Tag: Negros Occidental

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 Food Tourism

Dining in Style at High-End Bacolod Restaurants and Spots

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

(Clockwise: Sugba-Sugba, Mezcla Mexican Cocina+Bar, and Imay’s)

In a city known for its budget-friendly eats and backyard barbecue legends, Bacolod’s dining scene has always focused on comfort and familiarity. But beyond the smoky streetside grills and classic carinderias lies a new kind of culinary experience—more sophisticated, slightly pricier, but absolutely worth every peso. While some might scoff at paying more for a plate when inasal is just around the corner, these upscale restaurants offer more than just food—they tell stories on a plate, showcase skilled craftsmanship, and serve as a love letter to Negrense heritage with elegance and pride. Here’s why indulging in these “special” spots isn’t just for special occasions—it’s an investment in culture, community, and a deeper Bacolod experience.

 

Café Uma

Café Uma is located on  Paseo Verde, near Lacson Street. Not to be confused with  Trattoria Uma, which is also located in the same vicinity, three to four doors away, and is another top high-end dining spot in Bacolod. Café Uma is a sibling company to Trattoria Uma, owned by the couple Joey and Ina Gaston, with Chef Jumi Gaston providing expert direction.

Café Uma focuses on casual fare with European and Asian fusions, in contrast to its sibling, which offers a more restaurant-style experience and serves Italian fare.

Café Uma reviews are also quite impressive. View to appreciate.

 

Sugba Sugba

With the rise of seafood and Pala-Pala spots in Bacolod, some places are shifting towards a more fine-dining experience and catering to a high-end audience, rather than Sugba Sugba. Located on 4th Street, Bacolod City, Sugba Sugba serves traditional seafood dishes, complemented by a more diverse menu and an impressive restaurant ambiance that further enhances the dining experience. Sugba-Sugba is open daily.

 

Imay’s

IMAY’s in Bacolod serves Filipino classics like chicken binakol, coconut water, chicken, and green papaya soup. They also serve spicy pork stew, Bicol Express, sizzling manumbok, grilled fish, cheesy grilled scallops, and crispy kangkong (fried water spinach leaves), all tasty appetizers.

IMAY’S also serves cocktails, soft drinks, and wines in addition to food. Try their young coconut buko shake, a refreshing drink. Red Horse beer and wines are available. Imay’s has three branches to serve you. Imay’s has three locations: one on 6th Street, another at the North Wing of SM City, and the third at The Row, a neighborhood strip mall located in Lacson, Mandalagan, Bacolod City, right next to the Citadines.

  • 0969 050 3333

Driving instructions to Imay’s The Row, SM City North Wing. And 6th Lacson Street.

 

Nooma Kitchen+Bar

Nooma recently opened on Lacson Street in Bacolod City. Inasal chicken in tacos and cansi corned beef are among the culinary delights that Nooma’s Kitchen and Bar, where family and friends can relax, offers. They also serve one of the most exceptional beef pares. Two VIP rooms are available for family gatherings and meetings. Enjoy a warm atmosphere while savoring tasty food and making memories at Nooma’s, all while listening to calming music that enhances your experience.

 

Delicioso

A name like that is perfectly fitting for a food spot with its already apt and pleasant-sounding title. How much more its range of menu offerings, from pasta, seafood, salads, pizza, sandwiches, and more? Delicioso, located at Lacson St., Mandalagan, in front of Mesavirre Garden Residences, beside the Pacific Home Depot Building, is just the spot if you want to go for snacks, a light lunch, or dinner.

 

Furai

When you’re craving Japanese food, Furai takes you on a flavorful journey with delicious Japanese dishes. Katsu, Ebi, Yakitori—name it. Furai also offers bento meals. You can find Furai at The Row, Brgy. Bata Lacson Street, Bacolod City.

 

East Bite

When you go for variety, East Bite is your cosmopolitan Asian-fare restaurant, serving a selection of Vietnamese, Lao, Chinese, Japanese, and Filipino dishes right in the heart of Bacolod City. You can find the place at T.U. Square Building, B.S. Aquino Drive, corner of Lacson Street, Bacolod City.

 

The Forth

Not your typical dining spot, but more of a leisure hangout. The Forth features billiards and KTV—a perfect place to unwind after work. Prepare to man The Forth at B.S. Aquino Drive Capitol Shopping Center, Bacolod City.

