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

People of Silay City

• As of the 2020 Census, Silay City had a population of 130,478.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 126,930, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 2.8% over five years.
• Silay was historically inhabited by the Ati people, one of the earliest Negrito groups in the Visayas. Over time, Ilonggo-speaking 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, ensuring educational access and national integration.

Location of Silay City

• Silay City is located in the northern part of Negros Occidental, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.80°N latitude and 122.97°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 220.21 square kilometers, comprising 16 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, forested 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 Silay City Hall is located in Barangay I, along Zamora Street, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Silay via air and land. The Bacolod–Silay Airport, located within the city, serves domestic flights from Manila, Cebu, and other major hubs. Silay is approximately 14 kilometers north of Bacolod City, accessible by bus, jeepney, or private vehicle. The nearest major seaport is Bacolod Port.

Tourist Attractions of Silay City

• Balay Negrense: A heritage house museum showcasing the lifestyle of a sugar baron’s family during the Spanish era.
• San Diego Pro-Cathedral: The only pro-cathedral outside Metro Manila, known for its Romanesque architecture and dome.
• Hofilena Heritage House: A private museum housing rare art pieces, historical documents, and antique collections.
• Patag Highland Resort: A cool mountain retreat near Mt. Silay, ideal for nature walks and historical tours.
• Kansilay Festival: Celebrated every June 12, this festival commemorates Silay’s cityhood and the legend of Princess Kansilay through street dancing, cultural performances, and civic parades.

Economy of Silay City

• Silay’s economy is anchored in:
  • Sugarcane production: The city is part of the sugar-producing belt of Negros Occidental.
  • Tourism and heritage conservation: Silay is known as the “Paris of Negros” for its preserved ancestral houses and cultural landmarks.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, cooperatives, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
  • Transport and logistics: The presence of Bacolod–Silay Airport boosts connectivity and commerce.
• In the 2024 Cities and Municipalities Competitive Index, Silay ranked 65th among component cities nationwide, with strong scores in resiliency and government efficiency.

Educational Institutions of Silay City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Silay Institute: A private institution offering senior high and college-level programs in business, education, and liberal arts.
  • Doña Montserrat Lopez Memorial High School: Offers secondary and vocational education with TESDA-accredited programs.
  • St. Thérèse College of Silay: A Catholic institution offering programs in teacher education and religious studies.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide training in welding, electronics, culinary arts, and other trades.
  • Public high schools: Each barangay has access to DepEd-supported secondary schools and senior high programs.

History of Silay City

• Silay was originally known as Carobcob, a coastal settlement where locals harvested tuway clams by scratching the sand. It was granted as an encomienda to Cristobal Nuñez Paroja in 1571, one of Miguel Lopez de Legazpi’s soldiers.
• Due to frequent Moro raids, residents relocated inland in 1760 between the Matagoy and Panaogao rivers. The new settlement was fortified with palisades and eventually grew into a pueblo under Spanish rule.
• Silay became a center of arts, culture, and sugar production during the Spanish and American periods. It earned the nickname “Paris of Negros” for its intellectual and artistic vibrancy.
• On June 12, 1957, Silay was officially converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 1621, sponsored by Congressman Carlos Hilado and Jose Puey. Today, Silay is celebrated for its heritage preservation, civic pride, and cultural leadership.

Elected Officials of Silay City

• As of the 2025 elections, Silay City is led by:
  • Mayor: Joedith C. Gallego (PFP)
  • Vice Mayor: Tom Ledesma (Independent)
  • Representative – 3rd District of Negros Occidental: Javier Miguel L. Benitez (PFP)
  • City Councilors: Andrew John D. Penuela, Darryl F. Hinolan, Lorenzo Luiz L. Locsin, Michael S. Maravilla, Jose J. Lopez Jr., Michael Thomas D. Velayo, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Silay City Election Results.

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