Ex-lawmaker bats for tourism development of southern Bacolod

FORMER Bacolod City lawmaker John Orola Jr., who currently chairs the Bacolod City Tourism Council, pushed for more tourism development projects and programs in the southern part of Bacolod City.

He recently met with barangay officials of the southern part of the city headed by villahe chief Rufino Alcala of Punta Taytay and barangay captains of Sum-ag, Cabug, Pahanocoy, Singcang and Tangub in identifying and developing the tourism and trade potential of southern Bacolod.

Orola initially recommended the creation of Tourism Enterprise Zone (TEZ) so the area can benefit from the Department of Tourism incentives for its development.

Mayor Evelio Leonardia and Councilors Em Ang, Caesar Distrito, Sonya Verdeflor also attended the said meeting.

Orola said once it is registered as TEZ, it can create economic opportunities, livelihood and employment in the area.

While the north of Bacolod is getting bullish and congested with economic activities, big department stores, shopping malls, hotels and other businesses, the southern Bacolod area from Singcang to Sum-ag has been left out, said Orola.

Some portions of the roads even remain unrepaired and the highways are dark, often leading to traffic accidents, he added.

Orola encouraged the private sector to take a look at the potential of southern Bacolod.

With the old airport moved to Silay City, the previous location of the old airport is virtually a ghost town and its runway is now used for flying remote controlled toy planes and for car racing at the middle of the night, causing noise pollution and threat to lives and properties in the area, Orola pointed out.

He said Punta Taytay is known for its beaches, and although it cannot compete with other resorts in the province, it is a favorite weekend destination for Bacolod residents.

He said a 20-hectare isle recently emerged in the area where migratory birds flock daily. “This is a good sight for bird watching.”

Orola also said the Sum-ag River all the way to Cabug River can be developed for river cruise and safari, while Pahanocoy and Tangub have mangrove plantations, an attraction to environmentalists and eco-tourism. (CNC)