Carlos Hilado Top Performing School, UNO-R Grads Placer in CE 2009 Board

November 26, 2009

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Carlos Hilado Memorial State College (CHMSC) was the top performing school for the Civil Engineering November 2009 Licensure Examinations with its 16 takers passing the Board or a 100% passing rate.

This is the second batch of graduates for Civil Engineering from CHMSC and it is already making a name as one of the top performing schools. Its first batch of CE graduates placed 2nd and 4th in the November 2008 Board Exams.

Rank

School

Total No. of Examinees

Total no. Passed

Percentage Passed

1

Carlos Hilado Memorial State College – Talisay City, Negros Occidental

16

16

100%

2

University of the Philippines – Diliman

45

43

96%

3

University of the Philippines – Los Baños

39

37

95%

On the other hand, two graduates of the University of Negros Occidental – Recoletos made it in the Top 10. Romyr Zamora Iwayan placed 3rd with a rating of 96.35% while Francis Jay Nava Bordaje was 7th placer with a rating of 95%.

Negros Occidental schools have consistently produced top graduates as evidenced by the number of passers and even placers in the board exams. In the November 2009 Chemical Engineering Licensure Examination, two graduates from the University of St. La Salle were also in the Top 10. Cathy Tan Ng placed 7th with a rating of 81.10% and Sheldon Lemuel Tan Lim placed 8th with 80.90% rating.

Congratulations to our New Engineers!

Source: http://www.pinoyboardresults.co.cc

No More Logging in the Northern Negros Natural Park

November 5, 2009

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The remaining 16,487 hectares of forest cover at the Northern Negros Natural Park are nor protected from commercial logging with Republic Act 3680 imposing a logging ban in the 3rd District of Negros Occiental which comprise the cities of Silay, Talisay and Victorias and two municipalities, E.B. Magalona and Murcia.

President Arroyo signed into law last November 3 House Bill 3680 known as “An Act Imposing a Logging Ban in the Third District of the Province of Negros Occidental” which was authored by Rep. Jose Carlos Lacson seeks to prohibit the cutting down of trees for commercial purposes.

The Northern Negros Natural Park is Negros Occidental’s major watershed area where rare flora and fauna species can be found such as hornbill, bleeding heart pigeon, Visayan warty pig and Philippine spotted deer. Mambukal Resort in Murcia and Gawahon Eco-Park in Victorias City are located inside the Northern Negros Natural Park.

Nature’s Village Resort: A Hideaway Close To Nature

October 25, 2009

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Nature’s Village Resort in Talisay City is the nearest resort-hotel from the Bacolod-Silay Airport. At only 3.5 km away from downtown Bacolod City, the resort is likewise very accessible from the capital city.

When it was developed in 1992, the owners planted hundreds of eucalyptus  trees around the perimeter of the property. The trees are now towering over the resort, giving it shade and cool atmosphere. Set against the backdrop of Mt. Marapara and surrounded by sugarcane plantations, the resort has a tranquil atmosphere suited for a relaxing vacation.

Village Hotel

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The ambiance of the Village Hotel is homey and rustic. The interior was designed by Nina Paras with interesting pieces from the collection of the owners. All furniture and fixtures were made at the Village Shop by long time employees utilizing local materials.

The dedication of the owners in the preservation of Negrense culture is very evident in the lobby which they successfully turned into a repository of distinctly Negrense items. Many of the items on display were once prized possessions in local households but have lost their functions over time as people would prefer the convenience of modern facilities.

There were chandeliers made from glass ocean buoys once used as net markers by fishermen in the province. There were also pottery jars from Tangub, lusong from Sipalay, coconut graters and stone grinders Railroad ties fashioned into other furniture items is a sad reminder of the once heyday of the Iron Dinosaurs.

Visitors can also buy authentic Negrense products for souvenirs from the resort souvenir shop. Items collected from the travels of the owners were also on display. Most prominent among the colelctions are the folk textiles painstakingly made by hand. These items were cultural icons and were made for a specific purpose. There were short notes attached to them so the visitors can appreciate their value.

natures-village-hotel

Amenities

Function Hall

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The Restaurant

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Salvacion Park Pool

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Camp Edgar

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Commitment to Sustainable Tourism and Development

The commitment of the management of Nature’s Village to sustainable tourism is ingrained in the company’s Vision and Mission. This culture of environment awareness and protection is evident in the sustainable practices of the resort

  • The staff are trained how to care for the environment and be an example to the guests
  • The resort adheres to the Solid Waste Management Program of Talisay City
  • An organic farm was set-up to make use of biodegradable wastes of the resort and the produce are also served to the guests
  • Noise pollution control programs are in place to secure guests’ relaxation and

The efforts made by Nature’s Village toward sustainable tourism are really commendable and should be emulated by other hotels and resorts. It’s nice to stay in a resort with all the amenities for relaxation. But to stay in one where you are assured that their practices protect the environment will not only give you respite but also give you the satisfaction that you also help in the protection of the environment.

For inquiries, contact:

Nature’s Village Resort Talisay City, Negros Occidental 6115
Philippines
Phone: (63) (34) 495-0808 / 4953369 / 712-1272
Fax: (63) (34) 495-3368
Mobile: (63) (920)902-3075 / (920)812-4924
Email: info@naturesvillageresort.net
Website: www.naturesvillageresort.net

Photo by: Anne Valdez

Verdana Homes ASYANA Grand Launch Interview

August 16, 2009

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(The following are exclusive interviews of TheSugarFairy during the Verdana Homes ASYANA Grand Launch. Photos courtesy of Annie May Alegato-Valdez)

Hon Cong. Monico Puentevella:

TheSugarFairy: I am a Professional Nurse and I find it very hard to cross both straits (Iloilo and Cebu) just to process my Professional License Card. How about Bacolod having a satellite PRC Office just like DFA?

Monico: “I have always thought about that, and right now, I am working on that possibility. Soon enough, Bacolod will have its own PRC.”

TheSugarFairy: What can you say about The Verdana Homes ASYANA? Its whole concept and its target market?

Monico: “I am very happy for Ayala Land’s 3rd Residential Project in Negros. And the whole thing is very beautiful, unique and very Asian. What makes me happier is the fact that this project is affordable and more Negrenses could benefit from it.”

TheSugarFairy: (I Introduced SSC to Congressman Monico, our purpose, our objectives and our passion in Promoting the City of Bacolod and the Province of Negros Occidental in general through Open Forum and Blogging)

Monico: “Thank you for doing all this for the betterment of Bacolod and Negros. And it is nice to know that there are people like you who are active in promoting our City and Province. Whatever support you want for your group, please don’t hesitate to approach me and I will be very happy to help you.”

Mr. Jay Visco, VisMin Head for Marketing and Sales – ALI

TheSugarFairy: ASYANA launch for me is a Success. And I believe that this project would be a hit just like Plantazzione. Are there more to come from the Ayala after this?

Jay Visco: “Ayala has been very optimistic about the market in Negros, and definitely, ASYANA wont be the last on its list of developments.

TheSugarFairy: I heard from a very reliable source that you are going to start the construction of up coming retail strip “ala Serendra” as soon as possible. How true is this?

Jay Visco: “We are certainly hoping that it will commence soon…”

TheSugarFairy: But what are the chances?

Jay Visco: “The chance is high. The plan is already there. And what we need now is the right timing… we are very bullish with Bacolod and Negros and that the good news…”

TheSugarFairy: Don’t you think its RIPE time to put up such projects in Bacolod?

Jay Visco: “We can see that Bacolod is now ripe for all these developments. With three large Malls and a lot of Local Malls in the city, it’s no wonder that the city is doing quite impressive. And to think that Bacolod City isn’t what it used to be 5-7 years ago, its pretty impressive for a city to be developing this fast. That is why ALI has decided not to put up a BIG mall in Bacolod/Talisay because of the already based Big and Local Players. Instead, we have come up with the retail strip project and we certainly hope this is a change in trend that the Negrenses would like to have and would openly accept.”

