Despite opposition from advocacy groups and environmental associations, along with suggested complications surrounding the Comprehensive Agrarian Reform Program (CARP), Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. is determined to advance the Southern Negros Industrial Estate project in Hinoba-an.

The said project earlier converted around 300 hectares of agricultural land into industrial space in Barangays Obong, Bacuyangan, and Salvacion, in order to accommodate for a ship-breaking facility.

The governor insisted the facility will benefit the economy of the entire province, saying it would generate jobs for local residents.

However, earlier this year, local environmentalist group Green Alert Negros (GAN) said of the potential job creation, “This can only promise us a cheap-paying job in tough and dangerous conditions.”

They also noted, citing research regarding ship recycling yards in other countries, workers and the public were exposed to health and environmental hazards.

Save Hinoba-an Movement advocacy group spokesperson Jimwell Canedo earlier claimed the project would displace at least 500 residents, noting some are beneficiaries of CARP.

In response, the governor said, since the land had been converted from agricultural to industrial land, the area is not eligible for CARP.

Back in February, GAN also questioned the zoning change, claiming it was done “prejudicial to the rights of the people.”

GAN coordinator Randy James Rojo said the adjustment was “done in haste and without consultation with the affected residents.”

Last month, the Save Hinoba-an Movement demonstrated at the Negros Occidental Provincial Capitol regarding the matter./PLL, WDJ