• RICHARD T. CABALLERO JR.
Local government units (LGUs) in Negros Occidental are aiming to harmonize the processing of renewable energy programs to attract and support business investors.
Representatives and chief executives from various LGUs convened during an orientation on energy programs conducted by the Department of Energy (DOE) and the Investment Promotion Office (IPO). The workshop focused on harmonizing the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS) process flow and was held at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City on Tuesday.
EVOSS is a Philippine government online system under the DOE designed to streamline and expedite the approval process for new energy projects by centralizing permit applications and information.
As mandated by Republic Act No. 11234, EVOSS serves as a single portal for applicants and agencies, promoting transparency, accountability, and ease of doing business in the energy sector.
The activity aims to accelerate energy project development by improving coordination, efficiency, and compliance in the permitting process, while supporting the provincial government’s energy security and sustainability goals.
“This is to harmonize the permitting and business processes of the national government and the LGUs,” said Cadiz City Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr., emphasizing that “sometimes, the processes required by the national government differ from those of local governments, causing delays and discrepancies for investors.”
Organized by former Governor Rafael ‘Lito’ Coscolluela, the Provincial Consultant on Energy and Environment Concerns, the activity seeks to create unified processes and documentation for renewable energy program applications.
Escalante also added that as the entire province strives for green energy, it must establish specific procedures to attract investors.
He noted that delays and discrepancies in processes often lead to dissatisfaction among foreign investors.
Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson expressed pride in being among the first provinces to undertake the initiative on a province-wide scale, pioneering the harmonized EVOSS integration, which reflects the province’s commitment to good governance, beyond mere compliance.
“This gathering affirms our collective commitment to ensure that policy is translated into practice, that national reforms are implemented at the local level, and that innovation is rooted in good governance,” he stated.*
