Gov't top execs support P11.2B dam project

CEBU, Philippines - The P11.2 billion Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project II, Iloilo's biggest government dam and irrigation project has gained the backing and support from the country's top officials, local government executives and even environment advocates and industry experts.

President Benigno Aquino III has declared the JRMP II a priority project of his administration, with the support of at least 34 congressmen of the Visayas bloc as well as from the Iloilo provincial government, the Iloilo City LGU and mayors, vice mayors and councilors of 25 towns.

"This is a pro-people, pro-development project and our commitment is for its full implementation so we can have full realization of the huge benefits," said Gerardo Corsiga, JRMP II manager and head of the National Irrigation Administration-Region 6.

Corsiga said the project had complied with the requirements of protecting the rights of the affected indigenous people in the project site.

The National Commission on Indigenous People, in close coordination with the NIA-6, has required JRMP II to secure free and informed consent, or FPIC, from the tribes because some areas in the project site are within the Panay Bukidnon Indigenous People community.

The NCIP has been ensuring that the rights and welfare of the indigenous people are protected and respected, under the Indigenous Peoples' Rights Act.

The JRMP II had already applied for a FPIC from the indigenous people before implementing the construction phase of the dam and irrigation project.  (FREEMAN)