By CESAR JOLITO III
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called for stronger collaboration among government agencies to address emerging threats caused by African swine fever (ASF) and the resurgence of the red-striped soft scale insects (RSSI).
Speaking during the second quarter regional peace and order council meeting held in Cadiz City yesterday, Lacson identified the continued threat posed by ASF and RSSI as among the pressing concerns in Negros Island Region, saying their effects extend beyond agriculture and have significant economic consequences for farmers, backyard hog raisers, traders, and others dependent on the swine industry.
He warned that disruptions to livelihoods could create conditions that contribute to peace and order issues if left unaddressed.
To mitigate these risks, Lacson stressed the need for stronger coordination among local governments, law enforcement agencies, and concerned sectors to ensure effective implementation of disease control measures while extending assistance to affected communities.
School violence
The governor also raised alarm over recent violent incidents involving young people, including cases occurring within and around school campuses.
He said schools must remain safe spaces for learning and personal development, noting that maintaining peace requires more than law enforcement intervention.
Lacson underscored the importance of involving parents, educators, community leaders, and local governments in promoting values formation, responsible citizenship, conflict resolution, and youth engagement to help prevent violence before it occurs.
Lacson emphasized that peace and public safety are closely tied to the social and economic well-being of communities.
He concluded by reiterating that peace and order can only be achieved through a whole-of-government and whole-of-community approach that addresses both security concerns and the underlying social and economic challenges facing the region.
“Let us remain united, vigilant and proactive in addressing both emerging and long-standing concerns,” Lacson said./CCJ, WDJ