Gab Cabangon finds peace after the hustle in new single “Kama”
The budding singer-songwriter is back with a soulful guitar-pop single about comfort, connection, and slowing down.”
Filipino singer-songwriter Gab Cabangon returns with the release of his new single, “Kama,” a soulful guitar-pop track that finds comfort in someone else’s arms after a long, exhausting day at work. Written by Cabangon himself, the song offers a gentle reminder that rest is not a reward but a necessity in a world that rarely slows down.
“I just wanted to write a comforting love song about how it’s okay to allow yourself to rest and lean on the people who matter,” Gab admits. “We live in such a fast-paced, demanding world, but we don’t have to face them alone. Sometimes, taking a pause helps us recharge before moving forward. ‘Hanapin mo ang iyong pahinga,’ as I would say.”
While undeniably penned as an intimate love song, “Kama” also serves as a reflection of the workforce culture, calling out environments that prioritize productivity and numbers at the expense of well-being and balance.
The young multi-hyphenate shares that he wrote Kama one evening after work, feeling stressed out. “I started thinking about how I needed to solve all my work problems immediately even though I was drained. Then I decided to take a break and just write a song as a way to process my thoughts. I think at that time I was also listening heavily to songs like Kumot by Solace Out the Door, Tulog Na by Sugarfree, and Janice by Dilaw. The result of that whole process was this love song.”
“Kama” is produced by Gab Cabangon and David Lina and mixed and mastered by Shadiel Chan and Jan Fuertez, respectively. Incorporating bedroom pop elements with R&B textures, the track showcases a soulful side of Gab that not many listeners know about. From a sonic standpoint, it slightly steps away from his signature stripped-down sound while retaining the warm, melodic intimacy that defines his early work.
“I’m not really known for doing these particular music styles, so I’m excited to see how people would respond,” the Pieces act says. “It’s definitely way less ‘sadboi,’ but you’ll still feel the singer-songwriter vibe that was present in my last single.”
“Kama” features backing vocals from Filipino singer-songwriter vydd and Kyla Miel Camerong of Solace Out the Door, with additional harmonies by Cabangon’s wife, Angeli. The track also incorporates trumpet and flugelhorn sounds—thanks to his friend, Gabriel Lazaro, who provided additional instrumental work to enrich the track’s sonic palette.
The release of “Kama” will be supported by a mini bar and café tour across Metro Manila, with the following dates and venues:
February 13, 2026 – UNWND Boutique Hotel, Poblacion, Makati (in partnership with Liga Artist Group)
February 28, 2026 – Cappo Coffee, Quezon City (in partnership with Live Hive Productions)
March 14, 2026 – Backdoor Maginhawa, Quezon City
Ticket details and updates are available at Gab Cabangon’s Instagram page.
Gab Cabangon’s “Kama” is out now on all digital music platforms worldwide.
About Gab Cabangon
Gab Cabangon is a Filipino singer-songwriter based in Metro Manila. He describes his music as a “nonchalant millennial sadboi” style of indie pop music that blends chill guitar melodies with soulful singing. As an introspective artist, Gab loves writing songs and stories about going through different phases of life and heartaches that are both romantic and non-romantic.
Today, Gab Cabangon is also a solo recording artist, and he continues to showcase his music and share his stories while championing Filipino music in every stage and space he performs. Apart from gracing intimate shows and music festivals, he has performed abroad in small concerts and shows, particularly in the US and Australia. He has also performed and worked alongside some of the icons and legends of the Philippine music industry, including Nyoy Volante, Ebe Dancel, Johnoy, Rivermaya, and Noel Cabangon, among others.
Josh Groban Announces Very Special Guests Regine Velasquez And Martin Nievera
Announcement – Tony, EMMY and five-time GRAMMY Award-nominated singer-songwriter Josh Groban brings his newest tour ‘GEMS WORLD TOUR’ to Manila and announces his very special guests ‘Asia’s Songbird’ Regine Velasquez and ‘Concert King’ Martin Nievera for a must-see Valentine’s week concert on February 18, 2026 at the SM Mall of Asia Arena. Presented by Wilbros Live.