TheSugarFairy: I certainly would love that kind of change. And I believe that Negrenses would be able to accept it with arms wide open. I also heard of ALI’s plans to put up BPO spaces within the AYALA Property. How true is this?

Jay Visco: “This is Very true. But we have no definite date when to start it. It’s high time for Bacolod/Talisay/Silay for the BPO business and Bacolod is quite intimidating with all these BIG BPO PLAYERS already set foot in the city. I am very happy that Bacolod is getting a big share of the Pie and we can see the BIG POTENTIAL in the coming years. That is why the ALI BPO Building won’t be that long. Who knows, maybe next year, the Retail Strip and the BPO Buildings will be a reality.”

TheSugarFairy: Is that statement some sort of a riddle? I would like to see ALI in Action for Metro Bacolod. Because I’m pretty sure that when ALI plays the game, it plays to be the Winner.

Jay Visco: “I don’t mean that statement to be true or false. But all I can say is that, ALI is very Bullish about Metro Bacolod. And when ALI prepares for the Game, it prepares Hard.”

TheSugarFairy: Do you have the Master plan for the whole AYALA Project in Metro Bacolod? Can I see it? (With laughs).

Jay Visco: “Yes we do have the Master plan, but it remains to be a top secret to most. But be patient, everything will be slowly revealed and you will be surprised with what Ayala has in store for you.”

TheSugarFairy: Oh… I’m Getting excited about it already… but Bacolod and Negros would be patient enough to wait. We just can’t stop our excitement and anticipation for the whole Ayala Development.

Jay Visco: “In due time, everything will unfold right before your very eyes.” “In Due Time….”

Mr. Francis Monera – VP Ayala Land Inc.,

TheSugarFairy: I have talked to Sir Jay earlier, and we have discussed about the future plans of AYALA in Metro Bacolod and Negros. Including the Retail Strip, BPO Spaces, etc… Can you shed light on this, sir?

Francis Monera: “Ayala has long been bullish with Bacolod and Negros and we remained to be bullish up to this date. That is why we have the ASYANA. And regarding the Retail Strip, we have the PLAN but no definite date when to build it. But the thing is, it is there ready to rise up soon. And it will be a unique development especially made for the market of Bacolod and its surrounding neighbors. With regards to the BPO Spaces, it is also in our plans and I can see Bacolod is now ready to host more major call centers because its location is prime and you are one if not the best city to have adequate and 1st class infrastructures. Bacolod is Booming Fast and I don’t think AYALA would be left behind by others. Sooner than every Negrenses have expected, you will see these AYALA Developments unfold in your very eyes.”

The Company

TheSugarFairy: We are the SSC and we promote Bacolod City and Negros Occidental in General. Tourism, Developments, Infrastructure, Services, etc…

The Company: “We always frequent Bacolod City even before. Bacolod City is very close to our hearts and we would never be The Company without Bacolod. Before, we are very sad that the development in Bacolod is very slow paced yet everyone can see the potential of the city to excel in almost all corners of developments. It’s very sad back then how Bacolod has been viewed by many as a city with 10% Elites and 90% Poor. But now, we are very happy with Bacolod. Personally, your developments here are the best in the country. No tall buildings but the old world charm are unsurpassed by others. The light feeling when you’re driving down the streets, the gentle feel of the people’s hospitality. (One of the members said) Personally, I find your SM mall here the best and the most crowded in the country. But the people flocking in your mall are very enthusiastic. SM Design is one of the best I had been to. Robinsons on the other hand is one Hot Giant. The same feeling of grandeur and splendor is still there as of 10 years ago.”

“Bacolod City will forever be in the Company’s hearts and we feel proud of what Bacolod has achieved in the past few years. And I personally believe Bacolod will go a Long Way. And Ayala will be here to put you one step ahead among others.”

Celebrate Asia! Verdana Homes ASYANA Grand Launch

August 16, 2009

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(The following article is contributed by TheSugarFairy and photos by Annie May Alegato Valdez. Both are very active forum members of SSC Bacolod and die-hard Negrenses. Annie May is a regular photo contributor of this blog.)

