The Bacolod City government has sought P300-million funding from the Department of Tourism (DOT) and the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) for the improvement of the facilities at the public plaza and Government Center.

Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez said on Tuesday, December 12, they have requested P80 million for the installation of a water fountain at the plaza and P220 million for the renovation of the Bacolod City Government Center grounds.

“We have sent a request, we are expecting that they will ask for more details. I will just follow it up,” he said.

The Sangguniang Panlungsod passed a resolution requesting the proposed funding for the two projects to boost tourism in the city.

“Tourism Secretary Christina Frasco required us to send a letter with regards to the construction of the fountains in the plaza and the Government Center,” Councilor Jason Villarosa, chairman of the committee on tourism, said.

Benitez proposed the necessary renovations to both city landmarks during Frasco’s visit to the city for the launching of The Philippine Experience: Culture, Heritage, and Arts Program on November 29.

He said that once the public plaza is improved and upgraded, he is thinking of converting it into a destination similar to those that can be found in countries like Japan and Singapore.

“The concept is similar to teamLab [international art collective] which uses light and music to highlight the serenity and comfort of people visiting the place. If we do that in the plaza, then you can just imagine how people will appreciate it and go there,” he added. (PNA)