With over 35 million albums sold worldwide, Josh Groban’s career is defined by sweeping anthems such as “You Raise Me Up”, “To Where You Are”, “February Song” and “The Prayer”. This tour celebrates his legacy of blending classical power with pop accessibility, featuring cinematic hits like “Believe” and “Evermore”, alongside an orchestra and choir for a truly immersive sonic experience. Groban possesses one of the most outstanding and instantly recognizable voices in music. Moreover, he continues to captivate fans everywhere as both a powerhouse vocalist and dynamic renaissance man with sold out concerts around the world.
Regine Velasquez, one of the best-selling Filipino artists of all time, whose legendary vocal range and hits like “Dadalhin”, “Pangako” and “On The Wings of Love” have earned her unprecedented accolades. Martin Nievera, the prolific singer-songwriter and TV host behind iconic hits like “Be My Lady”, “Say That You Love Me” and “You Are My Song” previously interviewed Groban and expressed immense excitement to transition from interviewer to stage partner for this historic reunion. Together, these multi-award-winning legends promise to make the evening an unforgettable showcase of world-class talent.
Reflecting on his return to the Philippines after seven years, Groban expressed a profound emotional connection to his Filipino audience, noting that the country holds “a very special place in my heart”. He credited the local fan base for their unwavering support, stating “Outside of America, the Philippines is one that got to truly accept my music. Filipinos have understood me and my music for the entirety of my career.”
For Groban, the upcoming Manila concert is a celebration of a relationship that spans decades. “Every time I have the opportunity to perform for my fans in the Philippines, it is a night of many things – most of which is gratitude – gratitude that I feel from my fans there since album one, day one,” he shared. “So whenever I come to the Philippines, whenever I get to play a concert there, I celebrate your country’s love of music.”
Don’t miss this unforgettable night of vocal excellence and musical history! Tickets are on-sale and available at SMTickets.com and SM Ticket outlets nationwide. Limited VIP Soundcheck Experience and VIP Superfun Package with Josh Groban are also available.
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SmartHouse Prefabs: The Future of Sustainable Resorts and Homestays in the Philippines
In a nutshell, SmartHouse offers a modern alternative to traditional housing by addressing issues related to cost, speed, space, and environmental impact. Whether you’re a millennial aiming to invest early in property, an OFW building for your family, or an investor focusing on low-cost rentals, prefabricated homes provide durability, quick construction, and long-term value.
With the ability to fit on small lots, remote land, or even penthouse floors, SmartHouse is changing how Filipinos view home ownership today. The possibilities are endless—from resorts, prefab gyms, commercial buildings, and apartments to residential hospitals, the sky is the limit with SmartHouse prefab.
Okay, it may seem odd and hard-sell to feature a Smarthouse prefab company on a travel and tourism website, but it will make sense once we start thinking creatively. The Philippines, like any country, needs revenue for its travel and tourism industries to thrive, so local government units support efforts to boost their cities, provinces, and municipalities to achieve these goals.
In the short term, travel and tourism can be boosted through increased visibility and engaging efforts through proper advertising, such as:
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Tactile & Immersive Pop-up Experiences
- Travel fair booths & kiosks: Deploy foldable modular kiosks at tourism expos and fairs—stunning visuals, quick setup, reusable, and relocatable. Quick-deploy kiosks at airports, malls, or towns to distribute brochures and engage travelers in immersive experiences.
- Tourism activation zones: Place branded pop-up structures in key tourist spots or even cities and municipal airports (e.g., Boracay, Vigan, El Nido), offering immersive previews or VIP lounges.
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On-Site Accommodation with a Marketing Edge
- Showcase stay pods: Install sleek, branded container houses in destinations allowing travelers to “experience before they book”—e.g., airport preview units or in-lobby micro-lodging. Mini stay units showcasing specific destinations—e.g., mountain retreats, beach mini‑resorts—letting visitors tangibly feel the brand.
