Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said it is premature to conclude that residents of Silay City are rejecting the proposed Negros Occidental Bulk Water Project, stressing that public consultations are still ongoing.
Diaz, in an interview on Wednesday, Dec. 10, was reacting to Silay Vice Mayor Tom Ledesma’s statement that initial feedback from a public hearing in Brgy. Guimbalaon showed that residents there were against the project.
The provincial government is still in the middle of an “active and deliberate consultation process,” where communities are being given information, space to raise questions, and opportunities to express what they believe is best for them, Diaz said.
He said no official position has been issued by the city government on the project, and local officials intend to let the process conclude before making definitive statements.
“It is premature to say that there is already a refusal to the bulk water project,” Diaz said, adding “We need documentation and proper proceedings. The consultation continues, and as far as the record shows, it has been productive and enlightening.”
Diaz emphasized the urgency of improving water supply in Negros Occidental, saying the province must act now to address current and impending water shortages.
“We are preparing the province for calamities. We hope our constituents understand that the province is here for them,” he said, adding “Silay will be the first beneficiary of the water resources that will be tapped there.”
He also urged cooperation rather than resistance, noting that the project aims to secure water for future generations.
“We hope to help each other—not become obstacles to progress,” Diaz said.
He added that the provincial government is complying with all legal requirements for the project and is following its own timeline.
“We cannot impose our will upon them, but we continue explaining the necessity,” he said.
The Negros Occidental Bulk Water Project is a P1.1-billion initiative that aims to supply affordable and potable water to cities including Silay, Bacolod, and Talisay.
The first phase involves constructing an intake point and treatment facility on a one-hectare property in Brgy. Guimbalaon.*