TOUR
Bago Binalbagan
Cadiz Calatrava
Candoni CauayanE. B.
Magalona Escalante
Himamaylan Hinigaran
Hinobaan Ilog Isabela
Kabankalan La Carlota
La Castellana Manapla
Moises Padilla Murcia
Pontevedra
Pulupandan Sagay
Don Salvador
Benedicto San Carlos
San Enrique Silay
Sipalay Talisay Toboso
Valladolid Victorias
Amlan Ayungon
Bacong Bais Basay
Bayawan Bindoy
Canlaon Dauin
Dumaguete
Guihulngan Jimalalud
La Libertad Mabinay
Manjuyod Pamplona
San Jose Santa
Catalina Siaton
Sibulan Tanjay
Tayasan Valencia
Vallehermoso
Zamboanguita
In partial fulfillment of the requirements For the completion of the subject NEGRENSE
STUDIES
A B O U T T H E A U T H O R
SophiaBiancaA.Estrellaisa second-year Political Science student enrolled in Negrense Studies (POLSCI 106). A passionate traveler and a proud resident of Negros, she finds deep meaninginexploringtherich history, culture, and beauty ofherhomeprovince.
Her love for travel and her connection to her roots made the Negros Tour Trip a truly special experience. Through this travelogue, she shares the unforgettable moments and valuable lessons from the journey, celebrating the vibrant heritage of the Negrense community.
BACKGROUND
For many years now, it has been a tradition for secondyear Polscilistas to have their NegrosTourtripasanintegral part of their Negrense Studies subject. This immersive tradition allows students to explore the region's cultural, sss
historical, and political landscapes. However, this year marks a significant milestone for the Political Science Department. For the first time in history, the Batch 2027 Polscilistas extended their journey beyond Negros Island tothemysticalprovinceofSiquijor—anislandsoutheastof Negros, renowned for its natural beauty and rich folklore. The newly established Negros Island Region Act (RA 12000)facilitatedthisbreakthrough.
Accompanying the second-year Polscilistas on this groundbreaking journey were their esteemed educators: Dr. Virgilio Aguilar, Ms. Veronica De Asis, and Sir Ryan Villasis. During their last trip to Siquijor and Negros Occidental, the executive officers of the Political Science Society also accompanied them to further their ti ith th P liti lS i choolsacrossthe
In a nutshell, the Negros Tour tripwasasuccess,largelydue to the hard work, dedication, and teamwork of everyone involved. The moments of laughter, lessons learned, and memories shared during the trip are truly worth remembering, regardless of the hurdles experienced throughoutthejourney.
OBJECTIVES
heNegrosTour2024aimstofacilitatetheeducation of second-year Polscilistas by letting them explore the wonders and history of their region. Learning through experience, having been exposed outside theconfinesofafour-walledclassroom,isinevitably more helpful for the students in understanding their focus of discussion better. Through this trip, the second-yearPolscilistashave:
Deeplyconnectedwiththehistoryoftheirregion
Sharedthecolorfulculturallifeoftheirregion
HeardstoriesfromwitnessesofnotableNegrosevents
EngagedwithLGUsandotherPoliticalScienceschools
EnrichedtheirknowledgewiththeNegrosIslandRegion Honedbetterinterpersonalskills
The Negros Tour 2024 not only broadened the academic horizons of the Polscilistas but also cultivated their appreciation for the culture, politics, and rich history that defines the roots of their region. This journey exemplified the transformative power of experiential learning, leaving a meaningfulmarkintheheartsofeveryone.
Cinco Noviembre de
St.JohntheBaptist
ParishChurch
ThePolscilistasstartedtheirtripearlyinthe
BeatingtheheatofthesunarethesecondmorningtotraveltoBagoCity.StartingCinco deNoviembrewithamassisagreatwayto startaday.Thischurchisknowntobea fortressformanyinBagoCity,especially duringtheNegrosRevolution.The solemnityremindedtheStudents oftheresilienceandunityofthe Negrensesduringtheirfight forfreedom.
