By CESAR JOLITO III
The Negros Occidental provincial government has not received any formal opposition from the Silay City government regarding the proposed P1.1-billion bulk water supply project, and it is premature to conclude that residents are rejecting it, Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz said.
Diaz clarified that public consultations are still underway following reports that some residents of Barangay Guimbalaon expressed disapproval during an initial hearing attended by Silay City Vice Mayor Tom Ledesma.
“We are in the middle of an active and deliberate consultation process,” Diaz said.
“Communities are being informed, allowed to ask questions, and given opportunities to express what they believe is best for them. There is no official position from the city yet,” he added.
Ledesma earlier said initial feedback showed resistance among Guimbalaon residents, the site of the proposed intake point and treatment facility under Phase 1 of the project.
However, Diaz stressed that a single consultation cannot be the basis for declaring public rejection.
“It is premature to say there is already a refusal,” he said.
“We need proper documentation and proceedings. So far, consultations have been productive and enlightening,” he added.
Diaz underscored the project’s urgency, warning of looming water shortages if the province fails to act now.
“We are preparing the province for calamities,” Diaz said.
“Silay will be the first beneficiary of the water resources to be tapped there. We hope our constituents understand that the province is here for them,” he added.
He appealed for cooperation, saying the bulk water project is designed to ensure supply for future generations.
“We hope to help each other — not become obstacles to progress,” he said.
Its first phase includes the construction of an intake facility and treatment plant on a one-hectare property in Silay City’s Barangay Guimbalaon.
Further consultations are scheduled as the provincial government continues efforts to build consensus and address community concerns.
Legal compliance, no impositions
The provincial government, Diaz assured, is complying with all legal requirements and is following its consultation timeline.
“We cannot impose our will upon them. But we continue explaining the necessity,” he said.
The Negros Occidental bulk water project aims to provide affordable and potable water to the cities of Silay, Bacolod and Talisay.
In November, the provincial government appeared before the Silay City council to push for the approval of its landmark bulk water supply project, a multi-billion-peso initiative meant to secure the province’s long-term water supply amid mounting threats of scarcity.
The session marked the third appearance of the project proponents before the Sangguniang Panlungsod as the province seeks a Resolution of No Objection from Silay, a prerequisite before construction can proceed.
The provincial government maintained that the project is a “collaborative solution” rather than an imposition, assuring Silay leaders that the province remains open to refining plans based on community feedback./CJ, WDJ