Another view of the Turtle Island at Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines, one of the best places in Negros!
Tuesday, July 28, 2009
Turtle Island at Sipalay, Negros Occidental
Another view of the Turtle Island at Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines, one of the best places in Negros!
Homeward bound from langub island beach resort
Homeward bound from langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, philippines. It was a relaxing, enjoyable, memorable experience!
Warm bodies at the paradise - langub island beach resort
The cool, clear waters, the hard rocks and the warm bodies at the paradise - langub island beach resort, sipalay, one of best places in negros occidental, philippines!
Langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental.
Mother and daughter bonding at langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, Philippines...
langub garden island beach resort
The water is as blue as the sky here at langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, philippines...
Langub garden island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental.
It’s cool and so beautiful here at langub garden island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, Philippines!
Paradise at langub garden island beach resort
Green, green, paradise at langub garden island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, Philippines...
Coconut trees at Langub Island Beach Resort
Coconut trees make Langub Island Beach Resort at Sipalay, Negros Occidental cool and peaceful. The clear, blue waters at the back is so inviting!
White sands and blue cool waters at langub beach resort
Cool shades, white sands and blue cool waters at langub beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, Philippines...
Sipalay Beach Resort Adventures
Entrance to the Takatuka Lodge and Dive Resort, Langub, Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines!
Takatuka Beach Resort
Takatuka Lodge and Dive Resort, Langub, Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Takatuka Beach Resort
Takatuka Lodge at Takatuka Beach Resort, Langub, Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Monday, July 27, 2009
White Sands and Blue Waters
A pose at bamboo relaxing coaches, green plants and white sand at Takatuka Beach Resort, Langub, Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Bermuda Beach Resort
One of nipa huts and white sand at Bermuda Beach Resort at Langub, Sipalay, one of the best places in Negros Occidental, Philippines!
Sulu Sunset Beach Resort
Here’s one of the beach resort at Langub, Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines...the Sulu Sunset Beach Resort.
Beautiful Langub Beach Resort
It’s so beautiful, so peaceful, it’s a paradise here at langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental, Philippines.
Langub Beach Resort
The water is so cool and so clear, the sand so smooth at langub beach resort, sipalay, one of the best places in negros occidental, Philippines!
Relaxing Moments At Sipalay
What else shall we do but lie down on a hammock, relax, and free our minds of problems and worries in the beautiful, cool Langub Beach Resort, Sipalay City, Negros Occidental, Philippines!
Relaxing Moments At Sipalay
Relaxing moments at langub beach resort, sipalay, one of best places in Negros Occidental, Philippines!
Sipalay Island Hopping
On board a pump boat, I, vicvic, and my 2 kids, Hilver and Precious, on our way to langub island beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental. It takes only about 20 minutes from Sipalay to langub island beach resort through a pump boat with a fare of P300.00. You have first to contact the owner of the beach resort before going there.
Sipalay Adventures
A closer view of an island at Sipalay, Negros Occidental on our way to langub beach resort.
Sipalay Pictures
I and my wife, Vicvic, at Sipalay, Negros Occidental, just before going to langub beach resort. At the background is the “turtle island” of Sipalay, Negros Occidental, Philippines.
Sunday, July 26, 2009
Discover Sipalay, Negros Occidental
About 200km from both Bacolod and Dumaguete, the remote seaside town of Sipalay (si-pah-lie) is surrounded by spectacular white-sand beaches, secluded coves, scattered islets, dive reefs and waters teeming with marlin, trevally and tuna.
The premier attraction here has to be the slice of paradise called Sugar Beach (Langub to the locals) - though keen divers may prefer the dedicated dive resorts of Punta Ballo.
The diving around Sipalay is some of the best in Negros. It's particularly suited to inexperienced or learner divers. At last count there were well over 30 dive sites in the area, including three wrecks (one from WWII). The resorts in Sugar Beach and Punta Ballo either have on-site dive centres or can arrange trips through an affiliated dive centre. Prices are fairly standard: one dive is US$20, equipment rental starts from US$5, an open-water certificate is US$300.
Boats for exploring the marine idylls of nearby Maricalum Bay and Tinagong Dagat can be hired (around P500) through the Sipalay Tourist Information Centre (0926 433 7318; cnr Rodrigo G Chua Blvd & Alejano St; high season 8am-5pm daily, low season 8am-5pm Mon-Fri), just back from Poblacion Beach.
Regular buses run between Sipalay and Bacolod (P145, 4½ hours). On the rough road between Sipalay and Dumaguete, buses terminate at Hinoba-an (first transfer) then Bayawan (second transfer) before finally continuing on to Dumaguete (total trip P160, six to seven hours including transfers).
source
The premier attraction here has to be the slice of paradise called Sugar Beach (Langub to the locals) - though keen divers may prefer the dedicated dive resorts of Punta Ballo.
The diving around Sipalay is some of the best in Negros. It's particularly suited to inexperienced or learner divers. At last count there were well over 30 dive sites in the area, including three wrecks (one from WWII). The resorts in Sugar Beach and Punta Ballo either have on-site dive centres or can arrange trips through an affiliated dive centre. Prices are fairly standard: one dive is US$20, equipment rental starts from US$5, an open-water certificate is US$300.
Boats for exploring the marine idylls of nearby Maricalum Bay and Tinagong Dagat can be hired (around P500) through the Sipalay Tourist Information Centre (0926 433 7318; cnr Rodrigo G Chua Blvd & Alejano St; high season 8am-5pm daily, low season 8am-5pm Mon-Fri), just back from Poblacion Beach.
Regular buses run between Sipalay and Bacolod (P145, 4½ hours). On the rough road between Sipalay and Dumaguete, buses terminate at Hinoba-an (first transfer) then Bayawan (second transfer) before finally continuing on to Dumaguete (total trip P160, six to seven hours including transfers).
source
Sipalay: The Jewel of the Sugar Island - Negros Occidental - Philippines
The city of Sipalay has been dubbed as the Jewel of the Sugar Island for the beauty and elegance of this place. Recently, it has won an award as one of the up-and-coming travel destination in the Philippines. A growing number of people have started to recognize the beauty and potential of Sipalay in tourism. The Jewel of the Sugar Island features white sand beaches and azure waters that would surely mesmerize visitors and tourists.
