• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
In the remaining three years of his administration, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson vowed yesterday to finish strong, institutionalize the gains achieved in six years, and ensure that the present efforts create enduring impact, beyond time.
“Over the next three years, we will focus on strengthening our sub-provincial health systems to make the Teresita Lopez Jalandoni Provincial Hospital an apex hospital, expanding access through telemedicine and support infrastructure, and deepening social protection for vulnerable sectors,” Lacson said in his address during the 37th inaugural session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) held at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City.
“In agriculture, we will drive food security and rural transformation by investing in infrastructure, promoting high-value crops, and scaling sustainable farming,” Lacson said.
Environmental sustainability remains a priority through greenbelt zones, responsible mining, and climate resilience efforts, the governor said, adding that they will pass a Provincial Energy Code to accelerate clean energy adoption, and promote energy efficiency.
Education and human capital development will continue through the new Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center campus, global learning partnerships, and scholarships through Negros Occidental Scholarship Program, Lacson said, adding that the province will boost micro, small and medium enterprises growth through skills training, market access, and digital integration.
“Our tourism and cultural agenda will highlight heritage, ecotourism, and the global recognition of our Sugar Cultural Landscape and infrastructure investments will support inclusive growth, with the Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Training Center preparing communities for risk and disaster,” Lacson further said.
He added: “At the core of all these efforts is our commitment to digital transformation, innovation, and good governance, anchoring Negros Occidental as a model of service, resilience, and inclusive progress.”
“For me, this term is an opportunity to sustain what we have begun, to finish what we have started, and to lay down stronger foundations for the future of every Negrense,” Lacson said
Acknowledging his partnership with the SP, he said “we have achieved milestones in health, education, peace and order, economic development, environmental stewardship, and good governance.”
Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso said that under the leadership of Lacson, “we have seen our Negrosanons get improved and better access to health care, get opportunities for education and employment here and abroad, become more aware of our environmental advocacies, and provided with means of livelihood through agricultural and veterinary programs”.
“I do believe the current brand of governance will not only allow Negrenses to face challenges with resilience, but also provide them with enough resources and tools to rise above it, survive and thrive,” Alonso said.
He assured Lacson that the SP will be his collaborative partners in furthering the present administration’s development agenda. | GB
