Negros Excapade: Explore, Experience, Expose

Why Negros My Destination?

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Experience a happy blending of cosmopolitan and rustic lifestyle in Negros Island, the sugar capital island of the Philippines. The natural beauty of the island is its main attraction, with an active volcano dramatizing the skyline. Still comparatively unknown, Negros island is a great destination for those who wish to travel off the usual tourist track and is a nice island to live in. It's affordable and many places still to discover, has still the green and quiet places everywhere.

Photo of the Week

* Awards and Citations

BACOLOD CITY:
= 2008 Most Livable City of the Philippines.

= 2007 Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit in the Philippines.

= 2007 Outstanding City in Region 6 - 'Green Banner Award' Effective maintenance of clean and green surroundings.

= 2007 Outstanding Bacolod Business-support Organization.

= 2006 Most Business-Friendly Local Government Unit, Visayas.

= 2006 Most Child-Friendly City - Regional Level.

= (INSUMIX) Feeding Program - finalist for Best Public Sector Projects 2005-2006.

= Awards of Excellence-One-Stop-Shop Operations, Permits & Licensing Division.

= 2005 AIM Awardee for Most Competitive City in the Country (Mid-Size Category).

= 2005 Apolinario Mabini Award for Most Disabled Friendly City.

= MassKara Festival as the Major Tourism Festival.

= 2nd Best Peace and Order Councils in the country, 2005.

SIPALAY CITY:
Awards received by the City Government of Sipalay Conferred by the Civil Service Commission, Regional Office No. 6, Iloilo City. Source: www.sipalaycity.gov.ph

= 2006 – Best Tourism Destination (Emerging) given by the Department of Tourism Region VI during the Western Visayas Tourism Excellence Awards.

= 2006 - 2 nd Place , Excellence in Governance (LGU Category). Acknowledging the city's tourism development project in its 1 st Regional Development Council VI Best Public Sector Projects 2005-2006.

= 2006 – GRAND WINNER in the Hiyas Ng Turismo, a nationwide search for new and undiscovered tourist destinations, conducted by the Women in Travel Manila in cooperation with the Department of Tourism.

= 2005 – TOP TAX PAYER of Revenue District Office No. 78, Binalbagan for taxable year 2004 given by BIR, Revenue Region 12.

= 2004 - OUTSTANDING ACHIEVER in the implementation of the Pabasa sa Nutrition2003 given by the Philippine Association of Nutrition, Inc.

= 2004 – ACTIVE PARTICIPANT , Philippines-Canada Local Government Support Program (LGSP) and for support on programs on poverty reduction and participatory governance in building sustainable communities given by the DILG, LGSP, & CIDA-ACDI.

= 2002 – FIRST RUNNER-UP , Search for Excellence in Disaster Management evaluated by the RDCC VI Regional Selection Committee given by the Regional Disaster Coordinating Council VI. (Regional Category).

= 1999 – MOST OUTSTANDING LOCAL GOVERNMENT UNIT in Western Visayas for exemplary performance in the fields of personnel records management and public personnel administration.

= 1998 - 2nd Place, Search for Healthy Market conducted in relation to the Philippine Health Promotion Program of Negros Occidental and 2005 - Active Supporter, Regional Sandugo of the DOH-CHD Western Visayas National Voluntary Blood Services Program given by DOH-Center for Health Development-WV.

= 1997 – EXCELLENCE AWARD in recognition of its exemplary performance and accomplishment in the fields of personnel records management and public personnel administration having adjudged as the Most Outstanding Municipal Government in Western Visayas from 1991-1993 & 1995.

=1991 to 1993 & 1995 – MOST OUTSTANDING MUNICIPAL GOVERNMENT in Western Visayas in recognition and appreciation to the exemplary performance and accomplishment in the fields of personnel records management and public personnel administration. (Regional Category).

= 1995 – PAG-ASA AWARDEE – given by the Civil Service Commission, Manila to the Municipal Agriculture Office on September 16, 1995 at the Manila Hotel for spearheading environmental and livelihood projects such as Municipal Nursery, a seed production and tree park, and other agro-based projects. Such endeavors solved insufficiency or certified seeds and planting materials, promoted environmental awareness, significantly reduced unemployment and encouraged self-reliance among residents of Sipalay.

= 1990 & 1994 - MOST OUTSTANDING GOVERNMENT in the Province of Negros Occidental in recognition and appreciation to the exemplary performance and accomplishment in the fields of personnel records management and public personnel administration. (Municipal Category).

= 1982 to 1983 – 1 st PLACE, NUTRITION GREEN BANNER AWARD for efficiently implementing the 1981 and 1982 Municipal Nutrition Plans given by the Ministry of Agriculture, National Nutrition Council. (Provincial Category).

* Other Trivia

= Bacolod City - 2007-present billionaire's club in the Philippines.

= Sipalay City - Copper and Gold belt of Negros Island.

SO THIS IS the fabled Sugarlandia. This is where Negrenses had once lived as though in a dream, like Jay Gatsby, the lavish-liv¬ing, high-rolling protagonist from The Great Gatsby. Of course, the Negros Island that welcomed us had none of these excesses. Traces of gentility remain, though. The Negrenses welcome each guest like a friend. A singsong lilt in their voices hinted at their affectionate nature.

