In this world, according to the great philosopher Socrates, nothing is permanent but the word change.
However, people must be observant and watchful that if there is improvement and development, we must see to it that it is for the greater good of the citizenry.
In the recent Presidential Proclamation No. 183, it signals the historic transformation of the twin provinces of Negros Island — Negros Oriental and Negros Occidental, the two siblings which were politically divided by their respective politicians.
In the unification, Negros Oriental was taken away from RegionVII (Cebu, Bohol, Siquijor, Negros Oriental) while Negros Occidental was separated from Region VI (Iloilo, Panay, Aklan, Negros Occidental).
Henceforth, the two provinces will now be called Region 18, with a descriptive title, Negros Island Region.
What are the advantages of such merger?
The strategic approach for development now is integration. This is emphasized and given importance in the Local Government Code of 1991 otherwise known as Republic Act 7160.
It is best that the planning approach will start at ground zero so that everything will be considered and nothing left unturned.
This strategy is democracy. However, stakeholders must be vigilant because abused democracy is more dangerous than authoritarian government. The use of the PDAF and the DAP by politicians are best examples of abused democracy.
By the establishment of Region 18, it is best that the PDAF and the DAP be relied upon to the Executive Department (President, Governor, Mayor, and Barangay Captain) specifying programs, projects, and activities in a transparent manner so that any kind of apprehensions cannot enter into the minds of our constituents.
Let us no play politics. We will build infrastructure at par with Singapore and Hongkong — the flood-free and disaster- resilient communities.
Anthony M. Duran
Coordinator, City Planning & Development
Tanjay City, 1973-2014
