Pope John Paul II Tower Blessed by the Papal Nuncio
February 19, 2010
February 18, 2010 is a historic day for the Catholic faithful in Bacolod and Negros Occidental. No less than Papal Nuncio to the Philippines Archbishop Joseph Edward Adams blessed the Pope John Paul II (PJPII) Tower at the Bacolod Reclamation.
The P17-million eight-storey tower stands on a 700 square-meter lot at the reclamation area just behind the SM City Bacolod. The site was where the late Pope John Paul II spoke to thousands of Negrenses during his historic visit to Bacolod City on February 20, 1981. The tower was built to commemorate the event and we have to thank Bacolod Real Estate Development Corp. (BREDCO) president Simplicio Palanca for his generosity in donating it to the Archdiocese.
Hundreds witnessed the blessing of the tower and the unveiling of the 8-foot sculpture of the Pope by Bro. Jaazeal Jakosalem which stands on top of a 6-foot pedestal fronting the PJPII tower.
The tower offers a breathtaking view of Bacolod City and the Guimaras Strait. As if to guard the shores of Bacolod and to guide the sea travelers to safety, a cross by Architect Chick Garcia was placed on top of the tower which is lighted at night. The tower is also equipped with a glass enclosed elevator, a water system and a generating set.
Every floor on the tower features pictures and items of his historic visit to Bacolod City. Stanistaw Cardinal Dziwisz, Archbishop of Krakow donated the alb of the late pontiff that he used during his visit. Also featured was a photo of the fireworks last December that show a resemblance to the famous gesture of the Pope.
In his message after blessing the tower, His Grace Archbishop Joseph Edward Adams said,
“When you see this tower, remember him (PJPII), and remember also his message. Message about God, message about love, message about the human race. This building will serve to remind us of what the good Pope said to us of God, of our need for God, and he hoped to inspire us to live, as God meant us to live on this Earth.”
Indeed, the late Pope has been a source of inspiration for the millions of Catholics in the world and Bacolod is lucky to have been visited by him at a most challenging time for the Province of Negros Occidental. The Pope Tower will be more than a tourist attraction for the Negrenses but it will also serve as a reminder that God will never forsake His people.
Experience the 1st Bacolod Jazz Fest 2010
February 17, 2010
Bacolod City is a Jazz haven. No other city outside of Metro Manila has more loyal Jazz followers who kept the music vibrant other than Bacolod. As a testament, Bacolod City will be one of the venues in the annual Philippine International Jazz & Arts Festival (PIJazzFest) which runs from February 12-28 this year.
The 1st Bacolod Jazz Fest 2010, presented in cooperation with the Jazz Society of Negros (JSN), will be held at the L’ Fisher Hotel Roofdeck at 6pm on February 20, 2010. The event will showcase 20-year-old British-Filipino jazz singer Mishka Adams, Sinosikat?, Jazz Volunteers and Ilonggo artists Gabe Ascalon and Nancy Brew.
The annual PIJazzFest which debuted in 2005 gathers local and international artists in a month long festival which include mall and bar tours and campus workshops. Jazz, despite being confined to a niche audience, is slowly gaining followers from the younger generation through promotions such as the PIJazzFest. The local scene in Bacolod has likewise been very alive with JSN’s hosting of jazz shows since its inception in 2006.
Spend a jazzy evening with friends and loved ones at one of Bacolod City’s scenic spot, L’ Fisher 2 (Chalet) Roofdeck on February 20. You can grab your tickets to the 1st Bacolod Jazz Fest 2010 at the L’ Fisher Hotel for only P500 (P150 consumable).
Got Wowed by Ballet Philippines
February 14, 2010
I guess most girls thought of ballet dancing once in their life. At least I have. The art requires a lot of practice and those who want to get into it should start early in life. Financial resources are likewise needed to sustain such training. Thus, my dream of ballet dancing never got farther than watching The Nutcracker.
Fortunately, young girls such as the daughter of fellow blogger Ruby of PinayMommyOnline got a chance to watch a live ballet performance of Ballet Philippines’ Masterworks presentation at SM City Bacolod. Together with May, we got invited by Ms. Lorena of SM City Bacolod to watch the live performance last February 2 at SM City Bacolod Cinema 1.
Ballet Philippines was founded in 1969 by Alice Reyes with the support of Eddie Elejar and the Cultural Center of the Philippines. Ballet Philippines is the country’s premier professional dance company and the resident dance company of the Cultural Center of the Philippines.
Ballet, whatever music accompaniment is still ballet to me. The effort exerted by the dancers in classical music or in OPM music looks the same. Years and years of practice must have made the routine easy for them and they made pirouetting looks effortless! The dancers received applause after each performance as the audience was quite amazed by their gracefulness.
There were a lot of girls at the audience and I’m sure some of them were thinking of one day joining Ballet Philippines. Thanks to SM City for bringing ballet to the masses.
