Carlos Hilado Memorial State College

Carlos Hilado Memorial State University Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Bacolod Historical Sites Guide

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU) stands as a premier institution in Negros Occidental, Philippines, renowned for its significant contributions to technical education, regional development, and cultural preservation. With campuses strategically located in Talisay City, Bacolod City (Alijis and Fortune Towne), and Binalbagan, CHMSU offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience both educational excellence and the rich heritage of Bacolod and its surroundings (CHMSU Historical Milestones; Supreme Court E-Library).

This comprehensive guide equips prospective visitors with detailed information on CHMSU’s history, campus facilities, visiting hours, ticketing policies, nearby attractions, accessibility, and opportunities to participate in community extension programs. Whether you are a student, researcher, tourist, or cultural enthusiast, this resource will help you make the most of your visit to CHMSU and the vibrant city of Bacolod.

Historical Overview of CHMSU

Foundational Years: The Roots of Technical Education

CHMSU traces its beginnings to the Negros Occidental School of Arts and Trades (NOSAT), established in 1954 through Republic Act 848. The institution focused on practical and industrial skills, opening its doors in Talisay City with courses in mechanics, metalwork, electricity, woodcarving, and construction (CHMSU Historical Milestones). The five-hectare campus was generously donated by the provincial government, reflecting strong community support.

Amalgamation and Transformation

In 1977, NOSAT became the Negros Occidental College of Arts and Trades (NOCAT), expanding its scope. The pivotal change occurred in 1983 with Batas Pambansa Blg. 477, merging NOCAT with Bacolod City National Trade School and Negros Occidental Provincial Community College to form Paglaum State College (PSC), symbolizing hope and regional aspirations (ICMATSD About College).

Honoring Carlos Hilado: Renaming and Expansion

Republic Act 7707, passed in 1994, renamed the institution Carlos Hilado Memorial State College (CHMSC) to honor Congressman Carlos A. Hilado’s legacy in education. The subsequent establishment of satellite campuses, including the Fortune Towne Campus in Bacolod City and integration of the Negros Occidental School of Fisheries in Binalbagan, expanded CHMSC’s reach and academic offerings (CHMSU Historical Milestones).

University Status and Recent Developments

In 2019, Republic Act No. 11336 elevated CHMSC to university status, becoming Carlos Hilado Memorial State University (CHMSU), with Dr. Norberto P. Mangulabnan installed as its first University President in 2022 (Supreme Court E-Library). Today, CHMSU delivers 56 academic programs, many accredited nationally, and maintains ISO 9001:2015 certification (CHMSU Academics).

Visiting Carlos Hilado Memorial State University

Campus Locations and Access

CHMSU operates multiple campuses:

Talisay Main Campus: North of Bacolod, offers broad academic programs.
Alijis Campus: Bacolod City, focuses on Industrial Technology, Teacher Education, and IT (Edukasyon.ph Alijis).
Fortune Towne Campus: Bacolod City, specializes in Accountancy and Business Administration (Edukasyon.ph Fortune Towne).
Binalbagan Campus: Serves southern Negros Occidental.

All campuses are easily reachable via public transport, taxis, or ride-hailing services (Wikipedia; PNA).

Visiting Hours and Admission

Regular Hours: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Some facilities may open on weekends for special events.
Admission: Free for general campus visits. Special events or guided tours may require advance arrangement.

Guided Tours and Educational Visits

Guided tours are available for educational groups, researchers, and tourists. Booking in advance through the university’s visitor center is recommended. Tours provide insights into the university’s history, architecture, and academic offerings (CHMSU Visiting Information).

Accessibility and Amenities

CHMSU campuses are designed to be accessible to persons with disabilities, featuring ramps and accessible pathways. Facilities include libraries, computer labs, canteens serving local cuisine, audio-visual rooms, and open green spaces for relaxation and photography.

Photographic Spots and Campus Highlights

CHMSU offers several picturesque locations:

The original NOSAT building and other historic structures.
Modern academic facilities reflecting the university’s growth.
Landscaped gardens and open spaces, especially at Fortune Towne Campus.

Visitors are encouraged to capture photos while maintaining respect for academic activities and campus regulations.

