By JEN BAYLON
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson emphasized the importance of improved connectivity between Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental as a key priority for the newly established Negros Island Region (NIR).
“Connectivity would really be a priority,” Lacson said, highlighting that enhancing transportation infrastructure will significantly reduce travel time and foster economic growth across the region.
Improved connectivity is seen as vital for unifying Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental under the NIR framework, facilitating smoother transportation and economic integration.
“Right now, we’re connected through Kabankalan City, Mabinay town, then Bais City. But they say there are other roads that can shorten travel time from Dumaguete to Bacolod,” he added.
Lacson expects connectivity to be a central topic when the NIR Regional Development Council (RDC) convenes after the May 12 midterm elections.
The governor anticipates new ideas to emerge during RDC meetings, which will guide infrastructure development in the region.
The National Economic and Development Authority (NEDA) has tasked local government officials with identifying the Top 30 projects for NIR, from which feasibility studies will be conducted for three flagship initiatives.
The push for improved connectivity aligns with other major infrastructure initiatives in the region, such as the Panay-Guimaras-Negros Island Bridges Project.
This ambitious endeavor aims to link Panay, Guimaras and Negros via two sea-crossing bridges spanning over 32 kilometers.
Once completed, it will drastically reduce travel time between islands while boosting trade, tourism and investment opportunities.
Meanwhile, the transition team of NEDA-NIR has been engaging with 14 local government units within the region to strengthen communication and collective action between national officials and local leaders.
Discussions have focused on strategies to address local challenges and activities involved in drafting the NIR Regional Development Plan.
Enhanced connectivity will play a pivotal role in achieving this vision by improving access to essential services and fostering economic opportunities.
The creation of the NIR, composed of the provinces of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental and Siquijor, under Republic Act 12000, marks a significant milestone in regional development./JB, WDJ