Defensor backs ‘ambitious’ Jalaur River II project
Iloilo Gov. Arthur Defensor Sr. has endorsed the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project II of the National Irrigation Administration and also urged local officials to support the P15.22-billion project.
Defensor made the pronouncement after attending the project briefing by NIA Acting Regional Manager Eriberto Lomigo at the conference room of Governor’s Office yesterday morning.
Lomigo said the Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project II, set to be completed in nine years, aims to address the irrigation needs of farmers in the province and solve the water problem of the city and province of Iloilo.
The project is also expected to produce 11.5 megawatts from hydro power which could also augment local power needs, he said.
Lomigo presented the project to Defensor, Provincial Administrator Raul Banias, and concerned department heads in preparation for its endorsement to the Provincial Development Council.
The Jalaur River Multi-Purpose Project II will benefit Iloilo’s 24 towns and Iloilo City in terms of irrigation services, potable water and hydro power, he said.
Currently, NIA irrigation systems serve 22,000 hectares of farmlands in Iloilo Province and if the project is realized an additional of 12,000 hectares would be served.
Lomigo said the additional irrigation system would also result to an increase in agricultural production to 22,340 hectares.
It could also address the water supply problem of Iloilo City as it could provide the Metro Iloilo Water District with 86,400 cubic meters of water daily.
During the presentation, Defensor raised the concerns on the possible impact of the project on farmers and the possibility of flooding.
Lomigo assured the governor that these concerns were considered during the scoping conducted as part of the feasibility study.
Once approved by the Regional Development Council, the National Economic Development Authority will take charge in looking for fund sources for the project.
