• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The city is eyeing the establishment of the Creative Bacolod Archway in three strategic areas – the national highway to Talisay, at Airport Access Road, and at the Bago boundary.
Department of Local Economic Development and Investment Promotions head Mae Ferrer-Llamas, at the unveiling of the scale model Oct. 8 during the launching of the Creative Bacolod initiative, said that more than a structural landmark, the archway “stands as a powerful symbol, a gateway connecting our rich culture and heritage to an ambitious creative future.”
It welcomes locals and visitors, and will be placed in three strategic sites, with the design visible day and night, she said. “It’s a tourism stop and it’s very important that this stop must have beautiful parking areas because we want our guests to stop and have a photo taken in that area.”
Llamas said Creative Bacolod is both a cultural cornerstone and a primary driver of the city’s sustainable tourism and economic growth. “When tourism becomes creative, visitors do not merely observe our culture—they participate in it. They don’t just admire our masks, textiles, and cuisine from afar; they learn the stories behind them, interact with local artisans, and feel the living pulse of our traditions.”
She said that the Creative Bacolod Tourism Circuit partnership with Robinsons Land Corporation (RLC), alongside organizational, civic, and institutional stakeholders, is a vital step forward in defining the future of Bacolod as a vibrant ecosystem where arts, design, heritage, and creative enterprise converge to shape the city’s identity.
RLC’s commitment brings vital infrastructure, reach, and commercial presence, Llamas said, adding this will provide local creators with accessible, high-visibility spaces where their work can flourish, engage the community, and reach wider audiences.
“Creative Bacolod is an open invitation to every Bacolodnon to imagine bigger, create boldly, and take pride in our collective identity,” she stressed. | CGC
