Negros Island's Infrastructure and Natural Challenges: A Personal Account
Negros Island lies merely 30 minutes by ferry from Bato, Samboan, yet until two years ago, my visits across Tañon Strait were few and far between. Last week marked my fourth trip to the island in that span, and I must report with some disappointment that their roads remain in significantly better condition than ours. In simpler terms, their thoroughfares are well-maintained, while ours are in a state of disrepair.
Road Conditions and Infrastructure Woes
Recall that notorious section of highway connecting Sibonga and Argao? The positive update is that the ubiquitous roadblocks warning of ongoing construction or repair have vanished. However, the negative aspect persists: the road itself still desperately requires attention and improvement, highlighting a lingering infrastructure deficit.
Unique Hospitality and Local Culture
During our two-day stay in Dumaguete, we lodged at a small hotel with a distinctive sign at the front desk: "Were sorry instant spouses not allowed." Initially, I panicked, misreading "instant" as "ancient." This rule of conduct, which might seem prudish at first glance, stems from ownership rather than local culture. The hotel is operated by a religious sect, with their church adjacent, making it clear this is not a venue for quick fixes or fantasies about celebrities like Anne Curtis. The Suntays of the world are duly warned.
Journey to Canlaon City and Natural Phenomena
Unlike previous visits that featured smooth highway tours around the island, this trip involved navigating a winding road up to Canlaon City. Here, doctors from Class '75 of the old SWU-MHAM (Southwestern University-Matias H. Aznar Memorial College of Medicine, Inc.) held their reunion, and I attended as a "plus one." Mount Kanlaon had erupted just three days before our arrival, sparking both excitement and fear of another eruption during our stay. Fortunately, it remained calm, often shrouded in clouds, appearing as a meek creature rather than a threat.
Typhoon Tino's Devastating Impact
Locals seem unfazed by the threat of volcanic eruptions, likely due to habituation and minimal life disruption. In contrast, Typhoon Tino evoked genuine fear. Torrential rains caused rivers to overflow, similar to Cebu, but the situation in Negros was more perilous. Rampaging floodwaters carried not only mud but massive boulders, with three monstrous rocks visible in the front yard of Dr. Bebot Cardenas, Canlaon City vice mayor, where a concrete fence once stood.
The floods claimed about 20 lives, the highest toll in Negros Oriental. Had Canlaon been as densely populated as Metro Cebu, the death toll could have been catastrophic. Residents are gradually rebuilding their lives as the government works to replace infrastructure destroyed by Tino. We attempted to drive to La Castellana and La Carlota but turned back due to uncertainty about road passability.
Looking Ahead to Future Visits
We hope to complete that journey on our next trip, which will be our fifth to Negros in recent years. By then, we optimistically anticipate that our own roads will have improved to match the quality of those on the other side of the strait, fostering better connectivity and resilience in the face of natural challenges.
