Category: Vacation

City Destination Pinas Vacation

How to Celebrate MassKara Like a Local: Tips, Spots, and What to Wear

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Every October, Bacolod City bursts into a kaleidoscope of color, music, and laughter as it hosts one of the Philippines’ most iconic festivals: the MassKara Festival. Known as the “Festival of Smiles,” MassKara is more than just a spectacle—it’s a deeply rooted cultural celebration that reflects the resilience, optimism, and vibrant spirit of the Negrense people. If you’re planning to join the festivities, here’s your ultimate local-style guide to truly celebrate MassKara like a Bacolodnon.

 

Understand the Heart of the Festival

Before diving into the parties and parades, get to know why MassKara exists. The smiling masks symbolize the enduring optimism of the people. Keeping this background in mind will give your experience deeper meaning.

 

When to Go: Time Your Visit Right

MassKara usually peaks in the third or fourth weekend of October, with events stretching over three weeks. For the full experience, arrive a few days before the grand parade. This gives you time to explore the city, watch preliminary contests, and attend both government-sponsored and private events.

 

What to Wear: Dress the Part

Locals enjoy dressing up for MassKara, combining comfort with flair. Here’s what to pack:

  • Bright, breathable clothing: The weather is hot, and the streets are packed. Opt for light fabrics in festive colors, such as red, yellow, or neon hues.
  • Custom MassKara shirts: These are sold everywhere and make great souvenirs. Locals often wear shirts that represent their barangays or schools.
  • Comfortable shoes: You’ll be walking a lot—opt for sneakers or sandals with good support.
  • Accessories: Glitter, flower crowns, colorful shades, and even small masks. It’s okay to be extra.
  • Rain gear: October is part of the rainy season, so bring a light raincoat or umbrella—preferably in a loud color!

 

Must-Visit Spots During MassKara

 

  • Lacson Street 

This is the central hub (main festival strip) of MassKara. By day, enjoy pop-up shops, food stalls, and dance stages. By night, this becomes Electric MassKara, with neon lights, DJs, and a massive street party.

 

  • Bacolod Public Plaza

The venue where the original MassKara dance competition choreographed performances, cultural shows, and a vibrant local crowd take place.

 

  • SM City Bacolod & Ayala Malls Capitol Central

These malls host various events like MassKara fashion shows, mask-making contests, and live bands. These malls serve as excellent venues for unwinding, shopping, and taking in local performances.

 

  • Barangay Competitions

Want to experience MassKara like a real local? Visit barangay-level events, often held at community gyms or streets. These are raw, authentic, and fun.

 

  • The Art District

At night, Bacolod’s Art District in Lopue’s Mandalagan transforms into a party hub. Mingle with locals, enjoy indie music, and explore quirky art installations.

 

Eat Like a Local

Food is a big part of MassKara. Here’s what locals indulge in during the festival:

 

MassKara Like a Local: Do’s and Don’ts

 

Do:
  • Learn a few local phrases. “Palangga ta ka” (I love you) or “Gani man!” (Exactly!) go a long way.
  • Join the dancing. Locals don’t just watch—they dance along the streets.
  • Support local artisans. Buy handcrafted masks, shirts, and accessories.
  • Bring cash. Many stalls don’t accept cards or GCash.
Don’t:
  • Don’t just stay in hotels. Go where the locals go—try local eateries and public events.
  • Avoid wearing dark clothes at night. It’s a safety thing.
  • Don’t be passive. Participation is the key to the experience!
Insider Tips
  • Book early: Flights and hotels sell out fast, often months in advance.
  • Stay central:  Accommodations near Lacson Street or the downtown area give you front-row access to events.
  • Use public transport or walk: Roads are blocked during events. Jeepneys and tricycles are your best bet.
  • Stay hydrated: The crowd, heat, and excitement can drain you quickly.
  • Ask locals for tips: Bacolodnons are known for being friendly and welcoming.