That Negrenses can easily mix business with leisure is a direct result of the province's major industry since the 19th century—sugarcane farming. Sugarcane (Saccharum Officinarum) is a cash crop that is easy to plant and over¬see. Farmhands work for only six to ten months a year. They harvest sugarcane stalks, load them onto a truck, and ship them out to mills for processing. They spend the lean months tending to other cottage industries.

Negrenses are regarded as affectionate, generous, fun loving people who enjoy the finer things in life and who definitely celebrate in style. Nights here come alive with the rows of clubs, videoke bars and restaurants which major line up at Lacson Street. La Salle Avenue, BS Aquino Drive, East Complex, and Goldenfields Commercial and Entertainment Complex. Whether one is hankering for chicken gizzard, feet, ass, leg or leeg, Manokan Country is the place to be. Eating chicken Negros-style means settling down in one of those formica tables,sprinkling your hot rice with salt and achuete oil, and dipping your favorite chicken part in a sawsawan of soy sauce, vinegar, siling labuyo or what-have-you.

Why Negros My Investment?

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Who We Are?

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Geography

Politically and culturally, Negros is divided into two provinces: Negros Oriental in the Central Visayas region and Negros Occidental, part of the Western Visayas region. This division of the island, which roughly follows the mountain range in the center of the island, corresponds to the two ethnoliguistic groups in this part of the country. The western part (Occidental) is where the Ilonggo- or Hiligaynon-speaking Negrenses are located, and the eastern portion (Oriental) is home to the Cebuano-speaking population.

The chief cities on the island are Bacolod City in Negros Occidental and Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental.

Negros is noted for being the country's prime producer of sugar. Sugar cane plantations abound in the agricultural areas of the island.

Kanlaon Volcano in the northern part of the island is a semi-active volcano and overlooks Bacolod City. It is the highest peak on the island as well as all of the Visayas region. Other notable peaks on the island are Mt. Silay and Mt. Mandalagan in Negros Occidental, and Cuernos de Negros in Negros Oriental.

The volcanic activity in Negros is harvested into electricity through two geothermal power plants in the island. One is located in Palinpinon, Negros Oriental, and the other, to open in 2007, is in Mailum, Negros Occidental.

History

Negros Island was originally called Buglas - an old native word thought to mean "cut off." It is believed that Negros was once part of a greater mass of land, but was cut off either by what geologists call continental drift or by rising waters during the Ice age. Among its earliest inhabitants were dark-skinned natives belonging to the Negrito ethnic group, who had a unique culture.

Thus, the Spaniards called the land Negros after the black natives they saw on their arrival on the island in April 1565. Two of the earliest native settlements, Binalbagan and Ilog, became towns in 1573 and 1584, respectively. Other settlements were Hinigaran, Bago, Marayo (now Pontevedra), Mamalan (now Himamaylan), and Candaguit (a sitio in San Enrique).

After appointing "encomienderos" for the island, Miguel López de Legaspi placed Negros under the jurisdiction of the governor of Oton on Panay. In 1734, however, the island became a military district and Ilog was made its first capital. The seat of government was later transferred to Himamaylan until Bacolod became the capital in 1849.

In 1890, the island was divided into Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.

Republic Era

From November 3 to November 6, 1898, the Negrenses rose in revolt against the Spanish authorities headed by politico-military governor Colonel Isidro de Castro. The Spaniards decided to surrender upon seeing armed troops marching in a pincer movement towards Bacolod. The revolutionaries, led by General Juan Araneta from Bago and General Aniceto Lacson from Talisay, were actually carrying fake arms consisting of rifles carved out of palm fronds and cannons of rolled bamboo mats painted black. By the afternoon of November 6, Colonel de Castro signed the Act of Capitulation, thus ending Spanish rule in Negros Occidental. This event is commemorated in Negros Occidental every November 5 as the day the Negrenses bluffed the Spaniards to attain their freedom.

For a detailed article on this event, see Negros Revolution.

November 5 has been declared a special non-working holiday in the province through Republic Act. No. 6709 signed by President Corazon Aquino on February 10, 1989.

On November 27, 1898, the Cantonal Republic of Negros was established. It came under U.S. protection on April 30, 1899. On July 22, 1899, it was renamed the Republic of Negros (República de Negros), but on April 30, 1901, this was dissolved by the United States.

Leaders

The presidents of the short-lived republic were:

* Aniceto Lacson -- November 5, 1898 - July 22, 1899 (to November 27, 1898, in Negros Occidental only)

* Demetrio Larena -- November 24, 1898 - November 27, 1898 (in Negros Oriental)

* President of the Constituent Assembly José Luzuriaga -- July 22, 1899 - November 6, 1899

* Secretary of War Juan Araneta

* Civil Governor Melecio Severino -- November 6, 1899 - April 30, 1901

Reference: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Negros

Negros Island maps

Where To Stay?

