BACOLOD City – The city government secured five recognitions at the 2026 Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines (ATOP) Pearl Awards, winning three grand winner titles and two first runner-up honors for its tourism initiatives, festivals and promotional campaigns.
The awards were presented during the ceremony at the Ormoc Development and Training Convention Complex in Ormoc City on October 21.
Bacolod competed against entries from local government units (LGUs) nationwide, with 606 entries from 201 LGUs vying for recognition in 15 categories.
Representing Mayor Greg Gasataya, Secretary to the Mayor Atty. Jose Marty Go and Chief Tourism Operations Officer Ma. Teresa Manalili received the awards on behalf of the city government.
Bacolod emerged as grand winner in three categories: Best International Event Hosting for Terra Madre Asia and Pacific; Best Local Event Hosting for the Bacolod Chicken Inasal Festival; and Best Tourism Promotions Brochure for Bacolod City: Your Pocket Guide to Experience the City of Smiles.
The city also placed first runner-up in Best Tourism Event – Cultural Festival for the 2025 MassKara Festival and Best Sports Tourism Event for MassKaraLympics 2025.
The recognitions highlight Bacolod’s efforts to promote its culinary heritage, cultural celebrations, international event-hosting capabilities and sports tourism, strengthening its appeal to local and foreign visitors.
Gasataya said the awards were not only an honor for the city but also recognition of Bacolodnons’ contributions to local tourism development.
He credited the achievements to the dedication of the City Tourism Office, local artists, festival organizers and residents who continue to showcase Bacolod’s hospitality and creativity.
The mayor said the recognitions reflected the warmth, resilience and creativity of the Bacolodnon community, adding that the city’s identity as the City of Smiles extends beyond its slogan through the experiences it offers visitors.
He also reaffirmed the city government’s commitment to promoting local culture, introducing innovations in tourism programs and creating more opportunities for the local tourism industry.
Meanwhile, Department of Tourism concurrent Negros Island Region Director Cristanta Marlene Rodriguez congratulated the city government for its efforts to advance tourism governance and promote Bacolod’s cultural assets.
She said the awards reflected the city’s vibrant culture and tourism offerings, as well as the community’s readiness to welcome visitors.
The ATOP Pearl Awards recognize outstanding tourism programs and initiatives implemented by LGUs across the country./PN