ParadeandCanon BlowingCeremony
yearPolsilistasjoiningthecivicandmilitary. parade.Thisparadeisatraditionyearlyduring CincodeNoviembre.Schoolsandorganizationsfrom differentcitiesareparticipatinginit,showcasingthevibrant spiritofthecelebration.MostpublicschoolsinBagodazzled in majorette performances, while others captivated attention with their creatively designed floats. The parade culminated at Bantayan Park, where the Polscilistas experienced firsthand the dramatic blowing of cannons a historical tradition symbolizing resistance and freedom. They also witnessed live enactments of historic events performed by participating schools, bringing the region’s rich history to life. This immersive experience deepened their appreciation for the cultural and historical significance of Cinco de Noviembre, leaving a lasting impressiononeveryonepresent.
BalayniTanJuan
Ending the parade late in the morning calls for a fulfilling lunch. The second-year Polscilistas went to Balay ni Tan Juan where they enjoyed a scrumptious buffet meal. After their stomachs were filled, they got the privilege to enter the historical house and marvel at its timeless architecture. This historical landmark istheresidenceofJuanAraneta,therenowned leaderoftheNegrosRevolution'snorthernfront. It is known to be a symbol of courage and strategic brilliance, as it played a significant role during the revolution. The house preserves not only the personal artifacts of Juan Araneta but also the legacy of a remarkable time in Negros’history.
BantayanPark
Before heading north, the Polscilistas dropped byBantayanParkonceagaintobuysouvenirs, try out food stalls, and hand off their token of appreciation to the government officials of the city, expressing gratitude for the warm assistance and hospitality extended to them during their visit. It was also during this time that the awarding ceremony took place, recognizing the standout performances from the canon-blowing and enactment presentations. This final stop at Bantayan Park not only highlighted the collaborative spirit of the event but also marked a meaningful conclusion to the Polscilistas’ enriching experienceinBagoCity.
SilayHeritageZone
BalayniTanaDicang FarmaciaLocsin
ThePolscilistas City, the "Paris of Negros," was the historic Balay ni Tana Dicang,asymbolofthewealthy sugar industry era. The ancestral house showcased impressive architecture and interior design. Tana Dicang was known to personally engage in the public and private affairs of the people in her household; hence, the house layout was designed to facilitatesuch.Thehouseisalso known to be one of the most preservedinthecity.Overall,the visit offered a rich perspective onNegrosOccidental’sheritage andculturalpride.
The final destination of the trip was the remarkable historical landmark—Farmacia Locsin, a testament to Silay City’s rich history. The family Locsin is known for their significant contributions to Negros Occidental. It was one of the earliest pharmacies in the region, essential for providing essential medical supplies and servingasagatheringplacefor revolutionaries during the Spanish colonial period. Visiting this site allowed Polscilistas to appreciate the Locsins' legacy of public service, entrepreneurship, and patriotismintheregion.
CINCO DE NO REFLECTION
Cinco de Noviembre is a yearly commemoration of the revolution by the Negrosananos standing against the Spanish colonial government in 1898. The leader from the north, Aniceto Lacson, and the leader from the south, JuanAraneta,joinedforces for the surrender and expulsion of the Spaniards, endingoverthreecenturies oftheirruleintheprovince, and paving the way to the establishment of the RepublicadeNegros.
The opportunity to visit Bago City and Silay City to witness the heritage of our Negrense roots was truly an experience worth remembering for us second-year Polscilistas.
Attending a mass at St. John the Baptist Church, joining the socio-civic military parade, and visiting Balay ni Tan Juan, Balay ni Tana Dicang, and Farmacia Locsin deepened our appreciation for the courage, resilience, and unity of the Negrenses, leaving us inspired by their enduring legacy. Indeed, personally experiencing cultural traditions, exploring historical landmarks, and hearing stories of Negrense heroes brought the significance of the Negros Revolution to life.
Upon arrival in San Carlos City, the second-year Polscilistas enjoyed breakfast before heading to People’s Park, where they marveled at its mesmerizing landscape and oceanic view. The serenity reflected thenaturalbeautyofNegros Occidental, offering a peaceful retreat from the bustlingcity,especiallysince we came from the busy BacolodCity.
ting the day with an enturous spirit, the cilistas passed by the ’s Park at Don Salvador edicto on their way to CarlosCity.
The park’s wellmaintained gardens and scenic surroundings reminded the Polscilistas of the region’s rich cultural and environmental heritage.
