THE Western Visayas region will have its own version of the iconic Mall of Asia when SM City Bacolod opens its doors to the public on Friday, March 2. It is SM Prime Holdings’ 28th supermall and will serve customers in this dynamic hub of trade, education and government services in Negros Occidental.
 

Located on a 16-hectare property across Rizal,Street, the 60,000-sqm mall will bring SM’s shopping, leisure and entertainment excitement to Bacolod City, as well as Negros Occidental and nearby provinces. Like the Mall of Asia, which has a spectacular view of scenic Manila Bay, SM City Bacolod is located in a reclaimed area near the harbor of Guimaras Strait. This will give mall goers the added attraction of fresh air and a breathtaking view of this busy waterway.

This single-level retail and entertainment center consists of two separate buildings connected by a bridgeway. Building A includes SM Hypermarket, selected anchor stores, other retail stores, four cinemas and outdoor dining facilities. Building B, on the other hand, has the SM Department Store as its major anchor; and includes the SM Food court, the entertainment area, stores and restaurants and outdoor dining areas.

SM City Bacolod is a mall of many new concepts: a bridge way highlights the architectural character of the whole structure, unifying the design of two buildings, and making it the first of its kind among, SM malls. It welcomes customers with a six-sided grand facade with 10 SM signage all around.

The mall’s interiors are equally compelling high ceilings and colorful murals inspired by Bacolod’s world-famous Maskara Festival and designed by popular director Fritz Infante.

SM City Bacolod will have about 200 tenants, including SM anchors, fashion boutiques, shoe and home stores, and computer stores. Apart from the foodcourt, it also has local and international fastfood chains, food retailers and specialty restaurants. It will have major international and Manila¬based brands, as well as homegrown retailers and restaurants.

Some of the mall’s attractions include an al fresco dining area called the Fiesta Strip on both sides of Rizal Street, an event center for premier events and a theater that can be converted as a venue for concerts, plays, product launches, and conventions.