Bacolod City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

Bacolod City, Negros Occidental is within Region XVI – Negros Islands, in the Republic of the Philippines.

People of Bacolod City

• As of the 2020 Census, Bacolod City had a population of 600,783.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 561,875, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 6.9% over five years.
• Bacolod is historically part of the ancestral domain of the Ati people, one of the earliest Negrito groups in the Visayas. Over time, Ilonggo (Hiligaynon) settlers became the dominant population, shaping the city’s cultural and linguistic identity.
• The major dialect spoken is Ilonggo (Hiligaynon), with Cebuano and Tagalog also present. English is the official medium of instruction in all schools, contributing to Bacolod’s reputation as a center of education and commerce in Western Visayas.

Location of Bacolod City

• Bacolod City is located on the northwestern coast of Negros Island, facing the Guimaras Strait. It is part of the province of Negros Occidental but is classified as a highly urbanized city and administratively independent. Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.67°N latitude and 122.95°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 162.67 square kilometers, comprising 61 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, low hills, and river systems. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Bacolod City Government Center is located in Barangay Estefania, which also houses key administrative offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Bacolod via air and sea. The Bacolod–Silay Airport serves domestic flights from Manila, Cebu, and Davao. The Bacolod Port connects the city to Iloilo and other Visayan islands. Bus terminals link Bacolod to cities like San Carlos, Kabankalan, and Dumaguete.

Tourist Attractions of Bacolod City

• The Ruins: Located in nearby Talisay, this iconic mansion is a symbol of Negrense heritage and resilience.
• San Sebastian Cathedral: A historic Catholic church built in 1882, featuring coral stone architecture and stained glass windows.
• Pope John Paul II Tower: A seven-story monument commemorating the Pope’s visit in 1981, offering panoramic views of the city.
• Bacolod Public Plaza and Capitol Park: Central civic spaces surrounded by heritage buildings and landscaped gardens.
• MassKara Festival: Held every October, this world-renowned festival features vibrant masks, street dancing, concerts, and cultural exhibits celebrating Bacolod’s resilience and joyful spirit.

Economy of Bacolod City

• Bacolod’s economy is anchored in:
  • Business Process Outsourcing (BPO): The city is a major hub for call centers and IT services, contributing significantly to employment and GDP.
  • Trade and commerce: Bacolod hosts malls, markets, and commercial centers serving the entire Negros Island Region.
  • Education and health services: Universities, hospitals, and clinics support a growing professional sector.
  • Tourism and hospitality: Festivals, heritage sites, and culinary tourism attract both domestic and international visitors.
• In 2024, Bacolod City posted a Gross Domestic Product (GDP) of approximately ₱157.37 billion, with a growth rate of 7.7%. It ranked as the second-fastest growing economy in Western Visayas.

Educational Institutions of Bacolod City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • University of St. La Salle (USLS): A private Catholic university offering programs in law, medicine, business, engineering, and liberal arts.
  • University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos (UNO-R): A private Catholic institution offering programs in education, criminology, and theology.
  • Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU): A public university with campuses in Talisay, Alijis, and Fortune Towne, offering programs in education, technology, and agriculture.
  • STI West Negros University: Offers tech-based and business programs.
  • Bacolod City College: A local government-run institution providing affordable education in various disciplines.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational training in electronics, culinary arts, automotive technology, and other trades.

History of Bacolod City

• Bacolod was originally a coastal settlement known as San Sebastián de Magsung̃ay. After a raid by Moro forces in 1755, the inhabitants relocated inland to a hilly area called “Bakólod,” meaning “stonehill” in Hiligaynon. This site became the foundation of the present-day city.
• The town was constituted as a parish in 1788 and became the capital of Negros Occidental in 1846, upon the request of Bishop Romualdo Jimeno and Governor-General Narciso Clavería. Bacolod grew rapidly during the sugar boom of the 19th century, becoming a center of trade and governance.
• On June 18, 1938, Bacolod was officially converted into a chartered city through Commonwealth Act No. 326, signed by President Manuel L. Quezon. The law established Bacolod as a political body corporate with administrative autonomy.
• Today, Bacolod is known as the “City of Smiles,” celebrated for its cultural vibrancy, economic resilience, and civic pride. It continues to lead Western Visayas in innovation, education, and inclusive development.

Elected Officials of Bacolod City

• As of the 2025 elections, Bacolod City is led by:
  • Mayor: Greg Gasataya (NPC)
  • Vice Mayor: Kalaw Puentevella (NPC)
  • Representative – Lone District: Albee Benitez (Independent)
  • City Councilors: Caesar Distrito, Israel Salanga, Em Ang, Thaddy Sayson, Jason Villarosa, Bobby Rojas, Celia Flor, Dindo Ramos, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Bacolod City Election Results.

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