MassKara transcends beyond a mere festival, embodying a unique vibe, a mindset, and a celebration of life amidst adversity. By embracing the music, joining the dance, tasting the food, and smiling along with everyone, you’ll experience Bacolod not as a tourist but as one of its own. So wear your brightest outfit, bring your best energy, and get ready to smile your way through MassKara like a local.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!

 

City Destination Pinas Special Reports Vacation

A Complete Guide to Senior Citizen Benefits

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas
From Discounts to Care

Here’s a comprehensive overview of Bacolod City Government programs for seniors and retirees, covering each program’s name, purpose, features, eligibility, and enrollment, including how to prepare before turning 60:

 

OSCA Senior Citizen ID & Benefit Booklets

Program Name: Office of the Senior Citizens Affairs (OSCA) — ID & Booklets
Purpose: Official ID card that entitles Bacolod City residents aged 60 and above to local government benefits and national discounts under Republic Act 9994. Also includes grocery and medicine booklets for tracking discount usage, among others.

What it entails:
  • OSCA ID (with QR code in updated version) proving resident status and age.
  • Medicine Purchase Booklet: access to 20% discounts on prescription medicines, diagnostic services, dental/medical fees, transport, lodging, etc.
  • Grocery Purchase Booklet: 5% discount on basic commodities.
Eligibility:
  • Must be at least 60 years old and a resident of Bacolod City for at least 6 months.
    Requirements:
  • Two (2) 1″×1″ photos
  • Current barangay certificate or community tax certificate (cedula)
  • Proof of age: birth/baptismal certificate or valid ID
  • Voter registration may also be needed
How to access/register:
  1. Visit the OSCA office at Purok Dawis, Barangay 14, Bacolod City, or visit the OSCA Portal.
  2. Submit required documents.
  3. You will be issued your OSCA ID and booklets.
  4. Card upgrades now include QR code for security and acceptance, especially at establishments. A city-wide rollout has issued new QR-coded IDs to over 50,000 residents.
Before you turn 60:

Prepare documents ahead of time: birth certificate, barangay certification, and voter registration.

  • Have photos taken in standard size.
  • Verify OSCA’s current processing time (often a few days); inquire in advance for an appointment and QR code issuance.

 

Social Pension (Monthly ₱500 / ₱6,000 annually)

Program Name: Bacolod Social Pension Program
Purpose: Provide financial assistance (₱500 per month, total ₱6,000 per year) to qualified indigent senior citizens not receiving contributory pensions.

Features:
  • Regular cash payments via the City’s Department of Social Services and Development (DSSD).
  • Payouts are conducted by barangay or DSSD venues; some barangays now include second-half payouts early in the year.
Eligibility:
  • Must be a Filipino senior citizen resident of Bacolod for at least six months to one year.
  • Not receiving a contributory pension or receiving ≤ ₱5,000/month from GSIS/SSS/PVAO or DSWD.
  • Must qualify as indigent (no stable income).
How to access/register:
  1. Contact your barangay hall, state your intent to apply for social pension.
  2. Barangay will screen and submit applicants to DSSD.
  3. If approved, the pension will be processed and delivered—typically in two lump-sum payouts per year (half-year installments).

As of early 2025, around 11,000 beneficiaries are covered

 

Maintenance Medicines Assistance (Hypertension / Diabetes)

Program Name: Bacolod Maintenance Medicine Program for Indigent Seniors
Purpose: Provide free maintenance medicines for hypertension and diabetes to indigent seniors.

What it entails:
  • Medicines are provided through the City Health Office or Barangay Health Center.
  • Requires a free check-up and doctor’s prescription.
    Eligibility:
  • Indigent senior citizen, resident of Bacolod City for at least six months.
  • Undergoes free medical assessment in a public facility.
Access/Registration:
  1. Visit your barangay health center or the City Health Office (CHO).
  2. Receive a free checkup and get a prescription from a public health practitioner.
  3. Register at the barangay office for the issuance of free medication.
  4. Medicine packages are distributed on enrollment.
  5. Initially funded with ₱4 million, supplemental budgets may increase support

 

Ladderized Centenarian Cash Grants

Program Name: Ladderized Centenarian Incentive Program
Purpose: Recognize and reward long-lived senior citizens with escalating cash grants.