Marine Resources
Sipalay also boasts of very rich marine resources. The local government has done a very good job in preserving and maintaining the beauty of its natural surroundings. It has also done a perfect job in educating its people on the importance of a healthy and clean environment. The Jewel of the Sugar Island has been regarded by the Filipino people as one of the best on the undiscovered tourist spot category in their country.
Diving is also on the program in Sipalay and they boast a wealth of superb and pristine dive sites, both coral and wreck diving is available in the area.
Tourist Spots
The local tourism of the Jewel of the Sugar Island has a lot to offer. Some of the tourist attractions in this area include the Tinagong Dagat, the Philex Gold Mines, and the Punta Ballo Beach. These places have proven themselves to attract a very wide audience, ranging from local visitors to international tourists.
Various hills and islets surround the Tinagong Dagat. This Sipalay tourist destination is available for tourists both in dry or wet seasons. Tourists and visitors can explore the corals beneath its azure waters. Meanwhile, the Philex Gold Mines is another famous landmark in the Jewel of the Sugar Island that houses a condominium and a training center. This tourist spot is accessible to tourists as well as other visitors because it is situated near the national highway. It can be found in Barangay Nabulao. On the other hand, the Punta Ballo Beach features world-class diving resorts including the Easy Diving Resort.
source
Sipalay is indeed one of the best places in Negros Occidental.
Marine Resources
Sipalay also boasts of very rich marine resources. The local government has done a very good job in preserving and maintaining the beauty of its natural surroundings. It has also done a perfect job in educating its people on the importance of a healthy and clean environment. The Jewel of the Sugar Island has been regarded by the Filipino people as one of the best on the undiscovered tourist spot category in their country.
Diving is also on the program in Sipalay and they boast a wealth of superb and pristine dive sites, both coral and wreck diving is available in the area.
Tourist Spots
The local tourism of the Jewel of the Sugar Island has a lot to offer. Some of the tourist attractions in this area include the Tinagong Dagat, the Philex Gold Mines, and the Punta Ballo Beach. These places have proven themselves to attract a very wide audience, ranging from local visitors to international tourists.
Various hills and islets surround the Tinagong Dagat. This Sipalay tourist destination is available for tourists both in dry or wet seasons. Tourists and visitors can explore the corals beneath its azure waters. Meanwhile, the Philex Gold Mines is another famous landmark in the Jewel of the Sugar Island that houses a condominium and a training center. This tourist spot is accessible to tourists as well as other visitors because it is situated near the national highway. It can be found in Barangay Nabulao. On the other hand, the Punta Ballo Beach features world-class diving resorts including the Easy Diving Resort.
source
Sipalay is indeed one of the best places in Negros Occidental.
Saturday, July 25, 2009
Mouth of a mountain at langub beach resort
Mouth of a mountain on the way to Langub beach resort, sipalay, negros occidental. Just click on the image to enlarge. Great views, clear, blue waters...all natural wonders!!!
Sunday, July 19, 2009
Sipalay City, Negros Occidental
Sipalay got its name from the old native phrase si palay meaning 'there is rice'. Chinese traders, who were not able to pronounce the 'R' in the local word Paray are believed to have helped disseminate the name Sipalay as rice abundantly grows in the area and is freely traded.
The original natives of Sipalay were the "tumandoks ", perhaps with Malay or Bornean roots . Immigrants from Panay Island joined them later. These were families who ventured out to the sea to escape the oppressive Spanish feudal system and found a new home in the paradise that is today Sipalay.
With unflinching political will, its local officials spearheaded by the Municipal Mayor then, led Sipalay to recovery and caused it to raise high above the economic setbacks and bloody turmoil of a low intensity civil war. Not only were revenue surpluses generated starting 1989, but also for the next eight consecutive years, the surpluses continued to rise. The peace and order situation, as it were, was somehow cajoled to a level allowing people's lives and business to go back to "normal". Amazingly, some investments, particularly in tourism development, flowed in.
Geographic Location
The City of Sipalay is the second to the southernmost town in the province of Negros Occidental . It is bounded by the municipalities of Cauayan in the north, Hinobaan in the south, and Candoni in the east. To its west is the Sulu Sea. The city lies approximately 178 kilometers from the provincial capital of Bacolod City and can be reached via the national road from Bacolod to Hinobaan within 3 to 4 hours.
The City's total land area is 42,770 hectares or 427.7 square kilometers, with a coastline stretching some 45 kilometers long along its western side. Sipalay is politically subdivided into 17 barangays, five of which comprise the poblacion area or the urban core of the City (Barangays 1 to 5). Surrounding the poblacion are the barangays of Nauhang, Gil Montilla, Mambaroto and Maricalum while the barangays of Cabadiangan, Camindangan, Manlucahoc and Nabulao form the hilly to mountainous outskirts. At the northwestern side of the City are the barangays of Cartagena and Canturay, which are traversed by the national road leading to Bacolod . The last barangay at the southwestern portion is Cayhagan, which is linked to the southernmost municipality of Hinobaan via the national road. Barangay San Jose, commonly referred to as the mining town, lies at the upper portion of Gil Montilla east of Canturay and Cartagena.
source
The original natives of Sipalay were the "tumandoks ", perhaps with Malay or Bornean roots . Immigrants from Panay Island joined them later. These were families who ventured out to the sea to escape the oppressive Spanish feudal system and found a new home in the paradise that is today Sipalay.
With unflinching political will, its local officials spearheaded by the Municipal Mayor then, led Sipalay to recovery and caused it to raise high above the economic setbacks and bloody turmoil of a low intensity civil war. Not only were revenue surpluses generated starting 1989, but also for the next eight consecutive years, the surpluses continued to rise. The peace and order situation, as it were, was somehow cajoled to a level allowing people's lives and business to go back to "normal". Amazingly, some investments, particularly in tourism development, flowed in.
