By JEN BAYLON

The Silay Sangguniang Panlungsod (SP) is seeking clarification into the implications of the proposed Negros Occidental provincial government’s bulk water supply project from its proponents.

Silay Vice Mayor Thomas Ledesma said the city council is not opposing the project, but rather needs clarification on the project’s certain aspects.

“We’re not against this. We just need to be clarified about this because this is a 38-year contract,” Ledesma said in an interview.

The SP remains adamant that they will not endorse the P1.2 billion project without a thorough understanding of its implications.

The city council, in an official statement, emphasized its responsibility to protect the welfare of its constituents and the environment, without giving consideration to politics or political influence.

They cited Section 458 of the Local Government Code of 1991, which stated the duties of the legislative branch to protect city residents from man-made or natural disasters and calamities.

The council also expressed concerns about the potential effects of the project on commercial establishments, factories and agricultural sectors in Silay.

Meanwhile, Silay Mayor Joedith Gallego said the provincial government allegedly did not consult with the city council about the proposed bulk water project.

Gallego, in a radio interview yesterday, claimed that the Capitol allegedly did not follow the proper procedures for the project, including the tapping of the Malogo River in Silay, and the Imbang River in Talisay City as surface water sources.

He also expressed concerns about the project’s impact on the Silaynons, especially those who depend on the rivers for their daily needs.

The mayor said the project could affect the water supply from the Imbang River, which is already experiencing a decline in water volume.

Earlier, Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said the Silay City government will have to decide if they are with the provincial government in providing potable water for their constituents.

Lacson made the response after the Silay SP reportedly did not pass a Resolution of No Objection (RONO) requested by the provincial government for the bulk water supply project.

The municipal and city councils in Bacolod City, Victorias City, Talisay City, E.B. Magalona, and Manapla have already passed their respective RONOs.

Lacson said he would not speculate if the act of the city council was “political in nature.”/JB, WDJ