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HOTELS

Casino Filipino Hotel
Location: Araneta Street, Goldenfield Complex, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
Amenities & Facilities:
Contacts: Tel No.434-8901-10; Fax: (034) 434-4433 Website:

Grand Regal Hotel
Location: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
Amenities & Facilities:
Contacts:

Sylvia Manor Hotel
Location: San Juan Street, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
Amenities & Facilities:
Contacts: Tel. No: Website: http://www.sylviamanor.com

Luxur Place Hotel (Formerly known as Bacolod Convention & Plaza Hotel)
Location: Magsaysay Avenue, Bacolod City
Amenities & Facilities: Each of the 106 guest-rooms are cozy and elegantly furnished for the comfort of business and leisure travelers alike. Six (6) Executive Suites, Three (3) Superior Suites, & Ninety-seven (97) Deluxe rooms. All fully carpeted, fully air-conditioned, has a mini bar, with NDD & IDD telephone line, a hot & cold shower, with bath tubs, cable television & piped in music. Executive Suites (6) Superior Suites (3) Deluxe Rooms (97). Other facilities are Courier, Function Room, Internet Access, Photo Copying Fax, Bar, Ballroom, Banqueting, and Outdoor Pool.
Brief Description: Hotel Services Airport transfer (Price advised by Hotel), Laundry Safety deposit box Shuttle/Local Transport (Price advised by Hotel), Vehicle hire, Business Facilities, Ballroom Business centre, Function room(s), Internet access, Recreational Facilities, Beauty salon, Gift/souvenir shop, Golfing, Swimming pool, Tennis court, Function Room, Swimming Pool, Golf Course; Dining & Entertainment offers the following dining option: Pool, Bar, Tapas Lobby, Cafe Restaurant; Rooms & Accommodation are all Rooms Bathroom, Cable / Satellite Television.
Contacts: Tel. No.

L'Fisher Hotel
Location: 14th-Lacson Streets, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
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Kundutel Hotel
Location: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
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Sugarland Hotel
LOcation: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
Amenities & Facilities:
Contacts: http://www.sugarlandhotel.com

Circle Inn
Location: Lopez Jaena Street, Shopping Center, Bacolod City
Brief Description:
Amenities & Facilities:
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Pavillion Hotel & Convention Center
Location: Masskara Village, Bacolod City
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Westown Hotel
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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Planta Hotel & Residences
Location: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Hotel Alhambra
Location: Locsin-Gatuslao Streets, Bacolod City
Contact:

Bacolod Executive Inn
Location: San Sebastian-Locsin Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Business Inn
Location: #28 Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Prominence Inn
Location: Araneta Street, Singcang, Bacolod City
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Royal Am Rei Hotel
Location: 13th Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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Sea Breeze Hotel
Location: San Juan Street, Bacolod City
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Bascon Hotel
Location: Gonzaga Locsin Street, Bacolod City
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Check Inn Pension
Location: Ponce Building, Luzuriaga Street, Bacolod City
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Tamera Plaza Inn
Location: Bacolod City
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Nortwest Inn
Location: Bacolod City
Contact:

TOURIST INNS

Bacolod King's Hotel
Location: San Sebastian-Gatuslao Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Saltimboca Pension
Location: 17th Lacson, Bacolod City
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G & J Horizon Pension
Location: Locsin-Libertad, Bacolod City
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Regency Plaza
Location: Lacson Extension, Bacolod City
Contact:

Bacolod Pension Plaza
Location: Cuadra Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Pearl Manor
Location: North Drive - Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

G & V Pension Royale
Location: Burgos-North Drive, Bacolod City
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Traveller's Inn
Location: BS Aquino Drive-Lacson Streets, Bacolod City
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Mercenary Inn
Location: Liroville Subdivision, Bacolod City
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Kimas Pension House
Location: Lacson Street, Mandalagan, Bacolod City
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Pension Bacolod
Location: 11th Street, Bacolod City
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Casa Amparo
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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Baldevia Pension House
Location: San Juan-San Sebastian Streets, Bacolod City
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Belle's Pension House
Location: 17th Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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Days Inn
Location: Araneta Street, Goldenfield Complex, Bacolod City
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Omar Pension
Location: Narra Avenue, Bacolod City
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Star Plus
Location: Lacson-Rosario Streets, Bacolod City
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Tindalo Pension
Location: Tindalo Street, Bacolod City
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7R Residence Inn
Location: #56 Luzuriaga Street, Bacolod City
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PENSION HOUSES

11Th Bed & Breakfast
Location: 11th Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Balay Pueblo Rosario
Location: #15 Sta. Filomena Street, Eroreco, Bacolod City
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Ester Pension
Location: Araneta-Libertad Street, Bacolod City
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Las Rocas Pension
Location: Gatuslao Street, Bacolod City
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Hecitas Pension
Location: Bangga Cory, Bacolod City
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Monique Pension
Location: Rosario Street, Bacolod City
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Belles' Pension House
Location: 17th Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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LD Pension
Location: San Juan-Luzuriaga Streets, Bacolod City
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NOBC Hostel
Location: Kadiwa Center, Bacolod City
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Palm Inn Apartelle
Location: Locsin Street, Bacolod City
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Rosita's Hometel
Location: Mabini Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Where To Eat?

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Negros Island - Is the Sugar bowl island of the Philippines. Delight you with food and cuisine that is as vigorous yet as subtle as the legendary Ilonggo gentility and taste for the good life. It is particularly popular for sugar-based food items and delicacies. From upscale restaurants to wayside eateries, one can sample the heavenly concoctions this island is famous for. Aside from dishes cooked with Spanish influences, probably the most famous dish Negros Island is remembered for is Inasal (barbecued marinated chicken). The famous local barbecue chicken called inasal literal translation "cooked over the fire". Lots of good local restaurants specialize in local fare; one of the most local area that has been the most oldest restaurants is the "Manokan Country".

