The Negros Occidental provincial government will go ahead with the bidding for its P1.2 billion bulk water project on June 27 despite opposition from some sectors in Silay City, Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said on Thursday, May 16.
The bulk water project aims to meet the increasing water demands of Negros Occidental by utilizing surface water sources, and reducing reliance on groundwater and deep wells, Lacson said.
It is targeted to serve the water needs of Bacolod, Talisay, Silay and Victorias cities, and the towns of EB Magalona and Manapla.
Silay City Mayor Joedith Gallego said based on his consultations with the city’s Sangguniang Panlungsod, some members of the community, including planters, they are opposed to the bulk water project that would source its water from the Malogo and Imbang rivers.
They are opposed to the bulk water project because it could cause Silay to face a shortage of water, including in its irrigation dams, Gallego said.
Gallego said he has no problem with the bulk water project but is listening to the concerns of his constituents.
Lacson said the provincial government has already decided that it can tap water from those rivers.
“There was a scientific study, it was not just a sudden decision. We cannot depend on underground water anymore, that’s why we have to make use of our surface water,” he said.
The Malogo and Imbang rivers that were identified are really good sources of surface water, Lacson said.
“How can Silay’s water supply be affected by the project when it will be one of the recipients of the bulkwater?” Lacson asked.
“We will do everything possible to make it happen, especially our bidding for the bulk water supply,” Lacson said.
Eleven firms bought pre-bid documents in February for Negros Occidental bulk water project.
The 11 Negros Occidental Bulk Water Supply Project proponents were Manila Water Philippine Ventures Inc., Balibago Waterworks System Inc., First Balfour Inc., Prime Water Resources Inc., BW Water Inc, Aboitiz Infracapital Inc., Primewater Infrastructure Corp., MacroAsia Properties Development Corporation, Maynilad Water Services Inc., San Miguel Holdings Corp. and M.E. Sicat Construction Inc.
EB Magalona has already committed to join the project, Lacson also said.
“In fact there are other rivers in Negros Occidental that hopefully in the future we can also tap, especially if it will become economically feasible,” he said.*