TIEZA delays Bacolod plaza and fountain projects amid quality concerns

The Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA) has revised the completion timeline for the redevelopment of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC) fountain and the Bacolod Public Plaza to January 27, 2027. The total contract cost for these projects has increased from P299.9 million to P328 million due to additional works, including typhoon repairs, structural upgrades, and power supply improvements.

Bacolod Mayor Greg Gasataya has expressed dissatisfaction with the projects, citing numerous defects and safety hazards such as drainage failures, surface ponding, non-functional lighting, and unsecured fountain nozzles. The Mayor has refused to sign acceptance documents until the quality meets required standards. Concerns have also been raised regarding the project's adherence to historical preservation laws, as the public plaza is a designated national historical landmark.

TIEZA officials attributed the delays to work suspensions, inclement weather, environmental compliance requirements, and technical revisions during the city government's review process. While the revised deadline is in 2027, TIEZA stated it is striving to complete the works within 2026.