Bacolod Dads: Ayala, Capitol bound to comply with pact

City Councilors Homer Bais, Al Victor Espino and Dindo Ramos expressed support in requesting Ayala Land Inc. (ALI) to reconsider the “intent to disengage” on the proposed development of the Provincial-Capitol project.

Bais, Espino, and Ramos, who support the Provincial Government, Hotel and Restaurants Association of Negros Occidental, and other sectors, said the Commission on Audit (COA) recently approved the deed of conditional sale between the province and ALI involving the development of the 7.7 hectares Capitol property.

They said the Provincial Government of Negros Occidental and ALI are already legally bound to comply with their respective obligations under the contract upon the tender of the bid, and its subsequent declaration by the Bids and Awards Committee as the winning bidder.

They added the unilateral withdrawal from the contract by ALI appears to be not in accordance with the laws and jurisprudence which could affect the business climate in the province, and in Bacolod City.

On the value of the deal to the province, they said, “The realization of the project is labor and capital intensive that will promote further the already vibrant economy. It will exponentially benefit the residents of Bacolod City and the whole of Negros Island as a consequence.” (Carla N. Canet)