Bacolod: The transition team of the National Economic and Development Authority-Negros Island Region (NEDA-NIR) has reached out to local government units (LGU) of the new administrative region to enhance direct communication and promote collective action. Discussions concentrated on strategies for addressing local challenges and the activities involved in formulating the Regional Development Plan and organizing the Regional Development Council.

According to Philippines News Agency, the courtesy visits, led by concurrent regional director Arecio Casing Jr., came after the inauguration of the NEDA-NIR regional office inside the Carlos Hilado Memorial State University Alijis campus on March 10. From March 23 to 28, the agency's transition team visited 14 LGUs, including cities in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental, as well as meetings with provincial officials in Negros Oriental and Siquijor.

In an earlier statement, Casing underscored the importance of stakeholder support in creating meaningful impacts that will contribute to the region's growth. 'We value the trust and confidence of our development partners and we hope to receive your continued support as we do our share in uplifting the lives of our people in the NIR,' he said.

During the NEDA-NIR regional office inauguration, Socioeconomic Planning Secretary Arsenio Balisacan mentioned that the Regional Development Group of NEDA central office will collaborate with local stakeholders and various government agencies to develop a roadmap for the NIR. Republic Act 12000, also known as the Negros Island Act, establishes the region composed of the provinces of Negros Occidental, including Bacolod City, as well as Negros Oriental and Siquijor.