar into father's coffee, I advised him to just take it black since the sugar seemed so negligible anyway.

Having grown up this way I was shocked, on my first trip to the sugar-producing province of Negros Occidental, to see my hosts dumped a dozen teaspoons of sugar in a cup of coffee, without stirring it. They explained that when I was old enough to take coffee I must contribute to the sugar economy by doing the same. Times have changed since then; now people prefer sugar substitutes in coffee and diet soft drinks. No wonder the sugar industry is a pale shadow of what it once was in the late 19th century.

Passing Muelle Loney last weekend made me re-read the personal correspondence of Nicholas Loney, who is credited with turning Iloilo City, in Panay Island, neighbor of Negros Island, from marshland to the second most important port in the Philippines. Iloilo used to be the "Queen City of the South" with direct trade to Britain but that is now history. To see how this happened, I read Alfred McCoy's revisionist essay "A Queen Dies Slowly: The Rise and Fall of Iloilo City." Loney's personal correspondence provided a glimpse into his lonely life in 19th-century Jaro while McCoy put everything in context showing how Loney killed a thriving textile industry by importing machine-made cloth from Manchester and encouraged sugar plantations to provide cargo for empty ships returning to Britain. Such is globalization for you.

Textile weaving in Iloilo goes back to pre-Spanish times, probably bartered with Chinese merchants for the 14th-century oriental ceramics that continue to be excavated in the islands of Panay and Negros to this day. Its peak began in the 18th century and ended in the 19th century as shown by trade and population figures. Writing to his family in 1856 Loney described:

"Some of the native textures [textiles?] made in this province are very beautiful, that is, as to quality. The designs, though in some instances good, are not as a rule in very good taste, but it is surprising what admirable articles the women turn out on these rude looms. I have heard the number of looms in this province estimated at 50,000, but I think this is rather over the mark. All the female population appears to be employed in weaving, and in almost every house there are three or four looms, in some as many as a dozen; but I am wasting all my available writing ground on something very like dry statistics."

In a Consular report of 1857, Loney observed that: "Considering that the Philippines are essentially an agricultural rather than a manufacturing region, the textile productions of Iloilo may be said to have reached a remarkable degree of development. Nothing strikes the attention at the weekly fairs held at the different towns more than the attendance of native-made goods offered for sale; and the number of looms at work in most of the towns and villages also affords matter for surprise. Almost every family possesses one or two of these primitive-looking machines, with a simple apparatus formed on pieces of bamboo. In the majority of the houses of the mestizos [of mixed Spanish-Filipino blood], and the more well-to-do Bisayans [natives of the Visayan region], from six to a dozen looms are kept at work. I have heard the total number in this province computed at 60,000 and though these figures may rather over-represent the actual quantity, they cannot be much beyond it. All the weaving is done by women whose wages usually amounted from 75 cents to 1.50 dollars per month. In general -- a practice unfortunately too prevalent among the natives in every branch of labor -- these wages are received for many months in advance, and the operatives frequently spend years -- become virtually slaves for a long period-before paying off an originally trifling debt. There are other workwomen employed at intervals to set up the pattern in the looms, who earn from 1.00 to 1.50 dollars per day in this manner. I should add that Capiz and Antique [provinces in Panay] produce in a lesser degree than Iloilo a proportion of manufactured goods."

It was an intricate business. Women were held in debt and traders from the towns of Molo and Jaro made all the money selling the cloth in Manila and returning with: Batangas cotton, Chinese silk and machine-made British cloth of a value that equaled Iloilo textile exports to Manila. Panay textiles were so popular as exports, generating a sale of one million Mexican dollars at one point. Then Loney had local designs manufactured in Manchester, then flooded the market with them, thus sending the local industry to extinction. Cloth exports from Panay dwindled from a high of 30, 673 piezas in 1864 to a mere 5,100 piezas in 1873. Sugar replaced woven textiles changing the urban landscape forever. Population moved to sugar plantations and the port of Iloilo filled with foreign trading houses. The once busy looms became obsolete. There was a new boom industry but the province and people did not profit. As in the experience in hemp production in the Bicol region, what occurred in Iloilo, to use historian Norman Owen's phrase, was simply "prosperity without progress."

Comments are welcome at aocampo@ateneo.edu

http://www.inq7.net/globalnation/col_lob/2004/apr02.htm

[gekidan]

Skyflakes Over Dimas
http://idiotboard.blogspot.com/2005/04/skyflakes-over-dimas.html

It was perhaps a month ago when I finally got hold of Vicente Groyon's novel, The Sky Over Dimas. This novel won the 2002 Carlos Palanca Award for Literary Excellence in the English novel genre. Prestigious it may seem, this piece of work is virtually non-existent in major bookstores like National, Goodwill and Powerbooks. The only place one can get a hold of it is from the DLSU Press, and it's subject to availability. Nevertheless, this book deserves a bright place in the hall of fame of great Philippine novels in English along with the works of Nick Joaquin, Sionil Jose and Manuel Arguilla.

One word to describe Groyon's novel is this: GRIPPING. Like a good pulp fiction cum saga, the author managed to spin a huge entagling web of subplots, family skeletons and sketches of the decadent lifestyles of Bacolod. If you are from Bacolod, get this book! The language used in the book is masterful with great command of English, the words lyrical that it rolls in your tongue when you read it aloud, and the flow of his work GRIPPING. It is sentences like this which makes your mind heady with meaty delicious descriptions of Negros life: "He lunged, parried, thrust, and touch‚d through the smokers' arbor, harvesting white blossoms and leaves from the canopy of vines along the way." You cannot help but finish his novel in one sitting. You just have to find out what happened in the hacienda.

According to PDI contributor, Rosario Lucero wrote, "The novel's basic plot is a rescue mission that Negros haciendera Margie Jarabas Torrecarrion calls on her son Rafael to undertake. George, Margie's loony husband and therefore Rafael's father, has been holed up with a worker's daughter in the abandoned manor of Hacienda Dimas for three months now. It's the only kind of reason that would make Rafael, now living in Manila, break his resolve never to set foot in Negros ever again. He dutifully returns to Bacolod, spends a night there before driving to the hacienda located a few hours from the city, and takes his father back in an ambulance."

What happened in between is the meat of the novel. Groyon concocted a vast melange of high-strung free-wheeling Bacolod characters both from the Jarabas and the Torrecarion family trees with their haciendero lifestyles to the sacadas who cannot rise above their station due to the oppression of their masters. Most characters satirize the pretentiousness, superficiality, greed and clannishness of Negros society that is a class unto its own. Everything is laid out exposed under the garish light of public scrutiny- that under that veneer of aristocratic gentility lies wickedness (e.g. enough jelousy to commit murder just to cover up a an infidelity), insanity (e.g. going to a religious store just to shoplift cheap plastic medallions) and hypocrisy (e.g. whole Bacolod society gossips behind the family's back.)

Well, that's much like the Bacolod that I know. Still wicked, insane and the best hypocritical community one will ever know. But the good thing is, Groyon managed to encapsulate (but not distill) all the good and bad of my city into one gripping novel. As my friend one said, "Bacolod is a big city with a small town mentality." And how right he is. :)

[sugarboy]

^^ I can only agree

[overtureph]

Do they still conduct the Kahirup Ball?

[sugarboy]

they tried to revive it in recent years but i guess it will never be the same as in the commonwealth days

[Dinho]

Skyflakes Over Dimas
http://idiotboard.blogspot.com/2005/04/skyflakes-over-dimas.html

It was perhaps a month ago when I finally got hold of Vicente Groyon's novel, The Sky Over Dimas. This novel won the 2002 Carlos Palanca Award for Literary Excellence in the English novel genre. Prestigious it may seem, this piece of work is virtually non-existent in major bookstores like National, Goodwill and Powerbooks. The only place one can get a hold of it is from the DLSU Press, and it's subject to availability. Nevertheless, this book deserves a bright place in the hall of fame of great Philippine novels in English along with the works of Nick Joaquin, Sionil Jose and Manuel Arguilla.

One word to describe Groyon's novel is this: GRIPPING. Like a good pulp fiction cum saga, the author managed to spin a huge entagling web of subplots, family skeletons and sketches of the decadent lifestyles of Bacolod. If you are from Bacolod, get this book! The language used in the book is masterful with great command of English, the words lyrical that it rolls in your tongue when you read it aloud, and the flow of his work GRIPPING. It is sentences like this which makes your mind heady with meaty delicious descriptions of Negros life: "He lunged, parried, thrust, and touch‚d through the smokers' arbor, harvesting white blossoms and leaves from the canopy of vines along the way." You cannot help but finish his novel in one sitting. You just have to find out what happened in the hacienda.

According to PDI contributor, Rosario Lucero wrote, "The novel's basic plot is a rescue mission that Negros haciendera Margie Jarabas Torrecarrion calls on her son Rafael to undertake. George, Margie's loony husband and therefore Rafael's father, has been holed up with a worker's daughter in the abandoned manor of Hacienda Dimas for three months now. It's the only kind of reason that would make Rafael, now living in Manila, break his resolve never to set foot in Negros ever again. He dutifully returns to Bacolod, spends a night there before driving to the hacienda located a few hours from the city, and takes his father back in an ambulance."

What happened in between is the meat of the novel. Groyon concocted a vast melange of high-strung free-wheeling Bacolod characters both from the Jarabas and the Torrecarion family trees with their haciendero lifestyles to the sacadas who cannot rise above their station due to the oppression of their masters. Most characters satirize the pretentiousness, superficiality, greed and clannishness of Negros society that is a class unto its own. Everything is laid out exposed under the garish light of public scrutiny- that under that veneer of aristocratic gentility lies wickedness (e.g. enough jelousy to commit murder just to cover up a an infidelity), insanity (e.g. going to a religious store just to shoplift cheap plastic medallions) and hypocrisy (e.g. whole Bacolod society gossips behind the family's back.)

Well, that's much like the Bacolod that I know. Still wicked, insane and the best hypocritical community one will ever know. But the good thing is, Groyon managed to encapsulate (but not distill) all the good and bad of my city into one gripping novel. As my friend one said, "Bacolod is a big city with a small town mentality." And how right he is. :)

Most of what you said and the book presents is true. But you must also be aware that people everywhere in the Philippines are like that. Gossipy, wicked, envious, and greedy. But I think that Bacolenos are improving as was mentioned somewhere in this or the previous thread. I just want to make it clear that it is not only Bacolod that is like that. In fact most of the tagalogs I've met here where I'm working at are like that and add to that ill-mannered, cheap, scornful, condescending, rude, and brash.

At least I am not aware of incest happening in Bacolod. I hear so much of that in Manila. That I think is more characteristic of insanity.

[gekidan]

Isn't it awkward when you enter a restaurant all heads turn to you because everyone's brains are scanning their who's who registry as to who this person is? And when someone recognizes you, you go to their table and do the aristorcratic routine of exchanging pleasantries. "Uuuyy.. amiga, maniaga ka di? Sino upod mo??" Beso. Beso. or "Migs! Kaon ka upod sa amon!" That's why it's acutely embarrassing to eat alone in Bacolod cuz people around you are speculating what's wrong with you.

Isn't it funny that even with the nice sidewalks and near accessibility of everything in Bacolod, people still prefer to ride their cars or the jeepneys? It's as if people are embarrassed to be seen walking down North Drive or Lacson. Perhaps we're afraid that a car will stop by, its windows drawn down wherby your classmate will say, "Nagalakat ka haw? Waay salakyan? Upod ka na lang!" Sige nga, tell me if you have strolled the sidewalks of uptown Bacolod! (nevermind downtown)

There's no argument about the cleanliness and the infrastructures of Bacolod. These are static features, unlike Bacolenos who can either be a blessing or a curse. We're like a two-sided coin that if you attend our aristocratic soirees and inumans, then you'll be on our good graces, but if you've made a huge scandal or social faux pas, you'll have to expect the full brunt of humiliation. Not true? Well, tell that to the rich girl who was in Bacolod scandal where everywhere she went, she can hear people murmuring "Namit gid!" (her line in the sex scandal) Do I need to say more?

[c0kelitr0]

^^ hahaha...i find it very true...especially that beso-beso thing in a restaurant...

[Dinho]

Isn't it awkward when you enter a restaurant all heads turn to you because everyone's brains are scanning their who's who registry as to who this person is? And when someone recognizes you, you go to their table and do the aristorcratic routine of exchanging pleasantries. "Uuuyy.. amiga, maniaga ka di? Sino upod mo??" Beso. Beso. or "Migs! Kaon ka upod sa amon!" That's why it's acutely embarrassing to eat alone in Bacolod cuz people around you are speculating what's wrong with you.

Isn't it funny that even with the nice sidewalks and near accessibility of everything in Bacolod, people still prefer to ride their cars or the jeepneys? It's as if people are embarrassed to be seen walking down North Drive or Lacson. Perhaps we're afraid that a car will stop by, its windows drawn down wherby your classmate will say, "Nagalakat ka haw? Waay salakyan? Upod ka na lang!" Sige nga, tell me if you have strolled the sidewalks of uptown Bacolod! (nevermind downtown)

There's no argument about the cleanliness and the infrastructures of Bacolod. These are static features, unlike Bacolenos who can either be a blessing or a curse. We're like a two-sided coin that if you attend our aristocratic soirees and inumans, then you'll be on our good graces, but if you've made a huge scandal or social faux pas, you'll have to expect the full brunt of humiliation. Not true? Well, tell that to the rich girl who was in Bacolod scandal where everywhere she went, she can hear people murmuring "Namit gid!" (her line in the sex scandal) Do I need to say more?

I eat out at least once a day and most times I eat alone either at Bob's, Pendy's, or some other restaurant. I don't mind eating out and I don't mind if they look at me for a minute. It all depends on you, whether you will allow other people to get to you. I also walked a lot to and from school. In fact, I'd rather walk if my car is being fixed than take a jeepney. I don't mind walking. It doesn't mean I'm any less than anyone else. And I'm not aware of people stopping to say condescending things. In fact I don't find anything wrong with "Nagalakat ka haw? Waay salakyan? Upod ka na lang!". In fact I do stop in the proper manner if I find a classmate on the street - except for smokers that is - because I would rather share my ride with them. I think it is indeed a good thing for people to be mindful of how everybody else is behaving just so that everybody would behave well. In fact I find Bacolenos to be better behaved than the rest of the country. The only Bacolenos that complain of Bacolod's "small town mentality" are those who have committed a "social faux pas". Bacolod is indeed a competitive society - which is good for keeping everybody in their proper and best behaviour. As for that lady, it was her fault in the first place.

The reason why I have a hard time finding Filipino friends where I'm at because most of the Tagalogs here are so ill-mannered. Last Christmas, I invited some of my colleagues to a Christmas presentation at church and I found their behaviour very, very, very, embarrassing. One grabbed a British kid just so he could have a picture taken with Westerners... he could have simply asked in a nice way and I'm sure the kid would have agreed. The other started asking a South African how much his salary was...another sign of ill-breeding. Still another brought home some church property as a souvenir.

[c0kelitr0]

^^ i think gekidan only wants to point out how the "lower-class" would think about the "snobbish", the "elegance", the "fine" manners and attitude of bacolod's high society...

[Sinjin P.]

Thread III is on the works. :D

[Dinho]

^^ i think gekidan only wants to point out how the "lower-class" would think about the "snobbish", the "elegance", the "fine" manners and attitude of bacolod's high society...

I don't think it is the lower class that would be complaining of the "small town mentality" of Bacolod. I think, that those who had been behaving badly are the ones who are complaining about the "gossipy titas" and hypocrisy that they think pervades Bacolod's society. I only know of two people who are complaining about this - also because of their own fault. One grew up in Manila and behaved differently - earning the ire of close relatives. The other, dated too many women that people started talking about him. My lower midddle class friends have no complaints as they have a different set of friends. But even then, because they do have a few upper class friends, they have learned to behave properly.

[Dinho]

Thread III is on the works. :D

Thanks much.

[overtureph]

Intriguing society you have there in Bacolod.

[Dinho]

From the Center
by Rolly Espina
032706
Daily Star

Yesterday, I listened to former Vice Mayor Ramiro Garcia discuss dispassionately two major issues - the proposed government center (or city hall) and its proposed location, and the BREDCO-City Hall row over the Bacolod Port.

Based on his prolonged technical study, the former Bacolod vice mayor cited the Mansilingan property being donated by former Councilor Monju Guanzon and the Bacolod airport as the best possible sites for the proposed government center.