Geographic Location
The City of Sipalay is the second to the southernmost town in the province of Negros Occidental . It is bounded by the municipalities of Cauayan in the north, Hinobaan in the south, and Candoni in the east. To its west is the Sulu Sea. The city lies approximately 178 kilometers from the provincial capital of Bacolod City and can be reached via the national road from Bacolod to Hinobaan within 3 to 4 hours.
The City's total land area is 42,770 hectares or 427.7 square kilometers, with a coastline stretching some 45 kilometers long along its western side. Sipalay is politically subdivided into 17 barangays, five of which comprise the poblacion area or the urban core of the City (Barangays 1 to 5). Surrounding the poblacion are the barangays of Nauhang, Gil Montilla, Mambaroto and Maricalum while the barangays of Cabadiangan, Camindangan, Manlucahoc and Nabulao form the hilly to mountainous outskirts. At the northwestern side of the City are the barangays of Cartagena and Canturay, which are traversed by the national road leading to Bacolod . The last barangay at the southwestern portion is Cayhagan, which is linked to the southernmost municipality of Hinobaan via the national road. Barangay San Jose, commonly referred to as the mining town, lies at the upper portion of Gil Montilla east of Canturay and Cartagena.
source
Wednesday, July 15, 2009
Nipa hut at Batang Beach
This is still at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort. The native huts at the background are made from cogon grasses which makes the surrounding cool in spite of the scorching heat the sun. The presence of trash bins around make the resort clean and comfortable.
The Sea at Batang Beach Resort
This is the sea at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort. Beside me and my Vicvic, my beauteous wife is a little boy holding a cross in his hand and sitting on top a turtle. It was noontime and high tide when this picture was taken on my 45th birthday last May 3, 2007.
My daughter Precious Dawn at Batang Beach Resort
This is Precious Dawn, my daughter and this was taken at the back of the nipa huts at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort. Here, there are also coconut trees and the automobile tires lined up are painted with red, green, blue and yellow colors. It’s a cool place here where one can relax and enjoy the beauty of living.
Nipa huts at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort
This is me and my beautiful wife still taken in front of nipa huts at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. In front of nipa huts are newly planted coconut trees making the surrounding cool and green. As can be seen in the picture, the four walls of the nipa hut are made of bamboos. Old automobile tires are recycled and lined up beside the coconut trees.
sunset at batang beach resort
This is the sunset at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. The water is warm and so calm during that time as the sun finally sets at the end of the day. You can see and feel the soft golden color of the sunset behind the dark clouds. Sunburns are not a problem when swimming during late afternoon. This picture was also taken during my 45th birthday last 2007.
Batang Beach Peninsula Resort
This is me and my wife taken at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort, Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. It was low tide that time so we had a chance to sit beside the sculpted half lady, half fish structure. By the way, this picture was taken during my 45th birthday. It was at Batang Beach Peninsula Resort where we celebrated my birthday together with my kids and computer shop staff.
Sunday, July 12, 2009
Himamaylan City
Himamaylan was once the capital of Negros Occidental. This was during the time when Spaniards first settled in Negros and made the town their center of island government. They started to build a fortress in the place, but this was never completed. However, it served as an ideal lookout point against frequent Moslem raiders.
The town’s story began with the Negritoes, a listless band of small black people with short and kinky hair. They led a fine, simple life, roaming the wide hunting grounds and generally let alone other inhabitants in the area. That was until the Malays came and drove them into the mountains.
The newcomers were likewise nomadic, but they were not used to the swamps and pretty soon they acquired a malady called “hima” which was like the disease known as athlete’s foot. Hima was symptomized by crippling itchy sores between toes.
The Malays were also a highly superstitious people. They believed in evil spirits for which they employed with doctors called “babaylan” . These were the kind of people the Spaniards came upon. With their swollen feet and witch doctors, the Malays soon came to be known as Himamaylans (from hima and babaylan) by the conquistadores. The name became that of the place as well.
Himamaylan could have been truly the hub of activities of the entire province if not for its inaccessibility which made communication difficult.
Subsequently, the Spaniards transferred their capital site to what is now Bacolod. Spanish rule of the place was ended by the Americans in April 4, 1899.
The town got its place in history when the Japanese came during the World War II. While its residents all fled to the mountains, the town became a battleground for Negros Occidental’s liberation from the invaders. The first shot that started guerilla activity in the province was fired in Barrio Buenavista where a shrine today has been put up by the veterans of war.
Festivals
Himaya-an Festival (April 25). The occasion gathers the community in one grand celebration. Featuring tribal dance parade, aqua-agro fair and all night street dance party.
Seafood Festival (March 31 Charter Day). Celebrates the bounty of the sea where local & foreign tourists converge for sumptuous meal offered by the waters of Himamaylan City.
Feast of Our Lady of Snows (August 5) Commemorates the yearly feast of our Patron Saint.
Himamaylan is about an hour and a half drive south of Bacolod City. Public utility vehicles plying the southern Negros route pass through this city.
Himamaylan City is bounded on the north by the Municipality of Binalbagan, on the south by the City of Kabankalan, on the east by the town of Tayasan and on the west by the Panay Gulf.
Source
There is one beautiful beach resort at Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. It is located at Talaban, Himamaylan and it is called Batang Peninsula Beach Resort.
The town’s story began with the Negritoes, a listless band of small black people with short and kinky hair. They led a fine, simple life, roaming the wide hunting grounds and generally let alone other inhabitants in the area. That was until the Malays came and drove them into the mountains.
The newcomers were likewise nomadic, but they were not used to the swamps and pretty soon they acquired a malady called “hima” which was like the disease known as athlete’s foot. Hima was symptomized by crippling itchy sores between toes.
The Malays were also a highly superstitious people. They believed in evil spirits for which they employed with doctors called “babaylan” . These were the kind of people the Spaniards came upon. With their swollen feet and witch doctors, the Malays soon came to be known as Himamaylans (from hima and babaylan) by the conquistadores. The name became that of the place as well.
