By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD CITY – Another major infrastructure milestone is being pursued by the administration of Himamaylan City Mayor Raymund Tongson in partnership with local and national agencies to push forward the proposed Himamaylan–Tayasan Tunnel Connector—the first inter-provincial tunnel project in the Negros Island Region.
A coordination meeting with the Department of Economic Planning and Development – NIR and the Department of Public Works and Highways – NIR was held over the weekend in Himamaylan City.
Mayor Tongson welcomed key officials and development planners to align plans and direction for the long-envisioned project.
He said the tunnel aims to connect Himamaylan City in Negros Occidental to Tayasan in Negros Oriental, establishing a vital link between the two provinces.
“This tunnel project is more than infrastructure—it’s a gateway to economic growth, faster emergency response, and greater opportunities for our people,” Tongson said.
He added that the tunnel is expected to bring numerous benefits to the region.
“It will provide a faster and safer route between the western and eastern parts of Negros Island,” he said.
“It will also enhance disaster response, especially during emergencies related to Mt. Kanlaon,” he added.
While still in the planning stage, the project is envisioned to support the Panay–Guimaras–Negros inter-island bridge and attract more tourism and investment opportunities.
Tongson said it will also generate jobs and livelihood for Himamaylan residents.
He noted that the tunnel is one of many strategic initiatives under his administration.
Present during the meeting were Arecio Casing Jr., concurrent regional director of DEPD–NIR; Rodney Gustilo, assistant regional director of DPWH–NIR; and representatives from the Himamaylan City Engineering Office, City Planning and Development Office, City Disaster Risk Reduction and Management Office, and LGU Tayasan.
