Bacolod Welcome Marker Inauguration At The Northill Gateway Township
The Las Vegas-inspired Bacolod Welcome Marker is a project between Megaworld and the City Government of Bacolod
I have never been to Las Vegas, but looking at the new 7.2-meter Bacolod Welcome Marker made me feel like I am really there. The Philippines’ first Las Vegas-inspired marker, though, has a charm and warmth all its own. So befitting of the beauty and warmth of the City of Smiles, Bacolod City.
Megaworld Project
The Bacolod Welcome Marker is a project between Megaworld and the City government of Bacolod led by Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia. The marker is the highlight of the Bacolod Welcome Park which is located within the 7.5-hectare Northhill Town Center in Megaworld’s 53-hectare Northill Gateway township along the New Bacolod-Silay Airport Access Road. The idea to build a Bacolod marker actually came from Mayor Leonardia, then Megaworld agreed to build it within the township.
Design
When you think of Bacolod the first thing that actually comes to mind is the MassKara Festival. That is what it is really known for, so even if you do not see the name “Bacolod” in the marker but only the colorful masks, you would know right away that you are in Bacolod City. Both incoming and outgoing tourists will see this welcoming attraction.
Construction
Although it took quite fast to finish the marker (only having the construction start last June), the design and planning took two years because Mayor Leonardia was very meticulous. He wanted everything, especially the overall look, to be perfect. Now, the marker stands proud. Not only is it beautiful, but is also sturdy and durable because of the quality materials used.
Tourist Attraction
The Welcome Park, where the marker is located, will be home to retail stores, souvenir shops, restaurants, and cafes within the commercial complex. There will also be a parking lot which can accommodate up to 30 vehicles. Eventually, a church, supermarket, cinemas, etc. will also be built around the town center.
Megaworld Projects
Megaworld Corporation currently has two simultaneous projects in the city – Forbes Hill, Megaworld’s first upscale residential village in the whole Visayas and Mindanao; and The Upper East, a 34-hectare mixed-use community that will have the Bacolod Central Business District.
Ceremonial lighting of the Bacolod Welcome Marker led by Bacolod Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia and Megaworld Senior AVP Harold Brian Geronimo.
Lighting Ceremony
The Bacolod Welcome Marker’s Lighting Ceremony took place last November 27, 2018. The ceremony was graced by Megaworld executives and Bacolod City government officials, as well as Bacolod business personalities. A MassKara dance presentation and fireworks livened up the event.
If you find yourself going to Bacolod, do not forget to stop by the Bacolod Welcome Marker and have your pictures taken. This will certainly be a nice start to your Bacolod adventure.
