By Dolly Yasa
BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson revealed that five companies are bidding for the bulk water project of the provincial government.
In his speech during the New Year’s program with capitol employees held at the social hall Friday morning, Lacson highlighted the projects and programs that his administration will undertake for this year.
“Firstly, we are currently in the bidding process for our bulk water project,” he said.
Lacson said the five bidders are Manila Water Philippine Ventures Inc., Aboitiz Infra Capital, First Balfour Inc., Balibago Water Works System Inc., and Prime Water.
The governor also said that “the interest expressed by these prominent companies is evidence of their confidence in the project, our initiatives for water security, and the effectiveness of our governance.”
“This project will last for decades and will benefit the next generations of Negrenses,” he further said.
Lacson also said that the provincial government has finalized the purchase of the property from the 1st Falls to the 7th Falls from the Mambucal Real Estate Development Corporation.
He said the provincial government “will now exercise control and ownership over the land surrounding our falls and river systems.”
He stressed that the focus will be on reforestation, ensuring the protection of the falls, and preserving natural resources.
Lacson also said that the plan to enhance hotel facilities by adding more rooms across various price ranges, from mid-range to high-end options is underway.
“We aim to introduce new tourism features such as trail running, hiking, biking, horseback riding, and potentially tramlines and zip lines to attract both local and foreign tourists,” he added
The governor stressed that “Mambukal has always been a hallmark of our provincial tourism.”
“As such, we aim to develop a world-class resort while at the same time, promoting ecological sustainability and protection,” he pointed out.
Lacson also revealed that to address congestion in the capitol area and make good use of the motor pool area, the provincial government will construct a two-storey parking lot for the employees.
“These are just a few of the projects and programs we have for this year, complementing our already established initiatives under our Abanse Negrense development agenda,” he said.
On the issue of the African Swine Fever (ASF), Lacson said he is thankful that the hog industry managed to survive despite being hit by ASF in certain areas.
In fact, I ate and enjoyed lechon at all the Christmas parties I attended, he jested.
