By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga
The Diocese of Bacolod Social Action Center (SAC) recently forwarded a letter to Bacolod City Councilor Dindo Ramos requesting a public hearing over the proposed joint venture, or public private partnership, the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) plans to enter with the PrimeWater Infrastructure Corporation.
In a letter from SAC head, Rev. Fr. Chris Gonzales, he said consumers have the right to full disclosure on any move or plan that Baciwa undertakes, including project regarding bulk water aimed to deliver water for efficiently to consumers.
Gonzales stated in his letter, it is clear Baciwa is executing such a project to better improve services. However, he pointed out, the latest joint venture is causing confusion and alarm, which is why they are asking for a public hearing in order for consumers who will be affected by the move to be aware of the situation.
In a follow-up interview with Gonzales yesterday morning, he said there are so many grey areas in the proposal and the Baciwa board should protect the benefits and interests of the consumers.
“They should be transparent and I hope Councilor Ramos will conduct a public forum,” he added.
Earlier, Bacolod City Councilor Wilson Gamboa, Jr., proposed a resolution before the Sangguniang Panlungsod seeking an explanation over the proposed 25-year joint venture proposed by Baciwa.
The policy calls on Baciwa chairman, Atty. Lorendo Dilag, to explain the proposed joint venture.
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./DGB, WDJ