Bacolod City Familiarization Tour via Philippine Airlines

    

    Bacolod is derived from the word “Baclod Baclod”  which means hilly… hearing that statement made me more interested in knowing this “City of Smiles.” What this place has to offer and how can they can lure tourists.

    Last August 18, 2023 : In collaboration with the Department of Tourism - Bacolod City and the Flag carrier of the Philippines - Philippine Airlines organized a Business to Business Meeting and Educational Familiarization Tour for Inbound Tour Operators that runs from August 18 to 20, 2023 with Tanduay Rum Festival as its partner. This Tour was covered with Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao Tour Operators alongside their chosen media partners (Bloggers and Bloggers)

    The Objectives of this program are the following:

            * To provide a business to business marketing platform amongst tourism establishments where our inbound tour operators can network, discuss and negotiate travel and tourism packages with Bacolod counterparts to generate M.I.C.E leads / activities and tourism arrivals to Bacolod City.

           * To promote Bacolod’s local food, arts, heritage, culture, accommodation, accessibility and tourism sites. To promote Bacolod Festivals to the business tourism sectors by incorporating the activities of Rum Festival in the educational familiarization itineraries.

      I have visited Bacolod for quite a few times already, but this time, I was privileged to be part of this fam tour. The Department of Tourism of Bacolod did a great job in showcasing their town -  headed by Miss Teresa Manalili (Chief Operations Manager). In this blog, I will be helping you, especially first timers in Bacolod information about the best places to go, best things to do and what to not miss when you are in the City of Smiles.

PASALUBONG CENTERS:

    Virgie’s Homemade Products- who’s famous of their local delicacies especially the Napoleones. Miss Virgie Chua will be celebrating her 50th year her business next year. Her store is located at #59 Sebastian Street. Barangay 32, Bacolod City, Philippines

She has been invited to make her Napoleones in Landers- Bacolod. One thing that she wants to assure her customers, She will never compromise the quality of her products. This is where we ordered our Napoliones to be delivered to our hotel on the day of our check out.

                

    Quan Bala -  Duệ to lack of branding creativity, the name of this cafe came out to be a very authentic and true to its identity. “Quan Bala” is a Hiligaynon impression  that means anything, anywhere or Ilonggo dictionaries say it’s so versatile , it can mean anything to add emphasis. It is best describe as a catch all, a whatchamacallit ; or a placeholder word.

    Owned by miss Chole Chua, a Negrense of course. Who has the passion to continue its famous Puto Manapla that originated from her grandmother (Mercedes Jalandoni). Quan Bala has evolved and brought out various of options in their menu from the puto to native delicacies then baked goods and cakes. They also expanded in Makati and McKinley. Their catchy tagline “A family of food for the family” is a phrase that they really live for. They want to serve food from their family to your family. During Pre-pandemic, they have already started creating their frozen “ulams” mostly the common Filipino food like “laswa” an ilonggo soup dish - it is a vegetable stew, Callos Baby langka with the Batuan, Tambo - bamboo shoots with the gata, Lumpia Shanghai. Store opens at 8am to 6pm but for their mall stores, they follow mall hours. Quan has 9 branches in Bacolod and two in Manila.

    SugarLandia -  One of the oldest and known local store that made the barquillos very famous as pasalubong from Bacolod. They are located at 36 Yolo Street, Bacolod City, Philippines. They have their factory just inside their house - I was able to witness how artisanal the Barquillos are made.

    Merzci produces 150,000 piyaya a day. They have also expanded in Cebu City just last year. Merzci has been collaborating with DECS in providing healthy food for the Filipino students nationwide. We were toured in their food factory and were introduced with how Piyaya and Biscotcho are being made and processed. We were given the chance to experience and taste their products at the end of the tour

HERITAGE:

    Negros Museum - The Bacolod National Museum, also known as the Negros Occidental Provincial Museum and Art Gallery, is located in Bacolod City, Philippines. It showcases various artifacts, artworks, and exhibits related to the culture, history, and art of Negros Occidental and the Philippines as a whole. It's a great place to learn about the local heritage and history. They are open from 9:00 am to 4:30 pm from Mondays to Saturdays.

    Tour of Art District and Local Crafts - Explore local markets and shops to buy handicrafts, woven products and pottery.