 

Mezcla Mexican Cocina & Bar

Hola! If you’re craving Mexican food, you’ll find it at Mezcla Mexican Cocina & Bar, which has just opened in July 2025. No website is available yet, but their menu is sure to impress you. ‘Buen Provecho! ’ MMCB is just across the Lacson-Bata Overpass, Bacolod City. Opens at 3pm Tuesdays-Sundays. Book your table now!

 

Kōhī Majikku 

Kōhī Majikku is not just another Japanese restaurant but a restaurant with something to offer.

A concept addition: they made one room open for thesis defenses, meetings, small parties, and even K-drama evenings! ₱1,500 for three hours, including food and drinks. Good for 6-11 people.

But don’t let that part fool you; they will also thrill your kids with some of their food presentations, as only the Japanese can. Check out their menu for other tempting options, too. Kōhī Majikku is at 19th Street Lacson, Bacolod City, Philippines.

Discover these gems for an exceptional fine dining and atmosphere experience.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: FORKS, DELICACIES & SPECIALTIES!

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!
Destination Pinas Establishments Municipality

An Extensive Guide to the Beach Resorts of Cauayan, Sipalay, and Hinoba-an

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

(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.

Other options…

 

 

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
City Destination Pinas History & Adventures

The Story Behind the City of Smile’s Famous Welcome Marker

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

When travelers make their way into Bacolod City, primarily through the Bacolod-Silay Airport or the northern gateway of the city along the Bacolod-Murcia Road, they’re greeted by an eye-catching sight that’s become an iconic symbol of the city: the “Welcome to Bacolod—City of Smiles” signage. It’s more than just a landmark—it’s a cultural beacon that represents the warmth, charm, and festivity that define the spirit of Bacolod and its people.

The Bacolod Welcome Sign was first erected in 2018, , during a time when local leaders were boosting the city’s image as a tourism and cultural hub in Western Visayas. While Bacolod was already known as the “City of Smiles” due to its famous MassKara Festival, the city lacked a unifying structure or symbol that would serve both as a welcome gesture and a photo-op landmark for tourists.

Inspired by global examples like the Hollywood Sign in Los Angeles and the “Welcome to Fabulous Las Vegas” sign, Bacolod officials and local artists wanted to create something equally iconic—but infused with Negrense character. The signage was intended to mirror not only the physical entrance to the city but also the emotional welcome that visitors experience from its people.

The “Welcome to Bacolod—City of Smiles” signage is more than just a municipal marker; it’s a powerful piece of public art that connects people to the heart of Bacolod. It tells newcomers, “You’re home here, even if just for a while.” With its bold colors, smiling mask motifs, and cultural roots, it stands as a beacon of joy, embodying everything that makes Bacolod truly unforgettable.

So, the next time you pass by it, smile. After all, you’re in the City of Smiles.

 

Driving instructions to the City of Smile’s Welcome Marker.

VIAJERO KULTURA PILIPINAS, BACOLOD CITY; HISTORY & ADVENTURES
City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Discover and Indulge in the Seafood Pala-Pala Cravings of Bacolod

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Bacolod City is famed for its pala-pala culture—fresh seafood markets paired with paluto-style cooking stalls—offering a feast of flavors at affordable prices. Think ‘Dampa’ here in Manila. Here’s an in-depth guide to the best pala-pala spots in the city:

 

Aboy’s

A notable Pala-Pala place in Bacolod, Aboy’s is said to be the template for all other Pala-Pala restaurants that followed in 1983, owned by Nestor ‘Aboy’ Evaristo and wife, Del. It’s located at Golden Fields Commercial Complex, Liroville Subdivision, Bacolod City. You can reach them at info@aboysrestaurant.com and at the number +63 34 435 0760.

Driving instructions to Aboy’s.

 

18th Street Pala‑Pala

Check out corner Aguinaldo Street & 18th Street, Brgy. 4. Parallel to Lacson Street, and here you’ll find 18th Street Pala-Pala. It was previously an open-air nipa hut turned full-fledged restaurant, with nipa huts and beachy decor adorning the place. But it was soon rebuilt and restyled after it fell victim to fire. Practically, the place offers a full-on Pala-Pala service with extensive seafood choices, great group dishes, and paluto or à la carte.

Driving instructions to 18th Street Pala-Pala.

