Negros Occidental is one of the first provinces in the country to undertake a province-wide integration of the Energy Virtual One-Stop Shop (EVOSS), a move aimed at slashing red tape and accelerating the development of energy projects.
Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson announced the milestone during an orientation on Department of Energy (DOE) programs and an Investment Promotion Office (IPO) workshop at the Capitol Social Hall on Tuesday, Jan. 13.
The event focused on harmonizing the EVOSS process flow among local government units (LGUs).
The initiative aims to improve coordination and efficiency in the permitting process to support the province’s energy security and sustainability goals.
EVOSS is a centralized online system mandated by Republic Act No. 11234. It acts as a single portal for energy project applications, designed to promote transparency, accountability, and the ease of doing business by consolidating the requirements of various agencies into one digital platform.
Lacson said the province’s proactive stance on EVOSS reflects a commitment to progress that goes beyond mere legal requirements.
“Negros Occidental is proud to be among the first provinces to undertake this initiative province-wide. This pioneering harmonized integration reflects our commitment to good governance, not just compliance,” Lacson said.
“This gathering affirms our collective commitment to ensure that policy is translated into practice, that national reforms are carried through at the local level, and that innovation is anchored on good governance,” the governor added.
By aligning local permitting workflows with the national EVOSS system, Negros Occidental expects to significantly reduce the lead time for new power plants and renewable energy installations, further solidifying its position as a leader in the Philippine energy landscape, he said.
Representatives of various LGUs in Negros Occidental attended the event.
The activity was organized by the Provincial Consultant on Energy and Environment Concerns Rafael Cosculluela in collaboration with the DOE and the Negros Association of Chief Executives, led by its president, Cadiz Mayor Salvador Escalante Jr.*