He took issue with the term government center, pointing out that should include national and regional as well as local government offices. In short, the executive order by City Mayor Evelio Leonardia to skirt the issue is still to be controverted, i.e. clarified.

And, by the way, I must correct the previous impression I had that Monju had offered the Paglaum property of the family. Monju had corrected that earlier. He told me that what he was donating was five hectares of the Guanzon family in the area fronting the present site of the Coca-Cola bottling plant in Mansilingan.

Garcia mentioned another potential area - Vista Alegre. The airport, he pointed out, still await the donation by Lucio Tan.

The crux of the question - where is the study of the proposed city hall? In short, the architectural design plus the engineering costs as well as the backup area for possible examination. In short, you just don't wish it. You must have the plans completed and submitted for technical evaluation. That can't be done overnight. And the crucial issue that has to be studied is also where is the deed of donation of the city hall by the Luzuriaga family? And, yes, that was originally, according to Garcia, donated to the provincial government. In short, that remains questionable.

There is the ridiculous point of having the mayor's office remaining in a place seven kilometers away from the offices of the various city departments.

Anyway, that Garcia rejoiner are feedback that Mayor Leonardia must focus on before he gets involved in a bigger legal tussle than he had originally imagined he was getting into.*

[overtureph]

May I recommend this book for those who are interested - the title is SUGAR AND THE ORIGINS OF MODERN PHILIPPINE SOCIETY BY JOHN A. LARKIN - NEW DAY PUBLISHERS.

[gekidan]

I don't think it is the lower class that would be complaining of the "small town mentality" of Bacolod. I think, that those who had been behaving badly are the ones who are complaining about the "gossipy titas" and hypocrisy that they think pervades Bacolod's society. I only know of two people who are complaining about this - also because of their own fault. One grew up in Manila and behaved differently - earning the ire of close relatives. The other, dated too many women that people started talking about him. My lower midddle class friends have no complaints as they have a different set of friends. But even then, because they do have a few upper class friends, they have learned to behave properly.

I'm not arguing about the social ignorance of other Filipinos. I can't comment on the upbringing of Tagalogs or Cebuanos, but I'm sure they're raised in the best and decent way possible. Most Bacolenos are indeed well versed in the "oro plata mata" style of delikadesa and propriety. Kiss your tita-tits, I tell you! The lower middle class cannot break into the social glass ceiling imposed by the rich, that's why they don't have hang-ups with the everyones who's who registry, family trees, and social faux pas. For instance:

Rich boy: (Castilian accent) Mama! I'm going out with some friends to a party in tonight at Bar21.
Rich mother: (Bastardized Basque accent) Really hijo? Who are going with?
Rich boy: Ah, with my classmates Carlo and Paolo.
Rich mother: Do I know them hijo?
Rich boy: Umm... I think so. Carlo si the only son of Agustino Valdezayco and his mom is Felicita, you know the consultant at PNB.
Rich mother: Ah yes hijo! Now I know. She's the cousin of my good amiga, Meredith Gastolacson. I should invite her to play mahjong soon. How about Paolo? How's child is he?
Rich boy: He's the son of Mr. and Mrs. Murcia.
Rich mother: (blank stare for 10 seconds) ahhh... really now. His dad works where?
Rich boy: His dad is a college professor at LCC. His mom works in city hall.
Rich mother: (another 10 seconds of stupefid look) ahhhh.... ok. Don't be late, hijo. Oh, don't forget you have an afternoon flight tomorrow to Brussels for your CISV! :bash:

"The other, dated too many women that people started talking about him." I'm sure the whole city too. :)

As to your wonderful hypothesis that only those who have incurred social debts and faux pas are the ones who complain, don't you also mean that those bacolodnons who are regulars in Bar21, North and other watering holes of the la buena familias who always burn their elbows from partying don't have any problems at all? I'm sure the comments they hear are: "How's your papa, hijo? Has your tita soledad arrived from Europe?" or "Pre, kadto ta sa punong ni tito Z, may clan reunion!" ( Pare, let's go to the prawnfarm of uncle Z cuz we have a clan reunion!") and never "Ay! Ara ang bata ni X. Amo na sya ang nagso-and-so kay Y. Gaba eh!!" (Oh! There's the child of X. He's the one who did __ to Y. He deserves it!)

For instance:
Two amigas eating in Bob's Restaurant...
Amiga 1: (whispering) Huy Soling! Look who just came in! (Lips pursed while pointing to the direction of the door)
Amiga 2: (whispering) OMG. It's Diego! He must have snucked in from LA. No one told me that he'll be arriving today.
Amiga 1: Me neither. ... (Blanching!) Look! He saw us! He's coming this way!
Amiga 2: Ok. Let me handle this.
Diego: Oh, hello tita Carmen. Tita Soling. It has been a while since I've seen you two. I just arrived in Bacolod. (Beso-beso)
Amiga 2: (fanning herself) Oh! ha-ha-ha Diego. Nice to see you again. How's things in LA?
Diego: Oh my skin treatment went well. Dad knew of a specialist who deals with this, and he's great. Anyway, I'll leave you two, I'll just say hi to my cousins in the other booth.
Amiga 2: Ok hijo. Oh, do visit us this weekend. Your cousin Fe is visiting us too, so you can go with her. ok?
(Diego sauntered off to the other booth)
Amiga 1: OMG. His skin, his albino skin hasn't improved a bit. It's a pity Cong. Hojizon cannot cure it and had to send him to LA.
Amiga 2: Hmmph! (fan closed abruptly.) Let me tell you. Ruel (Hojizon) sent that boy to LA not to have a skin treatment, but because he discovered the boy had an affair with their driver! (triumphant look)
Amiga 1: (shocked look) Dios de mi alma! Are the rumors true that Diego is gay then?
Amiga 2: My lips are sealed amiga. You think what you want to think. If were in politics tho, I'd keep any dirt as far away as possible. C'mon, let's get the chit and go to Melinda's house. She'll get a kick when she finds out who we saw at Bob's!
Amiga 1: Oh yes! I'll call call Lourdes too. At least there's something fun going on in Bacolod other than to hear about utangs ni X or querida ni Y.

As they would say, "Familiarity breeds contempt" and with Bacolenos penchant to be familiar with everybody's affairs, we are indeed a contemptible lot. My point is this: Bacolod is such a small town that everyone's family tree (bastard or not) is known, every utang is exposed, every ugliness is noticed and every mistake is amplified through the social grape vine. It's insidious and embarrassing. What your tita-tits tell in front of you may not be the one she tells to her amigas. It may not apply to you but I have seen during my stay some people being talked about because of their mistakes right in the middle of Bob's or Calea. Then, how can one redeem his-/herself in this society? As for the girl in the sex scandal, she did what she thought was best for her: to ditch Bacolod for Manila. Good for her!

Sometimes, I feel it's better to go and live in Manila just to appreciate the fact that you can go to Glorietta without bumping anyone, or go to Rob with your special someone without a relative accosting you to divulge your friend's biodata, even going to malls na nakatsinelas. In bacolod, everyone dresses up to sevens just to watch a movie!!! Jus go to Rob and see people in their sunday's best bedecked with brillantes that can blind you. "La mona en seda, mona secada." But I have to admit, people in Negros have style and knows how to carry themselves.

But ultimately, it's always nice to go back to Bacolod and spend vacation there. Only vacation. and maybe retirement. Life is so good in Negros and much better than Manila. Even I have some bad quips about my hometown, I'll still go back and live there.

[Sinjin P.]

Hi Gekidan, and welcome to SSC Philippines! It's our pleasure to have you in the forums. Please do introduce yourself here: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=313430

[c0kelitr0]

@gekidan, nobody could have said that better :applause:

...i guess it's hard to live a low-key life in Bacolod...

[Sinjin P.]

Gekidan adds to SSC's list of gifted forumers. Thanks for that speech.

[Sinjin P.]

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Bacolod City is a city in the province of Negros Occidental, Philippines. It is the capital and largest city of Negros Occidental. It is best known for its Maskara Festival, held during the month of October. According to the 2000 census, it has a population of 429,076 people in 87,441 households. The city is nicknamed the "City of Smiles".

It is bordered by Talisay City to the north, the municipality of Murcia to the east, Bago City to the southwest, and by the Guimaras Strait to the west. The coordinates of Bacolod are 10°40?16?N, 122°56?28?E.

Bacolod is a major seaport and has daily ferry trips to Iloilo City. Bacolod is 20 hours from Manila by boat and 7 hours from Cebu City by boat. Bacolod Domestic Airport is located 4 kilometers away from the city's downtown area. Bacolod is 50 minutes from Manila by plane and 30 minutes from Cebu City by plane.

Bacolod City is the cleanest and greenest and the most livable city in the Philippines. It serves as the entrance of the sugar-rich cities and towns of the province. Visitor's facilities abound, modern means of in-land transport can take guests for business or leisure to any point in the island of Negros.

The climate in Bacolod City is generally pleasant. Dry season is from December to May while the rainy season, like in other parts of the Philippines, is from June to November. Average temperature is 26 degrees Celsius (80 degrees Fahrenheit).

http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/c/c5/Ph_locator_negros_occidental_bacolod.png


Welcome to Bacolod City - the Cleanest and Greenest and the Most Livable City in the Philippines. The capital of the Province of Negros Occidental which is the Sugarbowl of the Philippines. Bacolod City serves as the entrance of the sugar-rich cities and towns of the Province. Visitor's facilities abound, modern means of in-land transport can take guests for business or leisure to any point in the island of Negros.

Bacolod will charm you with the genuine warmth and hospitality of her people in harmony with their lilting melodious accent. The Bacoleños will delight you with food and cuisine that is as vigorous yet as subtle as the legendary Ilonggo gentility and taste for the good life.

Kari Kamo sa Bacolod!

Why Bacolod is your destination


A Stable peace and order condition where incidence of crime is low, there is high police visibility and a crime solution of 97%.


Effective maintenance of clean and green surroundings as evidenced by a HALL OF FAME AWARD as the Cleanest and Greenest Highly Urbanized City in the Philippines.


Low percentage of illegal settlers.


Upbeat local economy and unlimited opportunities for trade and investments because the city is home to a high percentage of the Philippines' top 20 corporations;


Intensified initiatives towards agri-based diversification like the production of food items, muscovado sugar, organic fertilizers, light farm equipment and home decor;


Inexpensive cost of doing business with numerous amenities, facilities and available opportunities;


A systematic traffic planning that offers the luxury of driving through wide roads in a highly urbanized center;


Greatly improved accessibility through an airport that connects the city to Manila 6 times daily through 3 major airlines and a seaport for large cargo and passenger vessels in addition to the fast sea crafts cruising the waters between Iloilo and Bacolod.


Strong involvement and partnership between the government and various private stakeholders plus that legendary hospitality and cuisine that make Bacolod City an ideal place to visit, to work and much more to live in this lifetime.


http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/index1k.jpg
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/index1p.jpg
CLEANEST AND GREENEST HIGHLY URBANIZED CITY,
MOST COMPETITIVE & LIVABLE MID-SIZED CITY AND
HOME OF THE WORLD-FAMOUS MASSKARA FESTIVAL.



http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon26.jpgLOCATION. BACOLOD CITY is in the north-western coast of the Province of Negros Occidental which is in the Visayan Islands, Philippines. It is bounded in the north west by the cities of Talisay; in the north east by Silay and Victorias; in the east and south west by the town of Murcia; in the south west by the City of Bago; and in the west by Guimaras Strait.
It has the total land area of 16,171,007 hectares or 161.45 sq. km excluding straits and bodies of water. It is accessible by sea through the ports of Banago, the Reclamation area and the port of Pulupandan.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon19.jpg GETTING THERE. Some 300 statute miles from Manila, the main gateway and capital of the country, Bacolod is only 55-minute flight by plane or a 20-hour leisurely cruise on board any of the luxury vessels of Negros Navigation and WG&A Super Ferry. From Cebu City, Bacolod is a mere 20-minute flight. For the more adventurous traveller, Bacolod is a 7-hour land and sea travel through scenic areas of northern Negros to Cebu City or vice versa.
The Bacolod airport is approximately four (4) kilometers away from the city proper.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon20.jpg CLIMATE. Bacolod City has 2 pronounced seasons, wet and dry. The rainy season starts from May to January with heavy rains occurring during the months of August and September. Dry season starts from the month of February up to the last week of April. December and January are the coldest months while April is the warmest.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon21.jpg POPULATION.The National Statistics Office (NSO) revealed that the city population has reached 429,076 as of year 2000 survey. Bacolod City population comprises approximately 25% of the total population of the Province of Negros Occidental.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon22.jpg LANGUAGE/DIALECTS. Hiligaynon (Ilonggo) is the major dialect spoken in Bacolod City. English and Tagalog are also widely spoken and understood especially in the urban areas.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon23.jpg CURRENCY/CREDIT CARDS.Most foreign currencies can be changed in the banks. Major credit cards are accepted at hotels, shops, and restaurants.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon24.jpg COMMUNICATION FACILITIES. International direct dialing, telex, facsimile, world-wide express delivery, postal service and telegraph service are available. Cellular phones are widely used. Pagers, info calls, email, and internets are also available.

ELECTRICITY. Most areas are supplied with 220 volts and 110 volts, 60 cycles. A plug with 2 flat prongs is the norm, but pack a universal adaptor to be safe.

WATER. Water is potable. Bottled mineral water is available in supermarkets, groceries, hotels, restaurants and in almost all eating establishments.

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/icon25.jpg GETTING AROUND.
Modern air-conditioned taxis are numerous in the city. Public utility jeepneys are common modes of transport within the city. There are four (4) major jeepneys routes: Banago-Libertad, Mandalagan-Libertad, Bata-Libertad, Shopping-Libertad routes.
Buses and jeepneys provide service for intertown travel. Car rental services are available with rates depending on the vehicle used and distance traveled. Information for car rental services are available at most hotels' front desk.


P H O T O G A L L E R Y I

Provincial Capitol Building / Provincial Park and Lagoon
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler13.jpg

Panaad Park and Stadium
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler14.jpg

Supercat Fast Ferry, BREDCO Port, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler15.jpg

Manokan Country, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler16.jpg

Group K Entertainment
Tangub, Bacolod City
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La Consolacion College
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler18.jpg

Gaisano City Mall
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler19.jpg

Bacolod Airport
Singcang, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg74.jpg

Negros Navigation
Banago Port, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg75.jpg

Philippine National Bank
Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg76.jpg

Bacolod City Hall
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler23.jpg

BS Aquino Drive, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler24.jpg




P H O T O G A L L E R Y II

Pahanocoy Pottery
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler29.jpg

Casino Filipino Hotel
Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Singcang, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg77.jpg

Sugarland Hotel
Singcang, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg78.jpg

Bethany Court Town House, Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler32.jpg

Negros Museum
South Capitol Road, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg79.jpg

Robinson's Place
Mandalagan, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg80.jpg

Palmas del Mar - Village & Beach Club
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler39.jpg

Coca Cola Bottling Company, Mansilingan, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler40.jpg

Bacolod Convention Plaza Hotel, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler45.jpg

Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club Inc.
Barangay Bata, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg92.jpg



P H O T O G A L L E R Y III

San Miguel Beer Brewery, Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler47.jpg

L' Fisher Hotel, Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler48.jpg

Luzuriaga Street, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler53.jpg

Bargain Square Mall, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler54.jpg

Barquillos making
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler55.jpg

Luzuriaga - Araneta Streets, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler56.jpg

Bacolod Plaza Bandstand and Gazebo - Right at the Center of Bacolod Public Plaza, the bandstand was constructed in 1927 to complement to weekend cultural activities of the early Bacoleños. Names of world-famous composers like Mozart, Bach, Beethoven and Wagner circle the sides of the roofing, attesting to the early Bacolodnon's familiarity with European Culture.
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler57.jpg

Bells of San Sebastian - The centennial bells of San Sebastian were brought down from their place in the belfry and mounted at the right side of the churchyard in 1976, the 100th year anniversary of the Cathedral. Large Bell donated 1866 by Fr. Mariano Avila , Bacolod Parish Priest (1963-1871). Small Bell installed 1890 by Fr. Mariano Ferrero, Recollect Parish Priest of Bacolod.
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler59.jpg

Top Harbor International, Inc.
Reclamation Area, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg81.jpg

Bob's Restaurant
BS Aquino North Drive, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg82.jpg



P H O T O G A L L E R Y IV

The Palisades Subdivision, S. Gonzaga Avenue, Brgy, Estefania, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg10.jpg

Land Bank of the Philippines
Gatuslao St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg83.jpg

Plaza Mart City Mall, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg12.jpg

Limmans Centre, Luzuriaga-Araneta Sts., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg13.jpg

BCG Computers, Lopez Jaena St., Bacolod City.
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg66.jpg

Dr. Pablo O. Torre Pharmacy Laboratory / Medical Arts Building
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg67.jpg

Circle Inn - Lopez Jaena St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg68.jpg

Colegio San Agustin - Bacolod
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg69.jpg

Centroplex Mall, Gonzaga St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg70.jpg

Negros Forest and Ecological Foundation, Inc.
South Capitol Road, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg84.jpg


P H O T O G A L L E R Y V

Dr. Pablo O Torre Memorial Hospital
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg72.jpg

Forest and Native Products -Bacolod Central Market
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg73.jpg

Development Bank of the Philippines
Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg85.jpg

St. John's Institute
Hilado St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg86.jpg

La Consolacion College - HRM & TOURISM CENTER
Quezon Avenue, Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg87.jpg

Celine Homes
Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/galler20.jpg

Lopues Mandalagan
Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg88.jpg

BO's Coffee Club
Piazza Sorrento, Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg89.jpg

Krua Thai, Authentic Thai Cuisine
Piazza Sorrento, Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg90.jpg

Piazza Sorrento
Lacson St., Bacolod City
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/jpg91.jpg


P H O T O G A L L E R Y VI

Masskara Festival
http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska1.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska2.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska3.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska4.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska5.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska6.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska7.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska8.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska9.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska10.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska11.pg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska12.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska13.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska14.jpg

http://www.bacolodcity.gov.ph/masska50.jpg

[TJ]

Isn't it awkward when you enter a restaurant all heads turn to you because everyone's brains are scanning their who's who registry as to who this person is? And when someone recognizes you, you go to their table and do the aristorcratic routine of exchanging pleasantries. "Uuuyy.. amiga, maniaga ka di? Sino upod mo??" Beso. Beso. or "Migs! Kaon ka upod sa amon!" That's why it's acutely embarrassing to eat alone in Bacolod cuz people around you are speculating what's wrong with you.