Whether one is hankering for chicken gizzard, feet, ass, leg or leeg, Manokan Country is the place to be. Eating chicken Negros-style means settling down in one of those formica tables, sprinkling your hot rice with salt and achuete oil, and dipping your favorite chicken part in a sawsawan of soy sauce, vinegar, siling labuyo or what-have-you. This unforgettable feast costs as little as fifty pesos (soft drinks included).

Seafood lovers, on the other hand, will revel in the culinary pleasures of Negros. The equivalent of Manila's Seaside Market, one gets to pick here the fresh catch of the day and have it cooked in adjoining turo-turo stalls. Dishes to die for include fish tinola, kinilaw, gambas, calamares, and steamed lapu-lapu, among others.

Being the center of Sugarlandia - is definitely not wanting in heavenly desserts. Pastries and confectionery are equally renowned. This is after all the birthplace of in-demand pasalubongs like piaya, barquillos, napoleones, batchoy, guapple pie, pastel de manga, panyo-panyo, and pinasugbo are all worth sampling. A must-eat dish is the fresh lumpia (fresh spring roll; not fried). A delicately exquisite treat wrapped in a paper thin translucent crepe filled with fresh coconut tree heart (ubod), pork and shrimp with a garnish of scallion. Other native sweets include butong-butong (similar to the Tagalog tira-tira), inday inday (Negros version of the palitaw), bayi bayi (flavored like the espasol), dulce gatas and the puto Manapla ranked among the favorites.

Food-making is such a way of life for the Negrense that in places like Silay City, they have the age-old ritual of the manug-libud. This activity happens daily in the market area where enterprising womenfolk barter and display 50 or more kinds of the town's best delicacies. Of course, the culinary excitement peaks during the MassKara Festival where stalls of lechon, barbecue, lumpia and other specialties can be sampled by the revelers. The famous local barbecue chicken called inasalliteral translation "cooked over the fire". Lots of good local restaurants specialize in local fare. ;one of the most local area that has been the most oldest restaurants is the "manokan coutry". For the non-gastronome, there's always the local McDonald's and Jollibee’s.

As we found out, Negros Island is more than just sprawling haciendas, ancestral houses and rolling golf courses. It is also about food, glorious food. There is always something for everyone in this Sugar Island- be it Japanese, Korean, Spanish, Italian or good old Negrense home cooking.

Figaro
Location: SM City, Masskara Village, Bacolod City
Contact:

Gerry's Grill
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Bigby's
Location: SM City, Masskara Village, Bacolod City
Contact:

Kuppa Coffee & Tea
Location: Hilado Street, Shopping Center, Bacolod City
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McDonald
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Jollibee
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
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Mister Donut Cafe & Restaurant
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Aboy's Restaurant-
Location: Goldenfield Commercial Complex, Singcang, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)435-0760
Aboy’s has serve the best sinugbang liempo, panga, tuna, blue marlin and gindara, they also serve the best clam soup around. For dessert, if you are lucky, you might even get a taste of durian from the farm of Eduardo “Danding” Cojuangco.

Akasya Grill
Location: 17th-Lacson Street, Capitol Subdivision, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)434-8256
If you want lechon, you can get some from Akasya Grill. By their recipe and waiters/waitress you can order one entire pig one day before any party or gathering and it’ll be there. They serve both Filipino and Negrense dishes. It is also a fastfood restaurant so expect food to be served— fast.

Apollo Restaurant
Location: Hilado Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)435-4732
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Apllo Restaurant
Location: Gonzaga Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)435-4889
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Bacolod North Park
Location: 6th Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)435-0615
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Bacolod United House
Location: Hilado Ext., Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)434-9716
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Bailon’s Foods
Location: 17-San Sebastian Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)434-7998
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Bob’s Big Boy Drive-in Restaurant
Location: North Drive, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)434-2409
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Bob’s Big Boy Drive-in Restaurant II
Location: La Salle Avenue, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)433-0448
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Bob’s Restaurant III
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)441-1431
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Bread N Butter Luncheonette
Location: Gonzaga Street, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)432-0860
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Brick Pit Grill
Location: C.L. Montelibano Avenue, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)432-3520
Description:

Buoy G’s Restaurant
Lcation: Burgos-Gustilo Streets, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)433-9876

Carlo Restorante Italiano
Location: Goldenfields Commercial Complex, Bacolod City
Contact: Tel. No. (034)434-9475
Description:

Where To Shop?