Celebrate Asia! Verdana Homes ASYANA Grand Launch
Club Verdana in Plantazzione Ayala
August 15, 2009

In the sprawling hectares of ALI (Ayala Land Incorporated) Property in Talisay City, a few kilometers North of Bacolod City in Negros Occidental, A new Premiere Residential Address is born! Celebrate Asia! Celebrate ASYANA!

It was a night full of colors, and the foods being served simply complimented the whole concept of the party – Celebrate Asia! From the Sumptuous Thai Chicken Sautee and Beef Teriyaki, the flavorful Shanghai Rolls, Tongkatsu, Tempuras, and “Another Pork Dish.” The Japanese Favourites – Sushis and Sashimis (which anime and I ate our hearts out) to the Filipino Favourites – The Lechon, Pork Inasal, and Bam-I Noodles. Betso-Betso, and Minatamis na Saging for the Dessert and Lots of Cocktail Picks as side dishes.

The Night started with an Audio-Visual Presentation about ALI in Negros and its ASYANA Project. It showcases what ALI has achieved in the Past 12 years of presence in Negros Occidental and it shows how Promising the ASYANA project not just only for Talisay and Bacolod Cities, but for the whole Province of Negros Occidental.

The USLS Artians Cheerdance Squad opened the show with a blast. They displayed the colorful and diverse culture of Asia in one extravagant dance number. But the Highlight of the show is when they performed the Original AR Rahman Version of Jai Ho – made famous by the movie Slumdog Millionaire. And the Famous Masskara Festival Dance complete with Mask and Props (as if they were performing in the Street dance Competition) ended the show.

Ang Tribu ni Juan Patik played an ethnic inspired music and they did not disappoint either. Everything is perfect.

Mr. Jay Visco, VisMin Head for Marketing and Sales – Ayala Land Inc., gave the opening remarks. He stated that “ASYANA has been the source of Pride and Enthusiasm of ALI in the past few months and they are all excited about the project.” He also said that “Asia in General is a form of Multiplicity but in ASYANA, it is what we call “FUSION.”

ASYANA, as seen in the AV Presentation, will boast of Integrated Nature Themed Parks and Asian Inspired Linear Parks. It is a Resort-like community with a contemporary Asian Theme. It will also boast of a Pool that will resemble like a river.

Launch Speaker Mr. Francis Monera – VP Ayala Land Inc., stated that when they ventured into the market of Negros 12 years ago, all they want is “to build superior communities.” And with ALI’s Superior Property Management, rest assured that the investment with an Ayala Property is an Investment to last.

Mr. Monera also stated that “ASYANA is not just a new project. But it is “Another Project”, one who resembles and proof to the Market Attractiveness in Negros.” “Ayala Land is simply happy with what is happening to ASYANA right now. And as a sign of success, I am Happy to tell you, that, out of 100 lots in the Phase 1 Development, we already sold 20 Percent – In only 3 days!” he added.

Guests of Honors Bacolod City Congressman Monico Puentevella, Talisay City Mayor Eric Saratan and Silay Mayor Jose “Oti” Montelibano joined Mr. Francis Monera and Mr. Jay Visco together with other ALI executives for the formal Launch of Newest Premiere Residential Address in Negros, The Verdana Homes ASYANA.

A colorful display of fireworks put the guests in awe and Congressman Monico’s grandson had a wonderful time watching the fireworks smolder in the sky.
After the formal launch, The Company serenaded the crowd with their strictly OPM performances. The blending and harmony of their voices are exceptional. They got the crowd on their feet and danced to their rendition of 80’s Hit, Sumayaw, Sumunod and Rock Baby Rock among others.

The Verdana Homes ASYANA Launch is simply a Success! And the people are very enthusiastic about the project.

