Negros Occidental – In a landmark development, Negros Island is set to experience enhanced access to various government services following the establishment of the Negros Island Region (NIR) through the newly signed Republic Act (RA) 12000.
President Marcos signed the historic legislation on Thursday, June 13, officially separating Negros Occidental from Western Visayas and Negros Oriental, along with Siquijor, from Central Visayas. The three provinces are now placed under one NIR.
Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Lacson hailed the creation of the NIR. “July 13 will forever be remembered in Negros’ history. After three decades of anticipation, our dream of becoming a separate region has finally come true,” he said in a statement.
Lacson highlighted that the formation of the NIR will facilitate easier access to regional offices of various government agencies, thereby decentralizing administration and strengthening local autonomy.
The governor also emphasized that the unification of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor under one region will have a positive impact on internal security, peace and order, environmental management, disaster risk reduction, tourism promotion, and integrated development planning.
This new administrative structure is expected to streamline governance and promote coordinated development across the region.
Lacson thanked the key figures who played pivotal roles in the realization of this long-standing goal, including President Marcos, Speaker Martin Romualdez, former Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri, and Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito.
“Let us work together towards our shared objective of transforming Negros Island and Siquijor into a showcase of effective governance, cultural development, and socio-economic progress,” Lacson urged, calling for unity and cooperation among the region’s leaders and citizens.
With the official establishment of the NIR, plans are already underway to set up regional offices and a regional development council. These efforts are expected to bring government services closer to the people, improving efficiency and responsiveness to local needs.
The new regional framework aims to address the unique challenges and opportunities of the region, paving the way for sustainable growth and development.
According to a press release from the Presidential Communications Office, this move will lead to administrative decentralization and bolster local autonomy, allowing for more tailored and effective governance.