Details:
  • Age 80–89: ₱10,000
  • Age 90–99: cumulative up to ₱20,000
  • 100+ years: up to ₱100,000 in total laddered benefits
Eligibility:

Bacolod City residents reaching those milestone ages, with certified proof of age.

How to access:
  1. Eligible seniors or their families should coordinate via DSSD or their barangay.
  2. Payouts are often conducted at barangay gyms or DSSD offices; home delivery is possible for immobile seniors.

In early 2025, for example, 747 seniors received a ₱3,000 social pension, and 140 centenarians received ₱10,000 each. Info

 

Before You Turn 60:  Pre-registration Preparation
  • Gather proof of residency (barangay certificate/cedula).
  • Secure official proof of age (birth certificate, baptismal certificate, or old ID).
  • Keep 2 passport-size photos ready.
  • Ensure voter registration is updated if applicable.
  • Once you turn 60, go to the OSCA office and submit documents for ID issuance and booklets.
  • Then register with the barangay and DSSD for pension or medical programs as eligible.
Final Tips
  1. Turn 60 as early as possible in the calendar year to maximize program start time.
  2. Coordinate with your barangay OSCA representative for community-level assistance and application forms.
  3. Ask about OSCA ID updates if you have an older card without a QR code—QR IDs are required to ensure your discounts are honored at stores and establishments.
  4. Maintain contact with DSSD for pension payouts and any changes in eligibility criteria.

These programs reflect Bacolod City Government’s current (mid-2025) efforts to support senior citizens through discounts, cash assistance, healthcare access, and recognition of longevity. If you’d like links to download application forms or contact details, I’d be happy to help!

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS, BACOLOD CITY; READY, JET SET, GO!
Technology Vacation

Israeli Startup Creates Booster Pack For Underwater Use

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

The world’s first completely hands-free underwater “smart scooter” is being introduced by a startup in Israel.

KikFin has developed a jetpack with fins that attaches to the back of a swimmer and propels them through the water at speeds akin to, but significantly faster than, those of an Olympic swimmer. It is also capable of attaching to surfboards, which is advantageous for beginners learning to catch waves.

The KikFin is worn as a vest, which allows the diver to free their hands. Since the introduction of torpedoes by sailors during World War II, swimmers have consistently appreciated the benefits of an underwater boost. Since then, technology has advanced, and there is now a vast selection of sea scooters (also referred to as diver propulsion vehicles) available for purchase.

They offer an additional boost to both professional scuba divers and amateur snorkelers.
However, the main drawback has always been the need for swimmers to hold onto the handles while propelling through the water. That is, until now.

Amihay Mines, the CEO of KikFin, claims that his jetpack not only liberates the user’s hands but also emulates the movements of dolphins and other mammals. The diver can alternate between five speeds by utilizing a remote-control glove (Courtesy). The hydrodynamic wings enable the swimmer to alter their direction with the slightest movement of their head.

“It is as if you are floating underwater,” Mines explains. “The water freely flows over your body.”

Swimmers also remotely control the five-speed motor using a glove that reacts to a finger push. The military exclusively employs a specific wireless technology that KikFin utilizes. This technology facilitates communication in both air and water environments.

It also includes a safety feature that can restrict the swimmer’s depth or distance from their starting point, as well as an application that monitors their performance, location, and speed.

In early 2019, it will be commercially released, initially targeting recreational users.
The KikFin can also be attached to a surfboard (Courtesy). However, Mines asserts that it will provide significant benefits to professional divers in any field, including oil and gas rigs, rescue services, fish farms, the military, and beyond, who require the use of their hands.