This is an Ayala Project so marvelous to think of. Asian-inspired Themed Parks, Man-made River Pool, Contemporary Asian Houses, Nature Complimented Parks and Bamboo Parks, Superior Property Management of Ayala Land Incorporated which includes State-of-the-art facilities and 24/7 security, picturesque backdrop from the plains to the mountains and awesome community makes this newest Ayala Project stand out from the rest.

Negros is truly blessed, with another Ayala Residential Project on the rise; this part of the Island could soon become the next Ayala Alabang – with a twist!

To AYALA LAND INCORPORATED, Congratulations! And More Projects in Negros!

Happy 12th Year Anniversary ALI Negros!

Also check out the ASYANA Grand Launch exclusive interview by TheSugarFairy.

Lin-ay Sang Negros 2009 Winners

April 27, 2009

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From left: Pirote, Rushton and Ravindrakumar

It was 16-year old Lin-ay Sang Talisay Vickie Marie Milagrosa Rushton who was crowned Lin-ay Sang Negros 2009 last April 24, besting 23 other beauty contestants.

A crowd favorite, Rushton also took home the Best in Swimsuit and Evening Gown awards and was chosen as Miss Globe, Miss Watsons and Miss Circulan.

First Runner-Up was Ciara Mae Pirote of Himamaylan who was also the Muse of the Media while Second Runner-Up was  Rajevie Ravindrakumar of Escalante City.

Lin-ay Sang Negros is one of the highlights of the Panaad Sa Negros Festival. In addition to the Panaad Festival Dance Competition, it’s another crowd drawer. It’s one of the bigger pageants in the country since prizes in cash and sponsorships can exceed P1 million.

Rushton took home P100,000 and one year full scholarship,  Pirote received P60,000 and 75% scholarship grant  while  Ravindrakumar received P30,000 and 50% scholarship grant.

When asked what her mother was right about during the interview, Ms. Rushton candidly answered that everything her mother says she must obey because it’s for her and her future. She must have made her mother very proud.

Here’s a video of the Lin-ay Sang Negros 2009 Pageant Night.

Things To Do at The Ruins

March 11, 2009

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There has been a lot of developments at The Ruins since we featured it here. Worth mentioning are the staff who are very professional. It was evident that they have been trained well. The tour guides are well versed to the history of the mansion. They explained interesting facts about the mansion. You can also trust them to take your picture and they know just the right angle.

It’s also much easier now to get there even by public transport whereas before, you would still ask around how to get to The Ruins. Below are the developments and attractions at The Ruins that you can look forward to on your visit.

  • Take Photos

Take photos of the The Ruins structure or have your photos taken, whichever way you want it, The Ruins is a photo-enthusiast’s haven. It is also an ideal for pre-nuptial shoots. It’s unique architecture offers a romantic backdrop for couples.

Play the 18-hole mini-golf course

This is a latest addition The Ruins. Patterned after the design of a world-renowned mini-golf course designed in the U.S.A., the course is laden with real blue grass and is maintained and cared for daily.

  • Dine at The Ruins Restaurant

Restaurant at The Ruins

The Ruins boasts of a semi-fine dining restaurant offering Mediterranean cuisine, some of which are still the original recipes of the Lacson family. They serve lunch, snacks, and dinner daily. They also have a mini-bar which offers hot and cold beverages.

Restaurant at The Ruins

  • Hold Events

The Ruins is open from 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. daily. They cater to special events such as weddings receptions, pre and post nuptials shoots, debuts, educational tours, etc

Enjoy the Scenery

Though there’s no picnic area yet, there’s nothing stopping you from sitting down on the grass one of the benches, enjoy the scenery and wait for the sunset.

Don’t Forget to Buy Souvenirs

Yes, you can now buy souvenirs at The Ruins from T-shirts, key chains, the mansions’ miniature replica.

Souvenir Shop at The Ruins

Souvenir Shop at The Ruins

Future Developments

The management is planning to open a camping and picnic grounds and a pavilion so they can cater to more guests. This is good so that people will not get tired of coming to The Ruins since they get a new experience every time they visit.

