• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod passed an ordinance under suspended rules to close Father M. Ferrero Street until the Manokan Country redevelopment project is completed.
Councilor Celia Matea Flor, who pushed for the passage of the ordinance approved on first, second, and third and final reading during the SP session April 2, said there was an earlier order to temporarily close Father M. Ferrero Street but there is need for a longer closure as the SM Prime’s project would be for about 18 months.
The SP earlier approved the closure of Father M. Ferrero Street, from corner Rizal to Burgos streets to “give way for the fencing and piling activity of SM Prime Holdings in relation to its development of Manokan Country.”
The closure covers areas within Manokan Country, the Vendors Plaza, Jeepney Terminal, Beerhausen Restobar, and Twilight Diner.
Clearing and demolition were also done in the area earlier, to remove the remaining informal settlers affected by the project.
The Bacolod LGU and SM Prime have a 40-year contract for the lease and development of various city properties near the mall, all with an aggregate area of 16,875 square meters, or 1.68 hectares.
“This redevelopment is more than a structural upgrade; it is a step towards preserving Bacolod’s traditions while embracing its potential as a world-class city,” tycoon Hans Sy of SM Prime Holdings earlier said, adding a “revitalized Manokan Country will ensure that it remains a beacon for tourism and a source of economic progress.” | CGC
