The Negritos, natives who led nomadic lives at the foot of scenic North negros Mountain ranges, originally inhabited Talisay. In 1788, families of Malay descent settled in the prestine part of Negros Island and named it Minuluan.

Unknown to many, the sugar industry in province has its very roots in Talisay. The enterprising Recollect priest led by Fray Fernando Cuenca, spurred the economic development of this once sleepy sitio through the planting of sugarcane in vast tracts of land we call ‘haciendas’.

The seedlings, brought from Spain, thrived well in the rich, loamy soil. Fray Cuenca improved sugar production of the crude wooden mills with the invention of ‘Molino de Agua’-and the rest they say is history. The Spanish colonizers became guardians of our economic, socio-political and spiritual lives, and with more of the Miniluan population embracing the Catholic faith, the sitio was decreed a town on September 20,1850, with San Nicolas de Tolentino as its patron saint. It was renamed Talisay after the tree that grew in abundance along the mouth of the Matab-ang River.

To accommodate the growing population, three more barrios were established – Dos Hermanas and San Fernando in the northern part and Conception in the South.

At the turn of the century, Talisay became a significant player in revolt against Spain through the leadership of General Aniceto Lacson. The wily general and erst while Katipunero of the the North teamed up with General Araneta from the South during the victorious Cinco de Noviembre uprising in 1898 that saw the Spaniards capitulating without bloodshed. The intervening years saw Talisay growing and methamorphosing into the budding city that is today-full of promise and potencial. On February 11,1998, Talisay through the effort through the effort of its local offical led by the Mayor Amelo Lizares was finally elevated into a city.

How to get there

As the first city going north of Bacolod, Talisay can be reached in 10-15 minutes by private car and about the same time by public utility vehicles.

Location

Talisay City is bounded by Bacolod City on the south and by Silay City on north.

Famous Landmarks

Natures Village Resort along the Talisay National Highway is a rustic country-style resort complete with restaurants, swimming pool, tennis court, driving range, children’s park with bike tracks, horse back riding, playground, function rooms and hotel facilities for business and convention. It is an ideal “home-away-from-home” setting with resort amenities.

The Ancestral Homes owned by the Lizares and Lacson families are a “must see” destination. The Balay ni Tana Dicang echoes the lifestyle of a century ago and preserves the charm & gentility that is a Talisaynon heritage.

Sweet Greens grows, manufactures and markets a wide array of products from the garden and for the garden in their 4- hectare farm. Exotic orchids, annuals, perennials and ornamentals can be seen anytime of the year. Sweet Greens sells organic gardening inputs, ceramics & cutflowers and provide floral arrangements for special events.

The Henares Garden and Resort owned by the Henares family promotes vermicultre & grows fresh vegetables, black pepper, different varieties of herbs and tropical plants. For friendly get-togethers, fellowship or picnics, Henares hacienda homes with its spring swimming pool is a perfect choice.

Campuestuhan, 21.9 kilometers from the city proper in Barangay Cabatangan has a breathtaking view of the cities of Talisay, Bacolod and Silay. This forest reserve is home to many rare and endangered flora and fauna. An exciting cable car ride takes you across the ravine and three-hour trek will take you to mysterious Tinagong Dagat, a hidden lake rich with lore and history.

Festivals & Events

Minuluan Festival is an annual culture and arts festival celebrating the unique identity of the Talisaynons. Held every September 4-10 it inspires the present generation with cherish traditions and rich culture of the past and the bravery of its ancestors especially Captain Sabi who single handedly drove away Moro intruders. The festival likewise celebrates the feast of its patron saint, San Nicolas de Tolentino which falls on September 10.

Pasidungog Festival is the Charter Day thanksgiving festival celebrated every 11th of February. It is the opportunity to give thanks to the Good Lord for all the blessings He has showered on Talisay and the Talisaynons. The three-day festival brings out the best among the best. Competitions in vocal solo, composo, cheer and dance, folk and pop dance, drum and bugle corps, platoon drill, chorale and sports reveal artistry and skill that Talisay is justifiably proud of. The Pasidungog Queen Pageant, a beauty & talent search highlights the festivities.

Holy Week Processions features carrozas that have been with the families for generations and have been crowd drawers not only for the locals but visitors from all parts of the country and the world.

Useful Contacts

Mayor’s Offfce – 4954966 / 7126310 / 4956282
Executive Assistant’s Office- 4955443 / 7126272
City Tourism Division –4956278
Police Station- 4955118
City Health- 4955991 / 4954985
CENECO- 4951838 / 4951832
Water District- 4955091
Talisay Rural Bank- 4954518

info taken from:Official website of Negros Occidental – Philippines