Bacolod City is set to receive a major boost to its public spaces as the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA), in partnership with the Bacolod City Government, begins the rehabilitation of two of the city’s most recognizable areas—the Bacolod Public Plaza and the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) fountain grounds.
The large-scale project, worth nearly ₱300 million, is fully funded by the national government through TIEZA, an attached agency of the Department of Tourism (DOT). Once completed, the redevelopment aims to enhance the beauty, functionality, and tourism appeal of these public spaces while also providing better amenities for residents and visitors.
A Project Years in the Making
The rehabilitation project was first proposed in late 2023 by the Bacolod City Government under the leadership of Mayor Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez. Recognizing the importance of improving key public areas in the city, the proposal received strong support from the Bacolod City Council through a formal resolution endorsing the plan.
Following the proposal, the city government submitted detailed designs and technical plans to TIEZA for evaluation. After careful review, the agency approved the project in early 2024, allowing it to move forward to the next stage.
To ensure transparency and quality implementation, TIEZA conducted a competitive public bidding process in December 2024. After the selection process was completed, the project contract—valued at approximately ₱299.86 million—was officially awarded, paving the way for construction.
Actual rehabilitation work began in 2025, marking the start of a major transformation for two of Bacolod’s most visited public spaces.
Revitalizing the Historic Bacolod Public Plaza
One of the main components of the project is the rehabilitation of the Bacolod Public Plaza, a historic landmark located in the heart of the city.
The plaza has long served as a gathering place for community events, cultural celebrations, and daily leisure activities for Bacolodnons. However, over the years, aging infrastructure and heavy public use have taken a toll on the area.
Under the redevelopment plan, ₱80 million has been allocated specifically for the improvement of the plaza.
The planned upgrades include:
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Rehabilitation of the plaza fountain
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Improved landscaping and green spaces
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Upgraded drainage systems
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Installation of better public amenities and walkways
These improvements aim to preserve the historic charm of the plaza while making it more comfortable, safer, and more accessible for the public.
Once completed, the renovated plaza will provide a more pleasant environment for families, tourists, and city residents who frequently visit the area for relaxation, gatherings, and events.
A Modern Transformation for the BCGC Fountain
The larger portion of the project budget—₱220 million—will be used for the redevelopment of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) fountain and surrounding grounds.
The BCGC area is one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks and serves as a popular venue for major events, celebrations, and nightly gatherings. The fountain area, in particular, has become a favorite spot for visitors who enjoy the open space and scenic surroundings.
With the redevelopment, the BCGC fountain will receive a modern transformation designed to make it even more visually impressive and event-friendly.
Planned improvements include:
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Installation of modern lighting systems
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Upgraded water fountain displays
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Enhanced landscaping
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Construction of event-ready infrastructure
These additions will allow the area to host larger gatherings, concerts, and cultural activities while improving the overall visitor experience.
The project is also expected to make the space more accessible and sustainable, ensuring that it can be enjoyed by future generations.
Strengthening Bacolod’s Tourism Appeal
According to TIEZA, the project is part of the agency’s broader mission to develop tourism infrastructure that benefits both local communities and visitors.
“This project supports TIEZA’s mandate to develop tourism infrastructure that enhances destinations across the country,” a TIEZA official explained. “The funding comes entirely from national government resources and is intended to improve the functionality, safety, and visual appeal of important public spaces.”
By revitalizing the Bacolod Public Plaza and the BCGC fountain grounds, the project is expected to further strengthen Bacolod’s reputation as one of the most vibrant cities in the Philippines.
Bacolod is already well known for hosting major events such as the MassKara Festival, which attracts thousands of visitors every year. Upgraded public spaces will help the city better accommodate these celebrations and provide improved venues for cultural activities.
The Role of TIEZA in Tourism Development
The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) plays a key role in developing tourism infrastructure throughout the Philippines.
As an attached agency of the Department of Tourism, TIEZA is responsible for implementing tourism-related projects and designating Tourism Enterprise Zones (TEZs) that encourage investments in tourism facilities and attractions.
A significant portion of TIEZA’s funding comes from 50% of the country’s travel tax collections, which are then used to support projects that improve tourism destinations nationwide.
Through these initiatives, the agency aims to create sustainable, high-value tourism destinations that benefit both local economies and communities.
A Brighter Future for Bacolod’s Public Spaces
With construction already underway, the rehabilitation of the Bacolod Public Plaza and the BCGC fountain represents a major investment in the city’s future.
Beyond simply improving the appearance of these spaces, the project aims to create safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable environments for the public.
For Bacolodnons, the upgraded areas will provide better places for relaxation, recreation, and community gatherings. For visitors, they will offer beautiful and welcoming spaces that showcase the charm and vibrancy of the City of Smiles.
As the redevelopment progresses, many residents are looking forward to seeing how these beloved landmarks will be transformed into modern public spaces that continue to celebrate Bacolod’s culture, history, and growing tourism industry.
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