Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson congratulated the new set of local government officials in the province yesterday as they begin a new three-year term, encouraging them to work together for “a stronger, more progressive and united Negros Occidental.”
“May your leadership be guided by integrity, compassion and a genuine commitment to your constituency,” Lacson, who is serving his third and final term, said in a statement.
The governor took his oath of office with the elected officials of his hometown, San Carlos City, where he previously served as mayor.
Lacson and reelected Mayor Renato Gustilo were sworn in by Executive Judge Amy Avellano of the Regional Trial Court Branch 58 at the San Carlos City Hall of Justice.
Lacson also took his oath before Avellano at the provincial capitol grounds in Bacolod City on Saturday, June 28, together with other elected provincial government officials, including first-termer Vice Governor Jose Benito Alonso.
“To the people of Negros Occidental, I remain at your service, as I have always been — not to be served, but to serve, for as long as God grants me the capacity and calling to do so. With God’s grace and your continued trust, we shall bring this province ever closer to its ideal,” he said in his inaugural address.
Lacson extended his gratitude to the Provincial Board. led by then-Vice Governor Jeffrey Ferrer, who has returned to his previous post as Fourth District representative.
“For their unwavering support of our executive programs and for the judicious and timely enactment of ordinances, without such collaboration, this administration would not have been as effective and responsive in meeting the needs of our people,” he said.
He acknowledged the cooperation and support of the legislative district representatives and local chief executives for their partnership and shared commitment in helping translate the province’s vision into concrete action across our cities and municipalities.
Lacson commended provincial government executives and employees, partner-agencies, civil society organizations, development partners, and volunteers for their unwavering service and invaluable contributions.
“Ours was a time marked by challenges of historic proportions — a global pandemic, natural disasters, including the sporadic eruptions of Mt. Kanlaon for more than a year now, and changing economic landscapes. And yet, together, we persevered,” the governor said.
As he reaffirmed the commitments he made at the start of his first term in 2019, Lacson said his administration will not simply continue what it has started, but will finish strong.
“[We will] institutionalize progress and ensure that the gains we have collectively built will last beyond any administration,” he said. (PNA)