Isn't it funny that even with the nice sidewalks and near accessibility of everything in Bacolod, people still prefer to ride their cars or the jeepneys? It's as if people are embarrassed to be seen walking down North Drive or Lacson. Perhaps we're afraid that a car will stop by, its windows drawn down wherby your classmate will say, "Nagalakat ka haw? Waay salakyan? Upod ka na lang!" Sige nga, tell me if you have strolled the sidewalks of uptown Bacolod! (nevermind downtown)

There's no argument about the cleanliness and the infrastructures of Bacolod. These are static features, unlike Bacolenos who can either be a blessing or a curse. We're like a two-sided coin that if you attend our aristocratic soirees and inumans, then you'll be on our good graces, but if you've made a huge scandal or social faux pas, you'll have to expect the full brunt of humiliation. Not true? Well, tell that to the rich girl who was in Bacolod scandal where everywhere she went, she can hear people murmuring "Namit gid!" (her line in the sex scandal) Do I need to say more?

Ako kasi di ako sosyal eh... nung H.S. days di ako pinapayagan gamitin ang kotse kaya kami ng mga kasama ko we use to stroll the up town streets i even spend the rest of the nights after a nightout sitting on the streets (tambay) with my ka-tropa nyahaha. Meron naman kaming pera pang taxi kaya lang medyo ayaw namin mag taxi o mag jeep mas okay mag lakad lalo na 4 in the morning in lacson street. We used to walk from lacson street near rolling hills all the way to goldenfield kasi trip lang namin. Our prefered mode of transport nung H.S. kami ng mga barkada ko is tricycle we dont ride taxi's etc kasi hardcore kami eh... Walang kaming paki sa mga sosyal na tao dyan na de garang porma at mga sasakyan meron naman kami nun eh kaya lang iba lang yung trip namin di kami masayadong pasikat kasi. Pero meron times pag di ko kasama ang mga barkada at ibang mga tao i try to follow the sosyal code... but i hate it i don't like party people coz im way down rugged in nature. :lol:

[Sinjin P.]

:lock:

Thread 3: http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=331428

[Dinho]

I'm not arguing about the social ignorance of other Filipinos. I can't comment on the upbringing of Tagalogs or Cebuanos, but I'm sure they're raised in the best and decent way possible. Most Bacolenos are indeed well versed in the "oro plata mata" style of delikadesa and propriety. Kiss your tita-tits, I tell you! The lower middle class cannot break into the social glass ceiling imposed by the rich, that's why they don't have hang-ups with the everyones who's who registry, family trees, and social faux pas. For instance:

Rich boy: (Castilian accent) Mama! I'm going out with some friends to a party in tonight at Bar21.
Rich mother: (Bastardized Basque accent) Really hijo? Who are going with?
Rich boy: Ah, with my classmates Carlo and Paolo.
Rich mother: Do I know them hijo?
Rich boy: Umm... I think so. Carlo si the only son of Agustino Valdezayco and his mom is Felicita, you know the consultant at PNB.
Rich mother: Ah yes hijo! Now I know. She's the cousin of my good amiga, Meredith Gastolacson. I should invite her to play mahjong soon. How about Paolo? How's child is he?
Rich boy: He's the son of Mr. and Mrs. Murcia.
Rich mother: (blank stare for 10 seconds) ahhh... really now. His dad works where?
Rich boy: His dad is a college professor at LCC. His mom works in city hall.
Rich mother: (another 10 seconds of stupefid look) ahhhh.... ok. Don't be late, hijo. Oh, don't forget you have an afternoon flight tomorrow to Brussels for your CISV! :bash:

"The other, dated too many women that people started talking about him." I'm sure the whole city too. :)

As to your wonderful hypothesis that only those who have incurred social debts and faux pas are the ones who complain, don't you also mean that those bacolodnons who are regulars in Bar21, North and other watering holes of the la buena familias who always burn their elbows from partying don't have any problems at all? I'm sure the comments they hear are: "How's your papa, hijo? Has your tita soledad arrived from Europe?" or "Pre, kadto ta sa punong ni tito Z, may clan reunion!" ( Pare, let's go to the prawnfarm of uncle Z cuz we have a clan reunion!") and never "Ay! Ara ang bata ni X. Amo na sya ang nagso-and-so kay Y. Gaba eh!!" (Oh! There's the child of X. He's the one who did __ to Y. He deserves it!)

As they would say, "Familiarity breeds contempt" and with Bacolenos penchant to be familiar with everybody's affairs, we are indeed a contemptible lot. My point is this: Bacolod is such a small town that everyone's family tree (bastard or not) is known, every utang is exposed, every ugliness is noticed and every mistake is amplified through the social grape vine. It's insidious and embarrassing. What your tita-tits tell in front of you may not be the one she tells to her amigas. It may not apply to you but I have seen during my stay some people being talked about because of their mistakes right in the middle of Bob's or Calea. Then, how can one redeem his-/herself in this society? As for the girl in the sex scandal, she did what she thought was best for her: to ditch Bacolod for Manila. Good for her!

Sometimes, I feel it's better to go and live in Manila just to appreciate the fact that you can go to Glorietta without bumping anyone, or go to Rob with your special someone without a relative accosting you to divulge your friend's biodata, even going to malls na nakatsinelas. In bacolod, everyone dresses up to sevens just to watch a movie!!! Jus go to Rob and see people in their sunday's best bedecked with brillantes that can blind you. "La mona en seda, mona secada." But I have to admit, people in Negros have style and knows how to carry themselves.

But ultimately, it's always nice to go back to Bacolod and spend vacation there. Only vacation. and maybe retirement. Life is so good in Negros and much better than Manila. Even I have some bad quips about my hometown, I'll still go back and live there.

I say that what you are describing is also true to other cities and places. We just don't know it because we are from Bacolod. Having lived in Iloilo for half a decade, I could say that their society is very much like Bacolod. Only difference is they don't have the kind of restaurants that we have in Bacolod and they don't have as many tita's or tito's. The good thing about these tita's is that they at least help keep people in their best behaviour. As a result, I could say that Bacolenos are among the most well mannered of the Filipinos. About your comment about going to Robinsons on slippers... well, its common sense that it is quite dangerous to drive with only slippers on your feet... I do see a lot of women wear fancy slippers because they do not drive their own cars. I think that you are quite wrong about that "social glass ceiling" because I do know of people from all walks of life get thru the "ceiling". It really doesn't matter where you come from so long as you are educated, have good bearing (not breeding), know how to socialize, and behave well. Maybe I could say this because I might have met the better "tita's".

One other thing, if my mom asks me where I'm going to and whom with, I know that it is only out of concern for my safety. Both my parents where quite horrified to know that almost all my classmates are close to me and that I give just about everyone a lift home at one time or another. I did realize why it is important for parents to be selective about their kids friends when one of my classmates showed me his drug paraphernalia. That scared me and I never gave that guy a lift again.

My classmate's mom did ask me my complete name when I dropped her daughter off at their house. I knew she was gonna check on me and it was quite easy for her to check because she happened to be the manager of a bank where my dad had some accounts. After that she treated me like a son even if I wasn't even courting her daughter. I wouldn't dream of living in a big city where my future children could hide what they are doing and whom they are with in the anonymity of the big city.

[Sinjin P.]

Thread II has come to an end.

Let's continue discussions here:
Bacolod City and Negros Occidental Thread III (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=331428)

[gekidan]

Ako kasi di ako sosyal eh... nung H.S. days di ako pinapayagan gamitin ang kotse kaya kami ng mga kasama ko we use to stroll the up town streets i even spend the rest of the nights after a nightout sitting on the streets (tambay) with my ka-tropa nyahaha. Meron naman kaming pera pang taxi kaya lang medyo ayaw namin mag taxi o mag jeep mas okay mag lakad lalo na 4 in the morning in lacson street. We used to walk from lacson street near rolling hills all the way to goldenfield kasi trip lang namin. Our prefered mode of transport nung H.S. kami ng mga barkada ko is tricycle we dont ride taxi's etc kasi hardcore kami eh... Walang kaming paki sa mga sosyal na tao dyan na de garang porma at mga sasakyan meron naman kami nun eh kaya lang iba lang yung trip namin di kami masayadong pasikat kasi. Pero meron times pag di ko kasama ang mga barkada at ibang mga tao i try to follow the sosyal code... but i hate it i don't like party people coz im way down rugged in nature. :lol:


Pero lumakad ka ba na nag-iisa sa lacson or north drive during the day? :cheers:

oh, sory..hehehe.. on the next thread :)

[Sinjin P.]

Before this thread gets closed, let's see who posted:

Dinho 143
sugarboy 77
TJ 62
c0kelitr0 51
kyle@1008 47
Marley 10
FrancisXavier 10
rusty18 9
sinjin 9
ramvingar 8
lewdsaint 7
daks2003 6
overtureph 6
Askal82 6
shatorre 5
slerz 5
gekidan 4
chymera00 4
van1975 3
boybleauXx 2
nykz020732 2
lochinvar 2
kianshi 2
fundraiser 2
MarkiiBoi 2
ashton 2
drfeelgood17 2
Jimbu 2
renell 1
valium 1
dominique 1
Bitoy 1
Carlo Dominguez 1
Coffee 1
Joshua888 1
ferrersky 1
makoantz 1
richard fischer 1
hezron 1
manileño 1
junax 1

[Dinho]

Ako kasi di ako sosyal eh... nung H.S. days di ako pinapayagan gamitin ang kotse kaya kami ng mga kasama ko we use to stroll the up town streets i even spend the rest of the nights after a nightout sitting on the streets (tambay) with my ka-tropa nyahaha. Meron naman kaming pera pang taxi kaya lang medyo ayaw namin mag taxi o mag jeep mas okay mag lakad lalo na 4 in the morning in lacson street. We used to walk from lacson street near rolling hills all the way to goldenfield kasi trip lang namin. Our prefered mode of transport nung H.S. kami ng mga barkada ko is tricycle we dont ride taxi's etc kasi hardcore kami eh... Walang kaming paki sa mga sosyal na tao dyan na de garang porma at mga sasakyan meron naman kami nun eh kaya lang iba lang yung trip namin di kami masayadong pasikat kasi. Pero meron times pag di ko kasama ang mga barkada at ibang mga tao i try to follow the sosyal code... but i hate it i don't like party people coz im way down rugged in nature. :lol:

TJ, you are describing the wrong people here. Party people who act Sosyal are actually the wannabe's. I do not like partying myself because I do not like crowded places and smoky bars.

[Sinjin P.]

Map of Bacolod
http://www.geocities.com/dost6/negocc/images/maplarge.gif

[TJ]

Pero lumakad ka ba na nag-iisa sa lacson or north drive during the day? :cheers:

oh, sory..hehehe.. on the next thread :)

Of course i walk alone sometimes kun di lang ma-init. When i go to billiards from school i walk around there and when visiting my friends house accross lacson street.

I sit with my friends in the streets and play basketball in the streets with no shoes kasi nasisira sa cemeto at naka paa lang and well its a squatters area but no big deal what the heck only sosyal and highclass makes big deal with those but for me natural lang yan. Yung mga sosyal na big time na klasmet namin dipa gym talaga pag nag basketball at di sumasabay sa amin at takot sila pumunta dun baka raw ma kidnap sila. nyahahaha :lol:

[gekidan]

I wrote:

I'm not arguing about the social ignorance of other Filipinos. I can't comment on the upbringing of Tagalogs or Cebuanos, but I'm sure they're raised in the best and decent way possible. Most Bacolenos are indeed well versed in the "oro plata mata" style of delikadesa and propriety. Kiss your tita-tits, I tell you! The lower middle class cannot break into the social glass ceiling imposed by the rich, that's why they don't have hang-ups with the everyones who's who registry, family trees, and social faux pas. For instance:

Rich boy: (Castilian accent) Mama! I'm going out with some friends to a party in tonight at Bar21.
Rich mother: (Bastardized Basque accent) Really hijo? Who are going with?
Rich boy: Ah, with my classmates Carlo and Paolo.
Rich mother: Do I know them hijo?
Rich boy: Umm... I think so. Carlo si the only son of Agustino Valdezayco and his mom is Felicita, you know the consultant at PNB.
Rich mother: Ah yes hijo! Now I know. She's the cousin of my good amiga, Meredith Gastolacson. I should invite her to play mahjong soon. How about Paolo? How's child is he?
Rich boy: He's the son of Mr. and Mrs. Murcia.
Rich mother: (blank stare for 10 seconds) ahhh... really now. His dad works where?
Rich boy: His dad is a college professor at LCC. His mom works in city hall.
Rich mother: (another 10 seconds of stupefid look) ahhhh.... ok. Don't be late, hijo. Oh, don't forget you have an afternoon flight tomorrow to Brussels for your CISV!

"The other, dated too many women that people started talking about him." I'm sure the whole city too.

As to your wonderful hypothesis that only those who have incurred social debts and faux pas are the ones who complain, don't you also mean that those bacolodnons who are regulars in Bar21, North and other watering holes of the la buena familias who always burn their elbows from partying don't have any problems at all? I'm sure the comments they hear are: "How's your papa, hijo? Has your tita soledad arrived from Europe?" or "Pre, kadto ta sa punong ni tito Z, may clan reunion!" ( Pare, let's go to the prawnfarm of uncle Z cuz we have a clan reunion!") and never "Ay! Ara ang bata ni X. Amo na sya ang nagso-and-so kay Y. Gaba eh!!" (Oh! There's the child of X. He's the one who did __ to Y. He deserves it!)