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SM City
Location: Masskara Village, Reclamation Area, Bacolod City
Description: The version of the iconic Mall of Asia when SM City Bacolod. Like the Mall of Asia, which has a spectacular view of scenic Manila bay, SM City Bacolod is located in the harbor of Guimaras Strait. This will give mall goers the added attraction of fresh air and breath taking view of this busy waterway. A mall of many new concepts; a bridgeway highlights the architectural structure, unifying design of two buildings, making it the first of its kind among SM Malls. It welcome customers with a six-sided grand facade with 10 SM signages all around. Buildings A includes SM Supermarket, selected anchor stores, other retail stores, four cinemas and outdoor dining facilities. Building B, on the other, has the SM Department Store as its major anchor, and includes the SM foodcourt, the entertainment area, stores and restaurants, and outdoor dining areas. The mall's interiors are equally compelling- high ceiling and colorful murals inspired by Bacolod's world famous Maskara Festival and designed by director Fritz Infante. SM Bacolod will have about 200 tenants, including SM anchors, fashion boutiques, show and home stores, and computer stores. Apart from the foodcourt, it also has local and international fast food chains, food retailers and specialty restaurant. It will have major international and Manila based brands, as well as homegrown retailers and restaurants. Some of the mall's attraction include an al fresco dining area call the Fiesta Strip on both sides of Rizal Street, an event center for premiere events, and a theater that can be converted as a venue for concerts, plays, product launches, conventions. For customer convenience, SM City Bacolod has ample parking for 1,000 cars and 300 motorcycles. It also has two transport terminals, as well as a Travelers Lounge with a ferry ticket counter, waiting area, baggage counter, and hot and cold shower. The mall is also handicapped friendly with ramps, railings, and elevators as wells as breastfeeding friendly with a room for nursing mothers. It also has sewage treatment plant that recycles water, and is the only mall in Bacolod, which utilizes waterless urinals in all its male restrooms.

Lopue's East Centre
Location: Cor. Burgos-Circumferential Road, Villamonte, Bacolod City
Contact:

Robinson's Metro
Location: Araneta Street, Brgy. Singcang, Bacolod City
Description: The 2nd Robinson's mall within the city. The concept of the mall will be similar to the Uniwide Mall, which is a huge bodega of groceries and hardwares.

Robinson's Place
Location: Lacson Street, Brgy. Mandalagan, Bacolod City
Description: The 1st Robinson's mall within the city and outside Metro Manila.

Gaisano City Supermall
Location: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Centroplex Mall
Location: Cor. Gonzaga-Locsin Streets, Bacolod City
Contact:

Where To Play?

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Lopue's East Bowling Center
Location: Circumferential Road, Lopue's East Mall, Bacolod City
Contact:

University Of Saint La Salle Coliseum
Location: La Salle Avenue, Bacolod City
Contact:

BACOLOD GOLF & COUNTRY CLUB
Location: Barangay Bata, Bacolod City
Contact:

PAGLAUM Sports Complex
Location: Libertad, Bacolod City

PANAAD Stadium
Location: Barangay Mansilingan, Bacolod City

Where To Retire?

2008-02-18T00:52:00.001-08:00

BACOLOD: "Philippines Best Place To Live"
Bacolod City topped Number One among the "20 Best Places to Live in the Philippines", survey by MoneySense Magazine March-April 2008 edition, a magazine for international release that ranked Bacolod.

“Money Sense” editor-in-chief Heinz G. Bulos wrote the article on Bacolod based on records. He wrote in his editorial the three components of what is believed to make a place the best to live: standard of living, quality of life, and cost of living. In all these three, Bacolod excelled.

The ranking of the top twenty follows:
1. Bacolod
2. Makati
3. Davao
4. Marikina
5. Iloilo
6. Las Piñas
7. Pasig
8. San Fernando (Pampanga)
9. Mandaluyong
10. Quezon City
11. Manila
12. Batangas
13. Cagayan de Oro
14. Muntinlupa
15. Angeles
16. Baguio
17. Lipa
18. Calamba
19. General Santos
20. Cebu.

Bacolod proves to be the pride of the country's economy. First, Bacolod is the "Philippines Sugarbowl Capital". Second, it's awarded as the "Philippines Cleanest and Greenest Highly Urbanized City" for three consecutive years. Third, it is the Philippines Most Livable City". Also cited Bacolod as the "Most Friendly in the Visayas and in the Country", as "Philippines Best Child-friendly City" and has the "Philippines Best Peace and Order Council". Bacolod is a more pleasant place to live in.

* Residential Condominium:

722 Metropolis Towers
Lacson Street, Bacolod City

Where To Find?

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Negros is an island of the Philippines located in the Visayas, at 10° N 123° E. It is the fourth-largest island in the country, with a land area of 12,706 km² (4,905 square mi.). People on the island are called Negrenses.

Location/Positioning
Negros Island, one of the Visayan group, central Philippines. It is separated from the island of Panay to the northwest by the Guimaras Strait and from Cebu island to the east by the Tañon Straits. The island is bordered on the north and south by the Visayan and Sulu seas, respectively.

The busy Metropolitan Bacolod is located at the central part of Negros Occidental province, northwest of Negros Oriental province, and southeastern part of the province of Iloilo. It is the metropolitan capital city and entry point to the island of Negros and the province of Negros Occidental. Aside from having culture and history, Negros Island has excellent convention facilities making it a convention destination.

