The Bacolod City Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) will conduct a public hearing this afternoon regarding the Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) joint venture proposal.

Bagong Alyansang Makabayan (Bayan) Negros Secretary-General Michael dela Concepcion, along with several other groups opposing the proposal, met yesterday at the Diocese of Bacolod Social Action Center (SAC).

Dela Concepcion said they are “standing with consumers and are against the proposal.”

He insisted, “Consumers need a clean, sufficient, and cheap water source, and the joint venture is not the solution.”

Earlier, SAC head, Rev. Fr. Chris Gonzales, requested the hearing, stating, consumers have the right to full disclosure on any move or plan that Baciwa undertakes, including projects regarding bulk water aimed at delivering water efficiently.

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./DGB, WDJ.