The executive committee chairman of integrated property developer SM Prime Holdings Inc., Hans T. Sy, was honored January 30 the title Adopted Son and Honorary Mayor of Bacolod City during the 20th Bacolaodiat Festival, one of the country’s largest Chinese New Year celebrations. 

Bacolaodiat is a combination of the words “Baco” for Bacolod and “Lao Diat,” the Fookien meaning for celebration. The festival showcases the strong connection between Bacolod City and the Filipino-Chinese community.

Official Conferment by the Bacolod City Council

Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran presented a resolution formalizing the recognition during the Bacolod City Council’s regular session, recognizing Sy’s outstanding contributions to the city’s economic development, leadership, and philanthropic efforts. Unanimously passed by council members, the resolution also praised his commitment to social responsibility, family values, and civic engagement, particularly in the city.

In response, Sy expressed gratitude for the honor, reflecting on his long-standing ties to Bacolod. He praised the city’s inclusive, vibrant community and emphasized the strong relationship between Bacolod and its Filipino-Chinese population, which has been a driving force behind SM’s investments in the city for nearly two decades. 

After his conferment, Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez warmly welcomed Sy and his children, Harvey and Hanna Carinna in the Mayor’s Office where he sat down as an official Honorary Mayor. 

Spectacular Spring Festival 

Later that evening, Hans Sy was the guest of honor at the Spring Festival Gala at SMX Convention Center. Organized by the Bacolaodiat, Inc., Honorary Mayor Sy was greeted and received by the organization’s president, John Stephen Sy, founder of the festival and chairman emeritus Alfredo Barcelona, city officials led by Mayor Albee Benitez, and members of the Tsinoy business and family associations. Some 2,000 attendees gathered to celebrate the Chinese New Year and welcome the Year of the Snake. 

The gala featured a variety of festive performances, including the traditional Lion and Dragon dances, an acrobatic show, and musical entertainment from educational and cultural institutions. One highlight was a captivating display by the multi-awarded National University Pep Squad, which wowed the crowd with their world-class cheerleading performance.

Sy reiterated his commitment to supporting Bacolod’s growth through business, education, tourism, job creation, and his personal advocacy for sustainability and disaster prevention. 

A Milestone Bacolaodiat 

The Bacolaodiat Festival remains a key celebration of Bacolod’s vibrant culture, uniting families, friends, and business leaders for a memorable celebration of heritage and community. Marking a milestone of 20 years, the festivities are spread across the city, with most of the events happening at SM City Bacolod.