Guv sees more synergy between Capitol, Bacolod City government

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Newly proclaimed Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson on Wednesday said he sees “more synergy” between the provincial government of Negros Occidental and the Bacolod City government under the administration of Mayor-elect Alfredo Benitez.

“I think under Mayor elect Albee Benitez, we can expect that the provincial government will always be invited in their programs, and maybe in most of their meetings,” Lacson told reporters his proclamation at the Sangguniang Panlalawigan session hall here.

He also witnessed the proclamation of winning Negros Occidental lawmakers and provincial government officials.

“We are excited and really looking forward to that,” the governor added.

Vice Gov. Jeffrey Ferrer said he expects a harmonious relationship and cooperation between the provincial government and Bacolod City government under the administration of Benitez.

“The big thing is that Mayor Albee is our ally,” Ferrer said.

Benitez, who also witnessed the proclamation of Negros Occidental Reps. Gerardo Valmayor, Juliet Marie Ferrer and Mercedes Alvarez, among others, said “ever since, we want a harmonious relationship between the province and Bacolod City.”

“We will help each other. Bacolod needs the province, and the province needs Bacolod. We need each other. It’s about time we work together,” he stressed.

Eight of the winning councilors in Bacolod City are affiliated with the Team Asenso of Benitez, while reelected Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran and four other elected councilors are members of the Grupo Progreso of incumbent Mayor Evelio Leonardia.

Asked if he will anticipate a problem with the other group, Benitez replied “I don’t think so”.

What is good for Bacolod, we will do it, he said.