For instance:
Two amigas eating in Bob's Restaurant...
Amiga 1: (whispering) Huy Soling! Look who just came in! (Lips pursed while pointing to the direction of the door)
Amiga 2: (whispering) OMG. It's Diego! He must have snucked in from LA. No one told me that he'll be arriving today.
Amiga 1: Me neither. ... (Blanching!) Look! He saw us! He's coming this way!
Amiga 2: Ok. Let me handle this.
Diego: Oh, hello tita Carmen. Tita Soling. It has been a while since I've seen you two. I just arrived in Bacolod. (Beso-beso)
Amiga 2: (fanning herself) Oh! ha-ha-ha Diego. Nice to see you again. How's things in LA?
Diego: Oh my skin treatment went well. Dad knew of a specialist who deals with this, and he's great. Anyway, I'll leave you two, I'll just say hi to my cousins in the other booth.
Amiga 2: Ok hijo. Oh, do visit us this weekend. Your cousin Fe is visiting us too, so you can go with her. ok?
(Diego sauntered off to the other booth)
Amiga 1: OMG. His skin, his albino skin hasn't improved a bit. It's a pity Cong. Hojizon cannot cure it and had to send him to LA.
Amiga 2: Hmmph! (fan closed abruptly.) Let me tell you. Ruel (Hojizon) sent that boy to LA not to have a skin treatment, but because he discovered the boy had an affair with their driver! (triumphant look)
Amiga 1: (shocked look) Dios de mi alma! Are the rumors true that Diego is gay then?
Amiga 2: My lips are sealed amiga. You think what you want to think. If were in politics tho, I'd keep any dirt as far away as possible. C'mon, let's get the chit and go to Melinda's house. She'll get a kick when she finds out who we saw at Bob's!
Amiga 1: Oh yes! I'll call call Lourdes too. At least there's something fun going on in Bacolod other than to hear about utangs ni X or querida ni Y.

As they would say, "Familiarity breeds contempt" and with Bacolenos penchant to be familiar with everybody's affairs, we are indeed a contemptible lot. My point is this: Bacolod is such a small town that everyone's family tree (bastard or not) is known, every utang is exposed, every ugliness is noticed and every mistake is amplified through the social grape vine. It's insidious and embarrassing. What your tita-tits tell in front of you may not be the one she tells to her amigas. It may not apply to you but I have seen during my stay some people being talked about because of their mistakes right in the middle of Bob's or Calea. Then, how can one redeem his-/herself in this society? As for the girl in the sex scandal, she did what she thought was best for her: to ditch Bacolod for Manila. Good for her!

Sometimes, I feel it's better to go and live in Manila just to appreciate the fact that you can go to Glorietta without bumping anyone, or go to Rob with your special someone without a relative accosting you to divulge your friend's biodata, even going to malls na nakatsinelas. In bacolod, everyone dresses up to sevens just to watch a movie!!! Jus go to Rob and see people in their sunday's best bedecked with brillantes that can blind you. "La mona en seda, mona secada." But I have to admit, people in Negros have style and knows how to carry themselves.

But ultimately, it's always nice to go back to Bacolod and spend vacation there. Only vacation. and maybe retirement. Life is so good in Negros and much better than Manila. Even I have some bad quips about my hometown, I'll still go back and live there..

Dinho wrote:

I say that what you are describing is also true to other cities and places. We just don't know it because we are from Bacolod. Having lived in Iloilo for half a decade, I could say that their society is very much like Bacolod. Only difference is they don't have the kind of restaurants that we have in Bacolod and they don't have as many tita's or tito's. The good thing about these tita's is that they at least help keep people in their best behaviour. As a result, I could say that Bacolenos are among the most well mannered of the Filipinos. About your comment about going to Robinsons on slippers... well, its common sense that it is quite dangerous to drive with only slippers on your feet... I do see a lot of women wear fancy slippers because they do not drive their own cars. I think that you are quite wrong about that "social glass ceiling" because I do know of people from all walks of life get thru the "ceiling". It really doesn't matter where you come from so long as you are educated, have good bearing (not breeding), know how to socialize, and behave well. Maybe I could say this because I might have met the better "tita's".

One other thing, if my mom asks me where I'm going to and whom with, I know that it is only out of concern for my safety. Both my parents where quite horrified to know that almost all my classmates are close to me and that I give just about everyone a lift home at one time or another. I did realize why it is important for parents to be selective about their kids friends when one of my classmates showed me his drug paraphernalia. That scared me and I never gave that guy a lift again.

My classmate's mom did ask me my complete name when I dropped her daughter off at their house. I knew she was gonna check on me and it was quite easy for her to check because she happened to be the manager of a bank where my dad had some accounts. After that she treated me like a son even if I wasn't even courting her daughter. I wouldn't dream of living in a big city where my future children could hide what they are doing and whom they are with in the anonymity of the big city.

Yes, I have to admit that all types of social circles, protocols and cliques exist in every city in the Philippines, and Bacolod is no exception. Maybe because only those who are in the upper tier patronize expensive restaurants like Bob's Inaka, or Kaisei or clubs like Bar21 and North that we tend to see the social powerplay between classes there. I don't think I'll see such interaction in Manukan or Pala-pala where the everyone else eat out.

I agree that slippers are not recommended when driving but you're assuming that people use shoes in Robinson mainly because they drive cars? How about those who ride in jeepneys or taxis? Don't they wear shoes too? I walk to Rob here in Manila in Islanders, tshirt and shorts and no one will look down on me. And girls here in Manila can wear dresses pang-Ermita like hotpants and spaghetti straps and go to SM without getting embarrassed. I haven't seen any girl do that in Bacolod. It must be the social pressure to conform to the unspoken rules of malling imposed by the alta sociedad.

As for the social ceiling, show me an adult poor (or middle poor) person getting invited to the social soirees in Bacolod or Silay. I'm sure if they were invited, it was because of tokenism of social clubs (rotary, etc.), charismatic groups (BLD, CFC), or businesses (employees). Apart from that, do they really invite them to go to Dumaguete or Sipalay for a weekend getaway? And if indeed attend, don't they feel uncomfortable being with people not of their class?

Security is very important and I understand the parents' concerns about the friends of their children. But the point there was sarcasm. Parents tend to "scan" their children's friends so as to "fit" them in the same social circle as they are in. If the friend's name is not known or his parents are not part of the "Kahirup" circle, then that friend is treated with more suspicion than those whose parents are well known. If your friend's mom discovered that you live in a bungalow, say, in Talisay, would she still treat you like a son? If your mom discovered that your best friend lives in an uknown subdivision in Mansilingan, wouldn't se be more inquisitive and prodding as to who he/she is (regardless of his/her personality)? But If you tell her that your friend lives in Sta. Clara or Capitolville, then I'll bet she won't say another word.

That's what I hate about Bacolod. People tend to have a character check on you. And not only on you- but also on your family, your bank accounts, your haciendas, your house, your business and even your medical records. Can't people trust for who you are? Could they not drag your family's dossier just to be assuaged that you're a good person? What does my parent's bank account had to do with it? Will the knowledge that I own so-and-so hectares of tubohan make a difference at all? Here in manila, I'm treated by the family of my friends as their own too, mainly because of my personality and diplomacy (thanks to Bacolod upbringing) and not because of my family's honor, name or riches. They don't ask about my dad's job or who's who in my family tree or how many cousins I have, but they do ask how's my work or how's things going or how's my mom. I just tell them the things they need to know, without them finding it all on their own- warts and all.

[Dinho]

I wrote:



Dinho wrote:

Yes, I have to admit that all types of social circles, protocols and cliques exist in every city in the Philippines, and Bacolod is no exception. Maybe because only those who are in the upper tier patronize expensive restaurants like Bob's Inaka, or Kaisei or clubs like Bar21 and North that we tend to see the social powerplay between classes there. I don't think I'll see such interaction in Manukan or Pala-pala where the everyone else eat out.

I agree that slippers are not recommended when driving but you're assuming that people use shoes in Robinson mainly because they drive cars? How about those who ride in jeepneys or taxis? Don't they wear shoes too? I walk to Rob here in Manila in Islanders, tshirt and shorts and no one will look down on me. And girls here in Manila can wear dresses pang-Ermita like hotpants and spaghetti straps and go to SM without getting embarrassed. I haven't seen any girl do that in Bacolod. It must be the social pressure to conform to the unspoken rules of malling imposed by the alta sociedad.

As for the social ceiling, show me an adult poor (or middle poor) person getting invited to the social soirees in Bacolod or Silay. I'm sure if they were invited, it was because of tokenism of social clubs (rotary, etc.), charismatic groups (BLD, CFC), or businesses (employees). Apart from that, do they really invite them to go to Dumaguete or Sipalay for a weekend getaway? And if indeed attend, don't they feel uncomfortable being with people not of their class?

Security is very important and I understand the parents' concerns about the friends of their children. But the point there was sarcasm. Parents tend to "scan" their children's friends so as to "fit" them in the same social circle as they are in. If the friend's name is not known or his parents are not part of the "Kahirup" circle, then that friend is treated with more suspicion than those whose parents are well known. If your friend's mom discovered that you live in a bungalow, say, in Talisay, would she still treat you like a son? If your mom discovered that your best friend lives in an uknown subdivision in Mansilingan, wouldn't se be more inquisitive and prodding as to who he/she is (regardless of his/her personality)? But If you tell her that your friend lives in Sta. Clara or Capitolville, then I'll bet she won't say another word.

That's what I hate about Bacolod. People tend to have a character check on you. And not only on you- but also on your family, your bank accounts, your haciendas, your house, your business and even your medical records. Can't people trust for who you are? Could they not drag your family's dossier just to be assuaged that you're a good person? What does my parent's bank account had to do with it? Will the knowledge that I own so-and-so hectares of tubohan make a difference at all? Here in manila, I'm treated by the family of my friends as their own too, mainly because of my personality and diplomacy (thanks to Bacolod upbringing) and not because of my family's honor, name or riches. They don't ask about my dad's job or who's who in my family tree or how many cousins I have, but they do ask how's my work or how's things going or how's my mom. I just tell them the things they need to know, without them finding it all on their own- warts and all.

I was just speculating about my friend's mom having checked my background since it is only normal for parents to ask names. Just so happens she was manager where my dad had some accounts. I don't think that people in Bacolod nowadays really mind about how much property other people have. I think that what is important in Bacolod is your bearing and the way you carry yourself. I don't hear of anybody asking about property and salaries. It is a big no-no.

Enough of this please.

[Kaiser]

Congratz on Bacolod on its 3rd thread:applause: :)

[gekidan]

dinho: i hope so. I hope for the best for Bacolod. That aside, I wish someone will put up a library just like the the US. I'm sure everyone will appreciate it.

Anybody knows the recipe of DULCE GATAS?? I've got carabao's milk and I want to try making it? Any Idea?

[J_lim2k2]

hello everyone! im new here. :)

[lex_99]

Congrats on your new thread! :)

[sugarboy]

dinho: i hope so. I hope for the best for Bacolod. That aside, I wish someone will put up a library just like the the US. I'm sure everyone will appreciate it.

Anybody knows the recipe of DULCE GATAS?? I've got carabao's milk and I want to try making it? Any Idea?

there used to be a library at the Capitol. only that the overnight borrowing of books were limited to the employees of the province. for the rest, reading was limited within the confines of the lib.

[daks2003]

check out the recipe for Dulce de Leche coz I think its the same :)


dinho: i hope so. I hope for the best for Bacolod. That aside, I wish someone will put up a library just like the the US. I'm sure everyone will appreciate it.

Anybody knows the recipe of DULCE GATAS?? I've got carabao's milk and I want to try making it? Any Idea?

[Matteo]

nice bacolod. but sinjin all of those pics up there were already posted before.

[Sinjin P.]

^^Yeah, I'm looking for new ones.

[c0kelitr0]

Dulce de Leche ice cream is one of my favorites!!! yum! hehehe...i'm glad the topic shifted from social stiffness to something like dulce de leche :D

[overtureph]

Just a question, is Maurice Arcache from Iloilo or Bacolod?

[daks2003]

Maurice Arcache is from Bacolod

[sugarboy]

Maurice Arcache is from Bacolod

More of Iloilo si Maurice than Bacolod.

[Dinho]

More of Iloilo si Maurice than Bacolod.

It's never really clear where some people are from? Where was he born? How many years did he live in each city? People tend to claim you are from their place if you became famous, even though you may have lived there for a couple of years only. Or the other way around if one became notorious. But in this case, it seems like you guys are disowning him. What's he done to earn your ire?

[Dinho]

Sinjin, Thanks so much for taking the effort to start up a new thread for us. Sorry for all that negative argument with another Ilonggo here.

[overtureph]

So which is which? Iloilo or Bacolod? I believe they used to own an old house in Santa Ana, Manila. Is he old money?

[daks2003]

Mayor Leonardia is fond of doing that hehehe (ex Manny Pacquiao and Lucio Tan)

Anyway, I really dont know about Maurice Arcache, the reason why I thought he's from Bacolod coz he always talk and mention about the place in his column and in Johnny Litton's Show.

Is he being disowned in Bacolod?


It's never really clear where some people are from? Where was he born? How many years did he live in each city? People tend to claim you are from their place if you became famous, even though you may have lived there for a couple of years only. Or the other way around if one became notorious. But in this case, it seems like you guys are disowning him. What's he done to earn your ire?

[c0kelitr0]

my friend lexy cannot tell either...maurice is her dad's friend...i asked about it her pero di nya alam hehe...

[gekidan]

Just a question, is Maurice Arcache from Iloilo or Bacolod?

Yup.. Bacolod I think.

Joel Torre (negrense from Hinigaran)
Claudine, Gretchen & Marjorie Baretto (Iloilo)
Susan Roces (Negros)
Cynthia Patag (Bacolod)
Barbie Almalbis (Iloilo or Bacolod?)
Peque Gallaga
Erik Matti
Aliya Parks (her house is in North Point, Talisay... jackpot kasi sa Dutch lotto)

who else pa man? :) :cheers:

[daks2003]

Cynthis Patag (Iloilo) her mom is from Lapaz
Barbie Almalbis (Roxas City, Capiz)


Yup.. Bacolod I think.

Joel Torre (negrense from Hinigaran)
Claudine, Gretchen & Marjorie Baretto (Iloilo)
Susan Roces (Negros)
Cynthia Patag (Bacolod)
Barbie Almalbis (Iloilo or Bacolod?)
Peque Gallaga
Erik Matti
Aliya Parks (her house is in North Point, Talisay... jackpot kasi sa Dutch lotto)

who else pa man? :) :cheers:

[Dinho]

Cynthis Patag (Iloilo) her mom is from Lapaz
Barbie Almalbis (Roxas City, Capiz)

Jose MAri Chan was our neighbor at Sta. Clara (four blocks away). I heard that a famous lady singer has a house in Sta. Clara as well. I think her surname was Ledesma. Her house is quite nice albeit a bit old. I think I know who Aliya Parks is. Met her in person. But I've never seen her on TV. She seemed quite a nice and decent person. My best friend was courting her at one time. Susan is the wife of the dead presidential candidate right? Way she's behaving is very embarrassing.

[TJ]

One time i saw claudine barreto in libertad in a carediria in front of UNO-R during our nopscea... This is how it goes our coach told us to buy ice water and as i sat in the carenderia buying ice water i suddenly recoginzed her... at that time i wasnt sure if it was her but soon after i did realize.. she went out and bought a mineral water and sat beside me while she waited for her chenge and then returned to her car with some fella's. WOOOOWWW ganda ni claudineeeeee!!!!! :D

[chymera00]

Sipalay ranks first in Hiyas ng Turismo text vote

Negros Occidental (28 March) -- The Jewel of the Sugar Island, Sipalay City, got the nod of 14,209 text voters as of March 20, 2006 as it ranked first in the Hiyas ng Turismo search.

Hiyas ng Turismo is a nationwide search for the new and undiscovered tourist destination sponsored by the Women in Travel- Manila in cooperation with the Department of Tourism.

This waiting-to-be-discovered attraction offers choices of clear, natural beaches and islets, cultural and industrial sites and highland tours for the spelunkers and hikers. The beaches have long stretches of shallow waters off shore with sugary sand and crystal clear water.

Sipalay, aside from its natural beauty is also the copper and gold belt of the island known as the mining town of the province. Thus, making it the Jewel of the Sugar Island.

With its Open Mining Pit and Infrastructures, it is frequently visited by educational tours especially of engineering students. It has facilities for conventions and retreats where minerals are abundant for study and souvenir materials.

Tinagong Dagat, Langub, Punta Ballo and Campomanes Bay are among of the many beaches in the shores of Sipalay. Tinagong Dagat has a dozen islets covered with lush vegetation and the bottom is covered with sea grass beds. Langub is best for various water sports activities while Punta Ballo is a fine white sandy beach with more than a kilometer long shoreline and a 100-meter coralline bottom perfect for snorkeling. Campomanes Bay has islets in its opening that provide calm waters despite rough sea conditions, entrance is a wide expanse of coral garden with various species of corals and fish and it has an existing port that caters to medium size sea craft.