Visiting the famous landmark reflecting the brutality and wrongdoings during Pres. Marcos Senior's regime reignited a profound sense of activismaswellasit Escalante Massacre
Landmark renewedthesecond-yearPolscilistas’resolvetofightinjustice.During thistime,peoplefromthetourismofficeinitiatedtheprogram,where fortunately one of the speakers was a primary witness of the massacre, and we got to hear her story. She mentioned that after justice was served, Escalante City no longer favored activism but ratherpeacefulreforms.Theprogramendedwithasilentprayerrally, candlelighting,andatalkbacksession.
The one-of-a-kind architecture of the Pentagon NGC of Escalante truly amazed us secondyear Polscilitas.
Entering the Mayor’s office and hearing his sentiments about the progress of sssssis
Escalante City and his stance on the newly established RA 12000 or theNegrosIslandRegionAct,helpedenhanceourpoliticalawareness. We learned that Escalante City is at the forefront of reforms and improvementsinNegrosOccidental.
VitoChurchand OldSagayPlaza
Before heading to lunch, the second-year Polscilistas stopped at Vito Church in Sagay, one of the most renowned religious landmarks in Negros Occidental. It is a popular pilgrimage site known for its rich history and deep spiritual significance. After visiting the church, the Polscilistas went to the Old Sagay Plaza, where they enjoyedthesereneatmosphere while eating Sagaynon foods— may it be inasal, chicken wings, orsignaturericebowls.
MuseoPambata
Uponenteringthemuseum,the Polscilistas were greeted by a children's performance. These talented children also served as tour guides, impressing the students with their extensive knowledge and passion for preserving and protecting Sagay's marine life. The museum also showcased donated toys, carnival-like stalls, and an indoor aquarium. The Polscilistas were truly mesmerized by the museum’s uniqueness and were deeply movedbythededicationofthe childrenofSagay.
MemorialMonumentof EliasMagbanua
Traveling hours away from Sagay, the second-year Polscilistas went to the Elias Magbanua Shrine at EB Magalona, where the local government unit of the area prepared a program for them. It was a tribute including stories of the famous Negrosanon hero Elias Magbanua and how young he was in raising the Negros banner against the colonizer. The program ended with an offering of flowers andasolemncandle-lightingceremony.
NEGROS OCCIDENTAL REFLECTION
Onememorableexperiencewaswhenour professor,Dr.Aguilar,showedusthereverse gravityonourwaytoSanCarlosfromDSB.
Negros Occidental, previously part of Region 6, is now part of the Negros Island Region, or Region 18. Our journey across the province was deeply memorable for us Polscilistas, as it allowed us to explore the breathtaking beauty beyond the hustle andbustleofitscapitalcity, Bacolod—ourhometown.
The journey reminded the second-year Polscilistas of the vibrancy of our region by visiting each town and city, revealing diverse cultures, rich histories, and stunningscenery.
Beyondtheleisureofseeingviewsonthetrip,theexperience allowed us to appreciate the resilience and hospitality of the people we encountered. It reminded us of the importance of valuing our heritage and being mindful of our role in preserving it. This journey was more than just a trip—it was a celebrationofthebeauty,culture,andidentitythatbindusas Negrenses.
DumaguetePort
Arriving early in the morning called for a hearty breakfast to fuel us for the long day ahead. The second-year Polscilistas headed to Dumaguete Port, whereweenjoyedadelicious
SiquijorPort
mealwhiletakingintherefreshing coastal atmosphere. The port was undeniablyofhighstandards,even better than the one at the capitol of Negros Occidental Bacolod City.
SettingfootatSiquijorport,thePolscilistaswereimmediatelygreeted with the hospitality of the Siquijornons by providing us with a bus serviceandelectricjeepney.Thesmoothnessofourtripwasallthanks tothisgenerousgesture.ThisprovesthatSiquijorisbestknownforits tourismandkindnesswithitsguests.
SiquijorCapitol
The first stop after arriving in Siquijor was the Capitol, where the second-year Polscilistas had the opportunity to meet the government officials of the area. Although the students were not able to meet with the mayor personally,Atty.Tudtudmadethe
SiquijorStateCollege
forum productive, giving the students an overview of the present economic state of Siquijor and was able to share their stance as well with the new Negros Island Region Act. Attorney clarified that Siquijor is eager to seek progress after the saidchangesintheregion.
