Bacolod Mayor Unveils Vision for ‘Supercity’

By Glazyl Y. Masculino

BACOLOD CITY—Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez emphasized the crucial role of stakeholders in implementing Bacolod City’s masterplan to transform it into a “supercity.”

Benitez unveiled the comprehensive masterplan during a public consultation attended by over 1,000 participants at the L’ Fisher Hotel on Friday, Nov. 22.

He highlighted the need for stakeholder input, explaining that their suggestions and approval are vital to ensure the masterplan aligns with public aspirations.

“We want to ensure that our masterplan to become a supercity involves the participation of all stakeholders,” Benitez said.

The mayor presented several ongoing infrastructure projects, including the legislative building, City Health Complex, Bacolod City Hall, Bacolod Museum and Auditorium, Multipurpose Building with Skate Park, and Bacolod City Eco Tree Park.

He also announced plans for a command center featuring an enhanced closed-circuit television (CCTV) network for improved public safety.

Benitez underscored the development of new townships to boost the local economy and create jobs.

He detailed the city’s initiative to address flooding, which includes the construction of floodgates and pumping stations at five major rivers. The Department of Public Works and Highways (DPWH) has allocated PHP300 million for three of these rivers.

As Bacolod moves toward becoming a smart city, Benitez noted the shift to digitalization. Government documents now involve contactless transactions, while senior citizens and persons with disabilities (PWDs) utilize QR-coded identification cards. The city has also established one-stop shops at satellite offices.

He highlighted the “Bayad Agad” policy, designed to expedite medical and burial assistance for residents.

Through the Bacolod Comprehensive Health Program (BacCHP), the city has provided assistance to over 10,000 patients, amounting to more than PHP100 million. As of November 2024, BacCHP has issued 71,887 cards with 267,319 registered members.

Benitez announced the initial turnover of 296 housing units at the Asenso Yuhum Residences-Arao next month, under the Pambansang Pabahay Para sa Pilipino (4PH) Program.

He outlined the five pillars of his administration aimed at improving the quality of life for Bacolod residents:

• Effective governance through innovation.
• A vibrant and diversified economy with inclusivity.
• Environmental security focused on sustainability.
• Social development and protection emphasizing mobility.
• Smart and green urban centers promoting culture.

The mayor described the consultation as a platform for stakeholders to propose ideas for the city’s masterplan.