Bacolaodiat 2010: Bigger and Better
February 14, 2010
Kung Hei Fat Choi! Today, the Filipino-Chinese community is celebrating the New Year and ushered in the Year of the Golden Tiger. The whole Bacolod City joins them in the celebration with the annual Bacolaodiat Festival. Unlike the previous years, Bacolaodiat 2010 was held at the Lacson Tourism Strip. This made the different events more accessible to the public as evidenced by the throngs of people who came to join the festivities.
There was a grand parade which featured illuminated floats, lanterns, lions and dragons and was joined by the 34 Fil-Chinese organizations. There was also the dragon and lion dance which are customary in any Chinese celebrations. In Chinese culture, the dragon is believed to have control over water, rainfall and flood and the dragon dance will ensure that no drought will be experienced . On the other hand, the lion signifies courage, stability and superiority. The lion dance is performed to chase away ghosts and evil spirits.
A food walk and night market was opened at the Chopsticks Alley located at the North Capitol road where visitors can buy souvenir items and feast on the different Chinese cuisine. A fusion of Filipino and Chinese cultures was showcased during the cultural show also held at the North Capitol Road. Any Chinese celebration would not be complete without the firecrackers and fireworks so a fireworks display capped the nightly celebrations which is believed to ward off evil spirits.
This year’s Bacolaodiat was bigger and better than the previous year and as it becomes another tourist attraction for Bacolod, we expect it to be even bigger next year.
Agriculture and Tourism Potentials Don Salvador Benedicto
February 11, 2010
I passed by Don Salvador Benedicto for countless of times but the number of times I explored the town can be counted in my fingers. Aside from the Malatan-og Viewing Deck, the only place in Don Salvador that I spent more than 30 minutes was at the parish church when we were photo-documenting the churches in Negros Occidental.
We were invited to grace the opening of the 20th Kali-Kalihan Harvest Festival and 27th Founding Anniversary of Don Salvador Benedicto on Saturday, February 6. Kali or what is popularly known Arnis, is an ethnic Filipino martial arts which Salvadorans celebrate in the annual Kali-Kalihan Harvest Festival.
I was there with my boss to present the programs and project of our office for the 3rd Farmer’s Forum but I ended up cutting the ribbon for the opening of the Agro-Trade Fair. I was uncomfortable but Mayor Lawrence Marxlen “Mac” De la Cruz was very friendly and put us at ease.
The Agro-Trade Fair showcases the products of the seven barangays of Don Salvador. Visitors get a chance to buy various agricultural products such as root crops, fruits and vegetables at farm gate prices. Yakon which is known to thrive only in cold climate thrives well in Don Salvador.
Horticulture is also a potential industry for the town. Million flowers, Mickey Mouse plant, lirio and various variegated lampunaya are just some of the bestsellers of local growers. On ordinary days, these ornamental plants are displayed along the highway so motorists can stop over and buy.
Mayor Mac conceptualized the Fiesta sa nayon for this year’s celebration where every barangay were given a counterpart fund by the local government to set-up their booth at the Municipal Hall grounds. All barangays display their products and serve local cuisine to guests. Composo singers entertain the guests while they’re eating. Exotic dishes served were those of freshwater fish “bunog” and frogs. The local government wish to showcase their local culture and hoped to make this a future tourist attraction
The former Mayor of Don Salvador, now Board Member Nehemias “Nene” De La Cruz was instrumental in the passing of Sangguniang Panlalawigan resolution declaring the town as the “Summer Capital of Negros Occidenal”.
Taking a cue from his father, Mayor Marxlen’s thrust is also on tourism with the theme “Turismo Isulong, Kauswagan Maagum”. Mayor De la Cruz said that no matter how many times he visited the different places in his town, he’s still amazed at how blessed Don Salvador is. With more than sixty percent of the town still classified forest reserve, the town is still waiting for the approval and awarding of its Town Site which is pending at the House of Senate.
It’s also good to note that the Mayor is very aware of the ill-effects of unabated developments like what is happening to Boracay and other tourist destinations in the country. He said whatever developments in Don Salvador should benefit the people such as employment and should be regulated so that it won’t harm the environment.
I have to agree with him. Of what I have seen so far of Don Salvador, I can say there’s so much about this town that one needs to see and experience. The town is blessed with a good climate, fertile soil and beautiful landscape. These are some of the elements that make this young and small town stand out from the rest of the towns and cities in Negros Occidental. The Summer Capital of Negros Occidental beckons you to come and visit!
Panaad Sa Negros 2010 Schedule of Activities
February 4, 2010
This summer, the Panaad sa Negros Festival 2010 welcomes tourists to discover and experience different facets of Negrense life. The festival beckons Negrenses to rediscover their roots, reminisce the past and reacquaint themselves with life in Negros Occidental.
