Rebels claim the project poses a threat, only benefits the Zayco family

By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

The New People’s Army (NPA) Mt. Cansermon Command claimed responsibility for the recent attack on a dam project in Barangay Tan-awan, Kabankalan City, which resulted in the burning of construction equipment.

In a statement forwarded by the group, they claimed local residents living near the dam are against the project, which is under the Ilog-Hilabangan River Basin Project (IHRBP) and implemented by the Negros Occidental fifth and sixth congressional districts.

They called the project “dangerous,” as recent dredging activity, in order to make the river deeper, would make the residents crossing the river more prone to drowning.

The rebels said local residents already experienced dangers from the construction project during the heavy downpour experienced a few months ago, which created flooding in the area.

They added, if the dam were to give way, residents living downstream from the dam are also at risk.

The rebels said the project displaced local residents and farmers, who were given P15,000 to P30,000 in compensation, claiming they were “forced” to accept the amount as they were facing the government.

They also criticized the Zayco family, claiming the project would only benefit their family’s businesses and farms.

The NPA rebels claimed, the IHRBP, comprised of three dams, including the one in Kabankalan City, would impact around 156 barangays in Negros Occidental and Negros Oriental.

Last Monday, around 20 NPA gunmen attacked the dam, which is under the National Irrigation Authority.

The rebels set ablaze a backhoe, a generator set, and a worker’s bunkhouse.

In response to the incident, the Philippine Army 303rd Infantry Brigade deployed their units in the area to pursue the rebels./DGB, WDJ