For the spelunkers and hikers, Banderahan Cave, Malinab Lagoon and Omas Waterfalls are there for them to visit in Sipalay City.

Placing 2nd to Sipalay is Caviniti (Laguna) with 5,182 text votes followed by Sacoba (Pampanga) with 2, 145 text votes.

The text voting compromises 30% of the total score and the final result of the 70% judging will be announced on March 28, 2006.

The voting period started on February 16 and ended March 16, 2006.

Other finalists are Hamiguitan (Davao), fourth, Magdalena (Laguna), fifth Sibang (Cagayan Valley) 6th Bugang (Antique) 7th Rosales Pangasinan, 8th and Apo (Misamis Oriental 9th. (PIA/EAD) [top]

[kiretoce]

This thread is full. Please continue posting and discussions at Bacolod City and Negros Occidental Thread III (http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=331428). Thanks! :colgate:

:lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock: :lock:

[illtwice]

Hi! Guys..Sorry to interrupt ..Im new here...I just wanted to introduce myself...My name is Jason..Born and raised for about half my life in Bago/Bacolod City but most of my life here in NYC. Although I spent most of my adult life here in the NY I'm still in touch with a lot of people in Negros because my parents were born and raised in Kabankalan and Hinigaran and we have a pretty large family in both places. I just wanted to say I enjoyed all the posts. There are a lot of very interesting point of views in the Negros/Bacolod thread and a lot of information that makes me feel close to home. Keep it up guys. :)

[sugarboy]

my friend lexy cannot tell either...maurice is her dad's friend...i asked about it her pero di nya alam hehe...


It's never really clear where some people are from? Where was he born? How many years did he live in each city? People tend to claim you are from their place if you became famous, even though you may have lived there for a couple of years only. Or the other way around if one became notorious. But in this case, it seems like you guys are disowning him. What's he done to earn your ire?

we're not disowning him dinho. what makes you think he's being disowned? of course not.

i'm just saying, he's more of iloilo because his old house is in iloilo. he only seems to be a bacoleno because there are more frivolous parties in bacolod than in iloilo and therefore jets in every so often. whenever he's in bacolod, naturally he's together with edouard garcia.

[sugarboy]

Hi! Guys..Sorry to interrupt ..Im new here...I just wanted to introduce myself...My name is Jason..Born and raised for about half my life in Bago/Bacolod City but most of my life here in NYC. Although I spent most of my adult life here in the NY I'm still in touch with a lot of people in Negros because my parents were born and raised in Kabankalan and Hinigaran and we have a pretty large family in both places. I just wanted to say I enjoyed all the posts. There are a lot of very interesting point of views in the Negros/Bacolod thread and a lot of information that makes me feel close to home. Keep it up guys. :)

welcome illtwice! :)

[sugarboy]

Jose MAri Chan was our neighbor at Sta. Clara (four blocks away). I heard that a famous lady singer has a house in Sta. Clara as well. I think her surname was Ledesma. Her house is quite nice albeit a bit old. I think I know who Aliya Parks is. Met her in person. But I've never seen her on TV. She seemed quite a nice and decent person. My best friend was courting her at one time. Susan is the wife of the dead presidential candidate right? Way she's behaving is very embarrassing.

hambal nila kuno si aliya parcs indi kuno hamut (if you know what i mean)

[daks2003]

common lang na guro sa mga dutch? hehehe

hambal nila kuno si aliya parcs indi kuno hamut (if you know what i mean)

[sugarboy]

kun sa bagay, ang indi hamut sa aton basi turn-on sa ila! :rofl:

[daks2003]

uy aroma therapy na migs hehehe

kun sa bagay, ang indi hamut sa aton basi turn-on sa ila! :rofl:

[Dinho]

hambal nila kuno si aliya parcs indi kuno hamut (if you know what i mean)

Do we have to say that here? Well, when I met her, she didn't smell either. She just looks a bit like a lost European tourist then.

[Dinho]

Hi! Guys..Sorry to interrupt ..Im new here...I just wanted to introduce myself...My name is Jason..Born and raised for about half my life in Bago/Bacolod City but most of my life here in NYC. Although I spent most of my adult life here in the NY I'm still in touch with a lot of people in Negros because my parents were born and raised in Kabankalan and Hinigaran and we have a pretty large family in both places. I just wanted to say I enjoyed all the posts. There are a lot of very interesting point of views in the Negros/Bacolod thread and a lot of information that makes me feel close to home. Keep it up guys. :)

Welcome! I myself am a bit homesick... been out of the country for a couple of years already. When are you planning to visit Bacolod again? How are things there? I hear that a lot of people are quite angry about this new proposal to stem the flow of immigrants to the USA.

[caloy]

common lang na guro sa mga dutch? hehehe

ignorant here, who is aliya parcs?

[Dinho]

She's a Filipino-Dutch girl residing at Ayala Northpoint. I heard she has started acting but dunno anything about that since I do not watch Filipino movies.

[illtwice]

Welcome! I myself am a bit homesick... been out of the country for a couple of years already. When are you planning to visit Bacolod again? How are things there? I hear that a lot of people are quite angry about this new proposal to stem the flow of immigrants to the USA.

Thanks for the welcome guys...Im actually going back to Bacolod this coming June. I have been going back at least once every year for the past two years. Im going back because I'm getting married to my best friend whom I have kept in contact with since I left philippines back in '92.... I there were alot of different reactions towards that. It's basically the government's response to the high number of illegal immigrants in the US (15 million). Depending on who you talk to and their background you will understand the difference in their opinions..

[Dinho]

That is about the same time that I'd be going home too. We have all the good American restaurants here and I've been going to them on weekends. I think that our local restaurants like Bob's, Pendy's, Calea, and Chicken DEli are just as good. I was at TGI Friday's the other week and had their fish fillet with cajun spices... I remembered Pendy's Fish Fillet Coriander which was much better. Sure am looking forward to coming home.

[sugarboy]

mauna-una lang ko sa inyo folks coz next week ato na ko to :)

[Dinho]

Do tell us about your trip home... Yearning to hear more about home... especially since there are only a few people here.

[Dinho]

SunStar Bacolod 032906
New hall may affect school
By Erwin Ambo S. Delilan

"STOP fooling the people," advised former Bacolod City Councilor Juan Ramon Guanzon to City Administrator Lorendo Dilag after the latter issued a statement over their choice of site for the new government center of Bacolod.

Guanzon, in a telephone interview, said Dilag knows what will happen if the structure will be constructed in Taculing.

If Dilag is concerned with the cost of development, then he should know that if they will build the government center in Taculing, they will also have to demolish the football field and some of the classrooms of Bacolod City High School (BCNHS), Guanzon claimed.

"So what kind of a development is Dilag talking about?" he said.

The City could be accused of being anti-education and anti-sports because it will sacrifice both the facilities of BCNHS just to push through with their 'ridiculous' plan, Guanzon added.

He reiterated that the Taculing site is not fit for the proposed government center if the city wants to implement development.

Dilag, however, contended that the Guanzon property in Mansilingan is not readily accessible to the public unlike the one in Taculing.

"The concept of a government center is that it must be accessible to the public," he stressed.

He also argued that the development cost must also be considered in chosing the area.

"And if the Guanzon property will be chosen, the City would probably spend too much for development cost of various edifices for the said structure," Dilag added.

Guanzon, however, questioned: "How could Dilag develop the Taculing site when in fact it is surrounded by school, houses and other edifice? Let us also consider the traffic in the area."

The area will also be considered as "water basin" of residents of other barangays and subdivisions.

Guanzon though said that he is not sourgraping.

"I just want to stress that the property we've offered has all the potential the City is looking for," he said.

He added that their property is also near to the reservoir of Bacolod City Water District and power plant of the National Power Corporation.

"So, imagine what benefit can the City avail if it has chosen the property we've offered," he said.

I just hope they will not prevail on Taculing. I mean the City Hall will not be promoting development by going for that site. I have no complaints about moving the New City hall to a new area even if it doesn't have roads and public transport access. A site having no roads would mean that the city will be able to plan more carefully. I like what San Carlos had done to its city hall. Though there city hall is a bit old now compared to Kabankalan and Talisay's, I still think that the San Carlos City Hall is still the most impressive because it is the best located and planned. The new city hall building need not be massive and expensive. I think what is more important is the site planning. Since the new City Hall would be smaller if they do this, they could still retain the old city hall for some of the minor offices. Parks and Avenues leading up to the new City Hall would definitely be more striking than just having a striking building located in some obscure area in the city. I should say that they even try inviting Ayala to develop the outlying areas. If the mayor would consider this, I'm sure the public will remember him more fondly. As for the public access issue, they could always add a new bus route to the site... which will provide more jobs and livelihood in turn. I am sure Chick Garcia and a few others are of the same opinion. Somebody please forward this to the mayor and counsellors!

[gekidan]

Sipalay ranks first in Hiyas ng Turismo text vote

Negros Occidental (28 March) -- The Jewel of the Sugar Island, Sipalay City, got the nod of 14,209 text voters as of March 20, 2006 as it ranked first in the Hiyas ng Turismo search.

Hiyas ng Turismo is a nationwide search for the new and undiscovered tourist destination sponsored by the Women in Travel- Manila in cooperation with the Department of Tourism.

This waiting-to-be-discovered attraction offers choices of clear, natural beaches and islets, cultural and industrial sites and highland tours for the spelunkers and hikers. The beaches have long stretches of shallow waters off shore with sugary sand and crystal clear water.

Sipalay, aside from its natural beauty is also the copper and gold belt of the island known as the mining town of the province. Thus, making it the Jewel of the Sugar Island.

With its Open Mining Pit and Infrastructures, it is frequently visited by educational tours especially of engineering students. It has facilities for conventions and retreats where minerals are abundant for study and souvenir materials.

Tinagong Dagat, Langub, Punta Ballo and Campomanes Bay are among of the many beaches in the shores of Sipalay. Tinagong Dagat has a dozen islets covered with lush vegetation and the bottom is covered with sea grass beds. Langub is best for various water sports activities while Punta Ballo is a fine white sandy beach with more than a kilometer long shoreline and a 100-meter coralline bottom perfect for snorkeling. Campomanes Bay has islets in its opening that provide calm waters despite rough sea conditions, entrance is a wide expanse of coral garden with various species of corals and fish and it has an existing port that caters to medium size sea craft.

For the spelunkers and hikers, Banderahan Cave, Malinab Lagoon and Omas Waterfalls are there for them to visit in Sipalay City.

Placing 2nd to Sipalay is Caviniti (Laguna) with 5,182 text votes followed by Sacoba (Pampanga) with 2, 145 text votes.

The text voting compromises 30% of the total score and the final result of the 70% judging will be announced on March 28, 2006.

The voting period started on February 16 and ended March 16, 2006.

Other finalists are Hamiguitan (Davao), fourth, Magdalena (Laguna), fifth Sibang (Cagayan Valley) 6th Bugang (Antique) 7th Rosales Pangasinan, 8th and Apo (Misamis Oriental 9th. (PIA/EAD) [top]

WOW!! Good thing Sipalay is into the ecotourism thing. Hope it becomes the next Boracay. But I've heard that Mayor (Montilla?) wants to reign in the development baka magiging overcrowded and polluted like Boracay. How about the pond tailings from the Maricalum mines??

[gekidan]

hambal nila kuno si aliya parcs indi kuno hamut (if you know what i mean)
Wahahaha... hamut buhok? hamut ilok? hamut buli? hamut baba? hamut ilong? :cheers:

Must be the Edam cheese she's been eating and all those dutch sausages... daw sibuyas ang hamut?

[gekidan]

ignorant here, who is aliya parcs?

She's the girl in that Hunts ketchup commercial...

[Dinho]

Anybody else here? And can somebody post new pictures! As I've said, I've met her in person and she didn't smell bad. She only had that "lost European in Boracay look" on her. Having no smell on her is better than that "sunsilk shampoo smell" on a lot of Filipinas. You'd think they rinsed with that shampoo...

[Jimbu]

BREDCO RECLAMATION PROJECT

http://www.pea.gov.ph/bredco.jpg

Panoramic view of BREDCO reclamation project in Bacolod City
The 108-hectare reclamation project will be developed into
a commercial and institutional estates in partnership with a
private developer and the local government of Bacolod City

The project involves the reclamation and development of the remaining 108 hectares and the titling of existing 25-hectare land. Under the agreement among BREDCO, PEA and Bacolod City government, BREDCO shall finance the reclamation and development. Reclamation activities are ongoing.

[c0kelitr0]

aerial view

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod008.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod009.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod010.jpg

[c0kelitr0]

some pics

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod003.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod001.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod005.jpg

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod007.jpg

[c0kelitr0]

http://www.daaaaa.com/bacolod/bacolod011.jpg

[Dinho]

Thanks Coke! Where'd you get those pictures? An aerial view of the Capitol/Lagoon area would have been nice. Had a hard time figuring out where these areas are. But Thanks much anyway!

[c0kelitr0]

random googled pics ;)

[ramvingar]

I just noticed in one of the pics that there is a Krua Thai resto in Bacolod. Is it a franchise of the Krua Thai here in LA or a completely different entity?

[Dinho]

I just noticed in one of the pics that there is a Krua Thai resto in Bacolod. Is it a franchise of the Krua Thai here in LA or a completely different entity?

We also have a Kmart in Bacolod... but it is not a branch of Kmart in the USA. I dunno about Krua Thai. Heard they also have one in Iloilo City. Probably owned by the same person... so you might as well check with them too.

[c0kelitr0]

there's a krua thai at megamall as well...

[J_lim2k2]

i krua thai is all over the philippines and its a franchise. there are also krua thais in cebu.

[J_lim2k2]

[img=http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/9099/32hc.jpg] (Occidental Negros, Capitol Lagoon

[ashton]

Krua Thai is a Cebu-based thai restaurant owned by the Balreich family. I think the branches outside Cebu are all franchise(s). :) thanks a lot.

there's a krua thai at megamall as well...

[J_lim2k2]

http://img132.imageshack.us/my.php?image=32hc.jpg

[J_lim2k2]

ey, sorry guys, i duno how to post a picture. i just put the link.

[J_lim2k2]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/9099/32hc.jpg

[M.Lee]

What were those pictures about?

[J_lim2k2]

capitol building. a request from one of the furom-ers.

[M.Lee]

I can see that they are still working on the reclamation. Last I've been to the area behind the capitol, it seemed like the sea wasn't too far away.

[J_lim2k2]

the pictures isnt that new either, i think it was taken last 2003 or 2004. i duno if more land in the area has been reclaimed. when did you visit the area behind the capitol?

[M.Lee]

Thanks much for the nice picture! You just took this recently? I'm not aware of a tall building nearby where you could take this picture from such a vantage point.

[M.Lee]

2004

[M.Lee]

oh, welcome to the Bacolod Thread!

[J_lim2k2]

i ddnt took the pics. I just got this pic from my friend. I wonder how he took it. there is no tall building indeed in that area. maybe he got it from the plane or something.

[M.Lee]

i ddnt took the pics. I just got this pic from my friend. I wonder how he took it. there is no tall building indeed in that area. maybe he got it from the plane or something.

PNB is quite tall, but it is at the other side. This picture looks like it was taken from the roof deck of a 12 storey building (1.5x PNB).

[J_lim2k2]

PNB is in the right side. thanks. i just registered on the furom last week. im a native of Bacolod.

[Jimbu]

http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/9099/32hc.jpg
http://img132.imageshack.us/img132/9099/32hc.jpg

[ramvingar]

Krua Thai is a Cebu-based thai restaurant owned by the Balreich family. I think the branches outside Cebu are all franchise(s). :) thanks a lot.

Thanks for the reply to the others who replied as well. So I guess it's not the same as the one they have here. Thanks again. :)

[tagacebuako]

Based on the pictures, Bacolod City is green and clean and plenty space for any new developments. Im hoping I can visit the city this October during my holiday. I think i must go first to Iloilo city then to Bacolod. It is sad fact that, even im from Cebu, and Bacolod and Iloilo is very near to Cebu, I have never been to these two progressive cities. Any suggestions for a cheap but good hotel?

[tagacebuako]

BTW im working here in Papua New Guinea and im planning to stay in Iloilo maybe for 3 days and Bacolod onother 3 days also. The rest of my holidays i will spent it in my homeplace, Cebu.

