The San Miguel Corporation (SMC) hinted their intention in participating in the bidding for the provincial government bulk water system project, Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando Diaz revealed yesterday.
Diaz disclosed that there are now four possible investors in the Capitol project.
Representatives of Aboitiz InfraCapital and Prime Infra, which is owned by business tycoon Enrique Razon, have earlier indicated their willingness to invest in the project.
The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has extended technical assistance for the development of a bulk water supply project in Negros Occidental through the public-private partnership (PPP) mode.
Diaz said the Capitol Bulk Water Project consultant will present the feasibility study to Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson and members of the provincial government Technical Working Group, for the specific direction of the project, including its business plans, needed infrastructures, budget and plant sites, on June 19.
Once it has the approval of Gov. Lacson and TWG members, it will be presented during the investors’ forum, slated this month.
The bidding for the bulk water project is targeted by the provincial government of Negros Occidental to be held next month.
The surface water resource of Embang and Malogo rivers in the third district of Negros Occidental are being eyed to be tapped for the proposed bulk water project.
Four local government units in northern Negros, including the cities of Silay, Talisay and Victorias as well as the municipality of Manapla, have expressed their intent to avail of bulk water supply under the PPP project.
Diaz said he has yet to receive a letter of intent from Bacolod City Water District (BACIWA) on the specific volume of water needed, should they avail of bulk water supply.
(Gilbert Bayoran via The Visayan Daily Star (TVDS), photo courtesy of TVDS)