It’s open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. Feel free to reach us at 0945 965 6757.

 

Old Pala-Pala Market (San Juan / North Capitol Rd)

One of the classics, Old Pala-Pala Market, can be found at the corner of San Juan Street and North Capitol Road (near Ayala Capitol Central). It’s a no-frills, open-air market with adjacent, vibrant, and bustling tulahan (cooking stalls), so don’t expect a restaurant ambiance when you come to visit. You can haggle directly with fish vendors and cook in a nearby tulahan for cheap rates (₱150–₱350 per head, including cooking).

Driving instructions to Old Pala-Pala Market.

 

Scarborough Seafoods Pala‑Pala

Taking over Ading’s Pala-Pala after it closed down during the pandemic is Scarborough Seafoods Pala-Pala located at Lot 2, San Juan Street, Bacolod City. The place has dine-in and outdoor dining configurations for your dining pleasure. For inquiries, you can call 0968 585 4460. They also have an Instagram page for you to appreciate their heavenly seafood offerings.

Driving instructions to Scarborough Seafoods Pala-Pala.

 

Hyksos Tulahan (Old Market)

A notable stall known for its calamares and tulahan dishes in the Old Pala-Pala area, particularly Door 1-5, Bayview Foodcourt, Burgos Extension, Reclamation Area, just in front of SM North Wing. Hyksos has fully air-conditioned function rooms, cable TV, a KTV Bar for entertainment, the option for whiteboards for meetings, and Wi-Fi.

Driving instructions to Hyksos Pala-Pala.

For inquiries, you can call (034) 435 2288.

 

Insider Tips
  • Haggle smartly at Old Pala-Pala starting early afternoon when fresh catches arrive.
  • Paluto fees in tulahan run about ₱120–₱200 for simple dishes (grill/sinigang/calamares).
  • Bring cash when visiting the open-air market, and expect to negotiate prices.

How to dine like a local on these seafood establishments?

 

Choosing the Right Spot for You
  • For variety & event-sized groups: Go to 18th Street Pala‑Pala—great for big orders and flexible dishes.
  • For an authentic, budget-friendly experience: Stick to Old Pala-Pala Market + Hyksos Tulahan—with fresh catch, bargaining, and cooker stalls.

Whether you’re craving big-time seafood feasts or simple fresh-caught dishes, Bacolod’s pala-pala scene has you covered.

Other seafood fare options include Gina’s Seafoods Restaurant, Palawud Resto-Grill & Bar, Preska Seafoods Restaurant, Ciano’s Seafood Bar & Grill, Hunasan Seafood House, Sipud Bar and Grill, and Diyotay’s Seafood Eatery, among others.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: FORKS, DELICACIES & SPECIALTIES!

City Destination Pinas Food Tourism

Where to Find Affordable Eats in Bacolod for the Budget-Conscious

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

Many people, both locals and tourists, go on adventures by just “winging it” or going on a backpacking trip. Traveling to a foreign nation for the first time and relishing in the unknown has an allure due to the element of adventure, intrigue, and slight danger it carries. On the other hand, some people meticulously plan their trips, but they never get around to trying the hidden gems that somehow elude them.

No matter where in Bacolod, apart from its well-known tourist holiday months, anyone can savor their food offerings at much more affordable prices and guarantee clean, above-board service. There is a wide variety of food options available here, all at affordable prices.

Visit the following places while you are in Bacolod!

 

Amore’s Resto Bar & Grill

Located at San Juan Street, Barangay 8 (beside Gina’s Seafood), Bacolod City, is Amore’s Resto Bar & Grill, which offers delectable seafood fares and their version of the chicken inasal. Prices range from P200 to P400. For inquiries, you can call (034) 700 0341.

Driving instructions to Amore’s Resto Bar & Grill.

 

Nena’s Beth Chicken Inasal-Bredco

Another option for the vaunted Ilonggo fave, the chicken inasal, is Nena’s Beth Chicken Inasal which can be found at Palanca Street, Barangay 10, Bacolod City. Just at the back of SM City near Dwellu Furniture.

Driving instructions to Nena’s Beth Chicken Inasal.

 

Donol’s Lechon

When craving that roasted pig fare, look no more, as Donol’s Lechon (reminiscent of La Loma in Manila) has it all covered. You’ll find it at Purok Lechonan, Brgy. 36, Singcang, Bacolod City. For inquiries, please contact elenadelacruz121@gmail.com or 0945-123-4371. They also have in-store pickups.

