• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
The Negros Occidental provincial government’s proposed bulk water supply project is moving forward with a public consultation set on May 20 in Barangay San Isidro, E.B. Magalona.
This is part of the legal requirements for securing an Environmental Compliance Certificate (ECC) from the Department of Environment and Natural Resources- Environmental Management Bureau (DENR-EMB).
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II said on Wednesday, May 13 the consultation will focus on the proposed use of the Malogo River as a major water source for the project, which aims to provide a stable and clean water supply to several towns and cities in northern Negros.
Diaz emphasized that the activity is intended to gather feedback from residents, local officials, and other stakeholders to ensure that the project complies with environmental standards and responds to the needs of communities that will benefit from it.
“This project remains a priority of the provincial government. We want to make sure every step is transparent, inclusive, and acceptable to the people who will benefit from it,” he added.
Silay City officials had opposed the P1.2-billion bulk water project of the provincial government in Barangay Guimbalaon.
Diaz said the consultation is part of the provincial government’s compliance with the legal requirements tied to the ECC application, adding that the project is being pursued not only for the current administration but also as a long-term solution to future water shortage in the province.
“This is for all Negrenses. It is not just for one local government unit. Everything we are working for is preparatory for the future,” he added.
Diaz said the provincial government will continue to pursue the project until the evaluation process is completed by the DENR, stressing that scientific and technical data, not public opinion alone, will determine whether the proposed water source sites are viable.
The Imbang River in Silay City and Malogo River in E.B. Magalona have been identified during the water summit in previous years as the two potential sources of water for the project.
While public attention has largely focused on the Imbang River proposal, Diaz said the Malogo River option has continuously been pursued because of increasing concerns over water rights and supply limitations in other river systems.
“There is ample supply of flowing water in the two rivers,” Diaz said, adding that the project is expected to help address potable water needs, support agricultural activities, and contribute to public health and economic development in the province. | GB