- Event-specific housing: Use modular units as temporary lodging during festivals or conferences—integrate digital screens or brand storytelling within. Temporary lodging at fiestas, concerts, or conferences—dual-purpose branding and accommodation.
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Strategic Digital Signage Venues
- Kiosks with integrated screens: Equip modular units with digital displays promoting local experiences, guided tours, or live social media feeds, leveraging interactive signage solutions popular in malls and public venues
- Wayfinding & info booths: Deploy as touch-responsive, branded wayfinding stations at tourist hotspots, partnering with content providers for dynamic updates. Or maybe create Instagram-worthy modular zones tied to local attractions—e.g., “Pasalubong Pods” or “Photo Op Cabins.”
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Marketing as Added Value
- Mobile brand showcases: Use movable prefab structures for roadshow marketing in satellite cities or provincial tourism centers—instant brand visibility where crowds naturally gather.
- Co-marketing with LGUs: Collaborate with local governments to establish branded infospots or welcome centers using modular SmartHouse builds—maximizing foot traffic and partnership potential.
All in all, a fleet of foldable SmartHouse units that can be rotated across key locations for extended marketing visibility is a big help in advertising our tourist destinations all over the Philippines. With the assistance or even subsidy of the national or local governments for a one-time cost, this is a big possibility.
Furthermore, in the long run, local governments can improve their tourist attractions by developing more affordable Airbnb options and using less expensive resort accommodation alternatives. Smarthouse has gained a reputation for creating appealing and world-class units fit for resorts or micro accommodations.
Who These Initiatives Attract
- Local Tourists & Urban Explorers: Engaged at malls, airports, and urban centers—drawn by interactive, immersive setups.
- International Travelers: At entry points like airports or cruise terminals—small-scale accommodation previews make an impression.
- Event-Goers & Locals in Destination Hubs: Engaged at festivals, exhibitions, or tourist numbers; modular lounges or stay units double as experience touchpoints.
- Content Creators & Social Media Enthusiasts: Eye-catching modular setups easily become trending photo spots.
- Local Partners & LGU Visitors: Branded, functional modular units strengthen government and tourism board partnerships, showcasing investment in visitor experience.
Strategic Tips for SmartHouse
- Collaborate with Tourism Boards & LGUs to co-brand and deploy modular structures at high-traffic zones—helping travel brands gain exposure and add value to destinations.
- Integrate Digital Signage Technology—partner with signage platforms to transform modular builds into dynamic promotional tools
- Offer Thematic Customization—e.g., tropical, heritage, mountain, fiesta themes that reflect local attractions; makes modules visually aligned with location branding.
- Emphasize Mobility & Efficiency—highlight quick set-up, fold-flat transport, and reusability—appealing to campaign-driven marketing budgets.
- Track Engagement—embed sensors or QR codes to monitor visitor interaction; provide clients with analytics on reach and dwell time.
SmartHouse Philippines stands at a strategic intersection of modular innovation and experiential marketing. By leveraging their customizable, resilient, and transportable prefab structures, they can revolutionize how tourism brands engage audiences—making every activation portable, memorable, and impactful.
Resources: YouTube; Carousel; Instagram; and Tiktok
For details call: Ms. Alezandra Brantley at (02) 8423-5817 or email at alezandra.brantley@smarthouseprefab.com.ph
VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS: ESTABLISHMENTS, TECHNOLOGY
An Extensive Guide to the Beach Resorts of Cauayan, Sipalay, and Hinoba-an
(Clockwise: Manami Resort; Perth Beach Paradise Resort; and Danjugan Island)
That’s why the beaches in the south are gaining traction. Cauayan, Sipalay, and Hinobaan beaches are our go-to places here…
When Bacolodnons or Negrenses yearn for sun, sand, and sea, they don’t head north or just a few kilometers out of Bacolod City. Instead, they embark on a scenic road trip deep into the southern coast of Negros Occidental to visit the renowned beach havens of Cauayan, Sipalay, and Hinoba-an. Despite their distance from Bacolod (roughly 4–6 hours away), these southern beach towns have earned a reputation as Negros Island’s premier coastal escapes. But why do locals overlook beaches nearer to the city, and what steps can we take to enhance the tourism environment surrounding Bacolod? Let’s dive into the rich offerings and broader potential of these treasured destinations.
