FESTIVE MOOD. People line up in front of the Capitol in Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental, for free ice cream during the Dec. 10, 2023 Christmas Tree lighting activity. Despite the political turmoil and violence that marred the province this year with the assassination of Gov. Roel Degamo, Negros Oriental is now recovering from the negative effects of that unprecedented attack that killed nine other people on March 4
DUMAGUETE CITY – As 2023 concludes, Negros Oriental is exhibiting signs of recovery from a series of events that disrupted the province following the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo in March.
Edward Du, president of the Negros Oriental Chamber of Commerce and Industry (NOCCI), is optimistic, noting that the province is now "politically stable," and the previously compromised peace and order have significantly improved.
These positive developments set the stage for a more promising 2024, despite the challenges faced by the province this year, Du emphasized.
"The political climate in Negros Oriental has now stabilized, and peace and order are a lot better, with the province being touted by the police as the 4th peaceful province in the Philippines," Du remarked.
Du reported a buoyant business environment, a relatively stable economy, increasing tourist arrivals, and the anticipation of more investors in the coming year.
Political Turmoil
Negros Oriental faced upheaval after the violence in Pamplona town on March 4, resulting in the assassination of Governor Roel Degamo. The incident, deemed "politically motivated," triggered government security forces' response to prevent further violence.
Former Rep. Arnolfo Teves Jr. was implicated as the alleged mastermind, leading to his expulsion from Congress. Charges of murder were filed against Teves, who sought political asylum in East Timor.
Three Governors in a Year
Negros Oriental experienced an unprecedented situation with three governors in a single year following Degamo's murder. Degamo was succeeded by Vice-Governor Carlo Jorge Reyes, who, battling a terminal illness, served for about three months before his passing. Manuel L. Sagarbarria then assumed the role of governor through the rule of succession.
Unity for Recovery
Governor Sagarbarria, upon taking office, emphasized the need for unity to overcome the effects of the Pamplona massacre. He called for cooperation among all political and other sectors, initiating a "return to barracks" for provincial government employees transferred in previous administrations.
Sagarbarria prioritized healthcare, approving funds and construction projects to enhance the province's healthcare facilities. Initiatives included the revival of the Buglasan Festival and an expanded tourism roadmap.
Sustained Peace and Order
Police provincial director Col. Ronan Claravall acknowledged the public's support in maintaining peace and order. NOPPO was recognized as the second-best police provincial office in Central Visayas, vying for the top spot at the national level. Claravall assured that the police are capable of sustaining the current peace and order situation in the province, with a notable drop in the crime volume.
As Negros Oriental progresses toward a more peaceful and safer environment, these collaborative efforts between the public and government security forces are crucial, Claravall emphasized.
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