Getting to And Around
By Air
Metro Bacolod is the entry point to Negros Island. It can be accessed by three major airline companies (Philippine Airlines, Cebu Pacific and Air Philippines) that also run connecting flights to various parts of the Visayas and Mindanao. Metro Bacolod is 50 minutes from Manila and 30 minutes from Cebu. Philippine Airlines has three daily flights from Manila and a daily flight from Cebu. Air Philippines and Cebu Pacific Airways also have two daily flights from Manila. Bacolod Domestic Airport is located 4 kilometers away from the city's downtown area.
Airport Terminals: Bacolod Domestic Airport (Newly closed, rumored for retention). Bacolod-Silay Airport of International standard in Silay City, Negros Occidental (Newly opened on January 18, 2008), San Carlos Community Airport in San Carlos City (Under construction), Kabankalan City Airport in Kabankalan City (Under construction), Sipalay Airport in Sipalay City (Re-open is on 2nd quarter of 2008).
New Bacolod-Silay Airport

By Sea
Two major sea vessels, the WG & A from Superferry and Negros Navigation Co., ply the route from Metro Manila to Metro Bacolod as well 5 minor commercial vessels that connect it to the rest of the Visayas and Mindanao. A 20 hour leisurely cruise to and from Manila aboard world - class sea vessels and 7 hours from Metro Cebu. Access other routes to Palawan, Cagayan de Oro and General Santos City in Mindanao. 55 minutes by first class fast craft to and from Iloilo City. The Banago and the BREDCO ports are the vessel's entry points.

Banago Seaport (Left) and Bredco Seaport (Right)

By Land
Buses, taxis, jeepneys and tricycles are the main mode of transport within the city. However, buses provide regular trips from Metro Bacolod and other cities and towns. From San Carlos City in Negros Occidental to the north, Bacolod is 2 hours away via the coastal road and 2 hours also from Kabankalan City in Negros Occidental to the south. From to vice-versa Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental and Bacolod City in Negros Occidental is 6 hours away.

Bacolod North Terminal (Left) & Bacolod South Terminal (Right)

Special Interest Tours
Iron Dinosaurs - known among locomotive enthusiasts as the "Steam Paradise of the Philippines". Seven of the fifteen sugar centrals in the province maintain these machines in good working condition. Each milling season, one may occasionally encounter one of these "dragons" creeping along the cane fields like a mechanical caterpillar dragging along a host of cane field cars.

War Memorial Tours - Visit memorial shrines, places of significant events, and other war related activities commemorating World War II.

Mt. Kanlaon National Park - the highest peak in the Visayan island, rises 2456m above the fertile lowland plains of northern Negros. The mountain is an active volcano the last major eruption was in 1978. Government geologists monitor the mountain constantly, but eruptions are difficult to predict, and there is an element of risk. It has been closed to trekkers intermittently in the past, but there are plans to open it again, trekkers should check with authorities before planning any hike. Despite its fiery reputation, Mt. Kalaon is a popular trek. The main attraction is the dense forest clinging to the mountain, and the views from the top are magnificent.

Balay Negrense- in neighboring Silay city for a tour of a 19th century house, now a museum. While in Silay check out the local Catholic church building circa early 1900s and old ancestral homes.

Mambucal Resort - located in adjoining Murcia town. The resort is on a higher elevation that the city hence having a cooler average temperature. It's main attraction are its natural hot springs

Negros Island maps

Travel and Tour Agencies
SBC Travel & Tour Agency
Location: 1st-Lacson Sts., Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel. No. 435-2969 or 708-8241

Jiggers Travel & Tours
3/F, Cor. Gonzaga-Locsin Sts., Centroplex Mall, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel No 434-7189

Manna Travel Agency
Location: Sea Breeze Hotel, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel No 433-9204

When To Celebrate?

2008-02-18T00:50:00.001-08:00

PyroMagic Festival
Location: Bacolod City
Date of Celebration: December
Contact:
Discription:

Panaad Festival
Location: Bacolod City
Date of Celebration: Month of April
Contact:
Discription: What Masskara is to Bacolod, Panaad is to the whole of Negros Occidental. Panaad, dubbed as the mother of all festivals and now on its 11th year of celebration, does not only showcase mask-bearing revelers of Bacolod, but also gaily-clad merrymakers from the many towns and cities of Negros as well as the best of their culture, arts, and world-class products like food, fruits, furniture, baskets and more.

Pinta Flores Festival San Carlos City
Location: San carlos City, Negros Occidental
Date of Celebration: November 3-5
Contact:
Discription: This city in the sugar-producing island of Negros Occidental honors its patron saint, San Carlos Borromeo, with a pageant where participants with floral painted bodies dance in rhythmic beat as they wind through the major streets. The festival is inspired by the tattooed Negrenses of pre colonial times.

Babaylan Festival
Location: Bago City
Date of Celebration:
Contact:
Discription: The Babaylan Festival, held during the city's charter anniversary celebration, was conceived to highlight a unique brand of Filipino heritage, one that dates back to the pre-Spanish period. This unique festival aims to rediscover the region’s indigenous music, literature, dances, rituals and other artistic endeavors. It explores the Babaylan folktales and other artistic endeavors of the early Bagonhons. Of all figures in the history of Negros Island, the Babaylan is the most colorful and enduring. The Babaylan is a doctor, herbalist, artist, medium, adviser, agriculturist and more, all rolled in one very interesting character. He is the keeper of rituals and spirit agents in normal world. He inspires awe and fear which is the reason it is given much reverence in this festival.

Masskara Festival
Location: Bacolod City
Date of Celebration: October 1-22
Contact:
Description: Bacolod will turn up a sea of faces flashing blinding smiles, true to the heart of “masskara”--coined from “mass,” or crowd, and the Spanish “cara” for face. The two combined form the local word for “mask.” The festival was a testament to the stoic nature of the Negrenses, illustrating their cheerful spirit that sees them through downturns, in economy and otherwise. It is also a reminder that no matter how bad the tide turns, Bacolod should not cower in defeat. Thus, a smiling mask has always been used to symbolize the festival.