CAUAYAN: Wild, Romantic, and Untamed
Cauayan is perfect for nature enthusiasts and conservation-minded tourists. It offers exclusivity, natural beauty, and an escape from crowds. The marine biodiversity is untouched, making it ideal for divers and snorkelers.
Danjugan Island
A crown jewel of ecotourism, Danjugan is a marine sanctuary and nature reserve. The island offers a variety of activities, including snorkeling, kayaking, birdwatching, and environmental education. Covering 43 hectares, Danjugan is a biological treasure trove. Surrounded by vast seagrass beds and fringing coral reefs, it features five lagoons, white sand beaches, bat caves, lush limestone formations, and mangrove forests. The Southern Negros Islands in the Philippines are home to this marine and wildlife sanctuary. To fully enjoy and appreciate this natural wonder, it is recommended to book in advance before your visit. They only allow a limited number of guests per stay. Driving instructions to Danjugan Island.
Amila Dive Beach Resort
Having a resort that allows you to escape from the bustle of city life makes it worthwhile. Amila Dive Beach Resort could be the ideal destination for you. This resort is perfect for providing a peaceful retreat. This hideaway is definitely worth exploring. When you’re seeking a high-end experience, this resort is the best choice.
Driving instructions to Amila Beach Dive Resort.
Punta Bulata Resort & Spa
The resort boasts a rustic vibe yet an upscale feel, featuring a private beachfront, a pool, and spa services. It’s on the southern heel of Negros Island, in the town of Cauayan. It’s also situated on 20 hectares of verdant tropical landscape, featuring expansive lawns and a white sand beach that stretches up to one kilometer in front, facing the Sulu Sea. Situated in a picture-perfect setting, Punta Bulata Resort & Spa is within easy driving distance of the coastal city of Sipalay, the world-famous Danjugan Island Marine Reserve and Sanctuary, and Bacolod City, all within a three-hour drive. Driving instructions to Punta Bulata Resort & Spa.
Turtle Island (Anauan)
Turtle Island (Anauan) is a lesser-known island that is slowly gaining attention for its pristine waters and coral reefs. Driving instructions to Turtle Island.
El Tzino
El Tzino, a lesser-known island, is gradually garnering recognition due to its pristine waters and coral reefs. El Tzino Beach Resort is located at Brgy. Elihan, Cauayan, Negros Occidental. Driving instructions to El Tzino.
SIPALAY: The Jewel of the Sugarland
Sipalay strikes a balance between accessibility and seclusion. It’s artsy, adventurous, and perfect for couples, backpackers, and divers. It’s considered by many as “Bacolod’s answer to El Nido.”
Manami Resort
In Hiligaynon, ‘manami’ means ‘looks good’ or ‘tastes good,’ so it roughly translates to something very pleasing. Manami Resort is located in Brgy. Cayhagan, Sipalay. Driving instructions to Manami Resort. This resort is on the high-end side.
Diving Sites
Sipalay has become a diver’s paradise, with multiple dive shops offering excursions to shipwrecks, reefs, and underwater cliffs.
Campomanes Bay
Campomanes Bay is an ideal location for diving, yachting, and exploring hidden coves. Located in Brgy. Maricalum, in the southern part of Sipalay, Campomanes Bay, is the largest enclosed body of water in the city. Newly paved roads make land travel easier, and a 10-minute pump boat ride from Punta Ballo Beach makes water travel an option as well. The dive sites of the SS Panay, the MS Jojo, and the Maasin and Campomanes-Ballo Marine Reserves and Sanctuaries are among its most well-known attractions. The formation makes for calmer waves, making it an excellent spot for swimming and kayaking. Driving instructions to Campomanes Bay.
Bugana Beach and Dive Resort
This resort is in Barangay Maricalum, Campomanes Bay, Sipalay, Negros Occidental. If you have plans to visit, they have an office in Bacolod at 89 Mabolo Street, CL Montelibano, for your convenience. Details can be found at their website.
