Bacolod City’s Honorary Mayor and adopted son, Hon. Hans T. Sy, Chairman of the Executive Committee of SM Prime Holdings, Inc., recently revealed the company’s largest upcoming project: a 20-hectare mixed-use township located along Araneta Avenue at the site of the old Bacolod Airport. This new development, which Sy envisions as an urban oasis, was announced at the Spring Festival Gala Night held at the SMX Convention Center in Bacolod City on January 30, 2025.
Sy shared that the development will include an upscale shopping and lifestyle center, as well as BPO offices and other commercial ventures, all of which he believes will greatly benefit both the business sector and the city as a whole. “These exciting projects reflect our unwavering belief in Bacolod's potential,” he said. “We ask you to look at us as your partner, supporting your aspirations of progress and prosperity for everyone.”
He emphasized that by fostering employment in the BPO sector, Bacolod is positioning itself as a hub for digital natives, whose contributions will enhance the city's economic vitality while keeping talent within the country. The expansion of SM’s South Wing will also feature new experiences, catering to Bacolodnons who travel the world, such as a game park, new cinemas, and national prestige brands.
“The Year of the Snake encourages us to think long-term, make calculated decisions, and foster partnerships for meaningful change,” Sy added. “I am proud and inspired to be part of Bacolod's transformation.”
Manokan Country Revitalization
Sy also highlighted one of the key initiatives SM is supporting—the redevelopment of Manokan Country, a local landmark known for its cultural and culinary significance. “It’s not just a dining destination; it’s a symbol of Bacolod's identity,” he explained. “Manokan Country is a popular first stop for visitors arriving in the city, and our collaboration with the local government will focus on creating a future-ready and disaster-resilient infrastructure.”
He further emphasized that the redevelopment aims to preserve the unique experience of Manokan Country while elevating it as a world-class destination. The revitalized infrastructure will offer safer, sustainable facilities, and the community of tenants will be supported with financial literacy workshops. “This upgrade isn’t just structural; it’s a step toward preserving Bacolod's traditions while embracing its potential as a world-class city,” Sy said, noting how markets and food halls in European cities like Madrid, Barcelona, and London define those destinations.
National University in Bacolod
Another major commitment Sy shared was the establishment of NU Bacolod, the first Visayas-Mindanao campus of National University, which opened in August 2024. “NU’s mission is to provide accessible, high-quality education without the burden of prohibitive tuition fees, equipping young Filipinos with the tools they need to succeed in today’s competitive world,” he said.
With nearly 70,000 enrollees across its campuses nationwide, National University’s rapid growth underscores Sy’s dream of empowering the next generation of leaders and innovators. “My father always said that education is vital for economic development, and with the opening of NU Bacolod, we are helping shape a future workforce that will contribute positively to the city's prosperity and growth,” Sy noted.
He also expressed excitement about the development of the North Block building, which houses both the NU Bacolod campus and modern facilities for BPOs. “As we celebrate the Chinese New Year, we hope we can all embrace the values of opportunity and new beginnings,” Sy concluded.