Former governor Bitay Lacson remembered as visionary leader

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – A group of entrepreneurs in Negros Occidental described former Governor Daniel “Bitay” Lacson, who passed away Friday evening, as a “true visionary.”

Popularly known as “Bitay,” Lacson, who served as governor of Negros Occidental from 1986 to 1992, succumbed to a brain tumor. He was 77.

Lacson also held leadership positions as chairman of the Philippine National Bank (PNB) and the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS).

The Association of Negros Producers (ANP), organizer of the Negros Trade Fair, paid tribute to Lacson on its social media page, saying he was a visionary who helped guide Negros Occidental through some of its most challenging times.

“We, the Association of Negros Producers (ANP), are deeply committed to carrying forward his legacy by nurturing the local industries he helped cultivate, supporting the growth of our communities, and ensuring that the Negrense spirit of resilience and innovation thrives for generations to come. His contributions will forever be a guiding light for the ANP as we continue our mission,” the post read.

During the sugar crisis and the aftermath of Martial Law, Lacson led the province’s recovery, inspiring with the message: “Hope Shines in Negros.”

He championed economic diversification beyond sugar, introduced land-use programs, and promoted high-quality crafts, which eventually led to the formation of the ANP.

Lacson’s leadership fostered volunteerism, attracted much-needed foreign aid, and supported local communities. He introduced microfinancing to empower women and launched feeding programs to combat malnutrition.

His vision lives on in the success of the Negros Trade Fair and the many lives he touched. He will be remembered for his lasting impact on the island and its people.

In a statement on Saturday, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said, “I, together with the people of Negros Occidental, mourn the passing of former Governor Bitay Lacson.”

“We are deeply grateful to Gov. Bitay Lacson for the life he devoted to public service. The Province of Negros Occidental has lost a brilliant and well-loved leader,” he added.

“We will always remember his vision for the Mini Taiwan development framework for Negros Occidental. As the Philippines enters the Christmas season, we fondly recall the Star of Hope that Gov. Bitay initiated, bringing new meaning to the traditional parol,” Governor Lacson said.

He added, “His committed and impassioned dedication to service will remain an inspiration to everyone.”

Former Governor Lito Coscolluela, who succeeded Lacson, expressed his grief: “A sad day for Negros Occidental. Another governor is gone, accompanied by angels to his well-earned heavenly rest. Former Governor Daniel ‘Bitay’ Lacson Jr. served his province and country with passion, always concerned about what could be done to make things better. Rest in peace, Bitay. You will always be remembered and honored for the service you gave so selflessly and passionately.”

Coscolluela also credited Lacson for initially bringing up the idea of creating a Negros Island Region (NIR) with former Negros Oriental Governor Emilio “Dodo” Macias.

“Sadly, the journey started by Gov. Bitay and Gov. Dodo Macias isn’t finished. A case is pending in the Supreme Court questioning the constitutionality of the NIR law. Hopefully, Bitay’s vision will not die a second death,” Coscolluela said.