In celebration of Bacolod City’s rich history, property giant Megaworld, recently unveiled The Upper East Historic Gallery at The Upper East House. This gallery is a tribute to the Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company complex and the prominent BMMC Executive Guesthouse also known to nearby residents as the White Mansion. This is another must-be-visited attraction in the expansive 34-hectare The Upper East township development in Bacolod City.
The Upper East Historic Gallery: Honoring the Past for Future Growth
The Bacolod-Murcia Milling Company (BMMC), during its glory days, was a driving force in boosting the sugar industry and bolstering the economies of Bacolod City and Negros Occidental. Today, the mantle has been passed to Megaworld’s The Upper East. They are fulfilling this challenge by turning the township into a modern central business district, ready to significantly influence the city’s future development.
The “Historic Gallery” at The Upper East House shows Megaworld’s commitment to Bacolod’s growth. It’s a place where you can see the city’s history and future side by side.
The BMMC Executive Guesthouse – A Symbol of Elegance
The Executive Guesthouse of the BMMC was known for hosting grand events that played a big role in Bacolod’s sugar industry development. Megaworld built a replica of the White Mansion that now houses Megaworld’s Township and Information Center in Bacolod, bringing the old structure back to life. In this elegant structure, where you can find the Historic Gallery, visitors can view old photos, memorabilia, and preserved items that capture the elegance of that era.
Key Exhibits
- Hacienderos of Negros: Photos of the pioneering hacienderos who helped establish the BMMC.
- Early 1900s Sugar Central: Vintage photos showing the thriving sugar industry in the early 1900s.
- BMMC Executive Guesthouse: Original images of the Executive Guesthouse, showcasing the elegance of old Bacolod.
- Century-Old Murcia Train: A photo of the century-old Murcia train, highlighting its role in transporting sugar canes.
- Preserved Window: One of the original guesthouse windows is preserved and displayed in the gallery. Visitors get a nostalgic glimpse into the historical elegance of a bygone era.
The Unveiling Ceremony
The Historic Gallery’s unveiling was a significant event, led by the First Lady of the Philippines, Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos and Kevin L. Tan, CEO of Alliance Global. Other guests of honor were Ms. Lourdes Gutierrez-Alfonso, Megaworld’s CEO, and Bacolod Mayor Albee Benitez, who took the time out of his busy MassKara Festival 2023 schedule to join the event.
This event paid tribute to the White Mansion’s legacy and its importance in Bacolod’s history.
Future Developments in The Upper East
For Megaworld’s commitment to Bacolod’s progress, they have also announced the building of Kensington Sky Garden. The Kensington Sky Garden is a two-tower 26-story residential condominium development that will redefine Bacolod’s skyline. This upcoming project sits at the corner of Upper East Avenue and Bentley Street. And it will feature 643 ‘smart home’ units. Moreover, it will stand across the newly-opened Landers Superstore Bacolod–the biggest Landers in the Philippines.
Other upcoming projects in this township are the 12-story Kingsford Hotel Bacolod, the Upper East Mall, and more, promising a bright future for Bacolod City. Megaworld also has other exciting plans for their Northill Gateway. Pretty sure Bacolodnons are also excited about Northill Parade – the ultimate food tourist destination of Megaworld.
The Upper East Historic Gallery serves as a reminder of Bacolod City’s rich history. Its purpose is to protect the legacy of the White Mansion and the pioneers of the sugar industry. As Megaworld’s The Upper East area develops, it holds onto the city’s history while moving it toward a better future. The gallery connects Bacolod’s heritage to its promising future.
