By JEN BAYLON
Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez outlined his ambitious vision of transforming the highly urbanized city into a “super city” during his annual State of the City Address (SOCA) on Wednesday night, July 3, at the city government center grounds.
In his SOCA, Benitez drew inspiration from the city’s rich history, referencing former Mayor Alfredo Montelibano, Sr.’s inaugural speech in 1938, which called for the city’s transformation.
He emphasized that while the old Bacolod was great, the city can be even greater with innovation and a renewed sense of civic duty.
Benitez presented his administration’s roadmap to achieving this vision through the “4S of Super City,” which includes shared values, services, strategic industries, and smart solutions.
He highlighted the administration’s focus on good governance, including the elimination of ghost government workers and improved work ethics among city employees.
Benitez reported significant improvements in service delivery, including increased accessibility to healthcare through the Bacolod Comprehensive Health Program, financial assistance programs such as “Bayad Agad,” and streamlined burial assistance.
He also announced plans to implement a new voucher system for free medicines.
The mayor also addressed water and electricity issues in the city, citing interventions by the Bacolod City Water District and PrimeWater Infrastructure Corp., which have improved water supply, and the Energy Regulatory Commission for reduced electricity rates.
The mayor also discussed ongoing iconic infrastructure projects and initiatives to boost tourism and the creative economy, such as the Bacolod Film Festival.
Benitez detailed smart innovations like the Government Services Express and the Bacolod Express Service Office, which have simplified administrative processes.
He also highlighted efforts to increase revenue and investment in solar power, as well as promote electric vehicles.
The mayor emphasized the city’s commitment to sustainability, with projects like the Bacolod Integrated Recycling and Teaching Hub and flood control measures.
He announced plans to install solar panels and promote green routes to reduce pollution and carbon emissions.
Concluding his address, Benitez urged the Bacolodnons to support the city’s development efforts by working together.
“Together, let us finish the job. Together, let us fulfill the dream for Bacolod to become a super city,” Benitez said.
Meanwhile, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed optimism about recent developments in Bacolod.
“Looking forward to seeing what they plan to do on Lacson Street, we won’t have to worry about electrical or telephone wires above ground anymore because they will be put underground,” Lacson said.
“We can already see changes taking shape, particularly the way the Bacolod City government is being administered,” he added./JB, WDJ