GOVERNOR Bong Lacson together with Third District Representative Kiko Benitez and 3rd District local government units signed a memorandum of agreement for the newly-created Coastal Resources Management and Development Council held at the Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City, Thursday, December 5.

Mayors Marvin Malacon of EB Magalona, Francis Frederick Palanca of Victorias City, Neil Lizares of Talisay City, Mark Golez of Silay City, and Gerry Rojas of Murcia were all present and expressed their full support to the council.

The council was created for the restoration and conservation of coastal resources and for the maintenance and preservation of sound ecological balance, clean environment, equitable use of the resources and most importantly, giving preferential treatment to marginal fisherfolks.

Also present were Chrisma Salao, Vice President of WWF Philippines; Dir. Remia Aparri, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources VI director, and Negros Occidental provincial agriculturist lawyer Japhet Masculino.

Lacson thanked the mayors and all stakeholders for the establishment of the council.

He added that he hopes the council will successfully implement its plans and programs that are all intended for the protection of the environment. (PR)