Thevisitwasatfirstinchaosduetoanoverlapinschedule,butitwas insightful nonetheless. The Polscilistas had a discussion and forum with the Political Science Department at their faculty room, providing the students with insights regarding the future plans of the Political Science Federation. A query was also raised regarding their take on the Negros Island Region, and surprisingly, it was different from the stanceofAtty.TudtudattheCapitol.
Jo’sChickenRanch
After a long sunny and productive morning, everyone filled their stomachs at Jo’s Chicken Ranch, enjoying their Siquijor specialties. A wide range of dishes were offered,fromsoupstoinasal to seafood choices. Truly, Siquijor does not only have breathtaking scenery but alsodelightfulmeals.
Beach
After almost an hour of travel, the second-year Polscilistas visited a famous tourist destination—Paliton Beach. The stunning beach with white sand and clean oceans welcomed the students. This place is best known for its human drone, where some of the Polscilistas have tried it. The beach was also filled with various stalls for visitors to buy souvenirs, mythical items,snacks,andthelike.
OldEnchantedBalete Tree
Within minutes, the Polscilistas arrived at the majestic and mystical 400-year-old Balete Tree, a renowned Siquijor landmark. Beneath this ancient treeflowsaclearspring,offering visitors a unique fish foot spa experience.
LaziChurch&Convent
A quick stop at this church was made right before settling into the resort. The Polscilistas were truly amazed by the architectural beauty of the Lazi church which stands as a testament to the island's rich history and religious heritage. Although the visit was short lived, it was a memorable experiencenonetheless.
The students thoroughly enjoyed the relaxing or more so ticklish sensation, making the visit both fun and memorable. Before heading out, the Polscilistas also bought souvenirs such as keychains, refrigerator magnets, and other Siquijornon treasures, taking home not just mementos but also cherished memories of thisenchantingdestination.
GabayanResort
Endingaproductivedaycallsfora relaxing treat at a ravishing resort. The second-year Polscilistas enjoyed the sea overlooking in their accommodation room, with Instagram-worthy spots to take pictures with. They also savored the fulfilling dinner offered and had a late-night swimming session as a cherry on top activity on the island. Although there were hiccups along the way, the Polscilistas had somewhat remedied it. The entire experience was truly remarkable and left a lasting impression on everyone present.
Siquijor Reflection
Including the island of Siquijor in the Negros Tour itinerary— thanks to the newly established Negros Island Region Act—was transformationalinallaspects. Siquijor offered the secondyear Polscilistas a blend of political insight, cultural heritage, and natural beauty. The day began with a visit to the Capitol, where Atty. Tudtud discussed the province's economic aspirations and the new regional alignment. A forum at Siquijor State College followed, fostering thoughtful discussions on governance anddevelopment.
Thejourneyblendedrelaxation and learning, with stops at Paliton Beach, Jo’s Chicken Ranch, and the mystical Old EnchantedBaleteTree.Thetrip concluded at the historic Lazi Church and Gabayan Resort, deepeningourappreciationfor Siquijor’s culture, heritage, and progress.
Beyond enjoying the sceneries on the trip, the experience allowed us to reflect on the enduring resilience and aspirations of Siquijor’s people, teaching us the importance of preserving heritage while striving for progress. It reminded us that growth is best achieved when cultural identity, history, and community values are safeguardedandcelebrated.
O R I E N T A L
N E G R O S
SillimanUniversity
An early morning trip was planned to cross Negros Oriental, with the highlight being a visit to Silliman University one of the top schools in the Philippines. The day began warmly as campus ambassadors welcomed the Lasallian Polscilistas, followed by a lively program that fostered camaraderie between both schools. These ambassadors also led an impressive campus tour, leavingtheLasalliansinaweof Silliman’s vast grounds and its beautifully preserved historic charm.Avisittotheuniversity’s Anthropology Museum was especially memorable, offering a deeper understanding of Dumaguete’s rich history and the cultural heritage of Negros. The Silimanians were also kind hearted to cater Lasallians scrumptiouslunches.
