The Negros Economic Development Foundation (NEDF), one of the oldest social development foundations in Negros Occidental, paid tribute to its founders and movers on July 23, as it marked its 55th charter anniversary, which highlighted more than five decades of impactful work in advancing socio-economic development for the province’s most vulnerable sectors, a press release from the organization said.
NEDF chairman Ramon Ponce de Leon led the officers and board of directors in presenting a plaque recognizing president Wilhelmina Gonzales who served the foundation for 53 years.
Himself a service awardee, Ponce de Leon presented posthumous special awards to former Governor Daniel Lacson Jr., represented by his son, former Provincial Board Member Patrick Lacson, and David Villanueva, who both served as members of the NEDF Board. Villanueva’s plaque was received by his brothers – Ildefonso and Jude Villanueva.
Along with Gonzales and Ponce de Leon, service awards were also given to trustees Alfredo Barcelona, Monsignor Rufino Suplido, and Eduardo Jereza.
The celebration, held at its farm in Barangay Handumanan, was attended by the foundation’s institutional partners, project beneficiaries and stakeholders.
“For the longest time, NEDF has been a catalyst for socioeconomic development,” said Aurecio Causing Jr., regional director of the Department of Economic Planning and Development-Negros Island Region (formerly National Economic and Development Authority).
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said that NEDF has built a legacy anchored on socialized housing, health, integrated agricultural development, environmental stewardship, entrepreneurship, empowerment, and sustainability.
“These are not just programs—they are lifelines that reflect a deep understanding of the unique needs of the Negrense people,” the governor said in a message delivered by Provincial Planning and Development Officer Ana Marie Lucasan.
To mark the occasion, farm implements donated by the provincial government were blessed and officially turned over to the foundation. Ninety-six sets of raincoats, boots and bolo knives were distributed to members of Bantay Lasang who are assigned to patrol the Hilabangan and Sicaba watershed areas. These are part of NEDF’s partnership program with Coca Cola Foundation.*
