By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Negros Occidental Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson reported the Provincial Board acted on a total of 1,027 legislative concerns since commencing in July 2016.

In his report, delivered during the body’s regular session, Lacson highlighted the period between July and December 2016, where 445 resolutions, three ordinances, and 13 appropriation ordinances were passed.

The vice governor also pointed out, the P2.9 billion 2017 provincial budget was also passed during that time.

“This involves the P71 million set aside for the Economic Enterprise Development Department and the P1.1 billion for the Hospital Operations Department, among other items,” Lacson explained.

The report also showed 556 resolutions, six ordinances, and four appropriation ordinances were passed in the first half of 2017.

Among other issues tackled by the board include a resolution requesting President Rodrigo Duterte to maintain the status quo and allow the continued existence of the Negros Island Region (NIR), the approval of a P5 million appropriation for the Provincial Anti-Drug Abuse Program, and setting aside P3.6 million for the Negros Occidental Drug Rehabilitation Foundation, Inc.

Lacson also highlights a resolution calling for an inquiry into the use of high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) in the production of beverages in the province.

He added, the provincial board also passed a resolution supporting the Sugar Regulatory Administration (SRA) and Sugar Order No.3./DGB, WDJ