By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental provincial government is one step closer to providing water security in the province as it gears up for the bidding for the bulk water supply project today.

Provincial Legal Office head and Acting Provincial Administrator Alberto Nellas, Jr. said all systems go for the bidding process this afternoon.

Ten private bidders are set to submit their proposals for the bulk water project at the Provincial Capitol’s Function Hall.

Nellas said the bidding would be held on a solicited proposal, based on a high-level study for the benefit of the consumers.

He revealed that five local government units have already issued their Resolution of No Objection (RONO), signifying their support for the project.

However, the provincial government still waits for RONO from the Silay City government, despite having their own water system, citing the benefits it will bring to residents in the city.

Earlier, Jessa Genteroles, provincial public-private partnership focal person, said they are eager to obtain the RONO from Silay to ensure a smooth process in the bidding.

“We want the project to be smooth as it goes along the process of development,” Genteroles said.

Despite the city government’s concerns about water availability, Genteroles said Silay has enough water resources for the project without compromising the needs of its residents.

She added that the bulk water project is legally viable despite not having the RONO.

The provincial government’s P1.2 billion bulk water project aims to provide 34.5 million liters of reliable and sustainable supply of clean water in Negros Occidental cities of Talisay, Silay and Victorias, as well as the municipalities of E.B. Magalona and Manapla, and capital Bacolod City.

The project is expected to benefit thousands of residents and ensure a steady supply of clean water for domestic and commercial use./JB, WDJ