Governor Bitay Lacson engaged in a thoughtful discussion.
Negros Occidental has always been synonymous with wide sugarcane fields and economic prosperity. However, such prosperity was never guaranteed for the province, and its heavy dependence on sugar would ultimately prove to be its downfall. Yet, it was also this very reliance that spurred a change in the people of Negros toward creativity, resilience, and economic reinvention.
The collapse started after the Laurel-Langley Agreement ended in 1974, leading to a massive economic meltdown in the 80’s. Sugar prices fell from 26 cents to as low as 11 cents per pound in the world market. Poverty rates escalated to new heights. An estimated 84% of the population was below the poverty line, and 66% of preschoolers were suffering from malnutrition. This became even grimmer, as many left the island in search of employment, while others went to the hills, worsening insurgency. Other than the sugar industry, there was little else that Negrenses knew how to do.
Engaging conversation with constituents, listening to their concerns and working towards solutions.
“It was really joblessness everywhere. There was no work in the sugar farms, there was no business that could survive… The entire province of Negros was really affected. You would see empty store spaces along streets. It was really very depressing,” described Gigi Campos, who experienced the transformation firsthand.
In 1986, a new hope arose: businessman Daniel Lacson, Jr., was appointed governor of Negros Occidental by the newly elected President Cory Aquino. Facing a dire economy, Lacson called on the private sector to help lead the way for the province's recovery. Since government did not have the resources, he asked them to donate their time, talent, and treasure to revive Negros. This call for unity sparked new organizations, social initiatives sprang forth, and a community spirit began to stir once again.
(left) Materials made of nespresso capsules.
(right) One of the pioneers, Miss Gigi Campos.
One major project to come out was the Star of Hope, an industrialized handicrafts initiative where several communities were trained to create components of a “parol”, or Christmas star lantern. Even when the initial order of 100,000 parols was cancelled, Governor Lacson didn't give up. He went to Manila, selling the idea of handmade parols to corporations. His efforts led to the orders doubling in size - 200,000 pieces strong, which were later known as "Stars of Hope." These parols became a symbol of hope to the province, as they were sold across Manila and beyond, lighting up streets and homes.
The Star of Hope campaign succeeded in creating a wave of change in Negros. The project's tagline, "Isang parol, isang buhay” (One lantern, one life), resonated deeply, as each sale represented not just a product, but the resilience of the people of Negros. What began as a small economic initiative became a powerful symbol of the province's ability to rise above its challenges.
Star of Hope, featured in the Negros Trade Fair.
The triumph of Stars of Hope paved the way for wider initiatives to bring back the local economy. Intrigued by Governor Lacson's vision for a renewed province, plus the success that the parol project had proven, Negrenses started exploring new industries. The establishment of the Association of Negros Producers marked a significant milestone in opening new avenues for local craftsmanship and export.
As businesses thrived, volunteerism and community service became the spirit of the times. Governor Lacson worked closely with the private sector, organizing medical missions that even reached the most remote barangays. This collaboration between government and private citizens was key to rebuilding the province, as it could enable the community to present their needs with urgency and solidarity. These efforts did not only serve as provisions but also helped restore people's dignity and empowered the people to stand on their own.
Today, the spirit of the Star of Hope lives in organizations that continue to provide services by supporting education, nutrition initiatives, and livelihood projects. Likewise, it is seen in local artists and businesspeople using the skills they acquire to support charitable causes.
Millie Kilayko, standing proud.
Governor Lacson wanted Negros to be more than just out of the crisis; it should be reinvented as something not just reliant on sugar. He was aware that the real wealth of Negros is in the people—it's their resourcefulness, resilience, and entrepreneurial character. As a key figure in the recovery of the province, Millie Kilayko talks about the Stars of Hope saying, "they represented hope… not only maybe in our province, but in our country. But for us here, it was real hope. It was a real lighting."
Let this story be a powerful reminder that even in the face of great adversity, hope can emerge from unexpected places. Let’s remember how the community came together to overcome hardship, find new opportunities, and build a future where resilience and solidarity can shine brightly. The "Stars of Hope" continue to shine today, embodying the true spirit of Negros: strong, resourceful, and always reaching for a brighter future.
Article and video script by: Leezo Dionzon
Photos by: Paolo Correa, Rj Lacson, Digicast Negros
Video by: Grilled Cheese Studios
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