The Provincial Government of Negros Occidental signed a Deed of Usufruct with Balay Negrense Development Corporation for the conservation, repair, and restoration of the Balay Negrense Museum in Silay City, Thursday, Oct. 5.

Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson and Jose Ma. Gaston, who represented the Balay Negrense Development Corp., signed the Deed of Usufruct at the Governor’s Office, Provincial Capitol, this afternoon, together with Rep. Kiko Benitez (Third District), and Jetro Nicolas Lozada, Asst. Chief Operating Officer of the Tourism Infrastructure and Enterprise Zone Authority (TIEZA).

The ceremonial signing was witnessed by Negros Occ. Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz, Provincial Legal Officer Alberto Nellas Jr., and Maria Lorenza Dalupan Palm.

As stated in the signed document, it is necessary to restore and reconstruct the museum to create a safe and modern museum, and enhance its prominence for the benefit, education, and enjoyment of the community, local and foreign tourists, and the general public.

It was also stated that both parties agreed to create a joint task force to oversee the conservation of the subject property through a Conservation Plan involving a Conservation Technical Team.

The Balay Negrense is a heritage landmark and a leading tourism destination in the Province of Negros Occidental. (PR)