• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
About to end his second term as governor of Negros Occidental by next year, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson yesterday declared that the “state of the province is good, stable and promising.”
In his State Of the Province Address held on Tuesday at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City, Lacson, who had earlier announced that he is seeking his third and final term as the Chief Executive of Negros Occidental in the 2025 midterm elections, lauded members of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of Negros Occidental for crafting and passing ordinances and resolutions judiciously and without delay, as well as local chief executives for their unwavering support to his programs and initiatives under the banner “Abanse Negrense.”
Lacson also said he was overwhelmed by the achievements of various Capitol departments, far beyond what he had expected from them.
“Their dedication and hardwork have led to numerous successes that are a testament to our collective efforts,” he stressed.
To the mayors and officials of our cities and municipalities, I recognize the immense demands placed on our local chief executives, amidst the numerous challenges we face. Yet again, you have proven that your local government units and your communities are in capable hands, Lacson further said.
Most importantly, to Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer, members of the Provincial Board, heads of different departments and offices, and all my fellow servants in the province of Negros Occidental, thank you and congratulations for another year of remarkable public service, the governor also stressed.
As in the previous years, we continue to enjoy a good trust standing, among our people, and peers, Lacson said, adding “the true measure of a government is its ability to serve those who have the least, with the greatest dedication.”
As public servants of Negros Occidental, our mission is to create opportunities that allow our people to reach their highest potential. We must strive for a government that is not only honorable but also truly effective – a government that delivers on its promises, strengthens families, upholds law and order, creates jobs, nurtures our youth, provides for a secure retirement, and ensures that essential services are within reach for everyone. True development and progress are those that touch everyone, especially those who need it most, the governor further stressed.
In his State Of the Province Address, Lacson reported that the local revenue generation for year 2023 soared to a staggering 198 percent of the provincial government target, amounting to P1.2 billion, compared to previous estimated target collection of P635.9 million in 2022.
For the 1st semester of 2024, he said the collection efficiency of local sources stands at 103 percent, indicating a strong and consistent performance, with actual collection amounting to P713 million.
Lacson also noted Real Property Tax collections surpassed the local target with 111 percent collection efficiency in 2023, generating an income of P179.8 million.
He also enumerated accomplishments of various Capitol departments, in promoting agriculture and food security; building infrastructures, roads and structures; advancement of economic, trade, investment and employment opportunities; nurturing people’s health and welfare; ensuring peace and order and public safety; sustainable environment management and tourism development; and enhancement of access to quality education, culture, sports, and ICT development.*