Driving instructions to Bugana Beach and Drive Resort from Sipalay Airport.
Lopez Beach Resort
Located in the picture-perfect Campomanes Bay, Lopez Beach Resort is a stunning beachfront sanctuary and paradise. Named “Best Beachfront Family-Friendly Resort,” the place also offers dive excursions to Sipalay’s famous wrecks, island-hopping adventures, snorkeling, and other activities that will make your stay memorable. Their accommodations are equally top-notch, including a beachfront villa, ocean-view top-floor suites, beach lofts, executive suites, home suites, junior suites, family cabanas, couples’ cabanas, and beach canopies for an “al fresco” night, weekend, or week-long getaway. Discover why Lopez Beach Resorts lives up to the hype. Having been awarded Best Beachfront Family-Friendly Resort is no small feat.
Driving instructions to Lopez Beach Resort from Sipalay Airport.
Driftwood Village Resort
Driftwood Village Resort is a peaceful retreat amidst the busy scene of Sugar Beach in Sipalay, Negros Island, Philippines. Located in a lush garden, this resort features nineteen traditional bamboo huts (full of rustic charm!), a sandy palm-lined beach, and delicious food.
Driving instructions to Driftwood Village Resort from Sipalay Airport.
Green Garden Beach Resort
An isolated, wide, golden-sand beach accessible by boat or trail. Green Garden Beach Resort accommodations range from budget hostels to mid-range eco-lodges. The resort features a private beach and restaurant and is just a short 9-minute walk from Langub Beach Resort. It also offers a parking area. Each room features its own climate control and a private bathroom equipped with a shower, bathtub, and toilet. Driving instructions to Green Garden Beach Resort.
Perth Paradise Resort
The resort is renowned for its infinity pool, which overlooks limestone islets reminiscent of Palawan. Located in Sipalay City, the tranquil Perth Paradise Resort offers breathtaking views of the ocean and verdant islands. From its hilltop location, guests can take in a stunning panorama that embodies every ideal of a paradisiacal dream. Driving instructions to Perth Paradise Resort.
Rohrbach’s Beach Resort
A serene, secluded beach with powdery white sand and pristine blue waves. At the water’s edge stand a lighthouse and watchtower. It’s almost like a scenic shot from a movie. Rohrbach’s Beach Resort is the ideal destination for small groups of families and loved ones. The spot is at Sitio Opao, Brgy 4, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental. For a very private beach, the accommodation rates are affordable. ₱1,500 for two persons (whole house); ₱500 per person for groups of four and 12+ pax. Group-friendly rates are available for up to 30 guests. Rooms are provided with pillows, duvet covers, cutlery, and more.
For adventurous nature lovers, you can bring your own tent or rent one for ₱300–₱500—no rental fee. For reservations, you can call 0997-1966647.
Driving instructions to Rohrbach’s Beach Resort.
Tinagong Dagat
Tinagong Dagat is a unique network of islands and walkways that offer activities such as kayaking, trekking, and romantic stilt cabins. This is to differentiate the Tinagong Dagat in Mount Mandalagan. Located at Sitio Latasan, Barangay 4 in Sipalay, this place has long attracted locals and visitors alike. It’s a beach resort set on a green, shallow sea dotted with smaller islands. A 150-meter-long bamboo hanging bridge connects the smaller islands to Latasan, or the Tinagong Dagat extension, and it’s the first thing you’ll see when you enter the resort. Driving instructions to Tinagong Dagat in Sipalay.
HINOBA-AN: The Last Frontier of Negros Occidental
It’s the farthest from Bacolod but also the quietest and most peaceful. Hinoba-an is ideal for those seeking solitude, local interaction, and a true sense of provincial serenity. It’s the place to experience authentic Negros life by the sea.