Mudpack Festival
Location: Murcia, Negros Occidental
Date of Celebration: June 15-25
Contact:
Discription: Mudpack Festival is a symbolic celebration of man’s return to primitive time when he was closer to nature. Held every third weekend of June wherein people from all walks of life converge in Mambukal Mountain Resort in Barangay Minoyan, to commit themselves for the protection and conservation of the environment. Mambukal and Mudpack have been top tourism attractions in the town of Murcia and the entire province of Negros Occidental.

What To Do?

2008-02-18T00:36:00.001-08:00

Nature's Village Resort
Location: Talisay City, Negros Occidental
Contacts: http://www.naturesvillageresort.net

Mambukal Mountain Resort
Location: Murcia, Negros Occidental
Contacts:

Lakawon Island Beach Resort
Location: Cadiz City, Negros Occidental
Contacts:

Easy Diving and Beach Resort
Location: Barangay IV, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities: 5 Bungalows with veranda providing a beautiful view of the beach and the sea., Restaurant, Complete latest diving equipment
Contact: 0063 9183455072 or Satellite Phone: 0985407716
Website: http://www.sipalay.com

Sulu Sunset Beach Resort
Location: Barangay Nauhang, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities: 5 rooms, 2 public restrooms, 2 shower rooms, Bar and Restaurant, Billiards Equipment, Cable TV
Contacts: 0063 9197167182
Website: http://www.sulusunset.com

Palmas del Mar Resort
Location: Barangay Tangub, Bacolod City
Contacts: http://www.palmas-del-mar.com

Bonista Beach Resort
Location: Escalante City, Negros Occidental
Contact:
Website: http://www.bonistabeachresort.com

Happy Valley Beach Resort
Location: Hinobaan, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Punta Bulata Beach Resort
Location: Cauayan, Negros Occidental
Contact: http://www.puntabulata.com

Paradiso Beach Resort
Location: Hinigaran, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Whispering Palms Island Resort
Location: San Carlos City, Negros Occidental
Contact: http://www.whispering-palms.com

Artistic Diving Resort
Location: Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Contact: http://www.artisticdiving.com

Brazaville Beach Resort
Location: Hinobaan, Negros Occidental
Contact: http://www.geocities.com/brazavillebeach

Buenos Aires Mountain Resort
Location: Barangay Ma-ao, Bago City, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Balicaocao Highland Resort
Location: Kabankalan City, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Kipot Summer Resort
Location: La Carlota City, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Jomabo Island Paradise Beach Resort
Location: Escalante City, Negros Occidental
Contact:

Artistic Diving and Beach Resort
Location: Barangay IV, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities: 6 Fan rooms, 1 Public restroom and shower, Dive shop and other water sports, Bar and restaurant, Billiards equipment
Contact: 0063 9194099594, 0063 9189305703
Website: http://www.artisticdiving.com

Manapla Seaside Resort
Location: Manapla, Negros Occidental
Contact:

A-Rock Beach Resort
Location: Barangay IV, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities: 3 Family Villas, 1 Public shower
Contact:

Bermuda Beach Resort
Location: Barangay Nauhang, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities: 4 Fan rooms, 2 Public restroom, 2 Shower rooms, Bar and restaurant, Billiards and water sports equipment
Contact: 0063 9194856141
Website: http://www.bermuda-beach.com

Takatuka Lodge & Dive Resort
Location: Sugar Beach, Langub, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Facilities:
Contact: +63 9202309174 / +63 9206792349
E-mail Add: relax@takatuka-lodge.com
Website: www.takatuka-lodge.com
Brief Description:

Calamai Tropica Beach Resort
Location: Brgy. Pook, Hinobaan, Negros Occidental
Facilities:
Contact: 810-7614
E-mail Add:
Website: http://www.calamaitropica.com
Brief Description:

What's The New?

2008-02-18T00:33:00.000-08:00

Gerry's Grill
Location: Lacson Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Metro Dome
Location: Araneta Street, Bacolod City
Contact:

Electronic Jeepney
An Electric Jeepney coasts along Bacolod City, 50 minutes by plane south of Manila 13 July 2007. Negros Occidental, the first province in the Philippines to embrace a 100% renewable energy target. The Electric Jeepneys, which are meant to be powered by renewable energy sources, were launched today by GRIPP (Green Renewable Independent Power Producer) and Greenpeace during the visit of Philippine President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo to the city. GRIPP and Greenpeace called on the national government to support the large-scale replication of the project and to facilitate the massive uptake of renewable energy alternatives in the country.

What's The Other?