The 13 cities and 19 municipalities of the Province of Negros Occidental will once again come together for the “Festival of all Festivals” on March 20-27, 2010. The best products of the different cities and municipalities will be displayed at their individual pavilions.
Feast on the delectable cuisine of Negros Occidental and enjoy the different festivals during the Festival Dance Competition. Mark your calendar for this is a festival that you should not miss. See you at the Panaad Sa Negros 2010!
Panaad Sa Negros 2010 Schedule of Activities
| March 17 | Lin-ay Press Presentation (SM Events Center) |
| March 20 – Saturday (Day 1) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Ching’s Group (Football Field) |
| 8:00 a.m. | Panaad Thanksgiving Mass (2F Stadium) |
| 9:00 a.m. | Ribbon Cutting Ceremonies for: |
| Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions | |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 2:00 p.m. | Panaad Derby (Covered Court) |
| 3:00 p.m. | Motorcade & LGU Floats Competition (Provincial Capitol to Panaad Park) |
| 4:00 p.m. | Opening Ceremony & Festival Dance Competition (Stadium) |
| Fireworks Display | |
| March 21 – Sunday (Day 2) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (Balay Kalamay) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 2:00 p.m. | Panaad Derby (Covered Court) |
| 4:00 p.m. | Panaad National Dog Agility Competition (Stadium Grounds) |
| 6:00 p.m. | Lin-ay sang Negros Festival Costume Parade & Talent Night (Robinson’s Bacolod) |
| 7:00 p.m. | NOPSSCEA Cultural Show (Park Stage) |
| 8:00 p.m. | Pop Dance Showdown (Stadium) |
| March 22 – Monday (Day 3) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| 7:00 a.m. | Athletics (Panaad Field) |
| Volleyball (Softball Field) | |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 1:00 p.m. | Drum & Bugle Competition, Secondary Level (Football Field) |
| 2:00 p.m. | Championship, Panaad Derby (Covered Court) |
| 8:00 p.m. | Negros Pop Idol (Stadium) |
| March 23 – Tuesday (Day 4) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| 7:00 a.m. | Athletics (Panaad Field) |
| Volleyball (Softball Field) | |
| Taekwondo (2 nd Level Stadium) | |
| Chess (Stadium VIP Room) | |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (BK) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 1:00 p.m. | Drum & Bugle Competition, Elementary Level (Football Field) |
| Boxing (Cabanas) | |
| 5:00 p.m. | Sponsored Show (Park Stage) |
| 6:00 p.m. | Composo /Pop Song Writing Competition (Stadium) |
| March 24 – Wednesday (Day 5) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| 7:00 a.m. | Athletics (Panaad Field) |
| Volleyball (Softball Field) | |
| Chess (Stadium VIP Room) | |
| TESDA Livelihood Skills Olympics (Covered Court) | |
| 9:00 a.m. | Latin Dance Sport – Elimination Round (NOMPAC Gym) |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions (daily) |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 2:00 p.m. | Boxing (Cabanas) |
| 3:00 p.m. | Latin Dance Sport – Adult, Senior & Juvenile Categories (NOMPAC Gym) |
| March 25 – Thursday (Day 6) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| 7:00 a.m. | Mambukal – Panaad Team Relay |
| Chess (Stadium VIP Room) | |
| Volleyball (Softball Field) | |
| Environmental Information Advocacy (Panaad Nursery) | |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 2:00 p.m. | Boxing (Cabanas) |
| 5:00 p.m. | Negrense/Ilonggo Folk Dance Competition (Stadium) |
| 9:00 p.m. | Technical Rehearsal, Lin-ay sang Negros (Stadium) |
| March 26 – Friday (Day 7) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Panaad Hot Bodies (Football Field) |
| Volleyball (Softball Field) | |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 2:00 p.m. | Boxing (Cabanas) |
| 8:00 p.m. | Lin-ay sang Negros 2009 Pageant (Stadium) |
| March 27 – Saturday (Day 8 ) | |
| 6:00 a.m. | Hataw sa Panaad w/ Ching’s Group (Football Field) |
| Murcia – Panaad Run | |
| 10:00 a.m. | Panaad Tourism & Trade Fair @ LGU Pavilions |
| Negros’ Best Products Display, NOTLDC (2F Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Organic na Negros Agri-Fest (GF Stadium, North Wing) | |
| Livestock & Dairy Products Fair (GF Stadium North Wing Grounds) | |
| Festival Costumes Exhibit & Competition (GF Stadium, South Wing) | |
| Eco-Garden & Wellness Show (South area across Candoni Booth) | |
| 3:00 p.m. | Closing Ceremony w/ Awarding & Presentation of Winners (Stadium) |
| 7:00 p.m. | Fireworks Display |
| *courtesy of Negros Occidental Tourism Office |
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