Nearby Bacolod Historical Sites and Attractions

Enhance your campus visit by exploring these nearby sites:

The Ruins (Talisay City): Iconic remains of a grand mansion, a testament to Filipino-Spanish heritage.
San Sebastian Cathedral: Historic church in Bacolod’s city center.
Negros Museum: Showcases the province’s rich history and culture.
Panaad Park and Stadium: Venue for the Panaad sa Negros Festival (Mapcarta).
Bacolod Public Plaza and Capitol Park: Popular for leisurely strolls and cultural events.
The Upper East: Modern district for shopping and entertainment.

Annual Events and Festivals

MassKara Festival (October): Colorful masks, street dancing, and festivities extend to CHMSU campuses (Edarabia).
Panaad sa Negros Festival (April): Highlights the province’s culinary, artistic, and cultural heritage.

Community Extension Programs and Socio-Economic Impact

CHMSU is deeply engaged in community development. Its extension programs empower local communities through:

Livelihood Training: Programs like the Siomai Livelihood Project equip participants with practical skills (CHMSU Extension).
Environmental Initiatives: Regular clean-up drives and sustainability projects.
Health Outreach: Nutrition education, medical missions, and sanitation campaigns.
Educational Outreach: Literacy programs, skills training, and scholarship awareness (CHMSU Extension Manual).

A 2022 impact assessment highlighted the programs’ significant social and psychological benefits, with opportunities for further economic empowerment (Globus Journal).

How to Get Involved:
Volunteers, researchers, and organizations can coordinate with CHMSU’s Extension and Community Services Office for participation or observation (CHMSU Extension Services).

Carlos Hilado Memorial Monument: A Bacolod Landmark

The Carlos Hilado Memorial Monument in Bacolod City honors Congressman Hilado’s legacy in education and public service. Located near major academic institutions, it is open daily from 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with free admission (Bacolod Tourism). Guided tours are available via the Bacolod City Tourism Office. The monument is accessible to persons with disabilities and is a popular site for cultural and historical photography.

Nearby attractions include San Sebastian Cathedral, the Negros Museum, and Bacolod Public Plaza. The monument occasionally hosts cultural performances and commemorative events.

Accommodation and Dining

Bacolod City offers a range of hotels and inns near CHMSU campuses, such as Luxur Place, Regency Plaza Tourist Inn, and Planta Centro Bacolod Hotel & Residences (WorldPlaces). Numerous dining options serve both local and international cuisine. On-campus canteens provide affordable meals.

Transportation and Travel Tips

Public Transport: Jeepneys, tricycles, and taxis offer easy access to campuses and city attractions. Fares are budget-friendly.
Airport Access: Bacolod-Silay Airport is 30–40 minutes away, with shuttle and taxi services available.
Visitor Conduct: Register upon campus entry, respect university rules, dress appropriately, and maintain cleanliness.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What are the CHMSU visiting hours?
A: Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Special schedules may apply during events and holidays.

Q: Is there an entrance fee for campus visits?
A: No, general campus visits are free. Some events or guided tours may require advance coordination.

Q: Are the campuses accessible to persons with disabilities?
A: Yes, accessibility features are in place.

Q: How can I join a guided tour?
A: Contact the university’s visitor center or campus administration in advance.

Q: What historical sites are near CHMSU?
A: The Ruins, San Sebastian Cathedral, Negros Museum, and the Carlos Hilado Memorial Monument.

Q: How do I get involved in community extension programs?
A: Contact the Extension and Community Services Office through the CHMSU Extension Services page.

Contact Information

Alijis Campus: Alijis, Bacolod City, Negros Occidental. Phone: +639065486012 (WorldPlaces)
Fortune Towne Campus: Fortune Towne, Bacolod City (Edukasyon.ph Fortune Towne)
Main Website: chmsu.edu.ph

Summary and Resources

Carlos Hilado Memorial State University stands as a beacon of educational excellence, historical significance, and community engagement in Negros Occidental. From its inception as NOSAT to its current role as a state university, CHMSU embodies visionary leadership and robust community support (CHMSU Historical Milestones). Visitors can enjoy guided tours, open amenities, and the opportunity to connect with Bacolod’s historical sites, such as The Ruins and the San Sebastian Cathedral (Bacolod Tourism).

Community extension programs reflect CHMSU’s dedication to socio-economic progress and environmental stewardship, offering visitors and volunteers meaningful ways to contribute (CHMSU Extension Services). Plan your visit, participate in local festivals, and immerse yourself in the rich culture and dynamic present of both CHMSU and Bacolod.

Stay updated on visiting hours, campus news, and events by visiting the CHMSU website and consider downloading the Audiala app for real-time information and visitor resources.