Himamaylan could have been truly the hub of activities of the entire province if not for its inaccessibility which made communication difficult.
Subsequently, the Spaniards transferred their capital site to what is now Bacolod. Spanish rule of the place was ended by the Americans in April 4, 1899.
The town got its place in history when the Japanese came during the World War II. While its residents all fled to the mountains, the town became a battleground for Negros Occidental’s liberation from the invaders. The first shot that started guerilla activity in the province was fired in Barrio Buenavista where a shrine today has been put up by the veterans of war.
Festivals
Himaya-an Festival (April 25). The occasion gathers the community in one grand celebration. Featuring tribal dance parade, aqua-agro fair and all night street dance party.
Seafood Festival (March 31 Charter Day). Celebrates the bounty of the sea where local & foreign tourists converge for sumptuous meal offered by the waters of Himamaylan City.
Feast of Our Lady of Snows (August 5) Commemorates the yearly feast of our Patron Saint.
Himamaylan is about an hour and a half drive south of Bacolod City. Public utility vehicles plying the southern Negros route pass through this city.
Himamaylan City is bounded on the north by the Municipality of Binalbagan, on the south by the City of Kabankalan, on the east by the town of Tayasan and on the west by the Panay Gulf.
Source
There is one beautiful beach resort at Himamaylan City, Negros Occidental. It is located at Talaban, Himamaylan and it is called Batang Peninsula Beach Resort.
Friday, July 10, 2009
Binalbagan, Negros Occidental: The Place Where I Live for 22 Years Now
Ever since I arrived at Negros Occidental last 1987, I live at Binalbagan because my wife works there. Binalbagan is one-and-a-half hour ride from Bacolod City using public utility vehicles and one hour on private transport. Public transport is available through buses that are either air conditioned or non-air conditioned.
Below is a short history of Binalbagan:
Years ago, Binalbagan was called Inabagan, “the haven of refuge”. Negritoes inhabited this settlement until the arrival of the Mundos. Between 100 and 1300 A.D. Malays belonging to the 10 Bornean datus and their families settled in Binalbagan. During the Pre-Spanish era, three groups of people namely; the Mangyans, the Pintados and the Agtas inhabited the place.
In 1571, the Spaniards came and established in Binalbagan the largest encomienda in the island. Binalbagan, along with the Municipality of Oton, both established in 1572, are the two oldest towns in Western Visayas. As such it had earned the title, Banwang Panganay.
Two stories are told on the origin of the name Binalbagan. During stormy nights, the cargo of shrimps get wet and are partially spoiled. To remove the slimy odor and preserve the shrimps, the traders would beat the barks of mangroves to extract juice believed to contain preservatives for the shrimps. The action of beating the bark was termed as balbag in the native dialect. Hence, the place where the beating was done was called Binalbagan.
Old folks however, say that the town got its name from a past incident when a very big snake was stranded in the mouth of Binalbagan River, blockading sea transport. People referred to the place and incidents as Binalbagan. Subsequently, the name evolved into Binalbagan. Binalbagan today is known for its home-made candies (sweets) probably because of the presence of the Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company (BISCOM).
Festivals
The town fiesta, a cultural heritage from our Spanish colonizers, is celebrated in Binalbagan every 15th of May. The celebration honors its patron saint, St. Isidore, also the patron of farmers. Starting on the 10th of May, the town fiesta is celebrated through sports events, carnivals, fairs, parades, an amateur singing contest and a beauty pageant.
Highlighting the celebration is the Balbagan Festival, a street dancing competition wherein dancers are garbed in colorful costumes.
Famous Landmarks
BISCOM (Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company) is an imposing sight going to the town proper. Once, dubbed as the “biggest and oldest sugar mill” in Asia. It plays an important role in the development not only of Binalbagan but also of the whole 5th district being the only sugar mill in the area.
St. Isidore Parish Church was built in 1937. It undergone various renovation but retained its original façade. The church serves as a gathering place for Binalbaganons who are predominantly Roman Catholics. .
Binalbagan Bridge connects the Binalbagan River, built to hold heavy vehicles passing Binalbagan town.
The Municipal Hall was once called the Malacañang of the South because of its Spanish inspired design.
Beaches. With three coastal barangays, Binalbagan has several beaches located in Brgy. Canmoros. The beaches in this part are good option for family outings and relaxation. They are the La Aplaya Beach Resort, Queen Rina’s beach resort, Davies beach resort, canonoy beach resort and Kasuya Beach Resort.
Falls. Nature lovers may also enjoy the waterfalls in this town. They are the Tago-Tago Falls in Barangay Amontay, Binadlan Falls in Brgy. Bi-ao and Omot Falls in Brgy. Santol-Amontay Road.
Binalbagan is a very peaceful town. The people living there are also peace loving and friendly.
Below is a short history of Binalbagan:
Years ago, Binalbagan was called Inabagan, “the haven of refuge”. Negritoes inhabited this settlement until the arrival of the Mundos. Between 100 and 1300 A.D. Malays belonging to the 10 Bornean datus and their families settled in Binalbagan. During the Pre-Spanish era, three groups of people namely; the Mangyans, the Pintados and the Agtas inhabited the place.
In 1571, the Spaniards came and established in Binalbagan the largest encomienda in the island. Binalbagan, along with the Municipality of Oton, both established in 1572, are the two oldest towns in Western Visayas. As such it had earned the title, Banwang Panganay.
Two stories are told on the origin of the name Binalbagan. During stormy nights, the cargo of shrimps get wet and are partially spoiled. To remove the slimy odor and preserve the shrimps, the traders would beat the barks of mangroves to extract juice believed to contain preservatives for the shrimps. The action of beating the bark was termed as balbag in the native dialect. Hence, the place where the beating was done was called Binalbagan.
Old folks however, say that the town got its name from a past incident when a very big snake was stranded in the mouth of Binalbagan River, blockading sea transport. People referred to the place and incidents as Binalbagan. Subsequently, the name evolved into Binalbagan. Binalbagan today is known for its home-made candies (sweets) probably because of the presence of the Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company (BISCOM).
