ShareThisBacolod City Philippines The City Of Smiles
Bacolod City is the capital and largest highly urbanized mid-size Philippine city of the province of Negros Occidental. Having a total of 499,497 inhabitants as of August 1, 2007, it is the most populous city in the Western Visayas Region. It is notable for its “MassKara” Street Festival held during October. Known for being a relatively friendly city, it bears the nickname “City of Smiles.”
Bacolod City recently topped a survey by MoneySense Magazine. Dr. Richard Mirpuri, Founder & Spiritual Director of the Word of Grace Int’l Ministries based in Chicago together with his wife Lillian and other
members of the WOG Philippine Ministry Team were welcomed by Bacolod City officials led by Mayor Evelio “Bing” Leonardia, Vice Mayor Jude Thaddeus “Thaddy” Sayson, Executive Assistant & PESO OIC Moises De La Cruz as they visited the newly built Bacolod City Government Center as part of their annual ministry trip to the Philippines.
Mayor Leonardia invited Pastor Dick to join him for a press conference where he was able to pray for the mayor, the media representatives, military and city personnel in charge of disaster preparedness for the city.
Pastor Dick faced the media to explain the purpose of his trip. The WOG team was also able to pray with Vice Mayor Sayson at the Sangguniang Panglungsod session hall where the Vice Mayor is the presiding officer when he meets with all city councilors. Mayor Bing is considered the “lucky charm” of World Boxing Champion and living legend Manny Pacquiao who is also now a congressman.
Mayor Bing is present at every title fight of Pacquiao as the main championship belt bearer (see photo). Photo also shows Mayor Leonardia with newly elected Philippine President, Benigno Aquino III. Dr. Mirpuri conducted a one-day pastors & wives, church leaders and worskers conference on Oct. 6 at the Mayfair Plaza in Bacolod City. Photos show Mayor Bing with Manny Paquiao, with Dr. Mirpuri and Sis. Lillian during the press conference held at the Mayor’s office and Dr. Mirpuri praying for Mayor Bing. The participants to the one-day conference conducted by Dr. Mirpuri are also shown in the photo.