BACOLOD CITY — Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson wants Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez to sit as chairman of the Regional Development Council (RDC) of the newly created Negros Island Region (NIR).
Lacson endorsed Benitez on Friday, saying that the mayor "knows what to do" being the current chairman of the RDC Western Visayas.
On Thursday, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed Republic Act 12000 into law, creating the NIR, which is composed of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor.
Meanwhile, Negros Occidental 3rd District Rep. Jose Francisco Benitez, brother of the Bacolod City mayor, has called on the Department of the Interior and Local Government to immediately convene the Technical Working Group (TWG) to put in place the institutional arrangements for the transition.
Mayor Benitez and the three governors of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor are among members of the TWG.
Negros Oriental Gov. Chaco Sagarbarria said the signing of the NIR Law "marked a significant milestone in Philippine governance at the Ceremonial Hall in Malacañan Palace."
"The event showcased the power of collaboration and unity among different stakeholders in achieving a common goal. The creation of this new administrative region is a testament to what can be accomplished when various sectors work together toward a shared vision," he said.
"The establishment of the Negros Island Region ... demonstrated the importance of recognizing and addressing regional disparities and promoting inclusive development. By bringing together local government units, civil society organizations and other key players, this initiative aims to foster economic growth, improve public services and empower communities on Negros Island."
Previously, Negros Oriental and Siquijor belonged to Region 7 (Central Visayas) while Negros Occidental was part of Region 6 (Western Visayas).
"By uniting behind a common purpose, stakeholders have shown that meaningful progress can be achieved even in complex political environments," Sagarbarria said.