The KikFin was tested by Kateryna Sadurska, the Ukrainian freediving world champion. “It induces an extraordinary sensation,” she stated. “Your fins are unnecessary; your arms are free.” It is considerably simpler to prioritize safety and relish the experience of submerging oneself in water, thereby experiencing oneself as a water angel.

Mines, who grew up in the vicinity of Palmahim beach in central Israel, was an avid surfer. He pursued mechanical engineering at university, during which time he initiated the development of an initial prototype of the KikFin. At that time, it was intended to be mounted on a surfboard, providing surfers with disabilities access to a new world through a group known as Wave-Ability.

“My aspiration was to witness individuals with disabilities gain control and relish the thrill and excitement of catching a wave,” he declares. “I collaborated with a hydrodynamics professor at my university to develop that fin, which functions as a thruster that can be attached to a surfboard.”

The next phase involved modifying the fins to suit better swimmers, which increased their agility and speed.

Divers rotate their heads to alter their course. KikFin is offered in various versions. Swimmers and surfers wear it as a vest, while stand-up paddleboarders (SUP) and surfers wear it on their boards.
It is especially beneficial for novices, who frequently abandon their attempts to catch a wave due to their inability to acquire sufficient speed.

KikFin is capable of propelling users underwater at a speed of 9 km/h and on the surface at a speed of up to 12 km/h. An average swimmer can achieve a speed of 3 kilometers per hour. Michael Phelps, who has won 28 Olympic swimming medals, broke the world record for the 100-meter butterfly by achieving 8.8 kilometers per hour.

The rechargeable battery is capable of being replaced underwater, and the device operates at a depth of 40 meters, providing an hour of power at full speed. It has been subjected to over 5,000 hours of underwater swimming at Eilat, a resort on the Red Sea in Israel, with 50 testers ranging in age from 12 to 80 years old.

Cudajet, an additional device that is currently available, is also a hands-free jetpack. According to Mines, the underwater wireless control and the wings that render his device so maneuverable are absent.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS; TECHNOLOGY
City Destination Pinas Vacation

The Ultimate Lacson Street Playbook

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

 

Where to sleep, shop, feast, and wander along Bacolod’s celebrated Tourism Strip

 

Why Lacson Street Matters

Running north-south through the heart of Bacolod, General Aniceto Lacson Street is more than a traffic artery—it’s the city’s official “Tourism Strip.” Every October its six-lane expanse turns into a mile-long street party during MassKara, but the buzz lasts year-round thanks to an enviable concentration of hotels, malls, restaurants, bars, and pocket attractions.

 

Stay: Accommodations for Every Budget

 

Upscale:

L’Fisher Hotel (14th Street): driving instructions; Seda Capitol Central (North Capitol Road, directly connected to Ayala Mall): driving instructions; and Citadines (Barangay Bata): driving instructions.

 

Boutique Chic:

Stonehill Suites (Corner 27th Street): driving instructions, and Avenue Suites Hotel & Spa (12th Street): driving instructions.

 

Value Pick:

Go Hotels (inside Robinsons Place): Driving instructions.

The distance is measured from Bacolod Public Plaza (km 0). Rates are 2025 walk-in/online median prices—expect festival surcharges.

Insider tip: Book early for the MassKara peak (third–fourth week of October); most Lacson hotels sell out six months in advance.

Other options

 

Shop: Malls & Mini‑Hubs
Eat & Drink: Tried‑and‑True Bites
See & Experience

Provincial Capitol Park & Lagoon (Instagram-famous carabao statues flanking a man-made lagoon; sunset jogging & weekend food trucks), Negros Museum (curated sugar-industry memorabilia, kid-friendly mini-train, rotating art exhibits), Art District, and the Masskara Festival most of all.

