The creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR), a milestone marked by the recent signing of Republic Act No. 12000, is set to revolutionize business and service delivery across the provinces under its jurisdiction, Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito said on Friday.
“I think it will ease doing business because people who want to invest in sugar mills or agriculture in Negros Occidental will no longer have to travel to Iloilo by ferry for permits and other requirements,” said Ejercito, author and sponsor of the law.
“Everything they need will now be available in Negros,” the senator added, emphasizing the transformative impact of the NIR. The new region consolidates administrative functions, ensuring that services are centralized and more accessible to residents and investors.
This streamlined process is anticipated to remove logistical hurdles, making it easier for businesses to thrive despite weather challenges that previously disrupted regional connectivity.
For sectors like education, healthcare, and tourism, the convenience of having administrative services on the island eliminates the need to travel to Cebu City. Ejercito believes this will attract more investments and spur growth in the provinces of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.
“If it’s easier and more convenient, it will definitely encourage more businesses to grow in both provinces,” the senator said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Ejercito expects better business efficiency across Negros Island Region.”