Bacolod City is gearing up to welcome around 8,000 visitors during three significant events scheduled for February, reinforcing its status as a leading destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE) in the Philippines. The City Tourism Office highlighted that these events are poised to significantly benefit local businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and transportation services.
Ma. Teresa Manalili, the Chief Tourism Operations Officer, expressed optimism that these gatherings would enhance Bacolod’s reputation as a prime spot for tourism and events. The city will host the PAL Interclub Golf Tournament from February 7 to 21, attracting over 2,000 golfers to the Negros Occidental Golf and Country Club and other local venues.
From February 17 to 20, the 89th National Convention of Local Treasurers and Assessors will draw approximately 3,000 participants to the SMX Convention Center Bacolod. Additionally, the Bacolod Esports Enthusiasts Convention (BEECON 2025) will take place on February 15 and 16 at the same venue, expecting around 3,000 attendees for a mobile esports competition, interactive exhibits, and networking opportunities.
The city government, along with its partners, is committed to providing a memorable experience for all visitors. Local establishments are enhancing their hospitality with special decorations and promotions. The iconic MassKara Festival dancers will also perform at select events, showcasing the city’s vibrant culture.
To ensure the success of these events, Bacolod City is collaborating with the Bacolod City Police Office, Public Order and Safety Office, and Traffic Authority Office. The city, aspiring to be the MICE capital of the region and a top food tourism hub, saw a 26.22% increase in tourist arrivals in 2023, totaling 780,279 visitors compared to 618,682 in 2022. From January to June last year, the city recorded 400,596 tourist arrivals.
Manalili noted that Bacolod’s tourism figures from 2019 to the first half of 2024 reflect a significant recovery post the Covid-19 pandemic in 2020, underscoring the city’s resilience and appeal as a tourist destination.