Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson called on the mayors of Negros Occidental to adopt solar energy in government buildings to reduce the province’s carbon footprint and enhance energy resilience.
Lacson made the appeal during his speech at the induction of the Negros Association of Chief Executives (Negros ACE) officers at the Provincial Capitol in Bacolod City on Thursday, July 24.
He pointed out that provincial government’s recent Renewable Energy Week reinforced Negros Occidental’s commitment to transitioning towards cleaner, more sustainable energy sources.
“In answer to the growing demand to reduce our carbon footprint and embrace energy resilience, the Provincial Government will begin solarizing some of our buildings, and I earnestly hope that our LGUs will consider doing the same,” Lacson said.
He stressed that it’s time to move towards a future that is “renewable, reliable, affordable, available and sustainable,” with government offices leading the way.
Cadiz City Mayor Salvador “Bading” Escalante, the new Negros ACE president, expressed his support for the governor’s call, noting that Cadiz City has already begun implementing solar energy initiatives.
In his address, Lacson also acknowledged the history of Negros ACE, founded in 2002 under the leadership of then governor Joseph Marañon.
The governor praised the organization for evolving into a strong platform for collective governance, mutual support, and shared growth.
Lacson also congratulated the incoming officers, and commended Escalante for his “experienced, respected, and steady hand.”
He expressed confidence that under Escalante’s leadership, Negros ACE would continue to drive progress and cooperation among LGUs.
Escalante and the other Negros ACE officers took their oaths of office before Lacson.
The newly inducted Negros ACE officers include:
• Chairman of the Board: Victorias City Mayor Abelardo “JunB” Bantug III
• Secretary General: Pontevedra Mayor Jose Maria Alonso
• Treasurer: San Enrique Mayor Jilson Tubillara
• Auditor: Candoni Mayor Ray Ruiz
• Public Information Officer: Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson
Board of Directors:
• 1st District: Toboso Mayor Richard Jaojoco
• 2nd District: Manapla Mayor Mikaela Escalante
• 3rd District: Victorias City Mayor JunB Bantug
• 4th District: Bago City Mayor Mayette Javellana-Yao
• 5th District: Isabela Mayor Miguel Angelo Yulo
• 6th District: Hinoba-an Mayor Daph Reliquias
• Lone District of Bacolod: Mayor Greg Gasataya*