BACOLOD: The year 2024 has been marked by significant milestones for Bacolod City and the province of Negros Occidental as they secured international recognition and navigated regional developments, including the establishment of a new administrative region. The resilience of the Negrense community was tested by climate change and natural calamities, yet they emerged with notable achievements in various sectors.
According to Philippines News Agency, the signing of Republic Act 12000 by President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on June 13 established the Negros Island Region (NIR), bringing together Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor under one administrative entity. This new region aims to foster growth and enhance the delivery of essential services. The NIR marks a reunification after a previous attempt was dissolved in 2017. President Marcos emphasized the importance of unity in his speech during the signing ceremony.
Bacolod City has been selected to host the first Terra Madre Salone del Gusto Asia and the Pacific in November next year, establishing it as a hub for slow food. Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez formalized this role by signing an agreement with Slow Food International during an event in Turin, Italy. Additionally, Negros Occidental has been chosen to host the 2027 Organic World Congress, overcoming competitors like Brisbane, Australia. Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson highlighted the significance of this opportunity to advance the organic movement on a global scale.
The province has also achieved a Guinness World Record with the 'Manok ni Cano Gwapo,' the largest building shaped like a chicken, located at Campuestohan Highland Resort. Furthermore, Negros Occidental, along with Sipalay City and Don Salvador Benedicto, received multiple awards at the 2024 Pearl Awards for excellence in tourism.
In terms of peace and security, the Regional Peace and Order Council-Western Visayas declared a state of stable internal peace and security in March, following successful campaigns against local terrorist groups. This has bolstered investor confidence in the region.
The New Agrarian Emancipation Act, signed by President Marcos, freed 6,125 agrarian reform beneficiaries in Negros Occidental from debts totaling PHP816.688 million. This development is part of ongoing efforts to support local farmers.
Bacolod City has also taken steps towards sustainability by implementing a 400-kilowatt solar power system at the City Government Center, marking a significant move towards renewable energy.
However, the region faced challenges from the El Ni±o phenomenon, which caused extensive agricultural damage, and the eruption of Mt. Kanlaon, leading to evacuations and a declaration of a state of calamity across Negros Occidental.