Festivals
The town fiesta, a cultural heritage from our Spanish colonizers, is celebrated in Binalbagan every 15th of May. The celebration honors its patron saint, St. Isidore, also the patron of farmers. Starting on the 10th of May, the town fiesta is celebrated through sports events, carnivals, fairs, parades, an amateur singing contest and a beauty pageant.
Highlighting the celebration is the Balbagan Festival, a street dancing competition wherein dancers are garbed in colorful costumes.
Famous Landmarks
BISCOM (Binalbagan-Isabela Sugar Company) is an imposing sight going to the town proper. Once, dubbed as the “biggest and oldest sugar mill” in Asia. It plays an important role in the development not only of Binalbagan but also of the whole 5th district being the only sugar mill in the area.
St. Isidore Parish Church was built in 1937. It undergone various renovation but retained its original façade. The church serves as a gathering place for Binalbaganons who are predominantly Roman Catholics. .
Binalbagan Bridge connects the Binalbagan River, built to hold heavy vehicles passing Binalbagan town.
The Municipal Hall was once called the Malacañang of the South because of its Spanish inspired design.
Beaches. With three coastal barangays, Binalbagan has several beaches located in Brgy. Canmoros. The beaches in this part are good option for family outings and relaxation. They are the La Aplaya Beach Resort, Queen Rina’s beach resort, Davies beach resort, canonoy beach resort and Kasuya Beach Resort.
Falls. Nature lovers may also enjoy the waterfalls in this town. They are the Tago-Tago Falls in Barangay Amontay, Binadlan Falls in Brgy. Bi-ao and Omot Falls in Brgy. Santol-Amontay Road.
Binalbagan is a very peaceful town. The people living there are also peace loving and friendly.
Thursday, July 9, 2009
People, Culture and Arts of Negros Occidental
Sugar is central to the evolution of the Negrense culture. The affluence and the prosperity that the industry brought to the province nourished a charming, genteel, sometimes lavish spirit that sets the Negrense apart from his Ilonggo kinsman. Negrense are regarded as affectionate, generous, fun loving people who enjoy the finer things in life. As a labor force, however, Negrenses are highly motivated, educated, skilled, trainable and entrepreneurial individuals.
Negrenses celebrate in style. Negros cuisine developed from this eagerness for festivity, though much of this remarkable cuisine is guarded jealously in family kitchens. Aside from dishes cooked with Spanish influences, probably the most famous dish Negros Occidental is remembered for is Inasal (barbecued marinated chicken).
Chicken InasalNegros pastries and confectionary are equally renowned, with guapple pie, piaya, barquillos, pinasugbo, pastel de mangga, panyo-panyo, butong-butong and dulce gatas ranked among the favorites. Negros is also presently giving Davao and Bicol Region a run for their pastilles de durian and pili nuts, respectively.
Negrenses are noted for their artistic abilities as well as for their love for sports. Many Negrense artists-designers/architects, cartoonists/visual artists have gained national and international distinction in their fields. The province is also noted for its world-class athletes in track and field, swimming, football, softball, golf and boxing among others. Even in the field of cock-fighting, it is known as the home of the best handlers and gamefowl breeders.
Pinaflores FestivalThe Negrenses' joie de vivre is manifested in the various festivals all over the province, foremost among which are famous MassKara Festival of Bacolod, Pasalamat Festival of La Carlota, Bailes de Luces of La Castellana and Pintaflores Festival of San Carlos. These and other interesting local festivals are featured during the Pana-ad sa Negros Festival staged every April at the 25-hectare tree-lined Pana-ad Stadium in Bacolod City. Dubbed as the "Festival of Festivals", Pana-ad brings together the 13 cities and 19 towns in a showcase of history, arts and culture, tourism, trade, commerce and industry, beauty and talent as well as games and sports.
"Man and Beast" sculpture at the Capitol Lagoon Negros Occidental is rich in structures and buildings that are remnants of a once affluent lifestyle. The Palacio Episcopal (1930), San Sebastian Cathedral (1876) and the Capitol Building (1931), are popular landmarks. Silay City has fine examples of sugar barons' palatial homes. In other towns, steam locomotives that used to cart sugarcane from the fields to refineries attract steam-engine enthusiasts frmo all over the world. There are also impressive churches all over the province, both built recently and during the Spanish era.
In my 22 years of living here at Negros Occidental, I find people here are peaceful, loving, friendly, helpful and enjoyable...
source
Negrenses celebrate in style. Negros cuisine developed from this eagerness for festivity, though much of this remarkable cuisine is guarded jealously in family kitchens. Aside from dishes cooked with Spanish influences, probably the most famous dish Negros Occidental is remembered for is Inasal (barbecued marinated chicken).
Chicken InasalNegros pastries and confectionary are equally renowned, with guapple pie, piaya, barquillos, pinasugbo, pastel de mangga, panyo-panyo, butong-butong and dulce gatas ranked among the favorites. Negros is also presently giving Davao and Bicol Region a run for their pastilles de durian and pili nuts, respectively.
Negrenses are noted for their artistic abilities as well as for their love for sports. Many Negrense artists-designers/architects, cartoonists/visual artists have gained national and international distinction in their fields. The province is also noted for its world-class athletes in track and field, swimming, football, softball, golf and boxing among others. Even in the field of cock-fighting, it is known as the home of the best handlers and gamefowl breeders.
Pinaflores FestivalThe Negrenses' joie de vivre is manifested in the various festivals all over the province, foremost among which are famous MassKara Festival of Bacolod, Pasalamat Festival of La Carlota, Bailes de Luces of La Castellana and Pintaflores Festival of San Carlos. These and other interesting local festivals are featured during the Pana-ad sa Negros Festival staged every April at the 25-hectare tree-lined Pana-ad Stadium in Bacolod City. Dubbed as the "Festival of Festivals", Pana-ad brings together the 13 cities and 19 towns in a showcase of history, arts and culture, tourism, trade, commerce and industry, beauty and talent as well as games and sports.
