Negros Occidental Lawmaker Backs Satellite Offices for NIR

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY – Negros Occidental 5th District Rep. Dino Yulo said the establishment of satellite offices for government agencies in the newly created Negros Island Region (NIR) is provided for by law.

Yulo told Daily Guardian that government agencies have the legal basis to set up both regional and satellite offices.

“The establishment of satellite offices is already provided for by law. There is reasonable leeway given to local agencies, not just to open a regional office but also a satellite office,” Yulo said.

Negros Occidental 6th District Rep. Mercedes Alvarez-Lansang and Bacolod City Mayor Alfredo Benitez earlier withheld their signatures from the Internal Rules and Regulations (IRR) because the establishment of satellite offices was not included.

Despite this, Yulo expressed optimism about the NIR’s implementation.

“Well, of course, as far as the NIR is concerned, there will be birth pains, especially since the National Expenditure Program (NEP) was submitted before the signing. So for 2025, we will face some challenges,” he said.

However, he stressed that this would not hinder the NIR’s success, particularly in the 5th District, which shares five common borders with Negros Oriental.

Yulo cited the joint development of the Binadlan area with Negros Oriental 1st District Rep. Jocelyn Limkaichong as an example.

Technically located in Jimalalud, Negros Oriental, Binadlan is only accessible from the Negros Occidental side. The area is home to Bambi Falls, a local tourist attraction.

Yulo said Binadlan continues to draw visitors despite rough road conditions and is being developed as a tourist destination.

He added that road improvements are underway to enhance accessibility.

“Tourism is always a driver of the economy. We have seen before how it can boost local development,” Yulo said.

He emphasized the need for infrastructure to support tourism.

“I think we just need to develop the area by establishing gazebos, rest stops, and comfort rooms to make it more convenient for tourists,” he added.