BACOLOD City – For the second straight year this city was named among the “most livable urban centers” in the Philippines.
The “City of Smiles” was adjudged first runner-up after Davao City during the Search for the Philippine Model Cities and Municipalities 2018 of The Manila Times.
In addition Bacolod was also cited as a “Most Business-Friendly City.”
The recognition “was inspiring, considering that we were competing with other big and dynamic cities, including Davao City,” said Mayor Evelio Leonardia, who accepted the award during ceremonies at the Conrad Manila Hotel on June 19.
Ranking right after Davao “is something to crow about,” Leonardia added. “Likewise, this ranking shows how consistent we are.”
Last year Bacolod was the grand winner in the Top Philippine Model City 2017 Awards, the first edition of the contest of The Manila Times.
Leonardia received the first runner-up plaque from The Manila Times president and chief executive officer Dante Ang and chief operating officer Blanca Mercado.
Also present at the awarding ceremonies were Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, Councilor Bartolome Orola, City Administrator John Orola, City Tourism Officer Ma. Elma Gerasmo, City Development Council vice chairman George Zulueta, Permits and Licensing head Stela Rose Rayos, Local Economic and Investment Promotions officer Jonah Javier, and private secretary Edwina Javier. (Bacolod City PIO/PN)