 

Moving Around & Local Hacks
  • Jeepney codes you’ll see on placards: “Bata‑Libertad” (north loop), “Mandálagan” (mall belt), and “Shopping La Salle” (university zone). All ply Lacson.
  • Grab & taxis are plentiful, but traffic tightens 4–7 p.m.—walk the shaded sidewalks instead.
  • Most ATMs cluster around 16th to 18th Sts.; 7‑Eleven branches offer cash‑in for e‑wallets.
  • Dress light but carry a shawl—restaurants crank up the air‑con.

 

Sample 24‑Hour Itinerary
Time Activity
09:00 Breakfast kansi at Sharyn’s, short walk to Capitol Lagoon for photos
11:00 Quick Negros Museum browse (1 hr)
12:30 Check in at Seda or Citadines; lunch at 21 Restaurant.
14:00 Retail therapy at Ayala Malls & adjacent pop-up Negros Showroom
17:00 Sunset coffee + cake at Calea
18:00 Casual stroll north to Art District; browse murals
19:30 Chicken Inasal dinner at Chicken House
21:00 Craft cocktails at Vue (Stonehill Suites) or beer at The Greedy Pig.
23:00 Nightcap pastry take-away from Felicia’s; back to hotel

 

Lacson Street’s magic lies in its density—you can roll out of bed, shop, museum‑hop, feast, and party without ever hailing a ride. Whether you’re a MassKara veteran or a first‑timer hunting for the city’s best desserts, this two‑kilometer corridor keeps the “City of Smiles” beaming long after the festival confetti has settled. Pack comfy shoes and an extra stomach, and let Lacson do the rest.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY; JET, SET, GO!

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!
City Destination Pinas Vacation

When to Visit Bacolod City: Best Months, and Travel Tips

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Bacolod City, commonly referred to as the “City of Smiles,” serves as the capital of Negros Occidental in the Western Visayas region of the Philippines. Famous for its friendly residents, delicious cuisine (hello, chicken inasal!), and lively festivals, Bacolod is a year-round destination—but certain months offer a little more magic (or practicality) than others.

Best Months to Visit Bacolod

The absolute best time to visit Bacolod is October; it’s peak festive season. Thanks to its most iconic event:

MassKara Festival (3rd or 4th weekend of October)

It is arguably one of the most colorful and energetic festivals in the Philippines. The streets come alive with smiling masks, elaborate costumes, street dancing, food fairs, and electric nightlife. During economic hardship and a tragic ferry accident in the 1980s, the city created this festival to uplift its spirits. Expect heavy crowds, high hotel prices, and a city buzzing with life.

Pro Tip: Book flights and accommodations at least 2–3 months in advance if you plan to come to MassKara.

 

December to February—Cool, Comfortable Weather

These are the cooler months, relatively speaking—Bacolod is tropical. The weather is pleasant, humidity is lower, and it’s a good time to explore nearby places like The Ruins, Lakawon Island, and Mambukal Resort.. There are Christmas events, lights, and street markets during this time, especially in public parks and city centers.

 

Lean and Off-Peak Months

June to September—Rainy Season (and Lean Tourism)

This is the rainy season, with July and August typically seeing the heaviest rains. Fewer tourists mean lower airfare and hotel rates. However, some tours may be limited due to weather, especially beach or nature-based trips.

June or early September can be an ideal time to explore without crowds and tolerate some rain.

 

Months to Avoid  (Depending on Your Plans)

July & August—Peak of Rainy Season

These are the wettest months, with possible typhoons affecting travel. Flash floods can occur in parts of Negros Occidental. Outdoor activities may be frequently canceled or rescheduled.

 

Late October–Early November

While October is vibrant, the few days after MassKara may feel a bit “hungover”—businesses and locals take a breather. Some spots may close or have shorter hours right after the festivities.

 

At this time, it will be opportune to head for the boondocks and visit DSB.