[Dinho]

BTW im working here in Papua New Guinea and im planning to stay in Iloilo maybe for 3 days and Bacolod onother 3 days also. The rest of my holidays i will spent it in my homeplace, Cebu.

Welcome to the Bacolod thread! We sure do appreciate your interest in visiting Bacolod. When are you visiting Bacolod? Are you flying out of Bacolod to Cebu or are you taking the Ferry/Roro? I've taken both but taking the bus would be a lot more tedious. My parents have visited PNG several times in the past between 1998 and 2002. Nice place. Just a bit rural. So what do you do there? From what my dad told me, most Flipinos there are managers. Are you one? I still cannot imagine driving an SUV with a steel mesh in front of the windshield... and they do drive fast with that there don't they?

[tagacebuako]

Well im one of the managers here ( most expats here ,filipino/chinese/etc. are called expats) . Im working in Mount Hagen in one of the biggest wholesale store here. PNG is nothing compared to our country in term of development, but she is rich in natural resources. Well like any drivers in the world, some drivers here drive very fast,then some also drives slow. I will be coming to Bacolod via Iloilo, i have to go first to Iloilo for 3 days and then to Bacolod for 3 days too. I will visit these two great cities during my holiday on October.

[tagacebuako]

Dinho, can you suggest any cheap hotel ? Cheap but nice.

[c0kelitr0]

^^ try kundutel...i've stayed there and it's nice and cheap...

[Dinho]

OOPS! Double posting!

[gekidan]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/c_21_01.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/c_20_04.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/c_20_03.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/c_20_02.jpg

[gekidan]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/DSC00694.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/DSC00691.jpg

[Dinho]

This thread is about Bacolod City and Negros Occidental, so guys, could you post more pictures about the rest of Negros Occidental's cities and town? Thanks Gekidan for those Silay pictures.

[gekidan]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/PI_28b.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/PI_26b.jpg

You can find more photos here: ROESNER'S FAMILY TRAVELS (BACOLOD) (http://hometown.aol.com/hshawk123/piindex.html)

[Dinho]

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/PI_28b.jpg
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v219/julsitos/PI_26b.jpg

You can find more photos here: ROESNER'S FAMILY TRAVELS (BACOLOD) (http://hometown.aol.com/hshawk123/piindex.html)

Thanks!

[gekidan]

Thanks!
You're welcome!! I'll try to put up some pics soon.
guys, sipalay may mga pics kamo?

[Dinho]

Saw Sinbad in some of your pictures. You know him? He is my friend. Amazing person. I happen to know where you live too. Its a really nice neighborhood.

[sugarboy]

i know Sinbad too

[c0kelitr0]

Cadiz City

http://www.northnegroscollege.com/DSCN1139.JPG

[c0kelitr0]

Cadiz City Aerial

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d83/jafhoy2/AerialWestC.jpg

[Dinho]

Thanks much Coke!

[J_lim2k2]

[IMG]http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/9996/24ex.jpg[IMG]

Aerial view of Bacolod (Riverside hospital, Riverside College Annex building(orange building), Capitolville, some part of reclamation area is also seen.

[J_lim2k2]

http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/9996/24ex.jpg
http://img146.imageshack.us/my.php?image=24ex.jpg

[J_lim2k2]

Duh! finally i get the right command how to post! hahaha

[sugarboy]

wow that's a nice shot J_lim! keep on posting! r u in bacolod now?

[hezron]

is this a city? looks very rural to me. can you present a picture of a city in the so called metro bacolod that really looks like a city. pictures like iloilo and cdo guys.


Cadiz City

http://www.northnegroscollege.com/DSCN1139.JPG

[ritche]

The Visayas Area Business Conference (http://www.vabc2006.buglas.com/) on May 26-28, 2006 in Dumaguete. Everybody is invited!!!

[J_lim2k2]

wow that's a nice shot J_lim! keep on posting! r u in bacolod now?

Thanks sugarboy.. yes im from bacolod and in bacolod. im in college here studying.

is this a city? looks very rural to me. can you present a picture of a city in the so called metro bacolod that really looks like a city. pictures like iloilo and cdo guys.

yes Hezron, that is Cadiz city. if you're looking for a congested or heavy density city you cant find it in Negros or bacolod.

[sugarboy]

ano gina kuha mo nga kurso?

[hezron]

yes Hezron, that is Cadiz city. if you're looking for a congested or heavy density city you cant find it in Negros or bacolod.

i'm looking for the establishments and structures for a place to be called a city. not like the pictures above with delapidated houses with rusty roofs, trikes and coconut trees. cadiz is a nice place but i think it looks like a barrio than a city. cities like that comprise metro bacolod?

[c0kelitr0]

^^ cadiz is too far from bacolod to be part of its metropolitan system...

and please, don't judge cadiz for that one pic...the whole city is not shown there...the pic shows a part of its outskirt...

[hezron]

yes Hezron, that is Cadiz city. if you're looking for a congested or heavy density city you cant find it in Negros or bacolod.

i'm looking for the establishments and structures for a place to be called a city. not like the pictures above with delapidated houses with rusty roofs, trikes and coconut trees. cadiz is a nice place but i think it looks like a barrio than a city. cities like that comprise metro bacolod? dinho is promoting this place like a metropolitan area can you please present cities outside bacolod city for visual inspection?

[J_lim2k2]

ano gina kuha mo nga kurso?

the course of the country... Nursing... hahaha anyway, im plannin to proceed to proper medicine after Grad.

I'm looking for the establishments and structures for a place to be called a city. not like the pictures above with delapidated houses with rusty roofs, trikes and coconut trees. cadiz is a nice place but i think it looks like a barrio than a city. cities like that comprise metro bacolod? dinho is promoting this place like a metropolitan area can you please present cities outside bacolod city for visual inspection?

Hezron, your right in saying cadiz looks rural. but you cant really judge a city by its pictures or there structure alone. city income is to be considered too and many more i guess.

it goes all the cities in the philippines since i think aside from the metro(manila,cebu,davao etc) or any provincial capital City, the City outside of them really looks rural thats include Cadiz City.

[hezron]

^^ cadiz is too far from bacolod to be part of its metropolitan system...

and please, don't judge cadiz for that one pic...the whole city is not shown there...the pic shows a part of its outskirt...


then show the best capture of cadiz city! not crappy rusty and seems like a ghost town picture.

[Dinho]

then show the best capture of cadiz city! not crappy rusty and seems like a ghost town picture.

You are totally rude! How about cities in Panay besides Iloilo City? Roxas is just about the size of Cadiz! And it is a provincial capital! All it can boast of is the fact that it has two Gaisano malls and an airport. Why don't you show us an aerial photo of both Roxas and Iloilo City? You are just blessed to have Chymera who is a good photographer. The difference between an aerial picture and a regular picture is that it is easier to manipulate the angles to get good pictures in a regular photograph. An aerial photograph will always show undesirable elements since most of our buildings in the Philippines are designed for the regular pedestrian on ground level. I am sure there are more beautiful areas for regular pictures in Bacolod. An aerial photo of the lagoon area from the south side of Lacson St. to the north would show a totally different picture.

Here is a list of good areas for regular pictures:
1. DBP area along Lacson St.
2. PNB area along Lacson St.
3. TRB/Bank of Commerce Building along Lacson St. (sad to see the red
bricks painted with white paint!)
4. SSS Building along Lacson St.
5. Riverside Bldg. along North Drive
6. North Drive area at La Salle Ave. intersection
7. Mayfair Mall at Lacson St.
8. L'Fisher Hotel area showing the Hotel, the restaurant wing and the office
building next to the hotel as well as the Piazza Sorrento, if possible.
9. Lopue's Manadalagan area
10. Lopue's East/Villamonte commercial area
11. Lopue's South Square
12. Gaisano City with Grand Regal Hotel
13. BCPH with Petron and commercial building behind it (they really should do
something to make the Police HQ decent looking)
14. Goldenfields area on several pictures
15. The new Active building at the Talisay highway - Talisay City
16. Houses & clubhouseat Windsor and Cambridge - Talisay City
17. Houses & clubhouseat Capitolville - Talisay City
18. Houses & clubhouse at Ayala Northpoint - Talisay City
19. Houses & clubhouse at Ayala Plantazionne - Talisay City
20. Houses at BelAir in Tangub - Bacolod City
21. Sta. Fe Resort - Bacolod City
22. Mambucal Mountain resort - Murcia
23. Guintubdan Resort - Bago/La Carlota City
24. Buenos Aires Mountain Resort - Bago City
25. The Quiet Place Inland Resort - Bago City
26. Nature's Resort - Talisay City
27. Houses in suburban area of Silay
28. Jara Beach Resort - Bago City
29. Bago City Coliseum - Bago City
30. Bacolod Cathedral from a high vantage point.
31. Homes & Chapel in Sta. Clara - Bacolod City
32. Homes in Sta. Clara Executive Village - Bacolod City
33. Sta. Clara Estates Building with grocery store and Isuzu Showroom
fronting it.
34. SSS building with McDonald's, DBP, and Jollibee - if possible
35. Homes and Chapel at Villa Valderrama
36. Lizares Mansion from inside the walls
37. Condominiums behind Mayfair Mall
38. Homes in Villa Angela (middle class neighborhood)
39. Trinity Church
40. Trinity School at Villa Angela
41. ANP Showroom
42. Bob's Northdrive
43. Bob's Villamonte
44. Bob's Lacson
45. Bob's interiors at Gaisano City
46. Old Gaisano Department store - just for a view of downtown Bacolod
47. Metrobamk North Drive
48. Chinese Temple at Chinatown (Shopping area)
49. China Town
50. Abello Mansion in Tangub (from inside the walls)
51. Redemptorist Church on North Drive
52. St. John's Church near China Town
53. Ceres Bus Terminal
54. Fastcraft terminal at Reclamation Area
55. Passenger terminal at Banago Pier
56. Centroplex Mall area
57. Lopue's San Sebastian area
58. Lopue's MAndalagan area
59. Homes and chapel at MountainView - Bacolod City
60. Talisay Plaza
61. Silay Plaza
62. Murcia Plaza
63. Bacolod Plaza
64. Downtown Silay City
65. Negros Museum
66. Balay Negrense Museum
67. Jalandoni Museum
68. Colegio de San Agustin
69. USLS Campus
70. LCC Campus
71. UNO-R Campus
72. West Negros College Campus
73. North at Talisay Highway fronting Ayala Northpoint and Ayala Plantazionne
74. Group K. (preferably old picture with pure white paint)
75. Poolside & Grounds of Bacolod Pavillion
76. Sugarland Hotel area

And I'm sure there are a lot more beautiful areas in Bacolod waiting to be discovered.

[hezron]

i need pictures, not yankings and list of possible views to take good pictures, you keep on yanking that this place is nice, metropolitan yet all you could provide are rural and sugarland aerials, take example from cebu and ilo-ilo threads.

[Dinho]

Sorry but I am outside the Philippine Islands right now... Why so bitter?

[caloy]

Originally Posted by hezron
then show the best capture of cadiz city! not crappy rusty and seems like a ghost town picture.


Dinho Quote:
You are totally rude! How about cities in Panay besides Iloilo City? Roxas is just about the size of Cadiz! And it is a provincial capital! All it can boast of is the fact that it has two Gaisano malls and an airport. Why don't you show us an aerial photo of both Roxas and Iloilo City? You are just blessed to have Chymera who is a good photographer. The difference between an aerial picture and a regular picture is that it is easier to manipulate the angles to get good pictures in a regular photograph. An aerial photograph will always show undesirable elements since most of our buildings in the Philippines are designed for the regular pedestrian on ground level. I am sure there are more beautiful areas for regular pictures in Bacolod. An aerial photo of the lagoon area from the south side of Lacson St. to the north would show a totally different picture.

Here is a list of good areas for regular pictures:
1. DBP area along Lacson St.
2. PNB area along Lacson St.
3. TRB/Bank of Commerce Building along Lacson St. (sad to see the red
bricks painted with white paint!)
4. SSS Building along Lacson St.
5. Riverside Bldg. along North Drive
6. North Drive area at La Salle Ave. intersection
7. Mayfair Mall at Lacson St.
8. L'Fisher Hotel area showing the Hotel, the restaurant wing and the office
building next to the hotel as well as the Piazza Sorrento, if possible.
9. Lopue's Manadalagan area
10. Lopue's East/Villamonte commercial area
11. Lopue's South Square
12. Gaisano City with Grand Regal Hotel
13. BCPH with Petron and commercial building behind it (they really should do
something to make the Police HQ decent looking)
14. Goldenfields area on several pictures
15. The new Active building at the Talisay highway - Talisay City
16. Houses & clubhouseat Windsor and Cambridge - Talisay City
17. Houses & clubhouseat Capitolville - Talisay City
18. Houses & clubhouse at Ayala Northpoint - Talisay City
19. Houses & clubhouse at Ayala Plantazionne - Talisay City
20. Houses at BelAir in Tangub - Bacolod City
21. Sta. Fe Resort - Bacolod City
22. Mambucal Mountain resort - Murcia
23. Guintubdan Resort - Bago/La Carlota City
24. Buenos Aires Mountain Resort - Bago City
25. The Quiet Place Inland Resort - Bago City
26. Nature's Resort - Talisay City
27. Houses in suburban area of Silay
28. Jara Beach Resort - Bago City
29. Bago City Coliseum - Bago City
30. Bacolod Cathedral from a high vantage point.
31. Homes & Chapel in Sta. Clara - Bacolod City
32. Homes in Sta. Clara Executive Village - Bacolod City
33. Sta. Clara Estates Building with grocery store and Isuzu Showroom
fronting it.
34. SSS building with McDonald's, DBP, and Jollibee - if possible
35. Homes and Chapel at Villa Valderrama
36. Lizares Mansion from inside the walls
37. Condominiums behind Mayfair Mall
38. Homes in Villa Angela (middle class neighborhood)
39. Trinity Church
40. Trinity School at Villa Angela
41. ANP Showroom
42. Bob's Northdrive
43. Bob's Villamonte
44. Bob's Lacson
45. Bob's interiors at Gaisano City
46. Old Gaisano Department store - just for a view of downtown Bacolod
47. Metrobamk North Drive
48. Chinese Temple at Chinatown (Shopping area)
49. China Town
50. Abello Mansion in Tangub (from inside the walls)
51. Redemptorist Church on North Drive
52. St. John's Church near China Town
53. Ceres Bus Terminal
54. Fastcraft terminal at Reclamation Area
55. Passenger terminal at Banago Pier
56. Centroplex Mall area
57. Lopue's San Sebastian area
58. Lopue's MAndalagan area
59. Homes and chapel at MountainView - Bacolod City
60. Talisay Plaza
61. Silay Plaza
62. Murcia Plaza
63. Bacolod Plaza
64. Downtown Silay City
65. Negros Museum
66. Balay Negrense Museum
67. Jalandoni Museum
68. Colegio de San Agustin
69. USLS Campus
70. LCC Campus
71. UNO-R Campus
72. West Negros College Campus
73. North at Talisay Highway fronting Ayala Northpoint and Ayala Plantazionne
74. Group K. (preferably old picture with pure white paint)
75. Poolside & Grounds of Bacolod Pavillion
76. Sugarland Hotel area

And I'm sure there are a lot more beautiful areas in Bacolod waiting to be discovered.

what has yloilo and roxas something to do with cadiz? stop comparing panay cities and towns to yours. very inappropriate. why not comparing your cities there to your other cities. as from your previous post, you even claimed youve never been to roxas at all, so how come you compare it. roxas is beautiful in her own right. roxas is a city and a provincial capital.

cadiz is beautiful. kadamo da ciudad nyo ngaa ca isla guid ka panay sagi mo ya comparar. i have nothing against this places. why is it always the places in panay against the places in negros. if someone says something to your place, face it, not dragging roxas or yloilo or other places in panay.

why not compare talisay to cadiz, or silay or la carlota, or kabankalan or other places there in negros. malay mo... cities within your province competes with each other there...

[richard fischer]

are there any pictures of the construction site of bacolod´s new airport in silay please ?

[Dinho]

what has yloilo and roxas something to do with cadiz? stop comparing panay cities and towns to yours. very inappropriate. why not comparing your cities there to your other cities. as from your previous post, you even claimed youve never been to roxas at all, so how come you compare it. roxas is beautiful in her own right. roxas is a city and a provincial capital.

cadiz is beautiful. kadamo da ciudad nyo ngaa ca isla guid ka panay sagi mo ya comparar. i have nothing against this places. why is it always the places in panay against the places in negros. if someone says something to your place, face it, not dragging roxas or yloilo or other places in panay.

why not compare talisay to cadiz, or silay or la carlota, or kabankalan or other places there in negros. malay mo... cities within your province competes with each other there...

