By CESAR JOLITO III
The Negros Occidental provincial government will push forward its proposed bulk water supply project, with a public consultation set in E.B. Magalona town on May 20 to discuss the use of the Malogo River as the project’s primary water source.
Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II said the consultation aims to gather feedback from residents, local officials, environmental groups, and other stakeholders as the province moves closer to implementing the long-term water initiative.
“This project is a top priority for the provincial government. We are committed to making sure every process is transparent, inclusive and acceptable to the people who will directly benefit from this initiative,” Diaz said.
The proposed project seeks to provide a stable and sustainable supply of clean and potable water to several towns and cities in Negros Occidental amid increasing demand and recurring water supply concerns in some communities.
Diaz emphasized that the provincial government wants the process to remain transparent and inclusive, particularly on environmental and resource management issues linked to the planned extraction of water from the Malogo River.
Provincial officials said the bulk water project is expected to help strengthen water security in the province, while also supporting agriculture, improving public health, and encouraging economic growth in areas that will be covered by the system.
Representatives from local government units, environmental experts and technical teams are expected to attend the May 20 consultation to present project details, answer questions from the public, and outline the next phases of implementation.
The proposed bulk water supply system, with a projected capacity of 20 million liters per day, is being positioned as a flagship initiative of the provincial government.
It is expected to help address the growing demand for clean and potable water among residents across Negros Occidental.
The outcome of the public hearing is seen as a crucial step in determining whether the project will secure the necessary environmental clearance and move forward.
Negros Occidental is exploring a smaller-scale version of its bulk water project following rejection from the Silay City council of a key clearance needed for the original plan./CJ, WDJ