Driving instructions to Donol’s Lechon.

 

Homesitte Shawarma

Bacolod City is already a cosmopolitan destination, so rest assured that some food fare you crave from Manila, you’ll also find here. For your shawarma fix, Homesitte Shawarma is for you. You’ll find it in Lot 29, Blk 3 PHHC Homesite Subd., Paglaum St., Brgy. Montevista, Bacolod City. They also have a hawker site at the corner of North Capitol Road and Gatuslao St., Fiesta Market, Bacolod City. Moreover, they also offer a delivery service through foodpanda.ph. For inquiries, you can reach them at:

Mail: 0917 545 0255
Contact: homesitteshawarma@gmail.com

Driving instructions to Homesitte Shawarma.

 

Jotham’s Nilaga-an

Looking for that rustic and carinderia vibe with that purely Filipino cooking? You can with Jotham’s Nilaga-an. They have branches at Libertad: (034) 4753464; Magsaysay: (034) 4312642; and Mansilingan Branch: 7086477.

Driving instructions to Jotham’s Nilaga-an.

 

KSL (Kubo sa Lawn)

For the bohemian in you who likes to drink with friends and savor various pulutan or sumsuman, as they say in Bacolod, KSL is the place to enjoy delectable dishes like calamares, cheesesticks, and gambas, among others. It’s located at P. Hernaez Street, Bacolod City. You can reach them at:

Contact

(034) 431 1964 or

Mail: kubo_sa_lawn@yahoo.com

Driving instructions to KSL (Kubo sa Lawn).

 

Lion’s Park Grill@Manokan Country

When at SM City and craving seafood and the usual grill fare, don’t look far, as Lion’s Park Grill is just at SM City North Parking. They offer delivery, takeout, and dine-in.

Contact

0933 854 5793 or

Mail: grillhaus.lionspark@gmail.com

Driving instructions to Lion’s Park Grill at Manokan Country.

 

Pasabor

Are you craving Mexican cuisine with a Filipino twist this time? Try Pasabor. It’s located at 2 Topaz Street, City Heights, Taculing, Bacolod City.

Contact

0998 441 4163

Mail: pasabor.ph@gmail.com

Driving instructions to Pasabor.

 

Preska Seafoods Restaurant

Preska Seafoods Restaurant, as the name suggests, offers the freshest. It’s the latest ‘Pala Pala’ style restaurant in Bacolod City to date. When you get the craving for seafood, the address is at Aquarius Street, Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City.

Contact

0949 790 5333

Mail: preskaseafoods@gmail.com

Driving instructions to Preska Seafoods Restaurant.

 

Puno GastroPub by Lola’s

Food and entertainment are what Puno GastroPub offers. If you appreciate both the arts and gastronomy, then Puno GastroPub is the perfect place for you, located at C-71 Narra Avenue, Capitol Shopping Center, Bacolod City.

Mail: punogastropubph@gmail.com

Driving instructions to Puno Gastropub by Lola’s.

 

Ribshack

If you’re into grilled back ribs, spareribs, pork BBQ, bangus, blue marlin, and more, Ribshack is for you. They have three branches in Bacolod to serve you: one at 15 Lacson Street, another in the south wing of SM City, Bacolod, and the third on the ground floor of Ayala Malls Capitol Central, Gatuslao Street. The third branch has a delivery option for you by foodpanda.ph.

 

Super Batchoy House

Similar to the beloved Ilonggo dish chicken inasal, batchoy is also a well-known Ilonggo creation in Bacolod, which is why Super Batchoy House deserves to be included on this list. SBH is also one of many legacy food spots in Bacolod, offering a classic ramen-type dish. If you’re craving batchoy, SBH has two branches to serve you. One at Ground Floor Door 12 & 14, Villa Angela East Block Bldg. A, Circumferential Road, Brgy. Villamonte, Bacolod City (back of BDO), and the second at Cuadra Street. For inquiries, dial 0917 896 3387.

Driving instructions to Super Batchoy House.

 

These seafood places, which offer cheap breakfast, lunch, and dinner buffets, all gather in the Bacolod City NGC area for your convenience and more options.

