Talisay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines

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

People of Talisay City

• As of the 2020 Census, Talisay City had a population of 108,909.
• In 2015, the city recorded a population of 102,214, reflecting a growth rate of approximately 6.6% over five years.
• Talisay 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 Talisay City

• Talisay City is located in the northern part of Negros Occidental, within Region VI (Western Visayas). Its geographic coordinates are approximately 10.73°N latitude and 122.97°E longitude.
• The city spans a land area of 20.38 square kilometers, comprising 27 barangays. Its terrain includes coastal plains, sugarcane fields, and low hills. The climate is tropical, with a dry season from November to April and a wet season from May to October.
• The Talisay City Hall is located in Barangay Zone 12, along Rizal Street, which also houses key government offices and civic spaces.
• Most people reach Talisay via land transport. It is approximately 7 kilometers north of Bacolod City, accessible by jeepney, bus, or private vehicle. The nearest airport is Bacolod–Silay Airport, while the closest major seaport is Bacolod Port, both reachable within 30–45 minutes.

Tourist Attractions of Talisay City

• The Ruins: A famous heritage landmark, the remains of the ancestral mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson, known for its Italian architecture and romantic history.
• Talisay Public Plaza: A landscaped civic space with fountains, gardens, and cultural installations.
• Campuestohan Highland Resort: A popular mountain resort offering panoramic views, themed attractions, and family-friendly activities.
• Minuluan Festival: Celebrated every September, this festival commemorates the city’s founding and showcases its cultural heritage through street dancing, parades, and community events.

Economy of Talisay City

• Talisay’s economy is anchored in:
  • Sugarcane production: The city is part of the sugar-producing belt of Negros Occidental.
  • Trade and services: Local markets, retail centers, and small enterprises support community livelihoods.
  • Tourism: Heritage sites and resorts attract visitors from neighboring towns and provinces.
  • Education and public services: Schools, government offices, and health centers contribute to employment and development.
• Talisay is classified as a component city. While specific GDP data is limited, it ranks among the most economically active cities in the Metro Bacolod area.

Educational Institutions of Talisay City

• Young residents pursue higher education at:
  • Carlos Hilado Memorial State University – Talisay Campus: Offers programs in education, engineering, business, and technology. Included under the Free Tuition Law.
  • St. Joseph School – La Salle: A private Catholic institution offering basic and senior high education.
  • John B. Lacson Colleges Foundation – Bacolod: Located nearby, offering maritime and allied programs.
  • TESDA-accredited centers: Provide vocational 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 Talisay City

• Talisay traces its origins to the early 1700s when settlers from Panay and Cebu established communities along the Minuluan River. The area was named after the talisay tree, which grew abundantly along the riverbanks.
• During the Spanish colonial period, Talisay became part of the hacienda system, with vast sugarcane plantations owned by prominent families. The city played a role in the development of the sugar industry and the rise of the Negrense elite.
• On February 11, 1998, Talisay was officially converted into a component city through Republic Act No. 8489, signed into law by President Fidel V. Ramos. The cityhood marked a new era of governance and development for the area.
• Today, Talisay is known for its blend of heritage, progress, and community pride. It continues to grow through tourism, education, and inclusive governance, contributing to the vitality of Metro Bacolod.

Elected Officials of Talisay City

• As of the 2025 elections, Talisay City is led by:
  • Mayor: Neil Lizares III (Independent)
  • Vice Mayor: Lani Ledesma (NPC)
  • Representative – 3rd District of Negros Occidental: Javier Miguel L. Benitez (PFP)
  • City Councilors: Reginald A. Ledesma, Rigo D. Ledesma, Ma. Teresa D. Lacson, Jose Antonio D. Lizares, and others as listed in the official Halalan 2025 results.
• For full election results and updates, visit: Talisay City Election Results.

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