Bacolod Unveils 25-Year Urban Master Plan

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – The city government has introduced a proposed 25-year urban master plan aimed at fostering sustainable development and enhancing resilience by 2050.

Architect and urban design consultant Carlos Arnaiz, founder and principal of Carlos Arnaiz Architects (CAZA) and CEO of Studio for Urban Analysis, presented the Bacolod Urban Master Plan 2050 during the city’s first business summit held at L’Fisher Hotel on Friday.

The summit, organized for business leaders, developers, and investors, showcased the master plan’s strategic and visionary framework.

Arnaiz emphasized that the plan focuses on two primary goals: building mobility infrastructure and enhancing resiliency. He described it as adaptable and flexible, designed to address the city’s evolving needs.

The proposed plan divides Bacolod into four development zones:

• Zone 1: Central Business District featuring an integrated mobility system for a “15-minute city,” where residents can access essential services within a 15-minute walk or bike ride.
• Zone 2: Waterfront Development emphasizing sustainability and the blue economy.
• Zone 3: Commercial Corridors and Rivers highlighting resilient ecological corridors and agri-tourism.
• Zone 4: Mixed-Use Development catering to diverse purposes.

“Bacolod is a city with big opportunities for emerging markets,” Arnaiz said.

Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez, in an interview after the event, shared that the business sector responded positively to the plan.

“They were happy and supportive because they are involved in the city’s future plans,” Benitez said.

The event concluded with an open forum where attendees had the chance to ask questions and provide suggestions.

Benitez stated that the city government will consolidate all proposals for a final presentation.

He acknowledged that long-term development plans must remain flexible.

“We cannot anticipate the development in 25 years, so there might be changes along the way. Reviews for refinement or amendment will be done every five years,” Benitez said.

The consultation marked a significant step in Bacolod’s efforts to plan for its future growth, ensuring the city remains resilient, sustainable, and well-planned in the years to come.