 

Ciano’s Seafood Grill & Bar—NGC Bacolod

Craving seafood with a suburban vibe? Ciano’s Seafood Grill & Bar has you covered. They have a promo every Tuesday called ‘𝗖𝗵𝗼𝗼𝘀𝗲-𝗱𝗮𝘆 𝗧𝘂𝗲𝘀𝗱𝗮𝘆!’ to enjoy delicious food. You can also enjoy a breakfast buffet at Ciano’s for only PHP 185 on weekdays and PHP 200 on weekends and holidays.

Driving instructions to Ciano’s Seafood Grill & Bar.

 

BBQuest sa MarketPlace

This restaurant is located at the Tent 4A, The Marketplace, inside the NGC at Villa Angela, and offers a P299 buffet. Practically the place to go for big hunger. Food and drinks. BBQuest has unlimited rice to go along with your set meals. Unlimited plates. Unlimited memories.

 

Hunasan Seafood House

Located at Tent 2, Circumferential Road, Villa Angela Market Place, Brgy. Villamonte, Bacolod City, is home to Hunasan Seafood House—one of the many seafood spots that will give you a great deal. Experience Hunasan’s 𝑼𝒏𝒍𝒊𝒎𝒊𝒕𝒆𝒅 𝑺𝒆𝒂𝒇𝒐𝒐𝒅 𝑩𝒖𝒇𝒇𝒆𝒕, which offers over 30 dishes from appetizers to mains and desserts every day.

Driving instructions to Hunasan Seafood House.

 

Ema Cuisine

Also located at NGC is Ema Cuisine. Overall, they offer a diverse menu that caters to a wide range of tastes. For budget-conscious diners, Ema cuisine offers filling combo meals that satisfy your hunger at a reasonable price. Of course, the place also serves dishes featuring seafood. Best taste, best price!

Driving instructions to Ema Cuisine.

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: FORKS, DELICACIES & SPECIALTIES!

 

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 History & Adventures

Bacolod City’s Historic Buildings: Myths or Hidden Stories?

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

(Clockwise: The Ruins; Bacolod City Public Plaza; San Sebastian Cathedral; and Bacolod City Capitol Building)

 

Bacolod City, known as the “City of Smiles,” offers more than just the MassKara Festival and sweets. The city’s historic buildings, nestled beneath its vibrant exterior, weave a rich tapestry of stories. While some of these buildings are preserved, others are in a state of decay, yet they all serve as a reminder of the city’s vibrant past. The heritage structures of Bacolod have been associated with a few lesser-known stories.

 

The Ruins: A Monument to Undying Love and War’s Tragedy

Most know The Ruins in Talisay as the “Taj Mahal of Negros,” but few are aware of the heartbreak behind it. Built in the early 1900s by Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson in memory of his wife Maria Braga, the mansion was a lavish tribute to a great love. However, during World War II, Filipino guerrillas set it ablaze to prevent Japanese forces from using it as a headquarters. The skeletal beauty that remains is not just romantic—it’s a haunting reminder of war’s reach into even the most intimate spaces. Directions.

 

Balay Negrense: Beyond Sugar Barons and Social Balls

The Balay Negrense was once the home of Victor Fernandez Gaston, a wealthy sugar baron. While the house is now a museum, few know that it also served as an unofficial social hub during the sugar boom, where decisions on politics and trade were often made during opulent soirées. Rumor has it that resistance leaders used the secret tunnels beneath the house as escape routes during the Japanese occupation. Directions.

 

San Sebastian Cathedral: A Stone of Faith and Rebellion

This 19th-century baroque church stands proudly in the city center, but beneath its sacred halls lies the story of a people’s resistance. Filipino parishioners largely financed the cathedral’s construction during the Spanish colonial period, demonstrating a quiet act of defiance and resilience. It later became a refuge for revolutionaries during the Philippine Revolution and a sanctuary for families fleeing American bombings in WWII. Directions.

 

Palacio Episcopal: Political Intrigue in the Bishop’s House

Adjacent to San Sebastian Cathedral is the Palacio Episcopal (Bishop’s Palace). Beyond religious ceremonies, Japanese officers once occupied it during the war and reportedly used it for interrogations. Some say old documents hidden within its walls revealed names of local collaborators—many of which remain undisclosed to this day. Directions.