Check for information and guidance on the weather in Bacolod City in realtime,

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!
City Destination Pinas Vacation

Commonly-Used Conversational Hiligaynon Phrases And Questions

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Getting around Bacolod City for the first time can be tricky for tourists and local visitors who come from other parts of the Philippines. There could be a language barrier here, too, if you don’t know how to get around the place. Here’s a handy lexicon of commonly used conversational Ilonggo (Hiligaynon) phrases and questions for tourists and non-Ilonggo-speaking visitors, especially useful in Bacolod and other parts of Western Visayas and Negros Occidental.

Basic Greetings & Polite Expressions

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Maayong aga Good morning
Maayong udto Good noon
Maayong hapon Good afternoon
Maayong gab-i Good evening
Kamusta ka? How are you?
Salamat Thank you
Wala sang sapayan You’re welcome
Pasensya na Sorry / Excuse me
Palihog Please
Pwede ko magpamangkot? May I ask a question?

 

Getting Around / Directions

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Diin ang ___? Where is the ___?
Diin ang CR? Where is the restroom?
Malayo pa? Is it still far?
Sa wala To the left
Sa tuo To the right
Diretso lang Just go straight
Lapit lang? Is it near?

 

Shopping & Market Phrases

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Tagpila ini? How much is this?
Pwede maka-discount? Can I get a discount?
Mahal man ah. That’s expensive!
May lain pa nga kolor? Do you have other colors?
Diin ang merkado? Where is the market?

 

Food & Dining

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Gutom na ko. I’m hungry.
Namit gid! Very delicious!
Wala ko ka intyende sang menu. I can’t understand the menu.
Ano ini? What is this?
Pwede ko mag-order? Can I order?
Tubi lang anay. Just water for now.
May pagkaon kamo nga walay karne? Do you have vegetarian food?

 

Transportation

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Sakay ta jeep? Shall we ride the jeepney?
Sa diin ang terminal sang jeep? Where is the jeepney terminal?
Ano ruta sini? What is this route?
Pila pamasahe? How much is the fare?
Lugar lang (Say this when you want to get off a jeepney)

 

Common Local Questions & Phrases

Ilonggo Phrase English Translation
Tagadiin ka? Where are you from?
Bisita ka lang? Are you just visiting?
Ano ngalan mo? What’s your name?
Daw nami sina ah. That looks nice!
Te, may ara ka pa pamangkot? So, do you have more questions?

Polish on your Hiligaynon-Ilonggo speak.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!
City Destination Pinas Vacation

How to Stay Safe in Bacolod City: A Vacationer’s Guide for Day and Night

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Known as the City of Smiles, Bacolod is one of the most laid-back and tourist-friendly cities in the Philippines. From the vibrant MassKara Festival to its mouthwatering food scene and friendly locals, it’s a top choice for travelers seeking an authentic, culturally rich destination. But like any urban area, safety should always be a top priority—whether you’re exploring during the day or enjoying the nightlife.

This guide offers a comprehensive breakdown of safety tips and local insights to help you make the most of your stay while staying safe and street-smart.

Daytime:
Be Mindful of Your Belongings in Crowded Areas

Popular spots, such as Lacson Street, Capitol Lagoon, SM City Bacolod, and Pope John Paul II Tower , can get busy, especially on weekends and holidays. Use anti-theft bags or wear backpacks in front when walking through busy areas. Don’t flash valuables like expensive phones, jewelry, or large amounts of cash.

Use Legitimate Transportation

Modern jeepneys, Grab, and accredited taxis are generally safe. If hailing a taxi from the street, take note of the plate number and share it with a trusted contact. Avoid using unregistered motorcycle taxis (habal-habal), especially if you’re unfamiliar with the area.

Dress Appropriately and Respect Local Norms

Bacolod is relatively conservative. Casual clothing is fine, but avoid extremely revealing outfits when visiting churches or government buildings. Light, breathable clothing is recommended for the tropical climate, but bring a hat and sunscreen for protection from the sun.

