The Ruins | Bacolod

Information

Landmark: The Ruins
City: Bacolod
Country: Philippines
Continent: Asia

The Ruins, Bacolod, Philippines, Asia

The Ruins, located on the border of Bacolod City and Talisay City in Negros Occidental, is the skeletal remain of a grand 1920s Italianate mansion. Often called the "Taj Mahal of the Philippines," it was built by sugar baron Don Mariano Ledesma Lacson in memory of his Portuguese wife, Maria Braga.

Visual Characteristics

The structure is a two-story frame made of high-quality concrete. Its smooth, marble-like finish was achieved by mixing egg whites into the cement. The mansion features neo-Romanesque columns, intricate cornices, and a grand staircase. The ruins are surrounded by well-manicured gardens and a lily pond, which are illuminated with warm golden lights after sunset.

Location & Access Logistics

Address: Talisay City, Negros Occidental.

Access: Located approximately 6 kilometers from Bacolod city center.

Transport: Reachable via private vehicle, taxi, or "Grab." Public tricycles from the Bata subdivision terminal in Bacolod also service the area.

Operating Hours: 09:00–20:00 daily.

Fees: Entrance fees are approximately PHP 100–150 for adults, with discounts for students and seniors.

Historical & Ecological Origin

The mansion was constructed in the early 1900s. During World War II, Filipino guerrillas acting under US Army orders set the mansion on fire to prevent Japanese forces from using it as a headquarters. The fire burned for three days, destroying the roof and wooden floors but leaving the reinforced concrete shell intact.

Key Highlights & Activities

Sunset Viewing: The mansion’s facade changes hue as the sun sets, making it the peak time for photography.

Guided Tours: Local guides provide detailed narratives regarding the Lacson family history and the construction techniques used.

Dining: An on-site restaurant and cafe serve Italian-inspired dishes and local Negros delicacies.

Mini-Museum: Displays of old photographs and artifacts related to the estate.

Infrastructure & Amenities

Facilities: Includes a souvenir shop, restrooms, and paved parking.

Connectivity: 4G/5G signals are stable.

Events: A popular venue for weddings, debuts, and corporate functions.

Best Time to Visit

Late afternoon (16:30–18:00) is optimal for experiencing the transition from daylight to the evening illumination. Weekdays are significantly less crowded than weekends.

Facts & Legends

A distinctive architectural detail is the "M" and "B" initials molded into the columns’ decor, representing Mariano and Braga. A logistical fact is that the structure remains one of the most sturdy ruins in the country because of the high-grade A-1 cement and oversized steel bars used in its construction.