Nabulao Beach
When exploring Purok Sampaguita, Sitio Totong at Hinoba-an in Negros Occidental, you’ll find Nabulao Beach Resort. While there, you can enjoy kayaking, paddleboarding, island hopping, and snorkelling, or unwind in a beach cabana with a cocktail. You can also savour romantic beach dinners, private feasts, and local cuisine with stunning sea views. AIn terms of activities, you can join a volleyball game, participate in a bubble fight, or enjoy a lechon feast. WWhile you are there, you can also learn to cook regional dishes or catch a movie at the outdoor cinema. TTreat yourself to massages or enjoy drinks at the beach bar. Nabulao Beach never disappoints. Check out their website.
Brazaville Beach Resort
A local favorite, with budget accommodations, clear waters, and serene surroundings. Here are the driving instructions for Brazaville Beach Resort.
Obong Caves and Beaches is a rugged and less commercialized zone that offers dramatic coastal landscapes and excellent snorkeling spots. It’s located at Sitio Obong, Brgy. Bacuyangan in Hinoba-an.
Ubong Beach—An unspoiled stretch of grey-to-white sand perfect for picnics and laid-back beach bumming.
Bacolod still harbors unexplored, undeveloped, and untapped tourism sources. Prospective financiers and developers need to have the right mindset and vision to take a second look and take the risk of investing.
VKP, BACOLOD CITY: REST STOPS, HIDEAWAYS & HAVENS
Top Recommended Hotels and Accommodations in Bacolod City
Best for Business Travelers (Safe, Centrally Located)
Tips for Guests
- Document room condition upon check-in—take photos of sheets, bathrooms, and any visible wear—since incidental charges are common.
- Inquire about the facilities included in your specific booking.
- A refundable deposit (around ₱1,000–2,000) may be required .
- If visiting during MassKara, booking early secures a prime location—but expect higher rates and street noise.
Seda Capitol Central
Seda Capitol Central is a premium-class hotel in Bacolod City. It is located within the Capitol Central estate, directly connected to Ayala Mall, and is close to the lagoon. The property offers 154 rooms, including Deluxe (25 sqm), Premier (35 sqm), and Suites (~90 sqm). Each room features modern amenities, including air conditioning, a minibar, an iPod dock, a desk, a coffee/tea maker, bathrobes, slippers, and complimentary bottled water.
The establishment also has an impressive business center, function rooms, and high-speed Wi-Fi. The ambiance is modern yet secure, with 24/7 reception, clean rooms, excellent business facilities, and a provision for airport transfer service upon request.
Within the establishment is Misto, the hotel’s diner, offering excellent buffet breakfast and all-day dining.
The price ranges from ₱4,000 to ₱6,000 per night.
Avenue Suites Hotel
Avenue Suites Hotel is located on 12th Lacson Street, and it is within a 5–10-minute walk of the Negros Museum, Capitol Park, Ayala Malls, and various cafés and restaurants. Conveniently, it is around 20 minutes away from the Bacolod-Silay Airport and close to the port.
It’s a relatively new hotel with sleek, contemporary architecture and an eco-friendly vibe, utilizing LED lighting and solar panels effectively. Amenities include two outdoor pools (with a pool bar), a full-service spa featuring a sauna and massage services, a fitness center, a kids’ pool, a coffee shop, a restaurant, a bar, and a convenience store.
Moreover, there are plenty of room types to choose from, including budget, standard, deluxe (single or double), superior deluxe, grand deluxe, matrimonial suite, and executive suite—all with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, and free Wi-Fi to suit their needs and preferences. Check-in is at 2:00 PM, and checkout is by noon the next day.
Nearby
GoHotels
GoHotels offer reliable parking and coworking-friendly cafés (e.g., Studio Cafe at Avenue Suites)
Price: ₱1,000+ rate
Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod
Park Inn by Radisson, located on Block 12 Reclamation Area, Palanca Avenue, SM City Bacolod Complex, is ideal for business travelers attending conferences or events. It has fast Wi-Fi and a co-working-friendly ambiance. It also provides a breakfast buffet and rooftop dining experience.
For everyone’s convenience, Park Inn’s covered walkways connect the lobby to SM Mall’s North and South wings (over 400 shops), SMX Convention Center, and BREDCO seaport shuttles, making it ideal for MassKara street parties with high traffic.
