By Glazyl M. Jopson
BACOLOD CITY — The family of Yulo’s Park has requested assistance from the national government to restore the century-old mansion, a significant cultural and historical landmark in Bacolod and Negros Occidental.
Raymond Alunan of the Provincial Tourism Office, who conducts tours at Yulo’s Park, confirmed that the family sent a letter to First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, seeking help for the mansion’s restoration.
The three-story mansion was once the residence of Don Mariano Yulo, a prominent sugar planter from Hinigaran, who served as provincial governor and senator during the Commonwealth period.
Built between 1890 and 1910, the estate originally functioned as a beach house where Mariano, a doctor by profession, hosted social gatherings.
In December 1926, it became the site of the first long-distance telephone call in the province, linking Iloilo and Bacolod. The house also hosted notable figures, including former President Manuel Quezon.
The mansion features a rooftop garden with a dipping pool, offering breathtaking views of Silay, Mandalagan, and Kanlaon mountains.
The National Museum of the Philippines (NMP) granted the mansion a historical marker in 2017, which was unveiled on Aug. 22, 2024. The Bacolod City Council has also declared the park an important cultural property.
However, the structure has deteriorated over time, especially its wooden ceiling, despite reinforced foundations.
Alunan noted that the family is still awaiting a response to their request for support. Given the election period, the matter may be addressed later.
“Any assistance will be gratefully accepted,” Alunan said, adding that the family is also considering seeking support from the House of Representatives.
After Mariano’s death in the 1920s from injuries sustained in a car accident, the mansion was passed on to his son, Alfredo Yulo, who served as mayor of Bacolod from 1940 to 1942.
During World War II, the mansion was spared from bombing due to Alfredo’s status as mayor. The compound once had an air raid shelter, though it no longer exists today.
The estate, which originally spanned over a hectare, has since shrunk to 7,000 square meters due to encroachment and reclamation efforts since the 1960s.
Last year, the family reopened the park to the public, but visits are currently limited to Saturdays by appointment via their Facebook page.
They also plan to collaborate with schools for educational tours, hoping to expand awareness of Bacolod’s heritage.
Once restored, the Yulo Mansion is envisioned as a key tourist attraction and a symbol of the region’s rich history.
