Bacolod Stresses Need for Continued U.S. Aid

By Glazyl M. Jopson

BACOLOD CITY – Mayor Alfredo “Albee” Benitez said U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson is assessing the situation in Negros Occidental and Bacolod City as all U.S. grants remain on hold due to a 90-day pause.

Benitez’s brother, Jose Francisco “Kiko” Benitez, director general of the Technical Education and Skills Development Authority (TESDA), hosted a dinner for Carlson at Casa Gamboa in Silay City on Monday.

Benitez confirmed that all assistance from the U.S. is temporarily suspended.

He said they discussed the importance of maintaining some aid and ensuring it is not overlooked.

“We are thinking of formalizing the significance of the aid and making it clear how it benefits both the Philippines and the global community,” Benitez said.

He added that Carlson emphasized the importance of the Philippines voicing its need for continued support, as it serves the country’s best interests and helps promote the United States.

On Tuesday, Carlson visited the Provincial Capitol, where she was welcomed by Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.