Hans Sy Honored as Bacolod’s Adopted Son, Mayor

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Filipino-Chinese business tycoon Hans Sy expressed heartfelt gratitude for the city’s recognition of his contributions and the enduring legacy of his father, the late Henry Sy Sr.

Bacolod City declared Hans as an adopted son and honorary mayor through a resolution during the conferment ceremony at the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) on Thursday, Jan. 30. The event was part of the 20th Bacolaodiat Festival celebration.

Hans, chairman of SM Prime Holdings Inc., was accompanied by his son, Harvey, and daughter, Hanna Carinna, during the visit.

“I am deeply humbled to be conferred these titles by this beautiful city,” Hans said in his acceptance speech. He reflected on the values imparted by his father, who was similarly honored by the city in 2017.

Hans shared that his father believed in inclusivity, doing what is right, and the transformative power of collaboration toward a better tomorrow, even if the road is challenging or unpopular.

“It is with this spirit that I have worked to support Bacolod’s growth, not just through business but also by contributing to programs that uplift the lives of its people,” Hans said. He cited education, tourism, job generation, and his advocacy for sustainability and disaster prevention as key areas of focus.

Hans said Bacolod holds a special place in his heart, recalling friendships formed during his student days at La Salle Taft. These friendships introduced him to Bacolodnons, whom he described as cultured, fun-loving, and deeply loyal to family and friends.

“Because of my good friends, I know that Bacolod is a city with a deep sense of community and an enduring partnership with its Filipino-Chinese community,” he said.

This bond, Hans noted, encouraged SM to invest in Bacolod, contributing to the city’s vibrant growth and progress. He also commended Bacolod’s Filipino-Chinese community for their dedication to shaping the city into the thriving place it is today.

“Your hard work and dedication have helped shape Bacolod into the thriving place it is today. By making me part of your family, you inspire me to continue building projects that will form a legacy of innovation through collaboration,” he said.

The City Council, led by Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran, presented a resolution recognizing Hans for his significant contributions to Bacolod’s development.

Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez warmly welcomed Hans and his children at the Mayor’s Office, along with Bacolaodiat Festival organizers led by chairman John Stephen Sy.

 

Bacolaodiat Festival Highlights

The Year of the Wood Snake arrived with a grand Chinese New Year celebration at Yuan Thong Temple on Jan. 28. Themed “Keep Going, the Future is Bright,” the event included a bell-ringing ceremony led by Mayor Benitez, who shared three great wishes: for Bacolod to rise as a super city, to overcome challenges, and to be protected from calamities.

The Bacolaodiat Festival 2025 officially opened at SM City Bacolod Main Atrium on Jan. 29, welcoming the Year of the Wood Snake with a spirited celebration.

“Let’s embrace the Year of the Snake with open hearts and festive spirits. May this year bring wisdom, strength, and prosperity to all,” Hans said during his opening remarks.

The festival runs from Jan. 31 to Feb. 2, featuring street and lantern dances, the Imperial Village, the Emperor’s Market, and other special events.