EDC says it complies agreement w/ Negros Occ LGU

BACOLOD CITY, Philippines — The Energy Development Corporation insisted that it had fulfilled the conditions stipulated in the memorandum of agreement with the provincial government of Negros Occidental.

The EDC issued this statement to rebut the accusation of Green Alert Negros Environmental Network that the power firm had violated the MOA, thus the provincial government should terminate the agreement, which was part of the power supply projects.

EDC, in a statement Wednesday, said it had reforested more than 600 hectares in Mt. Kanlaon Natural Park. “Out of that total area, the company's Watershed Management Team was able to plant 160,000 trees on 400 hectares inside the MKNP, to be maintained within five years to ensure growth and survival.

This was fulfilled from 2009 to 2010 in compliance with the MOA, the EDC reported to the Provincial Board. "Another 600 hectares were reforested in the Northern Negros Natural Park's denuded forestland,” EDC said.

The firm maintained that it has continued to increase the forest cover of Negros Island through its 10 million-in-10 for a Greener Negros program, the biggest forest restoration movement in the region.

The program was launched in October 10, 2015, with its 58 pioneer partners who have all committed to work together to achieve ensure the success of the movement.

EDC also said it has been implementing comprehensive health, education, livelihood and environment projects for its host communities in Bago City and Murcia town.

The firm further said it has been supplying 20 megawatt of clean, renewable power to Negros Occidental, through the Central Negros Electric Cooperative.  — Marchel P. Espina (FREEMAN)