A resolution was proposed before the Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod seeking an explanation over the proposed 25-year joint venture proposed by the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa).

The policy, penned by Bacolod City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr., calls on Baciwa chairman, Atty. Lorendo Dilag, to explain the proposed joint venture with the PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.

In operation for over 30 years, PrimeWater provides services including water system development, bulk water supply, water supply improvement and rehabilitation, along with a sewage waste management program.

The motion characterizes the utility firm as a “government-owned and controlled corporation,” which makes it “imbued with public interest.”

The resolution also cited Section 27 of RA 7160, or the Local Government Code of 1991, which indicates government authorities are not authorities to implement projects or programs without consultation with “appropriate local government units, non-governmental and people’s organizations, and other concerned sectors of the community,” particularly those pertaining to environmental matters./WDJ