DUMAGUETE CITY — In a landmark decision, political leaders in Negros Oriental have agreed to come together to support a unified slate of candidates in the 2025 midterm elections. This announcement was made by Negros Oriental 2nd District Rep. Manuel Sagarbarria during the first death anniversary commemoration of slain governor Roel Degamo, held at the Degamo family residence in Barangay Bonawon, Siaton town.
According to Philippines News Agency, the consensus to field common candidates for major provincial positions emerged from discussions with both national and local officials. He recounted how Speaker of the House Martin Romualdez informed him of President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s directive to foster unity in Negros Oriental. The effort to consolidate support involved negotiations with various political factions, including Degamo's widow, Pamplona Mayor Janice Degamo.
The unity pact outlines that Sagarbarria's son, incumbent Governor Chaco Sagarbarria, will seek reelection, with Siaton Mayor Cezanne Fritz Diaz running for vice governor, and Mayor Janice Degamo vying for the Third District representative. This arrangement signifies a significant shift in local politics, particularly as it involves the relegation of certain ambitions to accommodate a collective approach toward governance and political stability.
Mayor Janice Degamo emphasized the importance of leadership qualities reminiscent of the late Governor Degamo, advocating for a leadership that is accessible and community-oriented. She also highlighted the historical political rivalry and urged supporters to embrace the new coalition for the sake of peace and development in the province.
The agreement represents a poignant moment in the region's political landscape, especially considering the background of conflict and the tragic assassination of Governor Degamo. The late governor's family, alongside a wide array of supporters and local officials, participated in a motorcade and mass to honor his memory and call for justice for his and other victims' untimely deaths.
Amid the ongoing legal proceedings against the suspects in Degamo's murder, including expelled congressman Arnolfo Teves Jr., the community remains hopeful for a resolution. The provincial health officer, Dr. Liland Estacion, who was injured in the attack, shared her continued struggle for recovery and justice.
As Negros Oriental prepares for the 2025 elections, the unprecedented unity among its leaders marks a potential turning point towards reconciliation and collective progress, reflecting a shared commitment to overcoming past divisions and building a more cohesive future for the province.
MANILA - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the Philippines emphasized the nation's commitment to just and equitable climate action during a speech in Australia, calling on developed countries to aid vulnerable nations in adapting to and mitigating the impacts of climate change.According to Philippines News Agency, Speaking at the Lowy Institute on Monday, President Marcos highlighted the critical need for resilience in the Indo-Pacific region against the backdrop of climate change threats. According to his keynote address, the Philippines will remain engaged in multilateral efforts, including participation in the Loss and Damage Fund Board, to ensure climate action is equitable and supports those most at risk.
Marcos underlined the importance of developed countries' support for vulnerable nations, citing the Philippines' own strategies for climate adaptation and a just energy transition as central pillars of its climate action plan. He emphasized that addressing the challenges of biodiversity loss and species extinction in climate-sensitive countries is a priority for the Philippines as a member of the 'Loss and Damage' Board.
The President stressed the existential threat climate change poses, particularly to small island developing states in the Pacific, with which the Filipino people share a common vulnerability. He urged responsible states and partners to intensify their efforts immediately, indicating that the time for discussion has passed in favor of urgent action.
"The Filipino people share this vulnerability with our kin in the Pacific Island States. For us, the time to talk about ifs and whens has long since passed, it is here and it is now. We expect responsible states and partners to do more and they must do that now," Marcos stated, calling for immediate and effective global cooperation on climate issues.