Located in the Western Visayas of Philippines, Bacolod is a highly urbanised city in Negros Occidental province and is widely loved for their food, smiles and the annual MassKara Festival.
Photo from Adobe Stock
How To Get There
There are no international flights to the province. Fly with local airlines from main cities like Manila, Cebu, Davao and Clark to Bacolod-Silay Airport. From the airport, there is easy access with shuttle services, jeepney and taxi to Bacolod city center.
The Ruins near Bacolod City, Philippines. Photo from Adobe Stock
What To Do
Attractions in Bacolod mainly carry historical and cultural significance for the locals. Built in the 19th century, San Sebastian Cathedral is a worthy stop for one to appreciate its Baroque architecture while The Ruins is an Italian mansion built as a love remembrance for a departed wife. You may also consider a nature retreat at Seven Falls of Mount Kanlaon. Enter the trek through Mambukal Resort and experience the waterfall trail.
Starting in early October, various events for the MassKara Festival will be held across the city center. MassKara Festival is considered as a major event in Bacolod. The highlight of the ‘Mardi Gras’ festivity is the street dance competitions set on 27-28 October this year.
Memory Lane by Esperanza Cafe
Where To Stay
Memory Lane by Esperanza Cafe is a 3-star bed and breakfast stay located in town. It has airport shuttles, cafes and 24/7 front desk for convenience. The warm abode only has two guestrooms so do make your reservations early via AirAsiaGo.
Where To Eat
The city is one of the major food heaven in the country so taste authentic Bacolod cuisines like the chicken inasal (Filipino BBQ chicken) and cansi (boiled bone in beef shanks). Manokan Country is a local eatery famous for its chicken inasal while Sharyn’s Cansi House serves the best cansi in the area.
Good To Know
• Ilonggo language is spoken in Bacolod but English is widely understood too.
• MassKara Festival is introduced as a ‘festival of smile’ in 1980 during a moment of crisis in the Philippines in hopes of lifting the spirit of their people.
Text by Jessy Wong