When it comes to lifestyle hotels and practical Filipino hospitality, the Park Inn by Radisson Bacolod is perfect. From first-timers chasing MassKara confetti to Bacolodnons seeking a splashy weekend getaway without flying, this base offers unparalleled versatility in the city, boasting entry rates below PHP 5,000 in low season, a festival-proof location, and food and drink concepts that can entice locals on lazy Sundays.
Citadines
Stylish and upscale, Citadines Bacolod City is a 200-unit residence by Ascott Limited located along Lacson Avenue in the heart of Bacolod (Barangay Bata). Its blend of modern conveniences and Negrense charm makes it an ideal choice for families, business travelers, festivalgoers, and MICE events. Room types to choose from range from Studio Deluxe Twin and Studio Premier to One-Bedroom Deluxe and Two-Bedroom Deluxe apartments—ideal for families.
Inside each room type are features that include a kitchenette or full kitchen, fridge, microwave, kettle, and soundproofed, air-conditioned rooms with a desk, TV, in-room safe, and premium toiletries.
The exterior, however, is another story, as Citadines has an outdoor infinity pool available 6am-10pm, a decked-out fitness center, dry dry‑cleaning/laundry, free Wi-Fi (25+ Mbps), a 24-hr front desk, free parking, an airport shuttle (PHP 1000), spa access (PHP 1000/day), and full accessibility (ramps, wheelchair parking, and pool and gym access).
Price: Opening rates vary, with Studio Deluxe at PHP 4,000/night, Studio Premier at PHP 4,500, and One-Bedroom at PHP 5,800—all including breakfast for two, Wi-Fi, facilities, and parking. Also check reduced rates on booking sites.
L’Fisher Hotel
L’Fisher Hotel Bacolod stands as a comprehensive destination in the city, blending upscale rooms and suites, multiple dining concepts, a luxury spa, and full recreation facilities. It’s well-suited for families, business travelers, and groups, offering event facilities from intimate to large-scale, while its central location makes it ideal for exploring the city’s cultural and commercial highlights.
Conveniently located at Central Lacson St. (14th Street), near many dining spots, L’Fisher offers a rooftop spa and excellent food options. The hotel is quite popular for its corporate bookings and meetings.
Alternatives are also available here.
VKP, BACOLOD CITY: REST STOPS, HIDEAWAYS & HAVENS
Don Salvador Benedicto: Bacolod City’s Cool Mountain Adventure and Escape
Nestled high in the mountains of Negros Occidental, Don Salvador Benedicto (DSB)—often called the “Baguio of Negros”—is increasingly making its mark in Bacolod City’s expanding tourism landscape. Although technically a separate municipality, DSB’s close proximity and cultural ties to Bacolod have made it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a refreshing break from the city’s tropical lowland heat.
DSB lies roughly 47 kilometers east of Bacolod City and can be reached in just 1.5 to 2 hours via scenic mountain roads. Part of Negros Occidental’s highland area, the municipality sits along the Bacolod-San Carlos highway—a winding but well-maintained route that offers some of the best mountain vistas in the Visayas.
Despite its quiet, pine-dotted roads and laid-back pace, DSB plays an essential role in shaping the overall tourism appeal of Bacolod and the province at large.
Why DSB Matters in Bacolod City’s Tourism Identity
Bacolod, known for its vibrant MassKara Festival and rich culinary heritage, thrives in the lowlands. DSB, on the other hand, serves as its highland retreat. Tourists who flock to Bacolod during MassKara month or the summer often carve out a day or two for DSB to experience the crisp mountain air, pine trees, and misty viewpoints—making it an essential side trip or “chill” contrast to the bustling cityscape.
With an elevation of over 2,000 feet above sea level, DSB’s climate is significantly cooler year-round. This has turned the town into an increasingly popular option for nature lovers, backpackers, digital nomads, and even retirees. Bacolod-based tour operators often include DSB in their countryside tour packages, increasing its visibility to both domestic and international tourists.