FoundationUniversity
Just one tricycle ride away from Silliman is Foundation University, where the Lasallian Polscilistas were fascinated upon their campus. The visit started with a campus tour at their integrated school campus, then to their higher education campus. Both campuses were not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable, accommodating topersonswithdisabilities,and inclusive to everyone. The visit concluded with a program hosted by FU’s Political Science Department, showcasing the developments in their school and the furtherment of the Political Science Society Federation. Other than that, their faculty and campus student leaders were beyond hospitable to assimilate the LasallianPolscilistas.
NorthPoint Boulevard
ThevisittoDumaguete concludedatthevibrant NorthPointBoulevard, wherethesecond-year Polscilistasenjoyeda glimpseoflocallife.They exploredfoodstalls,sawa lively“perya,”and indulgedinbuying deliciousDumaguete snacksanddelicaciesto takehome.Despitethe briefstop,thestudents werecaptivatedbythe bustlingatmosphere, leavingthemwithlasting memoriesofthecity’s uniqueculture.
Tanjay
On the way home, the Polscilistas made a quick stop in Tanjay to grab dinner. Some dined at a local karinderya by the bus stop, while otherspickedupdeliciousmealsfrom nearby shops like Crispy King. The night ended on a fulfilling note—tired butcontent,reflectingonthevaluable lessons and unforgettable experiences gained over the past four daysoftravel.
Negros Oriental Reflection
Despite the tight schedule, the trip to Negros Oriental proved to be both enriching and memorable for us second-year Polscilistas. Our visit to Silliman University allowed us to explore its beautiful campus and learn about theregion’shistorythrough wead the Anthropology Museum. At Foundation University, we admired their sustainable, inclusive campus and engaging discussions with faculty and student leaders. The warm hospitality and camaraderie with students from both universities enhanced our experience. The trip concluded with a taste of Dumaguete’s vibrant culture at North Point Boulevard and dinner in Tanjay, leaving us with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for the local communities and cultures we encountered.
More than the experiences shared during the trip, hurdles along the way are inevitable. Nonetheless, the group’s perseverance shone through during the final stretch, gaining lessons in teamwork, adaptability,andresilience.
CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS
TheNegrosTour,acornerstoneofthe second-yearPolscilistas’academic journey,successfullycombinedcultural immersion,historicalexploration,and experientiallearning.Fromtheregion’s commemorationduringCincode Noviembretothehistoricalnarrativesof NegrosOccidentaltothenaturalbeauty ofSiquijorandtheacademic camaraderieinNegrosOriental,this year’sexpandeditineraryenrichedthe students’understandingofourregion’s multifacetedheritage.
Byparticipatingincivictraditions, engagingwithlocalgovernmentunits, andcollaboratingwithfellowPolitical Sciencestudentsacrossinstitutions,we Polscilistasdeepenedouracademic andinterpersonalskills.Thetour demonstratedthetransformativepower oflearningoutside settings,emphasizi preserving.
Itis recommended thatfuture iterationsofthe NegrosTourbuild onthisyear’s successesby focusingonafew keyareas: First,expanding collaborations withother cities/townsin NegrosOriental, especiallysinceit isplacedina differentregion andnotmany Lasallian Polscilistashave gonetovisitthe settings, emphasizingthe valueof preserving heritagewhilestill fostering progress.
theadjacentcities/towns.Thisyear, morecitieshavebeenvisitedinNegros OccidentalthanNegrosOriental,andI thinktoleveloffbothwouldbebest.
Second,addressinglogistical challengesiscrucial.Althoughan evaluationwasmadeattheendof CincodeNoviembreandNegros Occidental,nofollow-uphasbeen madeattheconclusionofthefour-day trip.Animmediateresponsetofixthe dynamicsoftheclassfollowingtheend ofthetripcould’vebeenimplemented.
Third,thetransparencyreportcould’ve beenexecutedbetter.Theupdateasto whenthesaidtransparencyistobe conductedwasabrupt,andonlythe quorumwastheretoattendit.A publisheddocumentcould’vebeen providedfortheentireclass’access.
Overall,the2024NegrosToursetahigh standard,underscoringtheimportance
Aseven commendedby ourprofessor,Dr. VirgilioAguilar, thisyear’sbatch hassetgreat foundationsinthe NegrosTour history,andfuture tourscan leveragethese insightstocreate evenmore impactfuland meaningful experiences. ofexperiential learningin developingwellrounded, culturallyaware, andsocially engagedPolitical Sciencestudents.
December, 2024