"Man and Beast" sculpture at the Capitol Lagoon Negros Occidental is rich in structures and buildings that are remnants of a once affluent lifestyle. The Palacio Episcopal (1930), San Sebastian Cathedral (1876) and the Capitol Building (1931), are popular landmarks. Silay City has fine examples of sugar barons' palatial homes. In other towns, steam locomotives that used to cart sugarcane from the fields to refineries attract steam-engine enthusiasts frmo all over the world. There are also impressive churches all over the province, both built recently and during the Spanish era.
In my 22 years of living here at Negros Occidental, I find people here are peaceful, loving, friendly, helpful and enjoyable...
source
Business & Industry in Negros Occidental
Negros Occidental is the Philippines' major sugar producer. Its principal sugar-growing region is located in the north and west of the island, stretching from northwest along the coasts of the Visayan Sea and Guimaras Strait, which is one of the country's principal lowland areas. Sugar refining has many by-products such as acetylene, fertilizers and rum.
Fishing is the major industry based in Cadiz City. There are also a number of fishponds and prawn farming has become a major industry.
Bacolod City is the center of commerce and finance in Negros Occidental. It is where you find oil companies, factories, bottling plants, allied industrial businesses, steel fabrication, power generation, agri-businesses, prawn culture and other aqua-culture ventures.
Negros Occidental is a fast growing island and a beautiful one to discover!
Fishing is the major industry based in Cadiz City. There are also a number of fishponds and prawn farming has become a major industry.
Bacolod City is the center of commerce and finance in Negros Occidental. It is where you find oil companies, factories, bottling plants, allied industrial businesses, steel fabrication, power generation, agri-businesses, prawn culture and other aqua-culture ventures.
Negros Occidental is a fast growing island and a beautiful one to discover!
History of Negros Occidental
Negros Island was originally called "Buglas", an old native word that is thought to mean "cut-off."
It is believed that Negros was once part of a greater mass of land but was cut off either by what geologists all a continental drift or by rising waters during the so-caled glacial age. Among its earliest inhabitants were dark-skinned natives belonging to the Negrito ethnic group with their unique cuture. Thus, the Spaniards alled the land "Negros" after the black natives whom they saw when they first came to the island in April 1565 Two of the earliest native settlements were Binalbagan and Ilog, that later became towns in 1573 and 1584, respectively. Oter settlements were Hinigaran, Bago, Marayo (now Pontevedra), Mamalan (now Himamaylan) and Candaguit (now a sitio in San Enrique).
After appointing encomenderos in the island, Miguel Lopez de Legaspi placed Negros under the jurisdiction of the governor of Oton in Panay. In 1734, however, the island became a military district and Ilog was made its first capital. The seat of government was later transferred to Himamaylan and thereafter Bacolod became the capital in 1849.
The island remained a military district up to about the middle of the 19th century. Then in 1865, Negros Occidental was raised to the category of a politico-military province. During this time, several more towns were established like San Carlos and Calatrava.
Religious orders evangelized the province by turns: the Augustinians, Recollects, Jesuits, Dominicans, Seculars and again, the Recollects returning in the 1800s.
The latter half of the 19th century was a period of rapid economic expansion for Negros Occidental as evidenced by the growth of population resulting from the influx of immigrants coming from neighboring provinces like Iloilo, Antique, Capiz and Cebu. They settled in districts sparsely inhabited in the past and this resulted in the establishments of new towns: Saravia (now E.B. Magalona), Valladolid and Escalante in 1860.
The major boom to the province at this time was the widespread cultivation of sugarcane and the opening of ports like those in Iloilo and Cebu to foreign commerce. In 1856, Negros Occidental produced only 4,000 piculs of sugar. This increased to 100,000 piculs in 1864 and 2,000,000 in 1893. The cultivation of sugarcane then became widespread and soon after Negros Occidental led other provinces in the production of sugar. Modern machines were also introduced at this time and by 1864, seven machines operated by steam were used in the towns of Bacolod, Minuluan (now Talisay and Bago).
During the last decade of the 19th century, several important events occurred in the history of Negros Occidental. One was the making of Negros Occidental as a separate province from Negros Oriental in 1890. The other was when Negrense revolutionary troops led by Generals Aniceto Lacson and Juan Araneta joined the nationwide-Katipunan Movement and overcame the Spanish garrison in the province on November 5, 1898 when the Filipinos rose in arms against the Spanish rule. The revolt ended more than 300 years of foreign domination.
This resulted in the establishment of the short lived “Cantonal Government of the Republic of Negros” which reunited the two provinces until the Americans arrived in May 1899. A civil government was established in Negros Occidental on April 20, 1901.
During the succeeding decades between 1901 and the 1930s, Negros Occidental was under the American occupation as with the rest of the country. Nonetheless, the economic growth continued especially with Philippine sugar having a part of the US market despite some accompanying socio-economic problems during this period. When the Japanese landed in the province on May and instead organized a free government and guerilla movement under Gov. Alfredo Montelibano, Sr. in Negros Island. They helped bring about the surrender of the Japanese forces in Negros in 1945.The history of the province for the post World War II period has yet to be formally written. Suffice it to briefly note here that this was mainly a period of rehabilitation from the destruction of war. With the sugar industry, the major pillar of the province’s economy, as well as other areas being revived, consequent socio-economic growth in the province followed.
The socio-economic life of Negros Occidental from the 1950s up to the 1980s depended as before mainly on the sugar industry. Producing annually about 60% of the country’s sugar output, an expansion in the industry with the establishment of several new mills in the late 1960s spurred increased production. A downturn caused by the low world sugar prices in the early 1980s was followed by possibly the worst industry and provincewide crisis starting in 1984 with the world sugar prices hitting rock bottom in 1985. The province was also hit by two destructive typhoons in 1984, Nitang and Undang, after a serious drought in 1983.
