SM Prime Holdings Inc. is confident about the long-term prospects of Bacolod City that it turned over P131.89 million to Mayor Albee Benitez for the redevelopment of the iconic Manokan Country, signalling the start of its transformation into a top tourist draw that honors Ilonggo food culture and tradition.
The amount turned over by SM Supermalls president Steven Tan to Mayor Benitez represented seven years of advance rental payments for Manokan Country, under the 40-year lease agreement with the city at an annual rental fee of P21.26 million, subject to a five percent escalation rate every three years.
SM Prime, one of Asia's leading real estate developers, will redevelop the Manokan Country into a tech-ready, more spacious food hall, with a kitchen that will assure customers of the sanitary preparations and quality cooking of the Chicken Inasal and options for airconditioned spaces for more comfortable dining.
"We treasure the relationship we have built with the community of Bacolod City and we remain committed to further enhancing their shopping and dining experience, particularly at their well-loved Manokan Country," Lim said.
"The design of the new Manokan was greatly influenced by our passion to provide customers, including our Chicken Inasal entrepreneurs, with a world-class facility they can be really proud of."
Lim explained that the modernization of Manokan Country is essential to cater to the evolving needs and expectations of both locals and tourists. "Upgrading the infrastructure and facilities within Manokan Country will not only enhance the overall dining experience but also improve safety, hygiene standards, and operational efficiency that customers are prioritizing nowadays," he added.
Tech-powered food hub
SM Prime will redevelop the Manokan Country into a tech-ready, more spacious food hall, with a kitchen that will assure customers of the sanitary preparations and quality cooking of the Chicken Inasal and options for airconditioned spaces for more comfortable dining.
"We treasure the relationship we have built with the community of Bacolod City and we remain committed to further enhancing their shopping and dining experience, particularly at their well-loved Manokan Country," Lim said.
"The design of the new Manokan was greatly influenced by our passion to provide customers, including our Chicken Inasal entrepreneurs, with a world-class facility they can be really proud of."