While Bacolod was first established as a town on January 20, 1755, the capital of Negros Island in 1846 and the capital of Negros Occidental in 1890, the archives of the City Government of Bacolod lists Bernardino de los Santos as Gobernadorcillo[1] upon the establishment of Bacolod as the capital of Negros Occidental after the division of the island, while Gregorio Gonzaga as the recorded Presidente Municipal[2] in 1894.

As the Province of Negros Occidental grew in importance due to the sugar industry, Bacolod became a hub for business and politics, drawing more immigrant families into the city.

Along with nearby Silay, population swelled due to economic and work opportunities, including education and the Sugar Exchange Center located near the town plaza.

326, sponsored by Representative Pedro C. Hernaez of the Second District of Negros Occidental, Bacolod was chartered as a city on June 18, 1938.

On the City Plaza still stands the tindalo tree planted by President Manuel Quezon as a reminder of the inauguration ceremonies.