House probe looms over P357-M Baciwa loan

By: Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Bacolod City Councilor Wilson Gamboa Jr. said Bayan Muna Rep. Ferdinand Gaite assured them that  Congress will investigate the P357-million loan availed by Bacolod City Water District (Baciwa) supposedly for the upgrade of its facilities and distribution system.

Gamboa, one of the convenors of consumer group Amlig Tubig, said that while the issue confronting the water utility is the proposed joint venture, they are still pushing for the probe on the loan.

Gamboa also said Gaite informed him that they are investigating water utility firms all over the country and will make a separate probe on Baciwa.

Baciwa said it conducted studies way back in 2016 and the only solution is public-private partnership (PPP).

In the spirit of transparency, Gamboa said they are asking Baciwa to show them the study.

Amlig Tubig earlier called for transparency in Baciwa’s dealings for the joint venture with a private water firm.