P1.2-B bulk water project bidding set in February 2024

By Dolly Yasa

BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said that the provincial government is eyeing the bidding of the P1.2-billion bulk water project by February next year.

A pre-qualifying process of interested investors is the first step in the bidding process.

Lacson led the Investor’s Forum at the Ayala Malls Capitol Function Hall here on Thursday.

He pointed out that “this is to know which of these interested parties are capable of undertaking the project.”

Lacson said that if there will be no hitches, the awarding of the bulk water project contract may take place by April 2024.

The governor said that the USAID, which is assisting the provincial government of Negros Occidental through its Safe Water Project, estimates an approximately 64MLD (million liters per day) water supply requirement for communities that can be served by the bulk water supply from the Malogo River alone.

The provincial government is also tapping the surface water of Imbang River for the bulk water project, Lacson further said.

The water districts in Talisay, Silay, EB Magalona, Victorias, Manapla and Bacolod have already indicated a willingness to source their water supply from the Capitol project.

The Bacolod City Water District has sent in a Letter of Intent to avail of the project.

Lacson said the investor will be responsible for securing the Environmental Compliance Certificate for the project.

“The obligation of the provincial government would be the right of way and to also put some financial support. We would like to bring down the cost of potable water that will be produced by this project,” the governor said.

Lacson also assured that the irrigation systems that source water from the two river systems will not be affected, he assured.

“The provincial government will not sacrifice any sector for the project. Our purpose really here is to secure potable water for the people,” Lacson added.