Stay Hydrated and Watch Out for Food Sensitivities

Try the delicious local food—inasal, batchoy, and piaya—but make sure it’s from a clean, reputable establishment. Drink bottled or purified water; avoid tap water unless filtered or boiled.

Stay Informed and Use Maps Offline

Use apps like Google Maps or Maps.me offline in case of signal loss. Ask locals or your hotel for safe routes to walk, especially when heading to less touristy places like Barangay Alangilan (eco-parks) or Sipalay beaches.

 

Nighttime:
Stick to Well-Lit and Populated Areas

Areas like Lacson Street, Art District, and The Upper East are known for nightlife and are generally safe. Avoid wandering into dark alleys or poorly lit residential areas at night, especially alone.

If you’re bar-hopping in spots like  MO2 Ice, 21 Restaurant Bar, or Art District, limit alcohol intake and never leave your drink unattended. Always go out with a companion or inform someone of your whereabouts.

Use Trusted Rides Late at Night

GrabCar is the most reliable and safe option at night. If Grab is unavailable, ask security personnel or restaurant staff to call a trusted taxi for you.

Be Cautious with Strangers. Bacolodnons are friendly, but exercise common sense. Avoid oversharing personal information or travel plans with people you just met. Politely decline unsolicited help or “tour offers” unless verified through legitimate sources.

Stay in a Secure Accommodation

Choose accommodations with good reviews and a secure reception area. Look for hotels that offer 24-hour front desk service, CCTV, and keycard access. Lock your doors and use the room safe for valuables.

Common Scams and Risks to Watch Out For

Scam/Risk How to Avoid It
Overcharging Tricycle/Taxis Ask for fare estimate or use Grab. Negotiate fare before boarding.
Pickpocketing in Crowded Events Keep your bag in front, avoid large crowds if possible during festivals.
“Friendly Stranger” Scam Don’t follow strangers to secluded areas or let them “help” with ATM transactions.
Motorcycle Snatchers (rare but possible) Avoid using phones while walking on the sidewalk.

 

Emergency Contacts in Bacolod City

 

Bacolod City Police Office (BCPO): pnpbacolodpio@gmail.com
BCPO CTOC: 09072780149; 09985987459;460-8575
BCMFC: 09513438092; (034) 467-1067

Police Station 1: 09985987460; 445-2403

Police Station 2: 09985987462; 445-2495

Police Station 3: 09985987464; 474-0209

Police Station 4: 09985987466

Police Station 5: 09985987468; 431-1279; 708-8291

Police Station 6: 09985987470; 445-1557

Police Station 7: 09985987472;431-1301; 446-2802

Police Station 8: 09985987475; 431-1424

Police Station 9: 09985987478; 435-9656

Police Station 10: 09985987480; 4453-424

Tourism Office – Bacolod City Hall: bacolodcitytourismoffice@gmail.com
Emergency (Rescue / Ambulance / Fire): 911 or 166
Barangay Tanods (Local Peacekeepers):
Contact numbers usually posted at barangay halls

 

Local Tips from Bacolodnons
  • “Gapadayon lang!” – It means “Just keep going!” in Hiligaynon. If you feel lost or confused, ask a local politely—they’re known to help with a smile.
  • Ask for directions in simple terms. Locals may use landmarks instead of street names.
  • During MassKara Festival (October), book accommodations early and expect crowds. Only carry essentials.
Final Reminders for a Safe Bacolod Trip
  • Stay aware, not paranoid.
  • Respect local culture and people.
  • Keep someone updated about your daily itinerary.
  • Trust your instincts—if something feels off, remove yourself from the situation.

Bacolod is one of the safest and most welcoming cities in the Philippines for vacationers. By staying vigilant and following these day and night safety tips, you’ll be able to enjoy the charm, cuisine, and culture that make this city truly unforgettable.

Let the smiles lead the way—but keep your wits about you!

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS, BACOLOD CITY: READY, JET SET, GO!