That's because Hezron, a fellow Ilonggo from Iloilo has been putting down Cadiz and Bacolod. I wasn't even doing that to Iloilo and Roxas... I just threw back the question at him. I wasn't putting down Roxas, I just stated the fact that the only thing that Roxas City has to be proud of is the fact that it has 2 Gaisano City malls and an airport... which are something that Cadiz doesn't have yet. And take note, I never made a personal attack against him even though he started bashing Bacolod... which is something your folks often do when faced with a criticism. Sure, I haven't been to Roxas personally but I've seen the pictures on its thread. I think the same would go for Hezron. Did I even say that Roxas is an ugly place or too rural? I don't remember doing that - but Hezron did. Enough of this.

[TJ]

i partly agree with a part of herzon post and i dissent a part of it too.

I think he is right that most of our so called cities like cadiz, bago, sagay, etc are more like mere townships it has no central district like a downtown area and mostly only comprised of a single main commercial avenue which is manily in the highway like wild west style town. But nevertheless it is a city not beocz of it's urban density and number of it's commercial building but becoz of the population ard infrastructures within that area. if want to see your desired city here in negros which has urban density and lots of commercial buildings and malls then go see San Carlos and Dumaguete and Kabangkalan.

[TJ]

Lim nursing kaman.. hehe ano ngaa skool?? hehe

[Dinho]

i partly agree with a part of herzon post and i dissent a part of it too.

I think he is right that most of our so called cities like cadiz, bago, sagay, etc are more like mere townships it has no central district like a downtown area and mostly only comprised of a single main commercial avenue which is manily in the highway like wild west style town. But nevertheless it is a city not beocz of it's urban density and number of it's commercial building but becoz of the population ard infrastructures within that area. if want to see your desired city here in negros which has urban density and lots of commercial buildings and malls then go see San Carlos and Dumaguete and Kabangkalan.

I think you are wrong here. Cadiz does have a sizable Downtown area which is even clearly distinguishable on satellite photos-more distinct in fact compared to Kabankalan's and San Carlos'. Only thing is, the picture was just taken from the wrong angle.

[TJ]

yup maybe, i wish i could see the pic.

[TJ]

[IMG]http://img146.imageshack.us/img146/9996/24ex.jpg[IMG]

Aerial view of Bacolod (Riverside hospital, Riverside College Annex building(orange building), Capitolville, some part of reclamation area is also seen.

i guess this was an old pic the 3 three tall buildings one in front of riverside the pharma building, the patient rooms condo building and the riverside highrise campus building are not there yet.

[TJ]

Cadiz City Aerial

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d83/jafhoy2/AerialWestC.jpg

i thin this pic of cadiz is much better.. :)

[c0kelitr0]

Gaisano Mall Bacolod

http://www.overseas-retirement-community.com/Gaesano%20Mall.jpg

[J_lim2k2]

i need pictures, not yankings and list of possible views to take good pictures, you keep on yanking that this place is nice, metropolitan yet all you could provide are rural and sugarland aerials, take example from cebu and ilo-ilo threads.

why so rude? why wont you go and have a tour in Negros instead of pushing people to give you pictures! Have you been in Negros and bacolod? you keep on saying Cebu and Iloilo. why wont you create a thread and show to us the infrastructure your talking about in Cebu and Iloilo Province not the city. you keep on glorifieng and boating about this! We've seen the Metro Cebu and Iloilo city. show us the picture of the other provincial City there in the said province. most of your place there are not even a city but only a town or municipal!

[J_lim2k2]

what has yloilo and roxas something to do with cadiz? stop comparing panay cities and towns to yours. very inappropriate. why not comparing your cities there to your other cities. as from your previous post, you even claimed youve never been to roxas at all, so how come you compare it. roxas is beautiful in her own right. roxas is a city and a provincial capital.

cadiz is beautiful. kadamo da ciudad nyo ngaa ca isla guid ka panay sagi mo ya comparar. i have nothing against this places. why is it always the places in panay against the places in negros. if someone says something to your place, face it, not dragging roxas or yloilo or other places in panay.

why not compare talisay to cadiz, or silay or la carlota, or kabankalan or other places there in negros. malay mo... cities within your province competes with each other there...

Everything! coz Hezron here is keep on boasting about ILOILO and Cebu here! His the one who compared Cadiz to other Cities.

[J_lim2k2]

i guess this was an old pic the 3 three tall buildings one in front of riverside the pharma building, the patient rooms condo building and the riverside highrise campus building are not there yet.

tj's, hou nursing man ko. hehehe ikaw ya? diin ka naggraduate? 2003 na ang pictures migs and your right about the place. wala pa da mayo mga new building sa riverside area and as you've seen on my other pic along Lacson-Capitol, behind the capitol building (negros museum) there are still residential area there which in the present gin demolish na and the jolibee lacson new building is not yet constructed only the old jolibee building there.

[Dinho]

J.Lim Calm down a bit here even though they are attacking us. We have nothing to be insecure about - after all we are just a secondary city since we are not even a regional capital - and yet Bacolod is acknowledged as the 4th major metropolis of 4 major metropolitan areas in the country. Check out this URL:

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1142064987&men=gpro&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=362298297&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg&geo=-1049464

Copy entire thing to your http address bar and press enter.

[J_lim2k2]

J.Lim Calm down a bit here even though they are attacking us. We have nothing to be insecure about - after all we are just a secondary city since we are not even a regional capital - and yet Bacolod is acknowledged as the 4th major metropolis of 4 major metropolitan areas in the country. Check out this URL:

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1142064987&men=gpro&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=362298297&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg&geo=-1049464

Copy entire thing to your http address bar and press enter.


Yup! your absoluletely right! hahaha let them exercise there freedom of speech. you can glorify and boast any place you want but The place speaks for themselves. who cares if Negros and Bacolod is not a metro? who needs a metro with too much of garbage and polution anyway? :bash: :jk:

[Dinho]

Yup! your absoluletely right! hahaha let them exercise there freedom of speech. you can glorify and boast any place you want but The place speaks for themselves. who cares if Negros and Bacolod is not a metro? who needs a metro with too much of garbage and polution anyway? :bash: :jk:

Oh, from what I've seen, Cebu, Bacolod, and Davao are relatively clean as based on Philippine standards. Dumaguete too - just take away those trikes.

San Carlos would probably be the cleanest - just look at Google Earth and You'll see that San Carlos looks so pristine.

[J_lim2k2]

Oh, from what I've seen, Cebu, Bacolod, and Davao are relatively clean as based on Philippine standards. Dumaguete too - just take away those trikes.

I didnt say cebu,davao and etc... im just refering in general since that a metro usually has more pollutants and produce more garbage. all metro are clean in there respected standard including NCR. hahaha dont mention names baka pagalitan ka ng Iba dyan for comparing bacolod and Negros sa lugar nila. alam mo na kung sino sila... :runaway:

[Dinho]

I didnt say cebu,davao and etc... im just refering in general since that a metro usually has more pollutants and produce more garbage. all metro are clean in there respected standard including NCR. hahaha dont mention names baka pagalitan ka ng Iba dyan for comparing bacolod and Negros sa lugar nila. alam mo na kung sino sila... :runaway:

No worries... I only omitted those that wouldn't be so clean. So I haven't mentioned names in a negative manner...

[J_lim2k2]

No worries... I only omitted those that wouldn't be so clean. So I haven't mentioned names in a negative manner...

I see... I look into your link somehow I disagree with them in a sense that "dos hermanas and Conception" is listed as separate from Talisay city evenhtough the two are just barangay's of Talisay, Dos hermanas infact is the largest Barangay of Talisay City. Maybe same goes to other city, there large barangay is posted separate for the main city.

they considered Bacolod as a metro same with cebu,davao and others. I guess Bacolod is the only metro in Western visayas basing on there data.

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1144157720&men=gcis&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=-171&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg&pt=c&va=&geo=-2936

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1144157720&men=gcis&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=-171&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg

[Dinho]

As I've said, the 4th of only four metropolitan areas in the country - which is true if as a metropolitan area should be an urban area made up of several cities and towns that function together or where there is conurbation of these towns and cities.

[Dinho]

I see... I look into your link somehow I disagree with them in a sense that "dos hermanas and Conception" is listed as separate from Talisay city evenhtough the two are just barangay's of Talisay, Dos hermanas infact is the largest Barangay of Talisay City. Maybe same goes to other city, there large barangay is posted separate for the main city.

they considered Bacolod as a metro same with cebu,davao and others. I guess Bacolod is the only metro in Western visayas basing on there data.

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1144157720&men=gcis&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=-171&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg&pt=c&va=&geo=-2936

http://www.world-gazetteer.com/wg.php?x=1144157720&men=gcis&lng=en&des=gamelan&dat=200&geo=-171&srt=pnan&col=aohdqcfbeimg

I got confused about it for a while but I relized he was referring to Barangays in those cities and towns. Point is, Metro Bacolod is an agglomeration - which is presently made up of Bago, Pulupandan, Silay, Talisay and Murcia.

[J_lim2k2]

As I've said, the 4th of only four metropolitan areas in the country - which is true if as a metropolitan area should be an urban area made up of several cities and towns that function together or where there is conurbation of these towns and cities.

I see... I just findout right now that there are only 4 legitimate metros in the philippines. So many people create there own basis and considered there own city to be a metro even if its not and that cause confusion. like in the other thread "the big 4". you can see there people pushing there city to be the 4th metro.

[J_lim2k2]

I got confused about it for a while but I relized he was referring to Barangays in those cities and towns. Point is, Metro Bacolod is an agglomeration - which is presently made up of Bago, Pulupandan, Silay, Talisay and Murcia.

brngy.dos hermanas having a pop. of 9,364 can be a small town separated from talisay city maybe since that some town even has lesser or as big ang brngy. dos hermanas...

you got it right! METRO BACOLOD. sad to say Pulupandan is just a 4th class municipal, murcia is better being 2nd class municipal. accdg to wikipedia. IT would better though if they turn to a city, perhaps a 1st class city. in the metro aside from bacolod, only Bago city is a 1st class city, talisay city 5th class while silay city 2nd class.

I hope All of the surrounding city/towns turns a 1st class city so that it would make Negros really Great! :)

[slerz]

so we have 4 metropolitan areas in the Philippines now including Bacolod... It's good to know that we have already four. And definitely 2 metropolitan areas in the Visayas...

[J_lim2k2]

so we have 4 metropolitan areas in the Philippines now including Bacolod... It's good to know that we have already four. And definitely 2 metropolitan areas in the Visayas...

Yes indeed, If given fair budget and support from the national Government we can overgrow metro manila in no time. The visayas is more stable in terms on politics and more peacefull. I hope they would push through the bridge that would connect Negros-Cebu and Negros-Panay for more development in the Visayas region.

[Dinho]

Yes indeed, If given fair budget and support from the national Government we can overgrow metro manila in no time. The visayas is more stable in terms on politics and more peacefull. I hope they would push through the bridge that would connect Negros-Cebu and Negros-Panay for more development in the Visayas region.

I wouldn't want that to happen. A 1 million population for Bacolod City and double that for the metropolitan area should be enough.

[TJ]

i wish bacolod population will cool down but that isn't the case we are still growinggg... :( I wish birth that control measures would be implemented like in china with only a limit of 2 children.

[J_lim2k2]

SIPALAY, Negros.

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/1457/2032305restaurantandguesthouse.jpg
http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/9152/2032315thingstodosipalay0jn.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/1326/2032317thingstodosipalay2pw.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/2893/2043769thingstodosipalay5vm.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/4499/2043775maasinsipalay2yo.jpg
http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/2678/2043794travelpicturesipalay0lw.jpg
http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/4475/2032286travelpicturesipalay7xd.jpg

[J_lim2k2]

i wish bacolod population will cool down but that isn't the case we are still growinggg... :( I wish birth that control measures would be implemented like in china with only a limit of 2 children.

ang death penalty dayon firing squad like china... hahaha :jk:

[Dinho]

SIPALAY, Negros.

http://img130.imageshack.us/img130/1457/2032305restaurantandguesthouse.jpg
http://img97.imageshack.us/img97/9152/2032315thingstodosipalay0jn.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/1326/2032317thingstodosipalay2pw.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/2893/2043769thingstodosipalay5vm.jpg
http://img147.imageshack.us/img147/4499/2043775maasinsipalay2yo.jpg
http://img98.imageshack.us/img98/2678/2043794travelpicturesipalay0lw.jpg
http://img206.imageshack.us/img206/4475/2032286travelpicturesipalay7xd.jpg

Nice pictures. Been over five years since I've been to Sipalay and Hinobaan.

[J_lim2k2]

Nice pictures. Been over five years since I've been to Sipalay and Hinobaan.

I never been to Sipalay or Hinobaan till now. i just copied this private pics.

[Dinho]

SunStar Bacolod
Wednesday, April 05, 2006
Another convention center mulled in City
By Roberto L. Bacasong

TAGAYTAY CITY, Cavite -- Bacolod City Councilor Homer Bais, chairman of the committee on tourism, said Tuesday that they are planning to put up a convention center in Bacolod.

Bais's pronouncement came after a portion of the Bacolod Convention Plaza Hotel will be used by call center company Teleperformance, a US-based company, as their base.

Bais said he had met with the officials and members of the Hotel and Restaurant Association of Negros Occidental (HRANO) about the City's plan to have a convention center. This as the City is pushing to be the convention destination in the South.

"The call center industry will have a domino effect on businesses involved in resorts, restaurants, hotels and the transportation sectors in Bacolod," said Bais.

"The City is willing to loan just to realize this projects," said the councilor.

Several companies involved in information technology companies have expressed also their interests to establish their businesses at the Bacolod Convention Plaza Hotel.

Because of this major development, the management of the Bacolod Convention Plaza Hotel has withdrawn its proposal to sell the said hotel to the City for P285 million.

The hotel, of four-star standard, was offered to the City as site of its new one-stop government center.

Rafael Lizares Jr., chairman of the Luxur Realty and Development Corp. which is managing the hotel, confirmed to Sun.Star Bacolod Tuesday that an agreement was signed for the lease of the hotel between the hotel management and Teleperformance.

He said though that the hotel would stay and continue its operation.

Lizares said Teleperformance has started using the second floor of the establishment for interviewing applicants to fill in the positions of customer service representatives (CSR).

It's good that BCPH will continue operating as a hotel even with the Call center which will be located in its premises.

[Dinho]

SunStar Bacolod
Monday, April 03, 2006
GAB to put up pro boxing gym in Bacolod
By Henry C. Villalva

GAMES and Amusements Board (GAB) chairman Eric Buhain announced Friday that GAB will soon put up a professional boxing training gym in Bacolod City with the help of Bacolod Representative Monico 0. Puentevella.

Buhain, who was chairman of the Philippine Sports Commission before he assumed the GAB chairmanship, was guest speaker during the induction of officers of the Sports Communicators Organization of the Philippines (SCOOP) Bacolod held at the Casino Filipino Hotel.

The former Southeast Asian Games swimming champion said that among GAB'S priorities is "to give RP professional boxers the opportunity to fight the big fights and achieve what boxers like Manny Pacquiao have achieved in the international boxing arena."

He said it is in this regard that GAB will be hosting the International Boxing Convention in Manila next year where representatives from the world's leading boxing organizations like the WBC, WBA, WBO, IBF etc. will be coming over to share their expertise to Filipino boxing enthusiasts.

"This is an excellent opportunity for managers, trainers, coaches PR agents and everyone who considers himself as a pro boxing stakeholder to learn everything from the technical, rules, medical and safety aspects of pro boxing including such aspects as how to start a pro boxing stable," Buhain said.

The GAB chair also announced that on April 19-22 in Manila, GAB will recognize all former Filipino boxing greats including Pancho Villa and Kid Montana and other former Negrense pro boxing greats as well as amateurs the likes of Leopoldo Cantancio, Leopoldo Serrantes and the Velasco brothers, Roel and Mansueto Jr. "Onyok" who have all contributed to the rise in popularity of boxing in the country.

Buhain also said GAB is currently promoting Muay Thai as a professional sport in the country and that GAB is also interested and is "open to other pro sports."

