Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and his opponent, former Rep. John Orola, pledged to continue to support the push for renewable energy in Negros Occidental at a virtual debate Saturday, January 15.
“I support renewable energy… there is no question, coal will never happen here in Negros Occidental,” Lacson said.
The province will be business-friendly to those who invest in renewable energy, the governor said.
Orola said he is also committed to renewable energy to develop economic growth in Negros Occidental.
If he becomes governor he will have a long range renewable energy plan, Orola said.
Lacson and Orola joined the “Debate Eleksyon 2022” organized Saturday, January 15, by the University of the Philippines Law Alumni Association – Negros Occidental Chapter with the Philippine Daily Inquirer and the University of Saint La Salle.
The governor called on Negrenses to opt for a better future for Negros Occidental by electing him, a time tested public servant of 33 years who is aware of the needs of people.
Orola, a former congressman, Bacolod administrator and a diplomat, said now is the time to introduce a new brand of leadership and meaningful change.
Orola said we cannot just be addressing the pandemic, economic recovery must go hand in hand. If he is elected governor he will introduce industries other than sugar, Orola said.
He also intends to introduce state management farming, Orola said.
Lacson said he is banking on the economic zones in Negros Occidental to boost the economy and create jobs.
The focus should also be on continuing to assist the province’s farmers, Lacson also said, pointing out that Negros Occidental is an agricultural province.
As a province we are here to assist especially municipalities, we will never tell them what they are supposed to do, Lacson said.
He said the common request of the municipalities is still road concreting and so far they have concreted 55 kilometers making it easier for farmers to transport their goods.
Orola said if you are a governor of the province, you should be able to lead, you just don’t leave the local governments alone. He will bring trade and investments to the municipalities, he said.
Lacson said the transfer of the Provincial Government Center to Talisay City will create a new growth area. Orola said as governor he will ensure development not just in Talisay City but in other parts of the province.
EDUCATION
Orola said education must ensure global competence to meet the needs of the times.
Lacson said the provincial government continues to improve the skills of mentors by providing them, with scholarships for masters and doctorate degrees.
The provincial government through the Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center educates the out of school youth so they can find jobs, Lacson also said.
TYPHOON
Lacson said in the recent typhoon “Odette” many of those who died did not agree to preemptive evacuation.
More education is needed on the importance of preemptive evacuation, he said.
Orola said reminders will always be there, what is needed is strong leadership.*