For more inquiries, contact The Ruins:
Mobile: (0917) 832-6003
Telefax: (034) 495-2790
Email: lacson_mansion@yahoo.com.ph
Website: http://theruins.multiply.com

The Ruins Structure & Architecture

March 11, 2009

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The Ruins Structure & Architecture

The  mansion of Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson was built in the early 1900’s but to this day, the 903 square meter structure still stands tall amidst sugar plantation and its grandeur is a testament of the lifestyle of the hacienderos.

The structure of what’s left of the mansion is that we now call The Ruins, withstood the test of time mainly due to the oversized steel bars and the A-grade mixture of concrete used in its construction.  The wall finishing which were made of egg whites mixed with cement gave it its marble-like appearance.

The Columns

The Ruins Structure & Architecture

The structure of The Ruins is of Italianate architecture with neo-Romanesque columns, having a very close semblance to the facade of Carnegie Hall in New York City.

The intricate designs of the columns are still very intact and quite impressive. Whoever made those designs is truly a master in the art.

The Fountain

The Ruins Structure & ArchitectureThe 4-tiered fountain was built after the construction of the mansion was finished. Angelina, one of the daughters maintained a beautiful lily garden in and around the fountain. A Japanese gardener painstakingly took care of the plants until the burning of the mansion.

At present, The Ruins is beautifully landscaped and maintained by 5 gardeners.

The Simborio

The Ruins Structure & ArchitectureSimborio is the local name for smokestack or chimney. it was the vent used for the muscovado mill of the sugar farm of Don Mariano Lacson. In those days, they would make their own sugar by extracting juice of the sugarcane through the mill. transfer them in large vats where they are heated to a certain temperature, and cooled to allow it to crystallize.

Today, muscovado is pretty much prepared the same way as it was in those days. In addition to sugar refineries, muscovado is still a thriving industry in Negros Occidental.

The Veranda Lighting

The pipes used to channel the electric wires, embedded inthe ceiling, are the same ones used today. Note the rings beside the ceiling lights which used to hold the chains of chandeliers.

The Wooden Floors

The flooring used for the mansion were alternating red and yellow span, 2-inch thick, hard wood running from the main entrace facing the fountain all the way to the end of the dining room, with no joints. They were a meter wide and were about 67 feet (20.5 meters) long. The living room near the veranda and all bedrooms, downstairs and upstairs inclusing the belvedre, were all of wooden floor.

The Belvedere

The Ruins Structure & Architecture A belvedere at the second floor, facing west, in a glassed-in sun-room with bay windows affords a beautiful view of the sunset and the coastline of Talisay.

The Small Arched Window

This is the original window between the kitchen and the dining area. This is common in most Spanish homes in order to facilitate the movement of food and minimize foot traffic in and out of the kitchen. The original kitchen is now turned into a receiving room.

The Tiles in the Mansion

The Ruins Structure & ArchitectureThe tiles in the mansion were brought in from Spain. Arrays of varies designs of tiles used throughout the mansion have been grouped together at the foyer of the back entrance of the mansion. It is believed that the excess tiles were used in this area which was masterfully laid out.

The Rain Gutters & The Down Sprouts

The rain gutters all around at the top of the mansion are made of concrete and formed like canals. Rainwater runs to the back portion of the mansion where two large down sprouts lead it to a steel pipe to the ground where all the water is collected,

The Septic Tank

The origincal septic tank of the mansion now lies beneath the newly built toilets. The dimensions of the septic tank is 127in x 289in with a depth of 6 ft. The septic tank is watertight and has two chambers inside with concrete walls. Built in the 1920’s, the same septic tank is now being used at The Ruins.

Digging around the septic tank to locate the outlet revealed blocks of concrete which were the 1920’s molds used to make the balusters in the mansion.

The Initials

The Ruins Structure & ArchitectureAt first, I thought the owner has a penchant for letter E since these are molded onto the posts of the mansion. In fact, these are letter M’s, the initials of Mariano and Maria. The mansion was built after the death of Maria Braga so Don Mariano must have built it in remembrance of his deceased wide.

