1. The Ruins, Talisay
Negros Occidental or Western Negros holds most historical sites of the region. Below are some of the top tourist destinations and a list of what to do in the province. VISIT THE RUINS IN TALISAY CITY (Photo Above) | This mansion was owned by the sugar baron Don Mariano “Anoy” Ledesma Lacson (1865-1948). The construction of this mansion was non-stop until the entire structure is completed. It was the largest mansion built during that time, however, was burnt to prevent the Japanese forces from making it their headquarters during World War II. Because of the A-Grade mixture of concrete that was used, its ruins remain today. READ: THE RUINS
2. Balay Negrense
One of the prominent landmarks and tourist destinations in Silay City, Balay Negrense, is one of the historical houses along Cinco de Noviembre Street. Its name was derived from Hiligaynon phrases: "balay" or a house and "Negrense" which refers to the people of Negros. Balay Negrense was built between 1897 to 1901 by Victor Fernandez Gaston, a son of a prominent sugar baron Yves Leopold Germain Gaston and Prudencia Fernandez. READ: BALAY NEGRENSE
3. Cinco de Noviembre
A small landmark along Cinco de Noviembre Street, in Silay City, that played a huge part during the revolution. The representation of this small house served as the drugstore and hideout of the Negrense Revolutionaries who helped plan the revolution against the Spaniards on November 5, 1898. Also, it was the spot where Negros Republic was created, then, a Filipino flag, embroidered by Olympia Severino and her sisters, hoisted by the people for their victory. However, Negros Republic only ran for three months, that is, before the American forces landed on the island on February 2, 1899. READ: CINCO DE NOVIEMBRE
4. San Diego Church
It was formerly known as San Diego Parish Church or St. Didacus Parish Church. It was declared as a pro-cathedral in 1994. It is the only church in Silay City that features a dome which is like St. Peters in Vatican City.
5. The Negros Capitol
A lot of ghost stories and rumours spread online and I can't hide the fact that the structure itself tells something about its history. On the other hand, the Negros Capitol houses the highest political position in Negros Occidental, thus, the area surrounding the building is well maintained, making its landscape perfect for selfies and groupies.
6. Bacolod Cathedral
VISIT BACOLOD CATHEDRAL or the San Sebastian Cathedral. The original structure of Bacolod Cathedral is made from wood and other local products in 1825. However, its original structure was damaged and was replaced by galvanized iron and coral stones. The bell towers were constructed in 1885. Bacolod Cathedral is in the business center Bacolod City and is in front of the plaza, thus, it is always busy.
7. Negros Museum
DISCOVER THE HISTORY AT NEGROS MUSEUM | The provincial museum was opened on March 16, 1996 at the Provincial Capitol Building. Then, it was transferred to its current building, a former Agricultural Building, in 2003. Like the other museums in the Philippines, Negros Museum houses everything that has historical value in the province and even in the region. There are paintings, objects previously used by the locals in their households, cabinets, earthenware, political memorabilia, and many other artifacts donated by different individuals. READ: NEGROS MUSEUM
Rates, Budget Friendly and Affordable Place to Stay: Bacolod City is highly urbanized, therefore, you have a lot of hotels choices. I stayed at Check Inn Bacolod near the plaza infront of Bacolod Cathedral. But you can also try Go Hotels Ph, East Square Inn, Dormitels.ph, Khokoon Inn, LOC Residences, Carefully Yours, Nirvana Pension House, Java Pension House, Mainstreet Pension House, and Tamera Plaza Inn.
How To Get Here, My Travel to Bacolod: You can book a flight from Manila to Silay Airport. Ride a tricycle to the highway where you can ride in a van to Bacolod City. You can also travel from Manila to Ilo-Ilo Airport. Take a cab to the port. Ride on a Ferry to Bacolod City.