On Thursday, June 13, 2024, President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. signed the Negros Island Region (NIR) Act, officially known as Republic Act (R.A.) No. 12000, into law. This landmark legislation unifies the provinces of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor into a single administrative region, heralding a new era of regional cooperation and development.
The creation of the Negros Island Region is seen as a significant move towards more efficient governance and development for the constituent provinces. By consolidating these areas into one administrative unit, the NIR Act aims to streamline bureaucratic processes, enhance resource allocation, and foster economic growth through coordinated planning and implementation.
Negros Occidental Governor Bong Lacson quickly released an official statement following the signing of the NIR Act. Governor Lacson expressed his enthusiastic support for the new law, highlighting its potential to spur regional development and improve the lives of the residents. “This is a historic day for the people of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor. The unification under the NIR will bring about more efficient governance, improved public services, and a stronger collective identity,” he stated.
Governor Lacson also underscored the importance of unity and cooperation among the provinces to realize the full potential of the new region. “We must work together to ensure that the Negros Island Region becomes a model of sustainable development and inclusive growth. The opportunities are vast, and by pooling our resources and expertise, we can achieve remarkable progress,” he added.
The creation of the NIR is expected to address long-standing challenges faced by the individual provinces, such as fragmented development planning and uneven resource distribution. By centralizing administrative functions, the new region aims to enhance the delivery of public services, infrastructure development, and economic initiatives.
Local leaders and stakeholders from Negros Oriental and Siquijor have also voiced their support for the NIR Act. They believe that this unification will create a more cohesive strategy for addressing regional issues and promoting tourism, agriculture, and other key industries.
The signing of the NIR Act marks a pivotal moment in the history of the involved provinces. It reflects the government’s commitment to decentralization and regional autonomy, empowering local governments to take charge of their development agenda. As the Negros Island Region begins its journey as a unified administrative entity, there is a palpable sense of optimism and determination among its leaders and residents.
The enactment of Republic Act No. 12000 by President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. is a transformative step towards regional integration and development. The establishment of the Negros Island Region is poised to bring about significant positive changes, fostering unity, enhancing governance, and driving economic progress for the people of Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor.