BALI – Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson shared insights into the province's water security planning at the 10th World Water Forum in Bali, Indonesia, on Wednesday. His presentation highlighted a collaborative effort with the United States Agency for International Development (USAID) to develop a comprehensive water security plan.
According to Philippines News Agency, the plan, initiated with USAID's support, aims to enhance water supply resilience in water-stressed communities, improve water resource management, and strengthen governance within the sector. This initiative led to the conceptualization of the Negros Occidental Bulk Water Supply Project. Scheduled for bidding next month, this PHP1.2-billion project is designed to produce at least 34.5 million liters of water per day, servicing several communities from the Imbang and Malogo Rivers.
During the forum, Lacson participated in the Fireside Talk, a recorded interview conducted at the World Bank booth by Maria Angela Sotomayor, the water sector manager at the World Bank. The discussion, focusing on the implementation of the Philippine Sector Master Plan through provincial strategies, will be broadcast during and post-forum on various World Bank media platforms.
Additionally, Lacson, alongside Provincial Administrator Rayfrando Diaz II, engaged with key USAID officials to discuss ongoing and future collaborations aimed at bolstering the region’s water infrastructure.