Victorias City Mayor Abelardo Bantug III and Vice Mayor Francis Frederick Palanca attended the 1st League of Local Planning and Development Coordinators of the Philippines, Inc. (LLPDCPI) – Negros Island Region Planning Conference held at SMX Convention Center, Bacolod City on July 10.

With the theme “Laying the Foundation: Innovative and Inclusive Local Development Planning,” the event brought together planning and development officers from Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, and Siquijor to strengthen regional collaboration under the reconstituted Negros Island Region (NIR).

Victorias City played a key leadership role through Dr. Evangeline Alo, City Planning and Development Coordinator and current President of the Association of Planning and Development Coordinators (APDEC) of Negros Occidental, which hosted the event.

In his opening remarks, LLPDCPI National President EnP. Efren Logroño emphasized the importance of collaboration among local planners, encouraging attendees to stay committed to their crucial roles in development.

“Your success is our success,” he said, encouraging attendees to remain committed to meaningful planning work and partnerships.

Third District Representative Congressman Javier Miguel Benitez, in a recorded video message, congratulated the organizers and delegates, highlighting the importance of efficient local governance.

He pledged full support to the region’s vision of sustainable and inclusive development.

Meanwhile, Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose “Bong” Lacson, delivering his keynote message reminded everyone that progress is not just a local priority, but a shared regional responsibility.

He underscored the role of integrated planning in addressing both present and emerging development challenges.

After the fellowship lunch, participants resumed with plenary discussions led by regional resource speakers from various government agencies.

An open forum allowed planners to engage directly with experts, raising relevant concerns and sharing local experiences.

The formation of the LLPDCPI Negros Island Region Chapter and the election of its pioneering officers, led by National President EnP. Logroño, where Dr. Evangeline Alo was elected as president, stood out as one of the day’s most important outcomes, laying the groundwork for stronger collaboration and professional growth across the island.

Also present at the event to show their support were City Councilors Warlito Undar, Deilen Hofileña, Lou Richard Cuaycong, Hermie Millan, and Vincent Marie Roa.

The event was further strengthened by the presence of the Mayor of Ayungon Dennis Amancio, and councilors from the cities of Silay, Talisay and municipalities of Lazi, Siquijor, and La Castellana, reflecting the broad commitment of LGUs across the island.

The Victorias City officials’ presence reaffirmed the City’s strong support for collaborative development efforts within the region and remains committed to working alongside fellow LGUs and development stakeholders in achieving sustainable growth and people-centered governance. *

#VictoriasCity

#SidlakSangKadalagan

#BagongPilipinas