NOCCI President Du Discusses NIR Proposal with Gov. Sagarbarria, Rep. Garin

Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du had a short discussion with Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria and former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary now Iloilo Representative and House Deputy Majority Leader Janette Garin during the 9th Founding Anniversary of ACE Dumaguete Doctors. As a staunch advocate for the creation of Negros Island Region (NIR), President Du presented to Governor Sagarbarria and Congresswoman Garin the NOCCI’s game-changing proposal for the province of Negros Oriental under the newly-institutionalized NIR.

In a significant gathering at the 9th Founding Anniversary of ACE Dumaguete Doctors, Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI) President Edward Du seized the opportunity to engage in a crucial discussion with Negros Oriental Governor Manuel Sagarbarria and former Department of Health (DOH) Secretary, now Iloilo Representative and House Deputy Majority Leader, Janette Garin. The event, which brought together key figures from various sectors, served as a fitting venue for President Du to advocate for the newly-institutionalized Negros Island Region (NIR) and present NOCCI’s strategic proposal for the province of Negros Oriental.

The discussion was set against the backdrop of ACE Dumaguete Doctors’ celebration, a testament to the healthcare institution’s growth and its commitment to serving the local community. However, the conversation between President Du, Governor Sagarbarria, and Rep. Garin quickly shifted to the broader implications of the NIR on the region’s economic landscape.

As a staunch advocate for the creation of the Negros Island Region, President Du reiterated NOCCI’s unwavering support for the initiative, which was officially approved and signed into law by President Ferdinand Marcos, Jr. on June 13, 2024. The formation of NIR, which consolidates the provinces of Negros Oriental, Negros Occidental, and Siquijor, is expected to significantly enhance the ease of doing business within the region, fostering a more streamlined and efficient governance structure.

During the brief yet impactful discussion, President Du laid out NOCCI’s game-changing proposal for the province of Negros Oriental under the NIR framework. He emphasized the potential benefits that the region stands to gain, particularly in terms of economic growth, infrastructure development, and increased investment opportunities. The proposal, which has been meticulously crafted by NOCCI, is designed to capitalize on the unique strengths of Negros Oriental, positioning it as a key player in the region’s economic revival.

Governor Sagarbarria, who has been a vocal supporter of regional development, expressed his appreciation for NOCCI’s proactive approach and the strategic foresight embodied in the proposal. He acknowledged the critical role that the private sector, particularly organizations like NOCCI, plays in driving economic progress and ensuring that the benefits of the NIR are fully realized across the province.

Rep. Garin, whose legislative efforts have consistently aligned with the goals of sustainable development and regional empowerment, also welcomed NOCCI’s initiative. She highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts between the government and the private sector in advancing the NIR’s objectives and ensuring that the region’s potential is maximized.

The exchange between these key figures underscored the growing momentum behind the NIR and the shared commitment to unlocking its full potential. President Du’s presentation of NOCCI’s proposal is a clear indication of the Chamber’s dedication to ensuring that Negros Oriental not only thrives within the new regional framework but also emerges as a model for sustainable development and economic resilience.

As the NIR takes shape, the collaboration between NOCCI, the provincial government, and national leaders like Rep. Garin will be instrumental in navigating the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. The proposal presented by President Du at this pivotal moment represents a bold step forward in realizing the vision of a more prosperous and unified Negros Island Region.