By CESAR JOLITO III

The Negros Occidental provincial government is considering the issuance of an executive order (EO) aimed at strengthening cost-cutting measures, particularly by limiting non-essential travel, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said.

“For the record, we are considering also issuing an executive order to restrict travel, especially if it’s not so important. If it’s not very important, we avoid it,” Lacson told reporters.

The possible EO, he noted, would formalize restrictions on travel and other non-essential government activities.

He confirmed that the province has already begun implementing internal cost-saving strategies as it responds to the ongoing global fuel crisis triggered by tensions in the Middle East.

The move comes after neighboring Negros Oriental, under Governor Manuel Sagarbarria, issued a similar directive imposing temporary limits on travel and non-essential activities in response to the national energy emergency.

Despite recent reports of a temporary de-escalation between the United States and Iran, which agreed to a two-week suspension of hostilities, Lacson expressed skepticism that fuel prices would immediately decline.

“I don’t think prices will drop as fast as they increased,” he said, pointing to significant damage to oil infrastructure in the Middle East.

“A lot of work needs to be done to restore facilities, so it will take time. But the ceasefire is a good sign, at least for now,” he added.

Lacson also renewed his call for unity and prayer among Filipinos, emphasizing the importance of collective hope for a lasting resolution to the conflict.

“As a nation, our contribution will be prayers. Many Filipinos are already offering prayers for peace in the Middle East. Let’s continue and pray for a permanent solution,” he added./CJ, WDJ