One of the oldest social development foundations in Negros Occidental paid tribute to its founders and movers Thursday, July 4, as it marked its 55th charter anniversary, highlighting over five decades of impactful work in advancing socio-economic development for the province’s most vulnerable sectors.
Negros Economic Development Foundation chairman Ramon Ponce de Leon led the officers and board members in presenting a plaque recognizing president Wilhelmina Gonzales who served the foundation for 53 years.
Himself a service awardee, Ponce de Leon also presented posthumous special awards to former Governor Daniel Lacson Jr., represented by his son, former Provincial Board Member Patrick Lacson and David Villanueva, who both served as members of the NEDF Board. Villanueva’s plaque was received by his brothers – Ildefonso and Jude Villanueva.
Along with Gonzales and Ponce de Leon, service awards were also given to trustees Alfredo Barcelona, Monsignor Rufino Suplido and Eduardo Jereza.
The celebration, held at its farm in Barangay Handumanan, was attended by the foundation’s institutional partners, project beneficiaries and stakeholders.
“For the longest time, NEDF has been a catalyst for socioeconomic development,” said Aurecio Causing Jr., regional director of the Department of Economic Planning and Development-Negros Island Region (formerly National Economic and Development Authority).
Gov. Eugenio Lacson said that NEDF has built a legacy anchored on socialized housing, health, integrated agricultural development, environmental stewardship, entrepreneurship, empowerment, and sustainability.
“These are not just programs—they are lifelines that reflect a deep understanding of the unique needs of the Negrense people,” the governor said in a message delivered by Provincial Planning and Development Officer Ana Marie Lucasan.
Also to mark the occasion, farm implements donated by the provincial government was blessed and officially turned over to the foundation.
Ninety-six sets of raincoats, boots and bolo knife were also distributed to members of Bantay Lasang who are assigned to patrol the Hilabangan and Sicaba watershed areas.
These are part of NEDF’s partnership program with Coca Cola Foundation.