• CHERYL G. CRUZ
The Bacolod Sangguniang Panlungsod passed a Resolution of No Objection (RONO) Nov. 27 on the application of SM for an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) to improve the Manokan Country.
Lorenzo Martin Benedicto, assistant mall manager of SM City Bacolod, requested the SP for a certificate of no objection to their ECC application with the Department of Environment and Natural Resources to develop this stretch of food stalls serving chicken inasal.
The SP members, in approving the request during their regular session Wednesday afternoon, said the RONO is just one of the requirements needed for the DENR to start assessing the ECC application.
Councilor Celia Matea Flor also stressed that the final redevelopment design for the Manokan Country is still subject to final approval of the SP.
Mayor Alfredo Benitez earlier said he wanted a design that preserves the ambience and cultural identity of the place.
In August, SM Prime Holdings Inc. (SMPHI) released several architect’s drawings of the Manokan Country Redevelopment Project, featuring “a sophisticated, bold, and respectful design that blends tradition and innovation, creating harmonious and functional spaces that celebrate the city’s proud heritage.”
The Bacolod City government and SMPHI last year entered into a 40-year deal for the lease and development of various city properties near the mall, including the Manokan Country.
A check for P131.89 million was also turned over by SM Supermalls president Steven Tan to Benitez during the deal signing, representing seven years of advance rental. | CGC
