BACOLOD City — The Bacolod City Government will defer acceptance of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA)-funded redevelopment projects at the Bacolod Public Plaza and Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) until all components are fully completed.
Mayor Greg Gasataya said the city government has yet to determine whether the two projects will be inaugurated in October, emphasizing that the facilities must be completed before they are formally turned over to the local government.
Gasataya said he recently met with the TIEZA contractor and continues to monitor the progress of both projects to determine whether they are on track for completion.
Portions of the Bacolod Public Plaza have already been uncovered, while other sections remain partially boarded up to protect newly installed designs and facilities from possible damage.
The mayor added that the city government is extending assistance within its capacity to help expedite the completion of the projects.
The city had earlier expressed hope that the two redevelopment projects would be turned over by the end of September.
Funded by TIEZA, the projects have a combined budget of P300 million and aim to upgrade two of Bacolod’s major public landmarks.
Of the total allocation, approximately P80 million was earmarked for improvements at the Bacolod Public Plaza, including its fountains and lighting fixtures, while P220 million was allocated for the redevelopment of the BCGC fountain area.
Once completed, the upgraded BCGC fountain is expected to feature synchronized lights and music. The surrounding area is also designed to serve as an open space for public events and gatherings.
The redevelopment projects began in 2025 but have experienced delays.
TIEZA had earlier assured the city government that the projects would be completed by September or October this year, following Gasataya’s call for the agency to expedite the redevelopment works.
The city government’s decision to defer acceptance until full completion aims to ensure that the facilities meet project requirements and are ready for public use./PN