The year 1985 also marked the period when Negros Occidental became known throughout the country and abroad as suffering from historic socio-economic crisis. Various forms of international aid were sent to Negros and many Negrenses , national and foreign government and government organizations, responded in cooperation with the Philippine Government to help the province cope with the crisis.
While the country was simmering like a volcano that later erupted at EDSA in February 1986, Negros Occidental was split into two provinces after a plebiscite in Cadiz on January 3, 1986. Negros Occidental (mother province) was left with 3 cities and 18 municipalities while Negros del Norte (new province) had 3 cities and 8 municipalities starting from the City of Silay to the northern tip,San Carlos City, including the new town of Don Salvador Benedicto. The creation of this new province was, however, opposed by the Negros Anti-Partition Movement and the Supreme Court declared the creation unconstitutional on July 11, 1986. On August 18, 1986, Negros del Norte was formally returned to Negros Occidental, thus making the province whole again.
Toward the end of 1987, the rays of hope started to shine when the overall economic situation showed an upturn. The campaign for agricultural diversification had been gaining momentum, paving the way for more landowners to invest in prawn farming, livestock and high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables and other cash crops.Investments upswing became apparent by 1988. The participation of the industrial sector accelerated consumer-ld econoic growth and development manifested by the increase in sales of consumer goods and by-products.
However, just when the economic boom was beginning to seep in the overall economy of Negros Occidental brought about by the acceleration of various economic activities, the recurring ills of the sugar industry in the second half of the 1990's slowed down the continuing economic uptrend of the province. Nevertheless, ith the widespread benefits brought about by the positive changes in the socio-economic condition of the province by the 2000's, clear sign of economic recovery for Negros Occidental is anticipated.
Source
It is believed that Negros was once part of a greater mass of land but was cut off either by what geologists all a continental drift or by rising waters during the so-caled glacial age. Among its earliest inhabitants were dark-skinned natives belonging to the Negrito ethnic group with their unique cuture. Thus, the Spaniards alled the land "Negros" after the black natives whom they saw when they first came to the island in April 1565 Two of the earliest native settlements were Binalbagan and Ilog, that later became towns in 1573 and 1584, respectively. Oter settlements were Hinigaran, Bago, Marayo (now Pontevedra), Mamalan (now Himamaylan) and Candaguit (now a sitio in San Enrique).
After appointing encomenderos in the island, Miguel Lopez de Legaspi placed Negros under the jurisdiction of the governor of Oton in Panay. In 1734, however, the island became a military district and Ilog was made its first capital. The seat of government was later transferred to Himamaylan and thereafter Bacolod became the capital in 1849.
The island remained a military district up to about the middle of the 19th century. Then in 1865, Negros Occidental was raised to the category of a politico-military province. During this time, several more towns were established like San Carlos and Calatrava.
Religious orders evangelized the province by turns: the Augustinians, Recollects, Jesuits, Dominicans, Seculars and again, the Recollects returning in the 1800s.
The latter half of the 19th century was a period of rapid economic expansion for Negros Occidental as evidenced by the growth of population resulting from the influx of immigrants coming from neighboring provinces like Iloilo, Antique, Capiz and Cebu. They settled in districts sparsely inhabited in the past and this resulted in the establishments of new towns: Saravia (now E.B. Magalona), Valladolid and Escalante in 1860.
The major boom to the province at this time was the widespread cultivation of sugarcane and the opening of ports like those in Iloilo and Cebu to foreign commerce. In 1856, Negros Occidental produced only 4,000 piculs of sugar. This increased to 100,000 piculs in 1864 and 2,000,000 in 1893. The cultivation of sugarcane then became widespread and soon after Negros Occidental led other provinces in the production of sugar. Modern machines were also introduced at this time and by 1864, seven machines operated by steam were used in the towns of Bacolod, Minuluan (now Talisay and Bago).
During the last decade of the 19th century, several important events occurred in the history of Negros Occidental. One was the making of Negros Occidental as a separate province from Negros Oriental in 1890. The other was when Negrense revolutionary troops led by Generals Aniceto Lacson and Juan Araneta joined the nationwide-Katipunan Movement and overcame the Spanish garrison in the province on November 5, 1898 when the Filipinos rose in arms against the Spanish rule. The revolt ended more than 300 years of foreign domination.
This resulted in the establishment of the short lived “Cantonal Government of the Republic of Negros” which reunited the two provinces until the Americans arrived in May 1899. A civil government was established in Negros Occidental on April 20, 1901.
During the succeeding decades between 1901 and the 1930s, Negros Occidental was under the American occupation as with the rest of the country. Nonetheless, the economic growth continued especially with Philippine sugar having a part of the US market despite some accompanying socio-economic problems during this period. When the Japanese landed in the province on May and instead organized a free government and guerilla movement under Gov. Alfredo Montelibano, Sr. in Negros Island. They helped bring about the surrender of the Japanese forces in Negros in 1945.The history of the province for the post World War II period has yet to be formally written. Suffice it to briefly note here that this was mainly a period of rehabilitation from the destruction of war. With the sugar industry, the major pillar of the province’s economy, as well as other areas being revived, consequent socio-economic growth in the province followed.
The socio-economic life of Negros Occidental from the 1950s up to the 1980s depended as before mainly on the sugar industry. Producing annually about 60% of the country’s sugar output, an expansion in the industry with the establishment of several new mills in the late 1960s spurred increased production. A downturn caused by the low world sugar prices in the early 1980s was followed by possibly the worst industry and provincewide crisis starting in 1984 with the world sugar prices hitting rock bottom in 1985. The province was also hit by two destructive typhoons in 1984, Nitang and Undang, after a serious drought in 1983.
The year 1985 also marked the period when Negros Occidental became known throughout the country and abroad as suffering from historic socio-economic crisis. Various forms of international aid were sent to Negros and many Negrenses , national and foreign government and government organizations, responded in cooperation with the Philippine Government to help the province cope with the crisis.
