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By CESAR JOLITO III Bringing reliable, affordable and sustainable energy to small communities is at the heart of Negros Occidental’s energy transition, as the province advances its energy framework for 2030 alongside the Renewable Energy Week Expo 2026 set for May 7 to 9. Anchored on the goal of delivering reliable, renewable, accessible, affordable, available, …

By CESAR JOLITO III A national federation of sugar workers and agrarian reform beneficiaries has thrown its support behind legislative efforts to overhaul the country’s sugar industry, while calling for accountability over what it described as damaging importation policies. The National Congress of Unions in the Sugar Industry in the Philippines (Nacusip) expressed “unwavering support” …

By CESAR JOLITO III The municipal government of Toboso in Negros Occidental will revert to a regular five-day work week starting May 11, as local officials move to address operational delays observed under the previously implemented compressed work schedule. Mayor Richard Jaojoco said the adjustment is aimed at improving public service efficiency and accessibility, citing …

By CESAR JOLITO III Former Negros Occidental governor and provincial energy and environment consultant Rafael “Lito” Coscolluela said expanding renewable energy (RE) access to small communities is a key part of the province’s long-term strategy. Despite the province’s ambition to eventually rely entirely on renewable energy, Coscolluela acknowledged that reaching 100 percent remains challenging. “Target …

By CESAR JOLITO III Rice prices across the Negros Island Region (NIR) have increased this week, as the Department of Agriculture (DA) attributed the rise to lower production levels and higher fuel costs. Data from the DA’s regional monitoring as of May 4 show that well-milled imported rice is now priced at an average of …

By CESAR JOLITO III The National Security Council (NSC) has expressed full support for Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro, Jr. in opposing any resumption of national-level peace talks with the Communist Party of the Philippines, its armed wing the New People’s Army, and its political arm, the National Democratic Front. In a statement, National Security Adviser …

By CESAR JOLITO III A consumer advocacy group has formally asked the Department of Energy (DOE) to intervene amid the high costs of electricity affecting consumers in the Negros Island Region (NIR). In a complaint, the Alliance of Concerned Consumers in Electricity and Social Services (ACCESS) urged Energy Secretary Sharon Garin to take immediate action …

By CESAR JOLITO III A lawmaker from Negros Occidental has filed a measure in the House of Representatives seeking a comprehensive overhaul of the country’s sugar industry, aiming to address long-standing issues in pricing, supply and farmer protection. In House Bill No. 9088, filed on May 5, 3rd District Representative Javier Miguel Benitez proposes amendments …

By CESAR JOLITO III The Bacolod City government has taken a step toward advancing its solid waste management program after formalizing a lease agreement for a proposed waste-to-energy (WTE) facility within the city’s sanitary landfill in Barangay Felisa. The agreement grants Forza Development Corporation the use of a 10-hectare property designated as a WTE Industrial …

By CESAR JOLITO III Government troops clashed with suspected members of the New People’s Army (NPA) at Barangay Masaling in Negros Occidental’s Cauayan town early yesterday morning, the Philippine Army said. Lt. Colonel Dennis Martinez, commanding officer of the 47th Infantry Battalion under the 302nd Infantry Brigade, confirmed that the encounter occurred at 5:25 a.m. …