By JEN BAYLON

The Negros Occidental provincial government is currently evaluating the sole bid for the P1.2 billion bulk water supply project.

Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II confirmed that the project bid is still undergoing technical and financial post-qualifications, emphasizing the importance of thorough assessment before making a decision.

“Our timeline has been established by Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson through an executive order, and we have until May 31 to come up with a resolution on whether to award or decline the offer from the sole bidder,” Diaz stated.

The consortium — which includes First Balfour Inc., Victorias Milling Co., and FPIP Utilities Inc. — aims to supply treated bulk water to six water service providers in Bacolod City and surrounding local government units.

Diaz highlighted the significance of careful evaluation of the bid.

“We don’t want to overlook or oversee something very important that could lead to problems later,” Diaz said.

He urged patience from the bidder and the public, particularly water districts eager for updates on the bidding decision.

In case the bulk water project does not proceed, Diaz noted that alternative options are available.

“If the bulk water project does not move forward, contributions could be provided to the provincial government to assist water districts,” he added.

The bulk water supply project aims to address ongoing potable water shortages in Negros Occidental by developing surface water sources from the Imbang and Malogo Rivers, reducing reliance on rapidly depleting groundwater resources./JB, WDJ