The proposal for the creation of the Negros Island Region (NIR) has stirred considerable debate and controversy. While proponents argue for the potential benefits, a closer examination reveals significant shortcomings and concerns that render the creation of NIR unnecessary and unjust.
The following are the reasons why the establishment of NIR should be reconsidered:
Lack of info dissemination
The initiative for NIR lacks transparency and clarity. There has been a glaring absence of comprehensive information dissemination regarding what NIR entails, leaving many stakeholders in the dark. Without a clear understanding of the implications and benefits, it is unjust to proceed with such a significant restructuring.
Absence of consultations
Meaningful consultation with all affected parties is fundamental to any decision-making process. However, the creation of NIR has proceeded without just and fair consultation. Ignoring the voices and concerns of the people undermines the principles of democracy and justice.
Lack of due process
The absence of due process further exacerbates the injustice surrounding the creation of NIR. Decisions of such magnitude should adhere to established legal procedures and protocols. The disregard for due process undermines the legitimacy of the entire endeavor.
No Public Hearing to Seek Sectoral convergence
Public hearings are essential for fostering dialogue and understanding among different sectors of society. However, the absence of public hearings to seek sectoral convergence reflects a failure to engage with diverse perspectives and interests. Without inclusive dialogue, the creation of NIR risks marginalizing certain groups and exacerbating existing divisions.
Economic disadvantages
The proposed creation of NIR is perceived to be economically disadvantageous, particularly to Negros Oriental and Siquijor. The disparity in size and population among the constituent provinces raises concerns about equitable budget allocation and resource distribution. Negros Occidental’s dominance could further marginalize the smaller provinces, exacerbating existing inequalities.
Cultural, linguistic differences
The cultural and linguistic diversity within the proposed NIR presents significant challenges. Negros Island is home to diverse ethnic groups and languages, each with its unique heritage and identity. Consolidating these disparate cultures under a single administrative region risks erasing valuable cultural distinctions and undermining local autonomy.
Politically-driven
The push for NIR appears to be driven more by the interests of powerful politicians than the genuine needs and demands of the people. This top-down approach to governance disregards grassroots perspectives and reinforces entrenched power dynamics. True democratic governance should prioritize the voices and aspirations of the populace over political expediency.
Financial burden
The creation of NIR entails significant financial costs, with estimates reaching billions. At a time when resources are limited and pressing social needs abound, allocating such vast sums to a potentially unnecessary administrative restructuring is unjustifiable. These funds could be better utilized to address urgent social issues and improve public services.
Inconvenient transport
The geographic realities of Negros Island pose challenges to transportation and connectivity. Travel from Siquijor and Negros Oriental to Negros Occidental is perceived to be inconvenient compared to access to neighboring regions like Cebu. This logistical hurdle further undermines the practicality and feasibility of creating NIR.
Alternative solutions
Rather than pursuing the creation of NIR, alternative solutions such as the establishment of sub-regional offices offer a more cost-effective and pragmatic approach to improving service delivery. By decentralizing administrative functions and empowering local governance structures, we can achieve the desired outcomes without the need for a full-fledged administrative overhaul.
In conclusion, the creation of the Negros Island Region is unnecessary and unjustifiable on multiple grounds. From the lack of comprehensive information dissemination to the economic disadvantages and cultural concerns, the proposed NIR fails to address the fundamental needs and aspirations of the people. Instead of perpetuating top-down governance and political expediency, we must prioritize inclusive dialogue, adherence to due process, and the pursuit of alternative solutions that truly serve the interests of all stakeholders.
NIR requires a plebiscite
According Atty. Marcelino Maxino, former Foundation University President, Dumaguete City Councilor, law professor, a retired U.S. Lawyer, and author of law books, “the formation of the Negros Island Region, I believe that, pursuant to section Section 10 of the 1991 Local Government Code, the NIR bill requires a plebiscite before it can become a law. This is because under said Section 10, no division or alteration of boundaries of local government units shall take effect unless approved by a majority of the votes cast in a plebiscite in the political units directly affected. The creation of a new political region necessarily involves division and alteration of boundaries.”
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