The Bacolod City Tourism Office launched its showcase of local products at Ayala Malls Capitol Central Sept. 14, in celebration of the Tourism Week.
Representing Mayor Greg Gasataya, secretary to the mayor, Atty. Marty Go, highlighted the vital role of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) in driving the city’s economic expansion.
He noted Bacolod’s recent recognition as the country’s third fastest-growing highly-urbanized city, following a 6.8 percent economic growth rate, per the Philippine Statistics Authority’s (PSA) 2025 Provincial Product Accounts (PPA) report.
“Tourism is one of the major drivers of our economy. This is why our city is focused on continuously developing this industry. Bacolod has so much potential, and we need to promote it intensively,” Go stressed in a city press release Sept. 15.
Centered on the theme “Digital Agenda and Artificial Intelligence to Redesign Tourism”, city tourism officer Ma. Teresa Manalili emphasized leveraging innovation and technology to shape Bacolod’s tourism landscape.
“We recognize how digital technology and artificial intelligence are changing the way we promote destinations. May this Tourism Week remind us that while the future of tourism may be digital, its heart will always be human,” Manalili said.
Councilors Jason Villarosa and Em Ang also attended the ceremony, and commended local entrepreneurs for their steadfast commitment to the city’s promotional efforts. Their remarks coincided with the City Tourism Office securing five finalist spots at the Association of Tourism Officers of the Philippines Inc. (ATOP) Pearl Awards 2026.
Participating exhibitors and partner brands and creators include Le’Oleum, Artihand, Cole.Tura, AJ Exclusive, Bayong Ciaga, Floreo, Flora Botanica, Maija, Naci Artist Artisticcrew, Cuenca Arts, Kaffe Sadtu, Mix Arts Souvenirs, and Made Heartily.
Colegio San Agustin-Bacolod and Slow Food Youth Negros are the institution and organization partners.
Sugar Cuenca-Tonogbanua of Cuenca Art Studio expressed gratitude for the opportunity to display her craft. “We are thankful for the opportunity you have given us. It’s been a blessing to be part of this event, where we can showcase our products and artworks.”
The opening ceremony also featured the simultaneous launch of the Bacolod Tourism and Local Enterprise Showcase, alongside the Slow Food Earth Market outside the mall.
Held in observance of National Tourism Month, the initiative — which runs until Sept. 17 — reinforces the city government’s goal to establish Bacolod as a premier destination for culture, innovation, and local entrepreneurship. ||