    The Ruins -  "The Ruins" in Bacolod City is a famous tourist attraction and cultural site. It's actually the remains of the Mariano Ledesma Lacson Mansion, a grand ancestral home that was built in the early 20th century. The mansion was known for its Italianate architecture and beautiful gardens. Today, The Ruins stands as a picturesque and historical site. Visitors can explore the ruins, stroll through the gardens, and enjoy the scenic views. It's a popular spot for photography, and there's also a restaurant on-site where you can dine while admiring the beauty of the place, especially during sunset. The Ruins is not only a testament to Bacolod's history but also a lovely place to appreciate its culture and architecture.

FOOD:

    Bob’s Cafe:  The first and the oldest cafe in Bacolod City. As miss Maricar said, our tour guide, the hacienderos and the hacienderos of Bacolod usually dine in for breakfast here in Bob’s Cafe.

    Cansi Place: Cansi is a popular dish in Bacolod, Philippines. It's a sour soup typically made with beef shank and bone marrow, flavored with tamarind and other spices. It's often compared to sinigang but has its unique regional twist. If you're in Bacolod and want to try cansi, you can find it in many local restaurants and eateries. It's a delicious and tangy dish that's worth trying if you're a fan of Filipino cuisine.

    Lechon Manok and Barbecue: 

    Bacolod is known for its delicious food, and lechon manok (roast chicken) and barbecue are among the popular choices. You can find these dishes at various places in Bacolod, including local eateries, food stalls, and restaurants.

For lechon manok, look for "lechon manokan" stalls or restaurants that specialize in this dish. A well-known area for lechon manok in Bacolod is Manokan Country, where you can find a variety of stalls serving roasted chicken with flavorful dipping sauces.

    As for barbecue, Bacolod is famous for its barbecue chicken and pork. You can find barbecue stalls and restaurants throughout the city that offer these grilled delights. Be sure to try the local marinades and sauces that give Bacolod barbecue its unique flavor.

RECREATION: 

Magikland:  is an amusement park located in Silay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines. It's a popular destination for both locals and tourists, especially families looking for a fun and entertaining experience. The park features a variety of attractions and rides, including roller coasters, water rides, and themed areas. It's known for its magical and fantasy-themed elements, making it an enjoyable place for children and adults alike. If you plan to visit Magikland, make sure to check their operating hours and any special events or promotions they may have.

Bantog Lake Ranch: It's known for its scenic beauty and activities such as fishing, boating, and picnicking. Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere and the opportunity to relax by the lake.

The ranch often hosts events and gatherings, making it a popular spot for both locals and tourists looking for a tranquil escape from city life. It's a great place to appreciate nature, go for a leisurely walk, or simply unwind with family and friends.

Bacolod, known as the "City of Smiles," is a charming and vibrant destination in the Philippines that offers several compelling reasons to visit:

• Warm Hospitality: Bacolod is famous for its friendly and hospitable people. The locals are known for their warm smiles and welcoming demeanor, making visitors feel right at home.
• Culinary Delights: Bacolod is a food lover's paradise. It's known for its delicious cuisine, including specialties like chicken inasal, piaya, and various seafood dishes. Don't miss the chance to explore local restaurants and food stalls.
• Festivals: The MassKara Festival, celebrated in October, is one of the most famous festivals in the Philippines. It's a colorful and lively event featuring street dance performances and vibrant masks.
• Historical and Cultural Sites: Bacolod has several historical and cultural sites to explore, including The Ruins, a beautiful, century-old mansion, and the San Sebastian Cathedral.
• Nature and Scenery: The province of Negros Occidental, where Bacolod is located, is known for its beautiful natural landscapes. You can explore mountains, beaches, and other natural attractions in the surrounding areas.
• Shopping: Bacolod offers a range of shopping experiences, from local markets to modern malls. You can find unique souvenirs and local products to take home.
• Art and Creativity: Bacolod has a thriving arts scene, with galleries and art spaces showcasing the talent of local artists.
• Relaxation: If you're looking to unwind, Bacolod has many resorts and wellness centers where you can enjoy a peaceful escape.
• Sugar Industry: The province is a significant player in the sugar industry, and you can learn about its history and impact on the region through various tours and museums.
• Easy Accessibility: Bacolod has an international airport, making it relatively easy to reach from other parts of the Philippines and some international destinations.                                                                                              Overall, Bacolod offers a rich blend of culture, cuisine, and natural beauty, making it a delightful destination for travelers looking for an authentic Filipino experience.