2008-02-18T00:32:00.000-08:00

Information Technology Facilities

Lopue's San Sebastian I.T. Center
Location: Corner Araneta-San Sebastian Streets, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: On Process
Amenities: Mall, Dept. Stores, Restaurants, Function Halls, Parking Spaces
Operator/Developer: Lopue's San Sebastian Corporation
Contacts: Tel. No. (034) 433-3171 Fax No. (034) 433-1479

Lopue's East I.T. Center
Location: Corner Burgos-Carlos Hilado Highway, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: On Process
Amenities: Mall, Dept. Stores, Restaurants, Function Halls, Parking Spaces
Operator/Developer: Marketing One Unlimited, Inc.
Contacts: Tel. No. (034) 435-2561 to 66 Fax No. (034) 435-2562 to 66

De La Rama Center
Location: 12, Luzuriaga Street, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: On Process
Amenities: Mall, Dept. Stores, Restaurants, Function Halls, Parking Spaces
Operator/Developer: De la Rama Brothers Development Corporation
Contacts: Tel. No. (034) 441-1138 Fax No. (034) 441-1138

Bacolod Information Technology Park
Location: Barangay Estefania, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Park
Status of Presidential Proclamation: Proclaimed on January 2007
Amenities: Fronting Provincial Police Headquarters, Wide Open Space
Operator/Developer: Sunimoh Incorporated
Contacts: Tel. No. (034) 435-2568 Fax No. (034) 433-3352

East Block
Location: Barangay Villamonte, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Park
Status of Presidential Proclamation: Proclaimed on April 2006
Amenities: Restaurants, Cafe's,Bar, Cakes & Pastries, Parking Spaces and Open Lots
Locators: BizTalk CallCenter & Global Solutions, Inc.; i-SolutionsOutsource Asia; First Int'l Document Masters, Inc.
Operator/Developer: Fernando F. Gonzaga, Inc.
Contacts: Tel. No. 0920-9041922

Robinsons Cybergate Center
Location: Araneta Street, Singcang, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: Proclaimed on December 2005
Amenities: Restaurants, Grocery, Fronting the Bacolod Airport
Locators: Teletech
Operator/Developer: Robinsons Land Corporation
Contacts: Tel. No. (02) 637-1670 Fax No. (02) 634-5277

Monfort Information Technology Building
Location: 22nd Street, Lacson, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: Proclaimed on January 2007
Amenities Computer School, Along Main City Street
Locators: Focus Pacific, Inc.
Operator/Developer: Monfort Motor Center Corporation
Contacts: Tel. No. (034) 435-2089 Fax No. (034- 435-1684

Luxur Place I.T. Center
Location: Magsaysay Avenue, Bacolod City
Classification: IT Building
Status of Presidential Proclamation: Proclaimed on September 2007
Amenities: Hotel, Restaurants, Office Space, Fronting City Police Station, Parking Spaces
Locators: Teleperformance

Medical Facilities

Dr. Pablo Torre Memorial Hospital
Location: North Drive, Capitol Shopping Center, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel. No.: (6334) 4337331 to 49, 4333021 to 28

Our Lady of Mercy Specialty Hospital
Location: Eroreco Subdivision, Barangay Mandalagan, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel. No.: (6334) 434-1031, 4341033 to 35, 7089220

Bacolod Doctors' Hospital
Location: North Drive, Capitol Shopping Center, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel. No. (034)433-2741

Bacolod Adventist Medical Center (Formerly Bacolod Sanitarium and Hospital)
Location: Barangay Taculing, Bacolod City
Contacts: Tel. No.: (6334) 4334831 to 36

Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital
Location: Cor. Lacson-Burgos Sts., Bacolod City
Tel. No.: (6334) 4332697, 4332937

2007-09-29T02:47:00.000-07:00

= JOBS HIRING =

* ProWeb Global Solutions (Iloilo)
Advertised: 24-05-10
Closing Date: 00-00-00

Call Center Agents

Requirements:
1) Required language Skills: German language.
2) Candidate must possess at least a Vocational Diploma / Short Course Certificate or Bachelor's/College Degree in any field.
3) Required skill(s): Very Confident, Excellent Communication Skills, Strong Sales Techniques.
4) Preferred skill(s): Strong Leadership Qualities, Spontaneity, Creative.
5) Applicants must be willing to work in Iloilo City.
6) Applicants should be Filipino citizens or hold relevant residence status.
7) Fresh graduates/Entry level applicants are encouraged to apply.

Those who are interested person just contact us through email @ cosmos_negros@yahoo.com.ph.

ProWeb Computer Service & Desktop Publishing (Iloilo City)
is needs of the following:

* Two (2) Layout Artist
- Knowledgeable in using Photoshop

* One (1) Secretary
- Female, Single
- College Level
- Computer-related course

* One (1) Security
- Male, Single

* OJT/Practicum Students
- Computer-related course

Those who are interested person just contact us through email @ cosmos_negros@yahoo.com.ph.

*****

* ALLIANCE CALL CENTRE
Customer Service Representatives

Requirements:
1) Female, preferably single.
2) Graduate of any 4 year course.
3) Fluent in oral and written English.
4) Great personality on and off the phone.
5) Comfortable talking with people from around the World.
6) High level of competency with Microsoft: Word, Excel, Outlook and Internet Explorer.
7) Willing to work on weekends and graveyard shift.
8) Must be keen on details.

Qualified applicants may send their comprehensive resume w/ 2x2 recent photo, transcript of records and application letter to:

The Reservations Manager
ALLIANCE CALL CENTRE
Rm. 203, VSB Bldg

(front of Provincial Capitol)
6th & 7th Lacson Sts., Bacolod City
http://www.alliancecallcentre.com.ph
Opens everyday from 8:00AM-5:00PM
Or you may email your application at merce@campertravel.co.nz