Don’t let the carabao and the farmer confuse you. The Provincial Capitol is an American-designed building.
Built in 1924, this building was actually designed by the great American architect Daniel Hudson Burnham who has built several landmarks such as the Union Station in Washington DC, the Flat Iron Building in New York City, and closer to home, the popular destination of Burnham Park in Baguio City.
The Negros Oriental Capitol building has been the center of political activity in Negros Oriental for the last 100 years. In its halls walked the decision makers that made us what we are as a Province today.
Its huge acacia panels and floors are a stark reminder of the abundance of our natural resources at that time, a very far cry from our situation today.
But of course, the building has become too small to accommodate all the regular and Job Order workers who hold office there, not to mention the general public who would go there day-in and day-out.
And so the enlightened leadership of Gov. Chaco Sagarbarria has thought it wise to put up a bigger annex behind it.
The new building, a four-storey Government Center, will actually be the hub of governance, as several offices in the old Capitol will be converted into a display center.
Friday’s groundbreaking for the new Capitol building was well-attended. Politicians flew in from Manila, and Municipal and City Mayors showed up to take part in the festivities.
Gov. Bong Lacson of the twin province of Negros Occidental was also in attendance, with his provincial officials.
We can only hope that with a better building to work in, Negrenses will also see an improved level of public service.
The 100 years of the Capitol has come and gone. Let us welcome the start of the next 100 years!