 

Negros Occidental Capitol Building: Power, Art, and Secrets in Stone

An architectural gem of the 1930s, the Capitol Building is a symbol of governance but also of hidden opulence. Beneath its neoclassical facade lie murals and sculptures by Italian artists, believed to hold allegorical meanings tied to early political aspirations. There are persistent rumors of a sealed underground chamber where Spanish-era documents and war artifacts remain entombed—awaiting rediscovery. Directions.

 

Bacolod City Public Plaza: A Landmark with a Revolutionary Past 

Plaza del 6 de Noviembre, more commonly known as Bacolod Plaza, is a well-known landmark in Bacolod City that honors the day the Spanish relinquished Negros Island to the Negros Revolutionaries on November 6, 1898. In addition to a gazebo in the middle of the plaza, which hosts concerts during festivals and other occasions, the park is dotted with four circular fountains.

This public plaza already existed when Bacolod officially became the capital of Negros Island in the 1840s. Over the years, the plaza has erected a small memorial honoring the soldiers who fought for Bacolod’s democracy during the war. Additionally, in 1938, to mark Bacolod’s chartered city status, former Philippine President Manuel L. Quezon planted a tindalo tree here. Directions.

 

These buildings are more than bricks and beams—they are silent witnesses to the triumphs, tragedies, and transformations of Bacolod City. As modernization continues, it’s vital to unearth and preserve these hidden stories, allowing future generations to connect with a past that still whispers from behind old walls.

 

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: HISTORY & ADVENTURES!
City Culture Destination Pinas

Behind the Smiles, Behind The Masks of Bacolod’s MassKara Festival

Viajero Kultura Pilipinas

 

 

 

How fiberglass dust, barangay budgets, and tourism pesos converge to create the Philippines’ “City of Smiles.”

 

Why the Masks Matter

Every October, the MassKara Festival in Bacolod transforms the city into a vibrant display of color. The smiling masks—now a 45-year-old tradition—do more than decorate dancers; they sustain a cottage industry of artisans, subsidize entire barangays, and attract hundreds of thousands of visitors who pumped ₱2.84 billion into the local economy after pandemic reopening in 2023.

In summary, this ambitious yearly campaign is supported by the collaboration of many groups, which will make the effort less daunting and the weight of the tasks more evenly distributed.

From January to March, barangay councils, choreographers, and costume designers sketch concepts that align with the festival theme and contest rules.

Then, from April to May, the budget for the festival will have already begun, with branches of the local government pitching in to collate the budget meant for the festival through subsidy from the city. Last year, each competing barangay received ₱ 700,000 for street-dance costumes and ₱ 300,000 for Electric MassKara floats.

Barangay and SK funds were also helpful, as top contenders like Barangay Granada added more than P1 million from their coffers for the annual event. And just last year, Barangay Granada was again the recipient of the prize, two succeeding years in a row, back-to-back.

Of course, the event wouldn’t be complete without the support of its corporate sponsors, mostly local malls like SM, Ayala, Megaworld’s The Upper East, and the sugar-industry firms that underwrote materials or talent fees.

May–July:

The design teams are tasked with commissioning a short list of mask-making houses, which remain largely the same every year, to provide molds, fiberglass shells, paintwork, and beaded embellishment.

July–September:

During the fabrication sprint, workshops produce 40–60 masks for each barangay in as little as two weeks.

Early October:

Masks move from the workshop to the rehearsal floor for rigging onto gigantic headdresses and props. Final polish and fitting.

 

Prize Money & Oversight—Who Cuts the Check?

  • Lead Organizer: Bacolod Yuhum Foundation (BYF)—designated by a 2024 MOA with the city to mount the festival, raise sponsorships, and process payouts.
  • Funding Flow: City Treasurer → BYF Trust Account → Winners. BYF disbursed all 2024 cash prizes—₱1 M for champions, down to ₱20 k for minor awards—within two weeks of the closing parade.
  • Goodwill Bonuses: When delays happen, Mayor Albee Benitez personally tops up consolation prizes (₱100k each in 2023) outside the official budget.

Oversight rests with the Sangguniang Panlungsod’s Committee on Tourism, which can summon BYF for audited reports.

 

Note:

Bacolod City’s current mayor is the Honorable Greg Gasataya. Former mayor Albee Benitez is now a congressman for the lone district of Bacolod.

 

Year 2025 Masskara Grand Champion.

 

 

VKP, BACOLOD CITY: COLOR, RHYTHMS & CULTURE