• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson is pushing for stronger energy security through energy efficiency, conservation and renewable energy adoption during the launch of the second leg of the provincial government’s “Be REady” Roadshow in Himamaylan City on Oct. 14.
Lacson emphasized that access to clean, reliable and affordable energy is essential to the province’s sustainable growth, noting that power supply directly affects community development, business operations and public service delivery.
The “Be REady” Roadshow aims to equip local government units (LGUs) with practical strategies to improve energy efficiency, promote conservation and expand renewable energy use, while strengthening their capacity to respond to climate challenges and support the energy transition.
In his speech, Lacson urged local officials to take a more active role in advancing sustainable energy initiatives in their respective communities, stressing that ensuring a reliable power supply requires coordinated action across sectors.
He acknowledged the province’s progress in renewable energy adoption and its coordination with national government agencies and private sector partners, but said further collective efforts are needed to strengthen energy security.
Lacson also called for closer collaboration among LGUs, national agencies, the private sector, civil society, the academe and local communities to translate renewable energy policies into tangible benefits for Negrenses, particularly those in rural areas.
The roadshow provides LGUs with guidance on developing and implementing localized energy initiatives that can help build more resilient communities and support the province’s transition toward a sustainable energy future. | GPB