The Shell-Inspired Decor

The Ruins Structure & ArchitectureThe shell-inspored decor lined the top edged of the mansion. These same decor are used in those times in New England in the homes of ship captains. Maria Braga’s father was a captain of a ship.

The structure and architecture of The Ruins gave us a glimpse of life iof the hacienderos in those days. Only a few of these grand mansions still stand today and those which are no longer lived in are often destroyed in exchange for more modern structures. It is fortunate that the family of Mariano Lacson thought of preserving this historic structure as a family legacy and to share with those who have an appreciation for it. If The Ruins was torned down, much of these history will forever be lost.

How To Get to The Ruins

March 8, 2009

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First time visitors would be interested to know how to get to The Ruins. Getting to Ruins will take you around 15 minutes from downtown Bacolod City. The Ruins is located in Talisay City but you can get there also via Brgy. Bata, Bacolod City. I’ll provide here a short guide on how to get to The Ruins.

Getting to the Ruins by Private Car

You can take the access road beside the Honda Cars Showroom in Talisay City. It’s a three kilometer ride on the pockmarked road. That will make your trip all the more exciting. Don’t worry, it’s all worth it.

The Ruins is now accessible from the Bata area in Bacolod City. Upon reaching the bottling plant of Pepsi (Bangga Pepsi), turn east. About 600 meters away, you will see a big sign on the left side of the road that says ‘This Way to The Ruins”. You will enter that narrow street leading to Rose Lawn Memorial Gardens. Follow the small red and yellow signs on the electrical posts which will lead you all the way to The Ruins.

Since you are passing by private properties, please be advised to slow down your vehicles in order not to disturb the homeowners.

Getting to the Ruins by Public Transport

Take the Bata route jeepneys from downtown Bacolod City. Ask the driver to drop you at Bangga Rose Lawns (Memorial Park). It’s on the left side of the road and you will not miss it because there is now a sign that says “This way to The Ruins”.

Hire a tricycle to take you to The Ruins. They charge P10 per person but if you’re alone, they might ask you to pay for P30. You can ask the driver to wait for you but of course he will charge an additional fee. You can also just tell him to come back for you at a certain time or you can text him if he has a cellphone.

This is The Ruins from a distance.

This is The Ruins up close.

If you still find it hard to ge to The Ruins, better call them at 0917 832 6003 and ask for directions. The Ruins is open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily.

Two Carlos Hilado Grads Top November 2008 CE Board

November 28, 2008

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The pioneer Civil Engineering graduates of Carlos Hilado Memorial State College has produced top caliber graduates as two landed in the Top Ten of the November 2008 Civil Engineering Licensure Board Examination.

At second place, with a 98.95 percent rating, is Jeshurin Dacules Severo and at fourth place with a 97.55 percent rating is Janean Peñaflorida Labaosas. The schools got 100% passing since eight takers all passed the board exams.

This feat goes to show that poverty should never be considered a hindrance in achieving one’s goals. As a state college, the enrollees of CHMSC are mostly poor but deserving students. CHMSC provides an opportunity to the less privileged but intelligent students to gain access to quality education at a lower cost.

The college is noted for having one of the best programs in Teacher Education for continuously ranking high in the LET. The achievement of CHMSC’s pioneer Civil Engineering graduates signals that the school will soon be among the best schools in this field, at par with the bigger private universities.

CHMSC is one of the three state colleges in Negros Occidental and the first to be established in 1983 when three schools were merged into Paglaum State College -  Negros Occidental College of Arts and Trades (NOCAT), the Bacolod City School of Arts and Trades (BCNTS), and the Negros Occidental Provincial Community College (NOPCC). Paglaum State College was renamed Carlos Hilado Memorial State College in 1994 and in 2000 the Negros Occidental School of Fisheries (NOSOF)was integrated to CHMSC.

Now celebrating its Silver Year, CHMSC boasts of four campuses with main campus inTalisay City and satellite campuses in Alijis and Fortune Towne in Bacolod City and in the Municipality of Binalbagan.

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