Political leaders form ‘One Visayas’ group

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — Political leaders in Visayas had organized a group to ensure economic cooperation in Regions 6, 7, and 8, almost eight months before the May elections next year.

Calling itself as “One Visayas," the group --- consisting of all congressmen, governors and mayors in three Visayas regions --- was launched Thursday night at the Shangrila Hotel in Metro Manila, which was attended by 194 political leaders.

Negros Occidental 3rd district Representative Alfredo Benitez is a prime mover for the group's creation who is also among the convenors of the Visayan block in Congress. After presenting the “One Visayas: Region of Economic Cooperation and Political Unity” declaration, he described the organization as a force to reckon with.

House legislators from the Visayas, party-list congressmen, and political leaders were present during the event and signed a pledge of commitment to enhance cooperation and partnership with the national government and private sector to promote their "vision for a progressive Visayas."

In their pledge of commitment, the Visayan political leaders said they strongly believe that only through synergy and collective effort will enable Visayas to become a globally-competitive economic power house.

The political leaders also pledged to take into utmost consideration in their decision making “the economic and political benefit of the people in three Visayas regions at all times."

The organization of “One Visayas” took place as the political leaders are preparing for the May elections in 2019.

Benitez, who is now on his last term as congressman of Negros Occidental, rallied the Visayas leaders to unite for economic cooperation and inclusive growth, as well as political unity.