WITH a sunny weekend hopefully, where can the family go for a fun time to bond, enjoy nature, and play?
Not too far from the city proper is the Bantug Lake Ranch.
The ranch was originally an orchard, a sugarcane farm with a poultry. The land was inherited from their father, Abelardo Bantug Jr., however, in 2009, siblings Michael and Reeda Bantug decided to transform and diversify. They sold some farm lots while Michael had a “eureka” moment and dug a lake.
Freshwater from a running creek proximal to the ranch supplies the water in the natural-looking lake which was designed to be cycled back to the creek. So now, guests can enjoy a kayak, canoe or boat ride in the lake and even do some fishing.
Another interesting feature in the lake ranch is to go horseback riding.
On your way to the Bantug Lake Ranch is the Bacolod Polo Club. This property is likewise owned by the Bantug family. After the land was leased to house the polo club, the entrepreneurial Michael, who has an inherent love for animals, developed a fascination for horses.
He started to purchase prize-winning breeds along with other animals. Kind benefactors also blessed the family with other pets. Now these animals enjoy calling the ranch their home. Kids and adults now can ride horses or horse-drawn carriages. Children who have an interest in animals can have a field day feeding them.
The Bantug Lake Ranch grows organic vegetables and visitors can take home an atchara tomato-based pasta sauce made from the organic produce of the farm which picnic goers can purchase and enjoy while gorging on that lechon and all goodies prepared for that family and friends moments.
The place has been a choice for photo shoots, events, even camping or just a relaxing day to while the time away. And the good thing is… it is not too far away.