I was humbled to be invited to attend the inauguration of Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer. Six months since that event, it is clear the governor is serious in his position and has been sensible in managing the province. Observers say they do not feel the “air of politicking” but rather serious governance.
When I first talked to him in his office, there was a sense of “corporate maturity.”
The urgency he has expressed in the rehabilitation of the Panaad Park and Stadium has been praised by local residents.
There is also an expectation of maintain clean toilets and shower rooms at the facility.
This year, the Department of Tourism is involved in a “clean toilet campaign,” which has been met with dismay by tourism-related establishments. This column often discusses toilets and, just last month, I discussed how many visitors encounter the unsanitary conditions of toilets at various establishments.
In addition, as mentioned in my first column of the new year, the Alliance of Travel Tourism and Hospitality MICE (meetings, incentive travel, conventions, and exhibitions) Movers, where I serve as founding chairman, hopes to have Lacson as a partner as the “Clean Toilet” movement would be the best start in making the province a tourist destination.
In the governor’s New Year message, he called sports an “integral part of one’s health and discipline,” along with a “form of bonding individuals and organizations.”
The governor also addressed tourism as a sector that brings in revenue and travel opportunities.
Under this governor, there is no doubt that the province will move to greater heights as long as tourism is pushed; once everything is combined under one movement supporting tourism development and promotion, it can be done.
Meanwhile, Ferrer leads the Provincial Board in legislating laws and providing support for communities across the province.
This collective effort is a good sign.

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This column greets Roxan Oquendo, Yves Javellana, Lori Henares, Michelle Dabao, Jennylind Cordero, Chinchin Velez, Maye Egana, Klaudette Pangan, Vina Rosales, Suzette Lopez, Zenaida Yapjoco, Natalie Lim, and Jennifer Fong /WDJ