He said after the 1975 "Thrilla in Manila" which featured the heavyweight clash between Muhammad Ali and Joe Frazier it will be the first time again that the Philippines will be hosting the International Boxing Convention when it happens next year.

Buhain also took the opportunity to thank the people of Bacolod "for all the love and support of Negrenses" which he said he felt when he stayed here in preparation for the 1993 SEA Games.

He urged the officers and members of Scoop Bacolod to pursue their plan of reviving the annual Scoop Awards Night reminding them that they are "the inspiration of athletes."

"Athletes need recognition and we always look forward to being included in the next awards as a matter of pride," he emphasized.

Inducted as Scoop Bacolod president for 2006-2007 was Renato "Boy" Duran of Manila Broadcasting Company's DYEZ Aksyon Radyo.

The new Scoop officers were sworn into office by GAB commissioner and former Bacolod vice-mayor Alex Paglomutan.

Among the sports leaders present during the event were Negros Basketball Association president Oscar "Dodong"' Bascon and vice-president William "Hanz" Chua; Negros Amateur Boxing Association (NABA) president Juan Ramon "Monju" Guanzon; Fil-Sino Athletic Club's Stephen Tan; University of St. La Salle volleyball coach Malot Lozada; West Negros College varsity coaches Romulo Estrebillo, Elvis Atinado and Norman Fegidero Jr. and Negros Occidental Private Schools Sports Cultural Educational Association (NOPSSCEA) president Fr. Emil Jaruda, OAR, who delivered the invocation during the induction ceremony.

[Dinho]

ALI allots P4B for new malls
By Zinnia B. Dela Peña
The Philippine Star 04/06/2006

Property giant Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) has earmarked P4 billion this year for the construction of new malls as it strives to increase its gross leasable area by 400,000 square meters (sqm) in the next five years, company president Jimmy Ayala said yesterday.

Among these new malls are Tri Noma, a project of the North Triangle Depot Commercial Corp. which will rise on a 200,000-sqm property; Greenbelt 5, which will have 30,000 sqm of gross leasable area; Ayala Center Cebu; and the retail portion at Serendra in Makati.

The Tri Noma, positioned to be the entertainment and dining nucleus of Quezon City, is targeted for completion completed in 2007 with Landmark Department Store as the anchor tenant.

Tri Noma will also have a new public transport terminal to be developed in the depot site, making the commercial center a major inter-modal transport hub and public convergence point.

As a fashion lifestyle center, Greenbelt 5, on the other hand, will be opening its doors to the public in 2008 with 31,250 sqm of leasable space. The retail portion at Serendra, meanwhile, comprises 6,400 sqm and is being patterned after the Soho-Greenwich area of Manhattan in New York.

The expansion of Ayala Center Cebu will add about 13,500 sqm to the existing mall.

Ayala said ALI is also planning to divest some of its real estate properties no longer considered as strategic for the group. It has a total landbank of 4,159 hectares, consisting of four components:

Makati (54 hectares), Bonifacio Global City (44 hectares), Canlubang (1,696 hectares) and 2,365 hectares in other parts of the country. The company is considering selling 400 hectares of its existing landbank.

For 2006, ALI has earmarked P15 billion to P16 billion for its capital expenditures, more than double the 2005 budget.

Of the total, 56 percent will go to residential developments, 26 percent (shopping centers), seven percent (office buildings) and the balance to landbanking activities.

In the office leasing segment, ALI is building an eight-storey structure for Hong Kong and Shanghai Banking Corp. in a 12,000-sqm lot in Fort Bonifacio. It is also developing a call center building for INFONXX, a directory call center on a 10,000 square meter lot in Sta. Rosa, Laguna.

The company is planning to develop more build-to-suit office buildings outside the Makati Central Business District. In April 2005, it completed People Support Center.

ALI chief financial officer Jaime Ysmael said funding for the capex will come from a combination of internally generated cash and new borrowings.

To broaden market reach and tap the growing market of overseas-based Filipinos, ALI will also launch new residential projects for the middle-income and mass housing markets and continue to roll out new phases in existing projects including Ayala Westgrove Heights,

Ayala Greenfield Estates and Serendra.

Despite the difficulties faced by the property sector last year, ALI reported a 21 percent growth in its net income to P3.62 billion from P2.99 billion in 2004 on higher mall rentals and real estate sales and asset disposals.

Looks like Ayala isn't planning to build new malls in the Visayas and Mindanao anytime soon.

[gekidan]

Looks like Ayala isn't planning to build new malls in the Visayas and Mindanao anytime soon.

Sigh.... nugon... I guess hasta lang sila sa North Point Subdivision. Sigurista mga Ayala daan unlike the Sys and Gokongweis.

Any Mambucal pics? or Happy Valley pics? or ina bala ang eskinita sa likod sa Goldenfields! :P

[cyrusal]

Looks like Ayala isn't planning to build new malls in the Visayas and Mindanao anytime soon.

The Ayala business park in Cagayan de Oro, that will feature a mall, will have its groundbreaking in December this year.

[bel1river]

The Ayala business park in Cagayan de Oro, that will feature a mall, will have its groundbreaking in December this year.

So maybe, the CDO project is for ALI's 2007 capex. Hopefully, nothing in the political arena (read Manila) will derail their plans.

[cyrusal]

^^ yeah. could be since it was not enumerated in this year's capital expenditures... Their P4.5B buget for the entire mix-use business park will actually start at 2B (so this might be allocated at their 2007's capex)

[bel1river]

^^ yeah. could be since it was not enumerated in this year's capital expenditures... Their P4.5B buget for the entire mix-use business park will actually start at 2B (so this might be allocated at their 2007's capex)

I will e-mail a first cousin who is a senior officer (a Dabawenyo) with Ayala Corp. Let's see if I can draw something out of him about ALI's future plans in VisMin. :)

[Dinho]

SunStar Bacolod
Saturday, April 08, 2006
Ariola: What's in a place?
By Jose Paolo Ariola
I Still Walk the Line

I GOT a call from my good friend and fellow Barrister, Juan Ramon "Monju" Guanzon last Tuesday afternoon. He was reacting to a minute portion of my article which appeared in the issue of this paper for that day wherein I wondered why some officials of Barangay Taculing were objecting against the construction of the proposed Government Center of Bacolod City in the same barangay. I was of course surprised at first why Monju would call me. But when he began to explain the reason why he called me up, it was then that our conversation became animated as we shifted to a higher level of discussion on the matter of the proposed government center and the site most suited for it.

Monju recalled that as early as Mayor Leonardia's first stint as mayor of Bacolod city when they were still members of the BBB Team, the latter had already made it known that he wanted a new government center to built at a site that was most likely to become a potential growth area for the city in the light that the downtown area and its immediate environs have already become congested. In fact, they already identified several areas as possible construction sites. Unfortunately, Mayor Leonardia was defeated in the elections of 1998. Thus, his plan for the new government center was mothballed.

But now that Mayor Leonardia is once again the top executive of the city, the plans for the construction of the government center were once again revived lately. Hence, the city again scouted around for possible sites for the new center with the main consideration that they must be potential growth areas for the burgeoning metropolis that Bacolod has become. After being told by the City Administrator that the Mayor's Office was still looking around for the best possible site for the new center, Monju, being the true-blue Bacolodnon that he is, gracefully offered to donate a five-hectare portion of his family's property immediately along the Mansilingan Road right in front of the Coca Cola Bacolod Plant. Ultimately, however, the Mayor's Office chose Taculing as the best site for the new government center for Bacolod City.

Monju made it clear that he was not questioning the prerogative of the Mayor's Office in making the final pick for the site. What he questions however, was whether the choice was arrived at vis-à-vis the main criteria for the site - it's growth potential. The former councilor pointed out that Taculing might not be the best choice after all, considering that the Taculing area is quite congested already in terms of area for future infrastructure. Unlike in Mansilingan, there are wide open spaces for future expansion. Furthermore, in terms of accessibility, the Mansilingan area is more accessible traffic-wise because it can be accessed via the six-lane Alijis Road and the Circumferential Road. Whereas, the only access to the Taculing area is the two-lane Taculing Road. So, which is the better site, Monju asked. Makes sense to me.

After our discussion, I couldn't help but ask Monju the same question I asked of him months ago - "was this an indication that he was throwing his hat into the political arena come next local elections?" His answer was still the same - "no." So there you have it, straight from the man himself. But as they say, there is nothing permanent in politics. And as the political road show in the city is beginning to unfold, there will be a lot of developments from here on. And as what my other friend George Sanchez told me the other day - "Monju is right. He's not throwing his hat into the political arena because his hat has always been there."

[J_lim2k2]

I've heard the arguements of mayor leonardia on tv about the congested issue. one of his arguement was, if your worry about putting it on a congested area(Taculing) then why did we allow Robinson's mall in the first place to be put at mandalagan along lacson st. since lacson was already congested for northbound traffic? why did we allow SM to be build in the reclaimtion area which is very near the downtown area? dont you think it would congest the downtown area further?

he also commented about the place in mansilingan which former councilor monju Guanzon is offering, he says that the area in mansilingan was more of an outskirt of bacolod, the area was very near the boundery of murcia town, so developing that area would have more benefits on murcia than bacolod which is not good since the purpose of the goverment center is to make it more convenient for the people of bacolod.

[BYAHILO]

Hello all,

first time ko diri.. jaz waana share u some bacolod, photos i took when i was there last masskara festival, and last january..
All photos ©http://www.byahilo.com Dont Use without permission.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara2005/villamonte-winner.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara-1117.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara2005/IMAG0065.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara2005/IMAG0060.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara2005/IMAG0059.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/masskara2005/IMAG0047.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/3428022e.jpg
Tangub Church

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/d39da0e0.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/1a8d9317.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/81740017.jpg
Bacolod City Public Plaza

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/81740016.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/81740014.jpg
Bacolod Chinese Temple (located near the Lopue's East Department Store)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/81740013.jpg
Panaad Park and Stadium

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/cathedral-1.jpg
San Sebastian Cathedral

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v200/enricodee/cathedral-bells.jpg

[sugarboy]

hehehe. ari ko subong sa bacolod. yesterday may kite flying contest sa ayala northpoint. enjoy gid kuno mga kids. :colgate:

[TJ]

In some aspects congestion is good it livens up one of the boring parts of town. And we still have many to go.

[Dinho]

Thanks for the pictures Enrico.

[Jimbu]

Japanese firm also built defective Bacolod airport — DOTC
By Sandy Araneta
The Philippine Star 04/10/2006

A Japanese building contractor was summoned by the Department of Transportation and Communications (DOTC) to explain the alleged structural defects found at an airport it constructed in Bacolod City.

DOTC Assistant Secretary for Projects and Planning Roberto Castañares said they have sent a letter to Takenaka Corp. to explain the apparent poor quality of the P5.8-billion Bacolod airport.

Castañares claimed cracks can be seen on the walls of the airport, in several concrete posts and even the runway itself.

He said the structural defects were discovered by officials and some passengers in pointing out security and safety risks.

A portion of the ceiling of the mothballed Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3 (NAIA-3) collapsed a few days before it was supposed to have its soft opening last March 31.

Castañares said the Japanese firm built both NAIA-3 and the Bacolod airport.

"It seems that Takenaka’s capability is now a big question. They (Takenaka) will have to rectify these (structural) defects. These are results of poor workmanship," he said.

Castañares said the DOTC has sent a letter to Pervo Watanabe, senior managing director of Takenaka Corp. to have a representative appear before DOTC Secretary Leandro Mendoza tomorrow and explain the apparent poor quality of workmanship in both airports.

Business tycoon Lucio Tan’s Asia’s Emerging Dragon Corp. (AEDC) had earlier accused officials of the Manila International Airport Authority (MIAA) of endangering the lives of the riding public by pushing for the immediate opening of NAIA-3 despite the largely unfinished quality of work.

AEDC counsel Perfecto Yasay Jr. said MIAA general manager Alfonso Cusi may have simply been following orders from higher authorities in ignoring the defects of NAIA-3.

Yasay claimed Cusi may have had knowledge beforehand of the instability of the terminal.

In order to justify the opening of the new air terminal, MIAA hired private consultancy group TCGI Engineering to check on its stability, he said.

On the other hand, Castañares warned Takenaka could be blacklisted and sued if findings conclude that the Japanese contractor was indeed sloppy in the construction of the two airports.

"If the result of the talks and investigation yielded that it was due to negligence then they (Takenaka) would no longer be allowed to bid in projects concerning airports," Castañares said.

"The DOTC is very upset with the poor quality of workmanship," he said.

AEDC earlier filed a motion for intervention in the government’s expropriation case and asked the Pasay City court to stop the proceedings until its right to run the NAIA-3 terminal has been settled.

AEDC cited the collapse of the ceiling at the NAIA-3 arrival area as proof that the structural integrity of the project has been compromised.

The firm claimed payment of "just compensation" to Philippine International Air Terminals Co. (Piatco) consortium, that included Takenaka, is "unwarranted and unjustified."

Yasay pointed out their argument is based on the Supreme Court ruling of May 5, 2003 that declared the Piatco contracts as null and void.

A year later, the high tribunal denied with finality the separate motions for consideration filed by Piatco.

"As an indispensable party, movant-intervenor AEDC has a legal interest in the subject of the controversy and stand to be directly injured by the outcome of the expropriation case," AEDC said in asking the court that it be impleaded in the case.

Yasay said the safety of the buildings constructed by Piatco through Takenaka must be looked at its totality.

[sugarboy]

In some aspects congestion is good it livens up one of the boring parts of town. And we still have many to go.

@TJ, nagatransaksyon ka man duta? pls advise. may dyutay ko nga ilihog sa imo if interesado ka. maka-money kita. :)

[TJ]

@TJ, nagatransaksyon ka man duta? pls advise. may dyutay ko nga ilihog sa imo if interesado ka. maka-money kita. :)

anu na sa tani haw? :)

[sugarboy]

@tj, may mga kadutaan kami near CPAC. actually, the property where CPAC stands today was purchased from our family. may ara ko mga lots in cuts of 5 hectares each nga ginabaligya. basi may kilala ka nga mga adventist nurses in the US or anyone interested for that matter nga gusto magbakal. pabal-a lang ko. ari pa ko sa bacolod until this saturday. ;)

[chymera00]

May Question ako :)

What is the Panaad Festival?
what specific date is it held this year?

Me and My friends are planning to go there, kc...

[J_lim2k2]

May Question ako :)

What is the Panaad Festival?
what specific date is it held this year?

Me and My friends are planning to go there, kc...

Panaad sa Negros is the "festival of all festivals" in the province. It is a week-long summer event that brings together the towns and cities in Negros Occidental in one big showcase of handicrafts, products, tourism attractions, and local festivals. Festivities include trade and food fairs, garden show, golf tournament, singing and songwriting competitions, beauty pageant, and a fiesta presentation featuring the festival of each town and city in a colorful and jubilant presentation at the Pana-ad Park and Stadium.

Panaad sa Negros set

The Panaad sa Negros Festival 2006 on the theme "Tatak Negros (Proudly Negros-Made)" is set on April 22 to 30, at the Panaad Park and Sports Complex, Brgy. Mansilingan, in Bacolod City, a press release from organizers said yesterday.

Activities scheduled are the opening rites with fireworks display at 4 p.m. on April 22, daily theme pavilions and trade fair, Panaad Tour of Negros, Hataw sa Panaad with Ching, mobile passporting and information advocacy, festival costumes and photo exhibit, garden show, sports activities and games, and cultural presentations and concerts.

Also set is the inauguration of the Korean-Negros Occidental Philippines Friendship Building or the Provincial Veterinary Training Center at Gatuslao Street-North Capitol Road in Bacolod at 10 a.m., and the "Best of Festival Dances" Competition at the Stadium grounds, at 1 p.m. on the opening day; Lin-ay sang Negros Pre-Pageant and Talent Night at 7 p.m., April 27; and the 50th RP-Japan Friendship Year at the Ishiwata Bath House, at Mambukal Resort, in Murcia town, at 11 a.m., April 29.

The Lin-ay sang Negros Pageant will be held at the Panaad stadium at 8 p.m., April 29 with Ms. International Precious Lara Quigaman as guest.

The closing ceremony to be held April 30, at 3 p.m., will be highlighted by the presentation of winners, fireworks display and a musical-

comedy show featuring Allan K and Teri Onor at 8 p.m., at the stadium, the press release added.*