The Negros Occidental Sports and Recreational Park, popularly known as the Panaad Park and Sports Complex, is the home of all the major sports events in Bacolod, and is one of the major complexes in all of Negros. Its numerous features have made it one of the biggest tourist attractions in the city.
What to See
The complex occupies a total land area of 25 hectares (more than 60 acres) and has a host of facilities that will rival those of any stadium in Metro Manila. The major attraction here is the Panaad Sports Stadium. It has all the features one would expect from a modern coliseum, and it has a seating capacity of more than 15,500 (over 20,000 if those standing are included).
The stadium at the Negros Occidental Sports and Recreational Park has played host to a lot of international sports events including the 2005 SEA football games. It also served as the site for the 2007 ASEAN Football Qualifying Tournament and it is where the Philippine football team plays.
The complex also features other facilities for other sports events including a track oval, an Olympic sized swimming pool, and many others. There is also a section in the complex that is filled with luxuriant trees, greenery and also facsimiles of the major landmarks of the municipalities and cities of the province.
Aside from sports, the stadium also plays host to other major events and celebrations in Bacolod, including the famous Panaad fiesta, which turns the whole complex into a colorful and festive center.
Location and Cost
The Negros Occidental Sports and Recreational Park can be found at Barangay Alijis, which is only a few kilometers from the city of Bacolod. Because it is widely known as a tourist attraction and landmark, finding a jeepney or bus to take you there will be quite straightforward. The cost of a ride itself, if you are coming from Bacolod, will be about Php 15 for a jeepney. If you will be taking your own vehicle, you can ask the locals for directions as the place is very well known. Of course, the other expenses like the entrance fee and tickets will depend on what event is taking place.
Whether it is football or festivals, the Negros Occidental Sports and Recreational Park is the spot where all the major gatherings in Bacolod take place; if you want to see what is happening in town, drop by the stadium and you will find out.  |