By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY—Rep. Mercedes Alvarez-Lansang of Negros Occidental’s 6th District expressed frustration over the removal of a key provision in the Negros Island Region Implementing Rules and Regulations (NIR-IRR), which she had initially advocated for.
The omitted provision called for the establishment of satellite offices of government agencies in various provinces within the region.
Lansang revealed this during a press conference after filing her Certificate of Candidacy (COC) for re-election on October 1, 2024.
She disclosed that she had reservations about signing the IRR document due to the unexpected removal of the provision, which had previously been approved by the technical working group (TWG).
“When I got a copy, I had some minor reservations because what I had pushed for during the technical working group was removed,” Lansang said.
“Specifically, I had pushed for government agencies to establish satellite offices in other provinces, but that provision, which was previously approved by the technical working group back at Camp Crame, was taken out.”
The lawmaker shared that, despite her disappointment, she refrained from insisting on the reinstatement of the provision to avoid delays in the implementation of the NIR.
“For the sake of expediency, I don’t want to insist on it anymore because it might cause delays,” she explained.
Lansang underscored the importance of the provision in bringing government services closer to the people, enhancing efficiency, and addressing potential concerns in the future.
However, she chose to let the issue go for now, saying, “This issue can be addressed through legislation later. For now, we’ll give the implementation a chance, and perhaps in the next Congress, someone can file an amendment.”
She also noted that there is a clause in the IRR requiring agencies to begin their transition plans within 90 days of its approval.
According to Lansang, she believes the Department of Budget and Management (DBM) was responsible for removing the provision.
Despite the setback, Lansang emphasized her support for the NIR’s implementation, hoping the region’s creation will lead to improved access to government services.
Meanwhile, Lansang’s candidacy was filed on the first day of the filing period for the 2025 midterm elections.
She was followed by Provincial Board Member Jeffrey Tubola, seeking a third term, and Ralph Alvarez, who is vying for a seat on the 6th District provincial board.
