• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Participants of the public hearing on the proposed Negros Occidental Bulk Water Supply Project (NBWSP), which was held recently in Barangay Guimbalaon, Silay City, aired their strong sentiments against the project, Vice Mayor Thomas Maynard Ledesma said.
The NBWSP aims to meet increasing water demand by utilizing surface water from Malogo River in the city.
Ledesma, in a telephone interview on Friday (Dec. 5), said the advantages of the project are outweighed by the disadvantages.
There is not enough water supply for the needs of Guimbalaon residents even during La Nina and much worse, during the occurrence of El Nino, he added.
Mayor Joedith Gallego and the City Council previously aired their stand against the Capitol’s bulk water supply project.
Ledesma said the owners of the properties being eyed for purchase by the provincial government are asking for feedback from them before making the decision to sell their land.
More than 100 individuals, including farmers, residents from upstream and downstream communities, local leaders, environmental advocates, and concerned citizens, attended the public hearing of the Silay City Council committees on environment and natural resources, and utilities on Dec. 3
According to the provincial government, the dialogue focused on water security, watershed rehabilitation, environmental concerns, and the long-term sustainability of Silay City’s water supply.
It also estimates that the Silay groundwater will become insufficient and critically scarce in about 20 years, if no action will be taken now.
Stressing that the water crisis already started several years ago, Fr. Ernie Larida said the water resources should be shared. He also stressed the need to implement a whole-of-government approach to restore the forest cover.
The provincial government has an ongoing watershed rehabilitation project in Talisay City and has also expressed its willingness to shoulder the expenses for the establishment of the Imbang Watershed Council and its management plan.
As to the water availability for irrigation, which was raised by downstream farmers, the provincial government said that it has four small water-impounding projects that will be available for them.
On the water access for Guimbalaon barangay residents, the provincial government said it is now studying ways to connect the barangay, which cannot be reached by Silay City Water District services, to the NBWSP.
The P1.2-billion bulk water supply project is solely financed by the Negros Occidental provincial government.
Ledesma said another public hearing will be held before the two committees will consolidate its findings and recommendations. | GB
