by Eugene Adiong on Mon, 04/03/2017

Top officials of Negros Occidental led the groundbreaking of the first theme park outside Luzon yesterday afternoon, April 2, at Barangay Guinhalaran, Silay City.

Lowering of time capsule and groundbreaking ceremony of the Magic Island in Brgy. Guinhalaran, Silay City yesterday, April 2: Congressman Alfredo “Albee” Benitez (3rd left), 3rd District of Negros Occ.; Reynaldo P. Bantug, President of Aton Land & Leisure Inc.; Cesar Mario O. Mamon, Founding President, Philippine Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions; Ken Quintal of DQA, Inc. Master Plan; Vice-Governor Eugenio Lacson (right) and Silay City Mayor Mark J. Golez (2nd left).*(Jun de los Reyes/NDB photo)

Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr., said “the Magic Island will be a big boost to the tourism program of the province.”

Congressman Alfredo Benitez (3rd District) said the project cost is estimated at P600 million.

He said, hopefully by middle of next year the theme park will be operational not only to cater to Negrenses but as well as to residents outside the province.

Benitez said the theme park will have affordable prices aimed at accommodating all Negrenses.

He said about 15 rides will be featured in the theme park.

Among these is the tallest Ferris Wheel in the Visayas, a roller coaster, carousels, kiddie and family rides, thrill rides and go carts, a haunted house and arcade games.

Rev. Fr. Felix Pasquin (2nd left), San Sebastian Cathedral Rector and Diocesan Director on Mass Media Communications; and Rev. Fr. Filomeno Duaban (left), Silay City Parish Priest, bless the groundbreaking of Magic Island. Witnessing are Congressman Alfredo Benitez (5th left), Reynaldo P. Bantug, Cesar Mario O. Mamon, Ken Quintal, Silay City Mayor Mark Andrew Arthur J. Golez (4th left) and Vice Governor Eugenio Lacson (right).*(Jun de los Reyes/NDB photo)

One of the suppliers is an Italian Company, Zampera, also Disneyland’s biggest supplier

The park is designed to accommodate 3,000 visitors daily.

Muti-awarded Negrense director writer actor Peque Gallaga has been tapped as artistic and creative consultant.

Reynaldo Bantug, president of Aton Land and Leisure the developer and owner of Magic Island said that “the goal of the project is contribute to the socio-economic growth of Negros through developing the tourism industry.”

Bantug added that Magic Island will showcase the rich Negrense folklore, culture and art in its entertainment and educational facilities also in its architecture.

Also gracing the event were Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson, Abang Lingkod Partylist Congressman Stephen Paduano and mayors of the different cities and towns in the province.

Silay City Mayor Mark Golez, host local government unit said, it is a cause of pride for the Silaynons to be the “home” of the first theme park in Negros Island.*(EY Adiong)