Biz groups back creation of Negros region

Business groups are backing the creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) to improve government services and hasten economic progress on the island.

Interior and Local Government Secretary Mar Roxas is proposing the creation of the NIR to uplift the lives of Negrenses and increase economic development.

In a joint statement, the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) and the Metro Bacolod Chamber of Commerce and Industry (MBCCI) said the creation of one Negros province would generate more revenues and investments for the region.

“Businessmen will save a lot of money because we will not have to travel to either Iloilo or Cebu for passports, licenses and follow-ups for approvals and transactions if Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental will consolidate resources and share facilities and infrastructures such as economic zones and air and sea ports, and hold joint market development programs,” said Edward Du, NOCC president.

MBCC head Frank Carbon said creating one Negros region will bridge the development gap between the two provinces.

Carbon said 15 business groups from the Visayas have committed to support the NIR.

After briefing President Aquino, Roxas said the Chief Executive is keen on signing an order to create the NIR.

The President said the move would result in stronger coordination between the two provinces. “leading to more economic progress and benefiting both.”

Roxas said his department is now working on the IRR that will be the basis for the executive order creating one Negros region.

Du noted that under the present setup Negros Oriental only gets 10 percent of Region 7 budget, while Negros Occidental only has 20 to 25 percent of Region 6 budget.

Rep. Roman Romulo, chairman of the Committee on Higher Education, noted that Roxas’ proposal would have no negative effect on the educational system.

“Coordination will be made easier for teachers as they will have their own regional office on Negros island and will no longer have to travel to Cebu or Iloilo for transactions. Faster decisions would benefit students,’’ Romulo said.

Roxas has been consulting with stakeholders, governors, and other local officials in the province to map out the creation of the Regional Development Council, the location of a regional center and sharing mechanisms. -- Wilma Yamzon

Negros Oriental Gov. Roel Degamo and Negros Occidental Gov. Alfredo Maranon formation of NIR.