DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental — The House of Representatives held the Visayas leg of its nationwide consultation program, LegisHear: Bawat Batas Mahalaga, at Negros Oriental State University on August 14, 2026. The event marked the third stop in a series designed to bring lawmaking closer to the people.
Bringing Congress Closer to the Regions
LegisHear takes legislative discussions outside Metro Manila, allowing residents to learn about pending measures and voice their opinions. The initiative is built on three core goals: speed, quality, and inclusivity. House Speaker Faustino "Bojie" G. Dy III emphasized that laws must be passed faster without sacrificing quality.
Speaker Dy noted that consulting people before a bill is finalized is how the chamber protects that quality. The program began in Isabela on July 31 and moved to Butuan City on August 7. The Dumaguete consultation continues this commitment to regional engagement.
A Focus on Local Realities
Negros Oriental 2nd District Rep. Ma. Isabel "Maisa" Sagarbarria led the activity. She emphasized that provincial communities face challenges different from those in Metro Manila. Understanding these local circumstances is essential for crafting laws that truly serve the people.
The consultative approach allows lawmakers to hear directly from constituents. It transforms the legislative process from a distant, top-down exercise into a collaborative dialogue. This ensures that bills address real, on-the-ground needs rather than abstract national assumptions.
The KALINGA Act: A Systematic Response to Crises
One of the key measures discussed was House Bill No. 9305, the proposed KALINGA Act. Rene Delorino of the House Committee on Ways and Means explained that the bill aims to establish a permanent framework for assisting Filipinos during economic shocks. These include high inflation, fuel and energy crises, and other disruptions.
The KALINGA Act would allow the President to declare a national energy emergency under specific conditions. This declaration would trigger rapid release of funds for cash transfers, food assistance, and fuel subsidies. It provides a systematic playbook rather than relying on ad hoc responses.
Upgrading Healthcare in Negros Oriental
The second measure discussed was House Bill No. 7608, presented by DOH Negros Island Region Director Razel Nikka Hao. The bill seeks to convert the Negros Oriental Provincial Hospital into a 500-bed specialty facility. It would be renamed the Negros Oriental Regional Hospital.
This healthcare upgrade directly addresses the growing medical needs of the province. The conversion would expand capacity and enhance specialized services for residents. It represents a significant investment in regional health infrastructure.
Local Leaders Show Strong Support
The event drew participation from key local officials, including Dumaguete City Mayor Manuel "Chiquiting" Sagarbarria. Mayors from Amlan, Tanjay City, Pamplona, Bais City, and Mabinay also attended. Their presence underscored the importance of the consultation for local governance.
House Secretary General Cheloy Velicaria-Garafil and Reps. Janice Degamo and Emmanuel Iway joined the discussions. The broad attendance reflects a shared commitment to inclusive development. It highlights the value of direct engagement between national and local leaders.
A Model for Future Consultations
The Dumaguete leg fell during the third week of the Second Regular Session of the 20th Congress. That same week, the House approved six measures on final reading, including support for farmers and fisherfolk. This demonstrates the momentum generated by active legislative work.
The LegisHear program represents a shift toward more transparent governance. It allows ordinary citizens to participate in shaping the laws that affect their lives. The success of the Visayas leg sets a strong precedent for future public consultations across the country.