Tourism Synergy: One-Day Itineraries from Bacolod
Bacolod-based travel itineraries frequently highlight DSB as a vital countryside destination. Day trips from Bacolod often feature stops like:
- The Lion’s Head: A nod to Baguio’s Kennon Road, this roadside statue has become an iconic DSB landmark and selfie spot. Conveniently beside the Lion’s Head is La Luz Café.
- View Decks and Scenic Stops: Visitors can take in the lush greenery of the Negros ranges, with panoramic views of rice terraces, mountains, and valleys.
- Café and Farm Culture: DSB is seeing a rise in mountaintop cafés, farm-to-table establishments, and eco-resorts that are redefining the Negros countryside experience.
What DSB Offers as a Tourist Destination
DSB’s primary draw is its unspoiled mountain scenery. Travelers love the rolling hills, layered forests, and fog-covered peaks that make for a photogenic and serene getaway. Ideal for road trippers and photographers, the winding mountain roads offer dramatic views with stops such as:
- Malatan-og Falls : A trek further in offers access to the beautiful Malatan-og Falls, a favorite among hikers and adventure seekers. Directions.
Note: Kusinata Restaurant: This sought-after restaurant is located nearby, overlooking Malatan-og Falls. A view and gastronomic delight in one. Directions.
Conveniently, if you’re looking for a place to stay nearby, a home rental, then Balay sa Busay is right for you. Directions.
- Pine Tree Forests: Reminiscent of the Cordilleras, these pine-lined sections of the highway offer a quick but surreal change in scenery from sugarcane plains to evergreen enclaves.
Highland Cafés, Food Stops, and Farm-to-Table Experiences
New cafés and boutique resorts have popped up in the past few years, offering not just Instagram-worthy views but also Negrense comfort food, coffee, and even locally grown produce. Notable establishments include:
- Jomax Peak—a favorite glamping and view deck spot for tourists. Directions.
- Rapha Valley – An organic farm and wellness center promoting plant-based food and rural healing retreats. Directions.
- Café La Guada – A rustic café experience overlooking pine forests and valleys. Directions.
If you prefer rustic vibes, do check out Doc J’s, Puertito’s Café, and Amazing’s.
Rustic Resorts and Airbnbs
DSB has quietly built a reputation as a weekend escape spot for Bacolodnons and travelers from Iloilo and Cebu. Accommodations range from
- Modern Airbnbs with balconies and fireplaces. We recommend Balai Ramirez—a cozy vacation home rental in Brgy. Kumaliskis, Don Salvador Benedicto, Bacolod City. Directions.
- Rustic lodges and family-run homestays
- Upscale glamping sites and nature lodges
Note: We recommend Hobbit Villa—a themed accommodation spot mirroring the Lord of the Rings house designs of hobbits in the mentioned movie, with amenities that are useful for your stay. Directions.
Many travelers plan their MassKara or Bacolod festival experience around a few days of pre- or post-festival recovery in DSB.
Hiking, Nature Walks, and Slow Travel
Unlike other bustling tourist hubs, DSB offers a slow travel vibe. You should drive slowly, sip coffee slowly, hike gently, and listen to birds or rustling leaves. Its hiking trails and farm visits are suited for families and solo travelers looking for low-impact nature interaction.
As part of the Bacolod-San Carlos highway route, DSB has become a favorite weekend stop for bikers, motorcycle clubs, and private travelers exploring Negros Island by land. Many visitors from Cebu or Dumaguete (via San Carlos Port) pass through DSB en route to Bacolod, turning the mountain town into a transitional but memorable stopover.
Local initiatives have promoted organic farming, sustainable tourism, and minimal-impact development—branding DSB as a destination not just for nature, but for conscious tourism. Farm-to-table eateries, zero-waste retreats, and youth-led eco groups are sprouting in the town.
For any traveler visiting Bacolod City, skipping DSB would be missing out on a rare kind of calm that’s both scenic and soul-refreshing. Whether for a quick mountain drive, an overnight coffee camp, or a full eco-retreat, DSB deserves a firm spot in the region’s travel consciousness—and perhaps even your next itinerary.





















