• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Mayor Joedith Gallego yesterday maintained his stand against the Negros Occidental bulk water project availing water from the Imbang River in Silay City.
Gallego claimed the project will significantly affect the volume of water supply of Silaynons, especially during the dry season.
Farmers and sugar planters also source their irrigation water from the Imbang River, he added.
The Imbang River in Silay City, and Malogo River at the boundary of E.B. Magalona and Victorias City, have been identified as the sources of water supply to be tapped for the bulk water project.
About 34.5 million liters per day is expected to be sourced out from the Malogo and Imbang rivers, according to the provincial government.
Gallego said he is looking after the general welfare of the people of Silay.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz earlier said they are hoping to get a RONO (Resolution of No Objection) from the Silay City government, including the reclassification of the lot where the bulk water project will be constructed, following a meeting with concerned local government officials and water district officials, who were updated on the proposed project.
The provincial government is targeting to construct a water treatment facility in Barangay Guimbalaon, Silay City.
Gallego raised the possibility of water depletion at the Imbang River if the bulk water project pushes through.
The P1.1 billion bulk water supply project will be implemented solely by the provincial government, using its savings, after the decision to no longer pursue a public-private partnership (PPP) scheme.*
