TIEZA targets MassKara-ready Bacolod upgrades

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY — The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority has committed to completing two redevelopment projects worth PHP 300 million ahead of the MassKara Festival in October.

TIEZA chief operating officer Mark Lapid gave the assurance during a meeting with Mayor Greg Gasataya at the Bacolod City Government Center on June 28.

TIEZA said the projects at the government center grounds and the Heritage Plaza will be completed by August and turned over in September, about a month before the city’s annual festival celebration.

Gasataya and Lapid also inspected the government center fountain after their meeting.

The fountain is now 60% to 70% complete and is expected to become operational in two months.

During the meeting, officials also discussed the projects’ power supply, landscaping, adjustments, and security needs to ensure the facilities are maintained and operate efficiently.

In early June, Gasataya raised concerns over the prolonged completion of the two TIEZA-funded projects, prompting a meeting with local TIEZA officials for updates.

The original target completion date was September or October, as major infrastructure components were being installed and construction was progressing smoothly.

The redevelopment project allocates PHP 80 million for plaza improvements, including upgrades to the fountain and other facilities.

Another PHP 220 million was allocated for the renovation of the government center grounds.

The project, which began in July 2025, aims to modernize two of the city’s key public spaces through enhanced landscaping, modern lighting systems, water features, and upgraded infrastructure.

The projects are expected to improve public spaces that serve as major gathering areas during the MassKara Festival, Bacolod’s annual celebration known for street dancing, colorful masks, and events that draw visitors to the “City of Smiles.”

TIEZA, an attached agency of the Department of Tourism, develops and supervises tourism infrastructure projects and supports tourism enterprise zones across the country.