While the country was simmering like a volcano that later erupted at EDSA in February 1986, Negros Occidental was split into two provinces after a plebiscite in Cadiz on January 3, 1986. Negros Occidental (mother province) was left with 3 cities and 18 municipalities while Negros del Norte (new province) had 3 cities and 8 municipalities starting from the City of Silay to the northern tip,San Carlos City, including the new town of Don Salvador Benedicto. The creation of this new province was, however, opposed by the Negros Anti-Partition Movement and the Supreme Court declared the creation unconstitutional on July 11, 1986. On August 18, 1986, Negros del Norte was formally returned to Negros Occidental, thus making the province whole again.
Toward the end of 1987, the rays of hope started to shine when the overall economic situation showed an upturn. The campaign for agricultural diversification had been gaining momentum, paving the way for more landowners to invest in prawn farming, livestock and high-value crops such as fruits, vegetables and other cash crops.Investments upswing became apparent by 1988. The participation of the industrial sector accelerated consumer-ld econoic growth and development manifested by the increase in sales of consumer goods and by-products.
However, just when the economic boom was beginning to seep in the overall economy of Negros Occidental brought about by the acceleration of various economic activities, the recurring ills of the sugar industry in the second half of the 1990's slowed down the continuing economic uptrend of the province. Nevertheless, ith the widespread benefits brought about by the positive changes in the socio-economic condition of the province by the 2000's, clear sign of economic recovery for Negros Occidental is anticipated.
Source
My First Time in Negros Occidental
It was in 1987 when I first set foot in the island of Negros Occidental. My father was assigned as Superintendent of then Negros Occidental School of Fisheries, Binalbagan, Negros Occidental. My wife also had an opportunity to teach at the said school. In August of 1987, I was transferred as COA Unit Auditor of Negros Occidental Agricultural College, Kabankalan, Negros Occidental. Since 1987, because my wife was already working here at Binalbagan and I at Kabankalan, we decided to settle down here at the Negros Occidental, which I found out later on to be a beautiful island, full of natural resources and wonders…
Negros Occidental is located in the western side of NegrosIsland, the fourth largest island in the Philippines with a total land area of 972,607 hectares or 9,726.06 sq. kms.
The province is approximately 375 kilometers long from north to south. It is bounded by the Visayan Sea in the north, Panay Gulf on the west, Tanon Strait and Negros Oriental province on the east and Sulu Sea on the south. Negros is basically volcanic, making its soil ideal for agriculture. Eighty percent of all arable land is cultivated.
Mount Kanlaon is one of the mountain ranges found in the heart of Negros Island. One of the country's 13 most active volcanoes, Kanlaon is the highest peak in Central Philippines. At an elevation of 2,465 meters above sea level, the most dominant and attractive feature of which is its active summit-crater. Mt. Kanlaon has a land area of 24,577.6 hectares, with rainforest and verdant vegetation sliced from the cities of Bago, La Carlota, San Carlos and Canlaon (in Negros Oriental) and the towns of Murcia and La Castellana.
The trek trough ridges and deep gorges for 14.5 kilometers shows a panorama of lowlands and carved mountains. An 8.5 kilometer ascent along sights of refreshing waterfalls and treacherous trails best capture the moods of this unpredictable volcano. Rare endemic species such as the Bleeding Heart Pigeon and the Negros Fruit Dove are protected in this park, which makes bird watchnig a prime attraction. Other birds include woodpeckers, bulbuls, babblers, warblers and flycatchers. The Guintubdan Nature Camp in La Carlota City is one of the best take-off points in climbing Mt. Kanlaon.
Negros Occidental can be reached through its capital, Bacolod City, which is 55 minutes from Manila and 30 minutes from Cebu by air.
By sea, it is an 18-hour cruise frmo Manila and one hour from Iloilo. By land and sea travel, it is 7 hours from Cebu. From Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, Bacolod is 5 hours away via Mabinay in the south.
Negros Occidental's climate is generally pleasant with a dry season from December to May and rainy season from June to November.
The warmest months are April and May and the coolest are from December to February. The average temperature is 26°C/80°F.
Negros Occidental is located in the western side of NegrosIsland, the fourth largest island in the Philippines with a total land area of 972,607 hectares or 9,726.06 sq. kms.
The province is approximately 375 kilometers long from north to south. It is bounded by the Visayan Sea in the north, Panay Gulf on the west, Tanon Strait and Negros Oriental province on the east and Sulu Sea on the south. Negros is basically volcanic, making its soil ideal for agriculture. Eighty percent of all arable land is cultivated.
Mount Kanlaon is one of the mountain ranges found in the heart of Negros Island. One of the country's 13 most active volcanoes, Kanlaon is the highest peak in Central Philippines. At an elevation of 2,465 meters above sea level, the most dominant and attractive feature of which is its active summit-crater. Mt. Kanlaon has a land area of 24,577.6 hectares, with rainforest and verdant vegetation sliced from the cities of Bago, La Carlota, San Carlos and Canlaon (in Negros Oriental) and the towns of Murcia and La Castellana.
The trek trough ridges and deep gorges for 14.5 kilometers shows a panorama of lowlands and carved mountains. An 8.5 kilometer ascent along sights of refreshing waterfalls and treacherous trails best capture the moods of this unpredictable volcano. Rare endemic species such as the Bleeding Heart Pigeon and the Negros Fruit Dove are protected in this park, which makes bird watchnig a prime attraction. Other birds include woodpeckers, bulbuls, babblers, warblers and flycatchers. The Guintubdan Nature Camp in La Carlota City is one of the best take-off points in climbing Mt. Kanlaon.
Negros Occidental can be reached through its capital, Bacolod City, which is 55 minutes from Manila and 30 minutes from Cebu by air.
By sea, it is an 18-hour cruise frmo Manila and one hour from Iloilo. By land and sea travel, it is 7 hours from Cebu. From Dumaguete City in Negros Oriental, Bacolod is 5 hours away via Mabinay in the south.
Negros Occidental's climate is generally pleasant with a dry season from December to May and rainy season from June to November.
The warmest months are April and May and the coolest are from December to February. The average temperature is 26°C/80°F.
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