Visayan Bloc revived to boost regional development push

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD CITY — The Visayas region is poised to gain a stronger voice in national policymaking with the revival of the Visayan Bloc in Congress.

The bloc, originally established in 2013, has been reactivated under the leadership of Bacolod Representative Alfredo Abelardo “Albee” Benitez.

Bringing together lawmakers from across the Visayas, the bloc aims to foster unity and push for reforms tailored to the region’s specific needs, Benitez told reporters over the weekend.

Benitez, who convened the bloc on Friday, emphasized that collective action is crucial to achieving meaningful results for Visayan communities.

He confirmed that at least 40 district representatives from the region have joined the group.

Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson welcomed the move, saying, “A strong Visayan voice in Congress is long overdue. This initiative will ensure our region’s concerns are heard and addressed at the highest levels.”

Benitez added that the bloc will work together to secure greater resources for the Visayas and will support legislative measures introduced by fellow members.

He noted that House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” de Guzman Dy has expressed support for the bloc’s objectives.

Benitez also said that under Speaker Dy’s leadership, national budget deliberations have become more transparent.

He earlier stated that the recent change in House leadership marks the beginning of restoring public trust.

“It’s really bad, people look at us like thieves — sometimes I think it is not the proper time to be in Congress,” Benitez lamented.

But with House Speaker Dy now at the helm, Benitez said, “cleansing of the House can start.”