NextGen Day

BACOLOD CITY — Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri has committed to steering the passage of the Negros Island Region (NIR) bill through the Upper Chamber by December of this year. Zubiri’s determination stems from his desire to provide the region with its legislative identity before the year’s end.

At a Saturday press briefing in Bacolod City, Zubiri expressed his intent to ensure that the NIR bill advances through the Senate proceedings. He outlined his timeline: “I committed that before we go on a break in October, we will be able to at least tackle it, debate on it. We hope to do the second reading before (the) end of September. At the very latest, it would be passed into law before Christmas. Our Christmas gift to the region, as long as it will not be vetoed.”

As a senator with roots tracing back to Negros Occidental, Zubiri’s personal connection to the region fuels his commitment to pushing the bill’s passage. Acknowledging potential challenges, he revealed his intention to discuss the matter with President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., considering the Department of Budget and Management’s reservations about creating additional regions and departments.

Amidst these challenges, Zubiri remains confident in the support of his colleagues in the Senate. “As far as I’m concerned, I’ve committed it to the people of Negros; I will pass it in the Senate,” he assured.

Highlighting the potential of the Negros Island, Zubiri emphasized its substantial area and population, which exceeds 4.6 million, as ample grounds for its elevation to a region.

Creating the NIR garners local government support, with Governors Eugenio Jose Lacson of Negros Occidental and Manuel Sagarbarria of Negros Oriental expressing their endorsement.

At the Senate, the committee on local government has already granted initial approval to Senate Bill 1236, authored by Senator Joseph Victor Ejercito. The bill seeks to establish the NIR, aiming to enhance government service efficiency and offer convenience to residents in line with the administration’s rightsizing objectives.

The House of Representatives passed House Bill 7355 in March, seeking to establish the NIR. Titled “An Act Establishing the NIR, and Appropriating Funds Therefor,” the bill outlines the inclusion of cities, municipalities, and barangays in Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and the island province of Siquijor under the NIR’s jurisdiction.

During his recent visit to Bacolod City, Zubiri inspected the progress of two crucial infrastructure projects initiated under his leadership.

Among these projects are the Bacolod City Museum in Barangay Alijis and the Bacolod City General Hospital in Barangay Vista Alegre. With a projected cost exceeding PHP400 million, the museum-auditorium is expected to be fully operational next year, offering locals and tourists the opportunity to explore and appreciate Bacolod’s rich history and culture.

The senator also facilitated the allocation of PHP400 million from the General Appropriations Act to support the construction of Bacolod City General Hospital. Zubiri highlighted the necessity of a dedicated tertiary government hospital in the region: “For it to not have its own dedicated tertiary government hospital severely limits the health options of its over half a million residents.”

As Senate President Zubiri strives to usher in positive change for Negros Island Region, his dedication to enhancing regional development and well-being remains steadfast.

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