BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson is focusing on healthcare upgrades, environmental sustainability, and inclusive development in his third and final term in office.

Speaking during the 37th Inaugural Session of the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) on July 8, Lacson emphasized continuing reforms that will “create enduring impact beyond our time.”

Lacson highlighted the nearly 80 percent integration of local health systems into a unified province-wide network.

He announced the designation of the Teresita L. Jalandoni Provincial Hospital as an apex facility and pledged to expand telemedicine to reach underserved and remote areas.

To support families of hospitalized patients, a halfway house will be constructed near Corazon Locsin Montelibano Memorial Regional Hospital here.

“As we begin this final term, we carry forward the responsibility to sustain these gains and ensure that the progress we have made becomes the foundation for a healthier, stronger, and more equitable future for every people in Negros,” the governor said.

The governor reported that over P160 million in agricultural infrastructure and livelihood projects have benefited 3,500 farmers and fisherfolk.

Nursery production has scaled up, with 4,000 beneficiaries receiving seedlings of high-value crops like coffee and cacao.

Lacson said the Bigasan ng Bayan rice subsidy program was successful and brought rice prices down to P20 per kilo.

Efforts to revitalize the livestock industry include a 40-sow demo farm, distribution of free-range chickens, and construction of multiplier farms for various poultry types. Training programs for farmers and veterinary workers are ongoing.

Environmental priorities include establishing greenbelts, promoting responsible mining practices, enhancing climate resilience, and pushing for the passage of the Provincial Energy Code.

Lacson underscored education and digital skills as drivers of growth, citing the newly inaugurated Negros Occidental Language and Information Technology Center (NOLITC) campus in Talisay City. Since 2008, NOLITC has produced 8,888 graduates, 83 percent of whom have found employment.

“We are excited to expand our global partnerships, rolling out international courses in collaboration with esteemed schools in the Northern Territory Australia,” he said.

The Negros Occidental Scholarship Program (NOSP) has expanded to 28 categories since 2019, supporting over 10,000 scholars, including children of overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), Persons with Disabilities, and out-of-school youth.

“As we move forward, we remain committed to sustaining and expanding the reach of NOSP – ensuring that education continues to be a pathway toward equity, empowerment, and lasting progress for every Negrense,” Lacson said.

The governor committed to strengthen the tourism sector as an economic engine, announcing the launching of Culture Hub Tours this month to showcase heritage sites and cultural attractions.

Support for MSMEs includes training, digital access, and tourism-driven enterprise development.

Lacson thanked the previous provincial council led by former Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer and welcomed incoming Vice Gov. Joeben Alonso, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration grounded in innovation, good governance, and transparency.

Alonso echoed the council’s support while maintaining its independence, with the Sangguniang Panlalawigan granting him authority to appoint committee chairs.

“As we enter this final term, our purpose is clear: To finish strong, institutionalize our gains, and ensure today’s efforts lead to long-term impact,” Lacson said.