No trip to Bacolod City is truly complete without a visit to Manokan Country, the hallowed ground of authentic Chicken Inasal. For over four decades, this rustic food hub has been more than just a dining destination; it is a sensory landmark where the smoky aroma of grilled chicken is as essential to the city’s identity as the smiles of the MassKara Festival.
The story of Manokan Country traces back to the vibrant street food scene near the San Sebastian Church in the late 1970s. Recognizing its cultural potential, the local government under the late Mayor Jose Montalvo Jr. established a dedicated complex in the Reclamation Area during the 1980s. What began as a humble collection of open-air stalls on Father Mauricio Ferrero Street eventually evolved into a world-renowned culinary institution.
On February 28, the 42-year-old landmark met its final wrecking ball. The closure marks the beginning of a P4-billion redevelopment project by SM Prime Holdings Inc. By March 1, the 16,875-square-meter lot was enclosed, signaling the start of a modern, multi-level commercial complex.
While the project promises a “rebranded and revitalized” Manokan Country, the transition has not been without heartache. For nearly two years, controversy and public outcry echoed through the city. Soon, the famous inasal will be served under a gleaming high-rise roof rather than the weathered, open-air stalls that defined Bacolod’s culinary grit for generations.
Amidst the dust of demolition, the spirit of the vendors remains unbroken. Narsing’s Karenderya, a long-standing pillar of the complex, is a testament to this resilience. When asked what kept her fighting through the upheaval, Nanay Salvacion the Co Owner and the wife of the late owner Narsing answer was simple:“Ang mga tao nga ga pati kag ga salig saamon ang ga hatag kusog sa amon“
For owners like Nanay Salvacion Co – owner of the “Narsing” Stall, the move is more than a change of address—it is a test of survival for a business built on decades of tradition.
To bridge the gap during construction, tenants have transitioned to a temporary site located at the SM City Bacolod parking area in Barangay 12. While the setting is different, the flavors remain the same. Composed of 24 individual stalls, a common dining area, modern amenities including handwashing stations and restroom.
